SEIU 1199 Workers Threaten Strike Over Low Wages in Connecticut
Connecticut group home workers represented by SEIU 1199 are prepared to strike if wage negotiations do not yield results by May 27, demanding fair compensation for their challenging roles. During a press conference on Thursday, union members, citing wages averaging only $18.42 an hour, delivered strike notifications to Governor Ned Lamont’s office, highlighting the untenable conditions they face.
The group consists of about 1,700 workers, joining the existing 6,000 nursing home employees scheduled to strike, potentially marking one of the largest healthcare worker strikes in the state’s history. Nursing home workers have called for a wage increase to $30 per hour alongside requests for safer staffing levels.
Earlier discussions between Lamont and the workers led to a delay of the impending strike deadline from May 19 to May 27. The governor acknowledged the disparity between current wages and the value of services provided by these essential workers.
Union leaders, including Suzanne Clark, voiced urgent concerns over the financial strains workers endure, with many forced to work excessive hours—ranging from 60 to over 100 per week—just to make ends meet. Sylvia Grant, a long-time caregiver, tearfully shared her struggle to provide for her family, often forced to choose between basic necessities.
Reports of workplace injuries in group homes further complicate the issue, as employee Linnea Moore recounted various assaults she has faced on the job, underscoring the risks of low pay and understaffing.
Gian-Carl Casa, CEO of The Alliance, highlighted that state contracts with nonprofits have kept wages artificially low, making it difficult to attract and retain staff. He noted the potential statewide economic boost from higher wages, especially in light of Connecticut’s $2 billion budget surplus. However, concerns over possible federal funding cuts to essential programs loom over the negotiations, threatening both jobs and services across the state.
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