NORTH PROVIDENCE, R.I.—Nurses at Our Lady of Fatima Hospital in North Providence have overwhelmingly authorized union leaders to call a strike.
The vote was 156-8. If union leaders do call a strike, state law requires they give the hospital 10 days notice.
About 300 nurses are trying to negotiate a new contract before the current deal expires at the end of the month.
Union representative Christopher Callaci says the sides are "miles apart."
Callaci says the union wants the hospital to increase staffing levels and boost pay without cutting benefits.
The hospital says it remains hopeful a fair and equitable settlement can be reached.
Three bargaining sessions are scheduled before the end of the month.
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