USC Keck and Norris Nurses Set for 7-Day Strike

California Nurses Association members vote to walk out over contract negotiations

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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More than 1,400 nurses represented by the California Nurses Association at USC Keck Hospital and Norris Cancer Center in Los Angeles are set to begin a seven-day strike on February 19th. The strike comes after months of contract negotiations between the union and Keck Medicine of USC, the university's medical enterprise, which have failed to reach an agreement on key issues such as patient safety, nurse retention, and healthcare benefits.

Why it matters

This strike highlights the ongoing tensions between nurses and hospital management over working conditions, staffing levels, and compensation. Prolonged labor disputes can disrupt patient care and put strain on healthcare systems, making it an important issue for the local community.

The details

The union and Keck Medicine of USC have been in negotiations since May 2025 for a new labor contract. While the two sides reached a tentative agreement in November that included wage increases, a no-premium health plan, and more staffing support, the deal was ultimately not ratified by union members. The California Nurses Association says there has been little movement on key issues like patient safety and nurse retention during the talks.

  • The seven-day strike is set to begin on February 19, 2026.
  • Negotiations between the union and Keck Medicine of USC have been ongoing since May 2025.

The players

California Nurses Association

The labor union representing over 1,400 nurses at USC Keck Hospital and Norris Cancer Center.

Keck Medicine of USC

The University of Southern California's medical enterprise that operates USC Keck Hospital and Norris Cancer Center.

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What’s next

The two sides will continue negotiations with the help of a federal mediator in an effort to reach a new contract agreement and avoid the planned strike.

The takeaway

This labor dispute reflects the ongoing challenges hospitals face in retaining and supporting their nursing staff, which is crucial for providing quality patient care. The outcome of these negotiations will be closely watched by the local community and healthcare industry.