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"Dues are expensive."
Myth #10
Administration will tell you that dues are expensive. They often cite an
incorrect higher dues amount. They say that the union is a business and
needs revenue, and the only reason CNA organizes is to get more revenue
(i.e. dues).
CNA/NNU is a nonprofit organization that exists to improve the
RN profession and patient care standards, and to end the health-
care crisis by fighting for healthcare reform that will guarantee
every patient a single standard of care. We are NOT a "business."
Dues constitute about one hour of your base pay per pay period
for nurses who have elections, then gain a contract. Dues are nec-
essary to have an effective professional RN organization, and rates
are democratically established. RN delegates are elected by their
peers in each facility based on proportional representation. The
current dues formula was passed by a majority of our members
who voted by mail-in ballot in November of 2003.
Our members pay lower dues than RNs represented by other
unions. Dues are tax deductible if you itemize. CNA/NNU does
not have an initiation fee to join.
No RN pays dues until you have negotiated a contract that a majority
of RNs at your hospital vote to approve. Dues are minimal when
put in the context of regular annual wage increases, better bene-
fits, and improved working conditions.
RNs almost always overwhelmingly vote to accept their collective
bargaining agreement because just the gains in the base rate are
worth much more than the dues.
Truth:
