Planned Parenthood staff in Hempstead, Massapequa unionize

About 45 employees at Planned Parenthood clinics in Hempstead and Massapequa have joined 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East, the union said.

In recent years, Planned Parenthood workers across the country have signed on with 1199SEIU while seeking a greater say at the clinics in an era where some states are curtailing reproductive rights, the union said. The leadership of Planned Parenthood of Greater New York responded to workers' interest in joining the union by signing an agreement with the 1199SEIU designed to ease the transition. It's unclear when contract negotiations will begin, according to 1199SEIU.

“Forming our union gives us a stronger voice to advocate for what we need to do our jobs, especially as we get more responsibilities.” Erica DeLeon, a registered nurse, said in a statement. “1199SEIU empowers us to better show up for our co-workers and the people and communities we serve.”

Nurse practitioners, patient care associates and registered nurses are among those now part of 1199SEIU. The clinicians staff health clinics that offer primary care and annual exams, cancer screening, STD testing and treatment, pregnancy testing and planning, along with performing abortions and prescribing birth control.

By Sarina Trangle

sarina.trangle@newsday.com@SarinaTrangle

Sarina Trangle covers affordability and cost of living issues and other business topics. She previously worked as an editor and reporter at amNewYork.