The State of Hawaii and Bargaining Unit 13 recently signed a new contract after months of negotiations, concern, and speculation. The new agreement will affect approximately 1,400 blue-collar employees who work in various fields such as custodial, maintenance, and construction.

The objective of bargaining is to ensure that all parties involved are satisfied, and it is not always an easy task. This year, negotiations took longer than usual due to the pandemic, which caused delays in the bargaining process. Amid the pandemic, the employees of Bargaining Unit 13 continued to work and provide essential services for the people of Hawaii.

The new contract is for a two-year term and includes increased wages and benefits for employees. Additionally, it addresses concerns such as health and safety measures and job security.

One of the most significant changes in the new contract is the increase in wages for employees. The contract guarantees that all employees will receive a wage increase of 2% on July 1, 2021. On July 1, 2022, employees will receive another wage increase of 2.5%. This means that, over the two-year contract term, employees will receive a total wage increase of 4.5%.

Another important aspect of the new contract is the job security measures that have been added to protect employees from layoffs. In the current economic climate, job security is a significant concern, and this contract ensures that the employees of Bargaining Unit 13 are protected. The new contract guarantees that there will be no layoffs due to a lack of work or lack of funds. It also ensures that management will not use part-time employees to replace full-time employees, further protecting the jobs of Bargaining Unit 13 employees.

Finally, the contract addresses the health and safety concerns of workers, which is particularly relevant given the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The new agreement includes provisions for sufficient personal protective equipment (PPE) and for health and safety training for employees.

In summary, the new Bargaining Unit 13 contract is a positive development for employees in Hawaii. It provides wage increases, job security measures, and health and safety protections for employees during challenging times. The State of Hawaii and Bargaining Unit 13 have worked together to create a contract that is satisfactory for all parties involved, and it is hoped that it will lead to a more productive and efficient workforce.