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UnityPoint hospital staff in Des Moines are seeking union recognition through a newly proposed “United Nurses of Iowa,” backed by Teamsters Local 90. The effort would cover about 2,000 nurses who cite unsafe working conditions, staffing shortages, and inadequate pay compared with neighboring states. Hospital leaders have declined voluntary recognition, and workers accuse the system of hiring anti-union consultants while neglecting safety concerns. Local Democratic lawmakers have voiced support, framing the campaign as part of a broader push for stronger labor protections.