Hundreds of nurses are still in negotiations through the University of Michigan Professional Nurses Council (UMPNC) with Michigan Medicine as both parties attempt to come to an agreement on new employment contract terms. The nursing contracts expired on June 30th, but negotiations began in January. The nurses, who have continued to rally, are picketing for issues such as better healthcare co-pays, prescription drugs, and retirement contributions. By better supporting nurses through their compensation, UMPNC argues that patients are, ultimately, better served.