Essentia responds to Minnesota Nurses Association strike notice

DULUTH, Minn. – Essentia Health says they received a notice of the Minnesota Nurses Association’s (MNA) intent to strike, starting July 8, 2025.

Essentia says the strike notice is open-ended.

A news release from Essentia stated, “The notice from the MNA comes on the heels of months of union delays and refusal to dedicate time with Essentia at the bargaining table.”

Also in a news release Chief Nursing Office at Essentia Rhonda Kazik said, “This was a wholly avoidable outcome… For the benefit of our patients and Twin Ports colleagues, Essentia Health has taken a good faith and solutions-oriented approach to these negotiations. Union leadership has leveled inaccurate and misleading allegations and repeatedly declined opportunities to make progress toward shared goals. Our teams at Essentia will continue working to ensure that patients see minimal disruption to their care and encourage union leadership to negotiate in good faith.”

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The Essentia news release also stated, “Following the 10th bargaining session Wednesday, Essentia reminded the union that its negotiating team is available to meet every day – including nights and weekends – before the current contract expires. The MNA responded by agreeing to meet on Monday, the final day of the current contract.”