The Hudson County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a measure (7-0) urging Hudson Regional Hospital to recognize union agreements in light of a potential healthcare plan switch in the new year that would double insurance premium costs.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“Union recognition and adherence to existing contracts are essential to safeguarding both workers’ rights and the quality of care for our community,” Hudson County Commissioner Bill O’Dea (D-2), the primary sponsor of the measure, began in a statement.
“This resolution underscores our commitment to holding hospital leadership accountable and ensuring transparency in any future transitions affecting these vital healthcare facilities.”
O’Dea, who is also running for Jersey City mayor, introduced a resolution from the floor, which was seconded by Board of Commissioners Chair Anthony Romano (D-5) at yesterday’s meeting.
The local legislation also called on the New Jersey Department of Health (DOH) to ensure that any management changes or acquisitions involving these hospitals are contingent on full recognition of the unions and the contracts in place.
HRH leadership is in the process of acquiring CarePoint Health’s three hospitals, the Bayonne Medical Center, Christ Hospital in Jersey City, and the Hoboken University Medical Center, to form Hudson Health System.
Yesterday, the State Health Planning Board granted HRH a certificate of need for the BMC, as HCV first reported, with the next step being a review from New Jersey Department of Health Commissioner Dr. Kaitlan Baston.
According to the O’Dea campaign, the resolution aligns with his campaign’s broader commitment to advocating for working families, strengthening local healthcare systems, and fostering responsible oversight in public and private partnerships.
The measure passed unanimously with Commissioners Kenny Kopacz (D-1) and Al Cifelli (D-9) absent.
The Jersey City Council approved a similar measure at Wednesday’s evening, where the primary sponsor was another mayoral candidate, Ward E Councilman James Solomon.
