Health care workers rallied at hospitals across New York state Thursday to push for what they call a fair contract, and the big talking point surrounded wages.
A local 1199 rally was held at Good Samaritan Hospital in Suffern, but several others took place, including one at NY Presbyterian-Lawrence Hospital in Bronxville and another at St. John's Riverside Hospital in Yonkers.
The biggest cause for concern was about wages, as the current contract provides a 3% annual raise, but the union is now asking for 7%.
The three-year contract for these health care workers with the League of Voluntary Hospitals and Homes expires on Sept. 30.
Good Samaritan Hospital Respiratory Therapist Charlotte Savoury said, "Everything that we need - major medical, dental, everything's at risk."
A spokesperson for the League of Voluntary Hospitals and Homes told News 12 that they are committed to bargaining in good faith with the union to reach a shared goal, which is an agreement that is fair, reasonable, and responsible for everyone.