FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 
October 30, 2024

OAKLAND, Calif. — In a significant move for California dialysis workers, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has filed for a court injunction to address alleged unfair labor practices (ULPs) by Satellite Healthcare, Inc. This action follows multiple reports from workers that their unionization efforts have faced illegal retaliation across facilities. SEIU-United Healthcare Workers West (SEIU-UHW) filed 77 unfair labor practice charges against Satellite Healthcare, Fresenius, US Renal, and DaVita before dialysis workers began unfair labor practice strikes on October 14, 2024.

Earlier this month, the NLRB’s Regional Director filed a Petition for Injunction under Section 10(j) of the National Labor Relations Act with the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. The petition seeks to mandate Satellite Healthcare to undo recent actions deemed harmful to employee rights, including alleged wrongful terminations, withheld wage increases, and canceled bargaining sessions. If granted, the injunction would require Satellite Healthcare to reinstate fired employees, honor promised wage increases, and immediately stop anti-union activities.

“This action by the NLRB is a powerful reminder that workers have rights, and we’re not alone in this fight,” said Mike Badilla, a certified clinical hemodialysis technician at Satellite Healthcare – Gilroy. “After months of standing up for better working conditions and patient care, it’s encouraging to see the NLRB supporting us and pushing back against the intimidation we’ve faced. We just want the freedom to advocate for our patients and our own well-being without fear.”

The NLRB’s petition highlights multiple alleged violations, such as withholding annual wage increases and terminating pro-union employees. The board has expressed confidence that workers will prevail when the case is heard, underscoring the strength of the evidence presented. The board also asserts that swift action is crucial to prevent further harm to employees and to uphold their right to union representation without retaliation.

SEIU-UHW represents Satellite Healthcare employees, including registered nurses, licensed vocational nurses, patient care technicians, certified clinical hemodialysis technicians, and receptionists.

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SEIU-United Healthcare Workers West (SEIU-UHW) is a healthcare justice union of more than 100,000 healthcare workers, patients, and healthcare activists united to ensure affordable, accessible, high-quality care for all Californians, provided by valued and respected healthcare workers.