May 12 — Nurses at Maple Grove Hospital have voted to authorize a possible unfair labor practice strike after more than a year of negotiations with North Memorial Health. Union leaders point to staffing shortages, high turnover, and stalled contract talks as key concerns, while hospital officials say they remain committed to reaching a long-term agreement. No strike date has been announced, but nurses could walk off the job with a 10-day notice.
Meanwhile, rural hospital leaders from across Minnesota are sounding the alarm at the State Capitol, warning lawmakers that financial strain is threatening access to critical healthcare services in small communities. Hospital executives are urging the House to pass legislation tied to a federal drug discount program they say helps fund emergency rooms, labor and delivery care, behavioral health services, and local pharmacies.
Fire officials in St. Paul are investigating an early morning house fire that injured one person and killed several pets. Investigators believe a lithium-ion battery may have sparked the blaze, as concerns continue growing over battery-related fire risks.
Plus, much of Minnesota is under a Red Flag Warning today as dry conditions, low humidity, and high winds create extreme fire danger across 35 counties. The DNR is urging residents not to burn outdoors as fires could spread rapidly.
And in sports, the Minnesota Frost face Montreal tonight with a trip to the Walter Cup Finals on the line, while the Timberwolves return to the court in a pivotal playoff matchup against San Antonio.
Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for this episode of 4 Things to Know.
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