A statewide nurses labor organization is gearing up for key contract negotiations in the coming months as tens of thousands of workers face expiring contracts. 

The group called for increased staffing levels for patients, wages to attract and retain nurses and a protection of retirement and health care benefits. 

The New York State Nurses Association on Thursday signaled its plans in the talks, which will include nurses at two dozen facilities bargaining for their new contracts since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Negotiations will be taking place across the state and at a dozen hospitals in New York City. 

The health care sector has struggled to retain many workers in the wake of the pandemic as many faced burnout, a heavy workload and vaccination mandates. 

"As nurses and healthcare professionals, our priority is to protect and advocate for the best care for all of our patients," said Nancy Hagans, the group's president. "The 'We Love NY Nurses' platform will improve patient care, strengthen the nursing workforce, and uplift the communities we serve. Approximately 30,000 nurses are ready to fight for fair contracts that will strengthen healthcare for all New Yorkers."

Gov. Kathy Hochul and state lawmakers this year in the budget agreed to a package of measures meant to aid the state's health care workforce, including thousands of dollars in bonuses and a five-year plan to recruit more workers.