United Public Workers is at the forefront of significant legal battles in several jurisdictions concerning Temporary Hazard Pay, which had been guaranteed to workers under our collective bargaining agreements prior to the pandemic. The pandemic emergency led to Governor David Ige’s suspension of HRS 89, challenging our collective bargaining rights. Yet, we stand united, demanding the employer acknowledge the risks our workers faced and honor their agreement.
As your State Director, I’ve got your back. I’m proud to be your advocate in matters with the Employer. Over the past months, I’ve had the pleasure of speaking directly with many of you at meetings. The conversations frequently go back to Temporary Hazard Pay (THP) and our fight with the Employer. As these cases progress, I’ll post regular updates on this page. I also discuss it in our latest episode of the United 808 Podcast, which you can watch here.
I urge you to remain vigilant and informed. It’s crucial to ask questions from an informed union source, like your Union Representative or your Chief Steward, and verify any information you hear at work. If something seems amiss, don’t hesitate to question it. Share this update with your coworkers, and take pride in the victories of your fellow union members, not just in our union but in others as well. Remember, when one of us is hurt, we all feel the pain. And when one of us wins, it’s a victory for all.
In Solidarity,
Kalani Werner
State Director
United Public Workers
THP Tracker
Jurisdiction | Status | Date | Notes |
Executive – State | Arbitration Underway | November 2024 | |
Dept. of Education | Arbitration Pending | TBD | Legal Preparations |
Hawaii County | Arbitration Delayed | TBD | Pending Reassignment |
HHSC | Mediation Underway | Ongoing | Negotiations Ongoing |
Honolulu County | Arbitration Complete | July 2024 | |
Judiciary | Settlement Ratified | October 2024 | Payments Issued |
Kauai County | Settlement Ratified | October 2024 | Awaiting Funding |
Maui County | Settlement Ratified | October 2022 | Payments Issued |
University of Hawaii | Arbitration Complete | October 2024 | Decision Rendered |