By MedVertus Credentialing Services LLC | January 10, 2026
Thousands of Nurses Poised to Strike
New York City is on the brink of its largest nurses strike in history. Up to 20,000 nurses across major hospitals—including Montefiore, Mount Sinai, and NewYork-Presbyterian—could walk off the job starting January 12. While some smaller hospitals have reached agreements, negotiations at the city’s largest facilities remain tense.
Key issues: staffing ratios, health benefits, competitive pay, and workplace safety.
Governor Hochul Declares State Disaster Emergency
On January 9, Governor Kathy Hochul issued Executive Order No. 56, declaring a State Disaster Emergency in Bronx, Manhattan, Nassau, and surrounding counties. The order cites “healthcare staffing shortages” as a critical threat to public health if the strike proceeds.
Licensing Rules Temporarily Relaxed
To mitigate staffing gaps, the executive order suspends certain licensure restrictions until February 8, allowing out-of-state nurses and healthcare professionals to practice in New York without the usual credentialing delays. This emergency measure aims to keep hospitals operational during the strike.
Hospitals Brace for Impact
Hospital systems are spending millions on temporary staff and agency nurses to maintain patient care. Contingency plans are in place, but administrators warn that prolonged disruptions could strain resources and impact patient safety.
What’s at Stake
This labor action could reshape healthcare negotiations nationwide. For patients, the outcome determines whether hospitals can maintain safe staffing levels during a critical period. For nurses, it’s about securing fair conditions and ensuring quality care.