NursingLink

CNA of which I was a member for over 15 years, solved many problems.  Union dues comes out of your bimonthly pay through out the year, so there is no huge lump sum.  I know in Northern California in particular, CNA has improved salaries and benefits quite substantially.  My CNA experience was absolutely always pleasant.  Lots of support, employers couldn't fire you without just cause. 

When I left northern Ohio in the later 80's I was making $18/hr.  California nurses at this time were making $23/hr   A friend of mine who works in northern Ohio is still only making $28/hr with no benefits as a per diem RN.  Now, Northern California nurses are making in the upper $40's as a new grad and those with seniority and experience can make $60.  So yes, CNA has made a huge difference in salaries

There are many unions out there..SEIU is trying to break CNA and that would NOT be a good thing

The nurses at UC Davis have CNA for their representation.  They are a very stong union and pretty powerful politically.  They are expanding to become nationwide under another name.  I think they have done quite a few things for nurses, especially in a large corporate/university enviroment, were you and your patients can become just a number.  I think it keeps the public safer.  I can't say the union is perfect.  You need to examine what the union does and  what the union says then read between the lines.  They issue a lot of propaganda but so does the University. 

All I really care about is a livable wage, safe working conditions, decent benefits and a guaranteed retirement for my loyalty and hard work.  Employers don't do that voluntarily anymore so I guess unions are necessary.