Washington, D.C. – Nurse members of the Office and Professional Employees International Union (OPEIU), AFL-CIO, from around the country will descend on Capitol Hill on Friday, May 5, 2017, to meet with their legislators and demand safe nurse to patient ratio legislation aimed at protecting nurses, patients and their families.

The nurses, represented by the OPEIU Nurses Council (ONC), will also participate in the Nurses Take DC Rally for Safe Nurse to Patient Ratios, joining an anticipated 10,000 nurses from around the country who are gathering to raise public awareness of the dangers posed by unsafe nurse staffing levels in hospitals and medical clinics. ONC Vice Chair Julie Murray, RN, is among the scheduled speakers.

OPEIU members, leaders and staff gathered in Memphis, Tennessee, April 27-30 to develop internal organizing strategies for their local unions. From how to conduct new member orientations to team building and leadership development, these OPEIU activists proved that we’re stronger working together!

Applications are now being accepted for the OPEIU Student Reduction Program to help OPEIU members and associate members repay their student debt. The fund provides five awards of $2,500 each year to a member who has completed an associate or undergraduate degree and who can demonstrate they have at least $10,000 in student debt and their account is current. Application deadline is June 30, so apply today. Click here for more information and application.

Jeffrey Rusich has been named OPEIU Organizing Coordinator, where he will train and work with project organizers on large projects and organizing campaigns. Rusich has been an International staff representative for more than 25 years, most recently serving as a senior organizer. Previously, he was a Local 3 member and executive board member. He currently resides in the San Francisco Bay area.

In announcing the appointment, President Richard Lanigan said “OPEIU is refocusing its attention and resources on organizing and, as coordinator, Jeff will play a key role in that effort.”