ALLEGHENY COUNTY, Pa. —
Nurses at Allegheny General Hospital have voted to authorize a strike as they push for better staffing and staff retention.
The group of 1,500 nurses said they are treating more patients with serious illnesses.
They also said the contract proposed by Allegheny Health Network increases their healthcare costs, cuts retirement benefits, and reduces time off.
The contract was originally supposed to expire at midnight on Oct. 13, but it was extended to end on Oct. 30.
The nurses said they do not want to strike but if they vote to proceed, they will provide a 10-day notice to Allegheny Health Network to ensure patient safety.
Nurses will hold their informational picket on Oct. 29.