My manager wants to chat…

Union members have the right to union representation by a trained union representative at any meeting that could lead to discipline now or in the future. These representation rights are also known as Weingarten rights. For purposes of ease, we will just refer to them as representation rights.

The question to ask if your manager wants to chat or meet with you is, could this meeting lead to discipline now or in the future? The same thing would apply if you are having a conversation with management and it starts to feel uncomfortable. Stop the meeting and ask, could this meeting lead to discipline now or in the future?  Be sure you get a clear yes or no answer. Do not settle for, you don’t need a rep, it depends on how you answer our questions, no there won't be any discipline today, or anything other than yes or no.

If the answer is yes, tell your manager you are happy to meet, but would like a reasonable amount of time to obtain union representation. Managers generally agree with this. Note: management is not allowed to pick your representative.

If the manager does not allow you to reschedule and insists you meet immediately assert your rights and professionally state you will listen but cannot respond until you have union representation.

Your WSNA Local Unit Officers, Labor Rep, or Nurse Rep is who you should reach out to if you find yourself in this situation. You can find our contact info at: https://www.wsna.org/union/peace-island-medical-center.

Paid education benefits

Article 11.5 Educational Leave of our WSNA contract provides paid education leave each year for work-related conferences and training programs. Article 11.5.1 Reimbursement for educational expenses provides at least $500 for each nurse per calendar year.

We have our WSNA convention coming up that would qualify for these educational hours. If you would like to read the complete articles in our contract, please see 11.5 Professional Leave and 11.5.1 Reimbursement for educational expenses.

WSNA's 2025 Convention, Forward Together, will address the most pressing issues facing nurses today: safe staffing, workplace violence prevention, and health equity.

Come build your power, learn your rights, and join with nurses who understand exactly what you're going through. You'll leave with strategies to stand strong and create positive change in your workplace. You'll hear from inspiring speakers and have the opportunity to earn up to 10.5 CNE. This is also a time to connect with nurses from across the state who share your determination to make things better for our profession.

WSNA's General Assembly will be integrated throughout the event as we consider resolutions to address our top issues and adopt bylaws changes. Located in the heart of downtown Tacoma, the Greater Tacoma Convention Center is a bright, modern venue for focused learning and connecting with colleagues. With time built in between sessions to rest and recharge, it's the perfect setting for three important days together.

In solidarity,

WSNA Local Unit Officers:
Julie Bielau – Chair
Leslie Preysz – Secretary
Zanna Cochran – Treasurer
Chris Wacholz – Grievance
Clarece Markins - Grievance

Questions? Contact WSNA Nurse Representative Barbara Friesen at bfriesen@wsna.org  206-575-7979 ext. 3056.