When registered nurse Byron White requested sick leave, management approved the leave but demanded a physician’s note simply because of staffing shortages and ongoing RN vacancies. Our union knew that explanation did not align with the Contract.
Union Steward Angie Tate stepped in immediately and filed a grievance on Byron’s behalf, challenging management’s misuse of the policy and defending members’ rights under Article 8.2. During the process, management claimed they could request doctor’s notes whenever they chose. Our union pushed back and made it clear that the Contract sets specific standards for when medical verification can be required.
As a result, management agreed to stop requiring physician verification in this case and removed related documentation from Byron’s record. The case also led to additional review and retraining around the policy.
This victory is another reminder of why stewards in our worksites are important. Stewards are often the first line of defense when management oversteps, and they help ensure members know their rights and have someone ready to stand beside them. Interested in becoming a steward at your workplace? Learn more here: seiu1000.org/stewardprograms/