Largest Nursing Strike in NYC History Begins Over Patient Safety

 The largest nursing strike in New York City’s history began Monday morning, January 12, 2026.

Nearly 16,000 nurses walked off the job after their union and five major private hospitals failed to reach a contract agreement centered on patient and staff safety.

Why NYC Nurses Are on Strike

The New York State Nursing Association (NYSNA) called the historic strike after contract talks with Mount Sinai, Montefiore, and NewYork-Presbyterian hospital systems stalled.

The union’s core demands focus on enforceable safe staffing ratios, protections against workplace violence, and maintaining full healthcare benefits.

NYSNA President Nancy Hagans stated that hospital executives “put profits above safe patient care.

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 forcing nurses to strike when they would rather be at patient bedsides.

This strike comes just three years after a previous three-day walkout in 2023.

Hospital Preparedness and State Response

In anticipation of the work stoppage, New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency, urging both sides to remain at the bargaining table to avoid jeopardizing patient lives.

The affected hospitals—among the wealthiest in the city—stated they are prepared for an “indefinite” or “multi-week” strike and have contingency plans to maintain care. Officials emphasized that patients should still seek emergency medical attention if needed.

The impasse persists despite the union reaching tentative agreements last week with several other area hospitals, leaving these major private institutions as outliers.

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The Stakes: Safety, Staffing, and Fair Contracts2

The strike highlights a critical clash over resources in post-pandemic healthcare.

 Nurses cite understaffing and rising violence—pointing to a recent police-involved shooting at a Brooklyn hospital as existential threats to care.

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Hospital management has criticized the union’s demands as “reckless, citing a projected $3.6 billion cost.

With the nurses’ previous contract expired and no new talks immediately scheduled, the strike represents a pivotal battle for the future of nursing conditions and patient safety standards in New York City’s largest hospitals.

Gear Up for Advocacy & Safety

Stand in solidarity and prioritize preparedness, whether you're on the front lines or supporting from home.

3M WorkTunes Connect Hearing Protector with Bluetooth – Essential hearing protection with audio for long hours on active picket lines or in loud environments.

JACK NYD Professional Safety Vest – High-visibility vest for safety and solidarity during early morning or evening marches and rallies.

Yeti Rambler 26 oz Insulated Tumbler – Keep drinks hot or cold for hours during long shifts or extended time outdoors, supporting the cause.

Source Information

This report is based on official statements, press conferences, and live updates from the involved parties.

• For official strike updates and union statements: New York State Nurses Association (NYSNA)
• For New York State official announcements: Governor Kathy Hochul’s Press Office

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