Even after decertification, FNA remains committed to supporting you.

At the end of the 2023 Florida Legislative Session, Governor DeSantis signed into law SB 256 and HB 1445, the “Employee Organizations Representing Public Employees” bill. These bills state that if an elected labor organization cannot maintain 60% of its eligible members in a bargaining unit, the organization will be decertified when its annual PERC certification expires. Additionally, the state will no longer collect dues from members’ paychecks, and audited financial statements must be submitted with the annual PERC filing.

The Florida Nurses Association (FNA), OPEIU, Local 713, AFL-CIO’s PERC certification expires on July 27, 2024. By the time you read this article, we will no longer represent the Professional Healthcare Unit for State of Florida Employees or the nurses at Florida State University, where we do not meet the required 60% membership threshold. However, we will continue to represent the bargaining unit at Florida International University.

The State of Florida’s “Right to Work” policy presents challenges for labor organizations. It can weaken a labor organization because employees might opt to receive benefits without contributing financially. Despite this, the FNA and OPEIU, Local 713, AFL-CIO, have proudly represented the Professional Healthcare Unit for over 40 years, celebrating victories and persevering through challenges. Since joining in November 2016, I’ve had the pleasure of meeting many incredible and professional healthcare employees. Some have become friends, and I cherish those relationships.

Please know that FNA continues to support you in your nursing practice, even though the Florida State Legislature will decertify your Bargaining Unit contract. FNA remains your professional Nurses Association, the only association representing all nurses in the state of Florida. FNA is here to fight for your professional needs, even without a Bargaining Unit. Together, let us continue to support public health practice in Florida!

John Berry, Director of Labor Relations