Coalition union members nationwide have been signing and delivering holiday cards to Kaiser management, calling on budget makers to fulfill joint staffing plans to improve staffing and patient care.

You should be proud of what we have already accomplished: 84% of unit-based teams submitted staffing plans built on our frontline expertise. These plans are more than paperwork—they are a roadmap to giving every patient the care they deserve while preventing burnout. They address the root causes of short staffing and are key to creating lasting change.

We knew this wouldn’t be easy. Budget-makers are rejecting most of our calls for more staff. Yet still, our joint staffing work this year has been powerful:

• We identified and recruited new leaders
• We are creating a clear record of the staffing our patients need

Looking Ahead

Joint staffing begins again in 2026, with a new June 30 deadline. Now that teams have been through the process, we are better prepared to identify needs, secure support, and develop solutions within our UBTs — but we know real gains in staffing and patient care depend on every member stepping up and staying engaged.

The steps we take now shape the path to 2027 bargaining. By documenting exactly what staffing is needed, you help create an undeniable record of frontline expertise and patient care needs. Each cycle strengthens our collective strength, unity, and commitment to care — creating a powerful force that can’t be ignored.

We cannot do it without you. Let’s keep the momentum going.