Essentia says nominations in Washington, D.C. will help with APP strike negotiations

DULUTH, Minn. – President Donald Trump on July 17, 2025 nominated two people to join the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB).

Essentia has been saying their discussions with the Advanced Practice Practitioners (APPs) are stalled due to an appeal to the NLRB.

Essentia says they are concerned about the size and reach of the proposed bargaining unit.

Essentia has asked the NLRB in Washington, D.C. to review whether a single bargaining unit proposed by the Minnesota Nurses Association (MNA) and comprised of more than 400 APPs should move forward.

Essentia first appealed to the NLRB in 2024.

The NLRB has not had enough members to issue decisions.

If the two nominees pass Senate vetting, the NLRB will be able to hear the appeal.

Essentia’s lawyers have said they can either appeal or have discussion with MNA for APP contracts, but not both at the same time.

If Essentia would engaged with the MNA on the issues of APP contracts, the appeal would be voided.

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Upon learning of the NLRB nomination Essentia’s East Market President Dr. Krista Skorupa said, “Essentia’s appeal has been pending before the NLRB under two presidential administrations… A full legal review of the proposed APP unit is critically important to the future of patient care, and today’s news marks a step toward the NLRB beginning to hear cases again. We look forward to our case being heard and our providers and patients having clarity on a path forward.”

The Nominations:

Scott Mayer, of Pennsylvania, to be a Member of the National Labor Relations Board for the term of five years expiring December 16, 2029, vice Lauren McGarity McFerran, term expired.

James Murphy, of Maryland, to be a Member of the National Labor Relations Board for the term of five years expiring December 16, 2027, vice John F. Ring, term expired.