Local United Public Workers unit ratifies temporary hazard pay settlement with Kaua‘i County

United Public Workers AFSCME, Local 646, AFL-CIO on Monday announced the successful ratification by its members of a temporary hazard pay settlement agreement with Kaua‘i County.

The agreement provides compensation to employees — including Līhuʻe Airport custodians and Kaua‘i County refuse transfer station workers — who served the island community during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The terms of the agreement include:

• 15% temporary hazard pay awarded to all affected employees for hours worked at their base rate of pay during the specified period.
• Refuse collection equipment operators will receive 15% temporary hazard pay for their scheduled work hours, regardless of physical attendance, excluding leave times.
• All payments will be issued in lump sums.

It’s a major victory for the union in securing recognition and protection for essential workers under extraordinary circumstances.

“This agreement stands as a powerful acknowledgment of our members’ commitment and the [United Public Workers’] relentless fight for fair treatment,” said United Public Workers State Director Kalani Werner. “Throughout the pandemic, our members kept critical services operational, often at great personal risk. We are proud to have secured compensation that reflects the magnitude of their sacrifice and dedication.”

The settlement follows a grievance filed by the union on behalf of county employees required to report for duty during the pandemic, specifically between March 4, 2020, and March 5, 2022.