Temporary Hazard Pay
United Public Workers has successfully settled or won in arbitration the Temporary Hazard Pay (THP) owed to members for work performed during the COVID-19 pandemic across nine jurisdictions in the state. According to Section 30 of the Collective Bargaining Agreement for Unit 1 and Unit 10, employees are entitled to hazard pay when they are exposed to severely hazardous working conditions. Despite Governor David Ige’s suspension of HRS 89 during the pandemic, our collective bargaining rights have been upheld, acknowledging the dangers faced by our workers and reinforcing the validity of our contract.
I urge you to stay vigilant and be informed. It's important to ask questions about Temporary Hazard Pay from an informed union source, like your Union Representative, and verify any information you hear at work. If something sounds wrong, don't hesitate to question it. Share this Temporary Hazard Pay information page 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, a victory for one is a victory for all.
THP Tracker
UPW never receives Temporary Hazard Pay awards or settlement funds from the employer; that money belongs to you and will be sent directly to you by your employer. Furthermore, UPW is not deducting dues from COVID-19 THP payments.
Executive - State
April 2025 – Decision Rendered
On April 3, 2025, the arbitrator issued an award granting a 15% hazard pay differential for all hours worked by Executive Branch UPW workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. This decision acknowledges the risks these workers face.
Who is Affected:
This award specifically addresses those in Bargaining Units 1 and 10 employed by the Executive Branch of the State of Hawaii between March 5, 2020, and March 25, 2022. Affected positions include those in the following departments:
- Department of Agriculture
- Department of Accounting and General Services
- Department of Transportation
- Department of Defense
- Department of Health
- Department of Human Services
- Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism
- Department of Land and Natural Resources
- Department of Hawaiian Homelands
- Hawaii State Public Library System
Payment Update for Members
The arbitrator has directed the Employer, the State of Hawaii, to comply with the decision within ninety (90) days from April 3, 2025. The arbitrator also issued a supplemental decision that penalizes the Employer, awarding a penalty of 10% annual interest (prorated daily) added to payments made after May 16, 2025. Therefore, we anticipate that the Employer will work diligently to ensure payments are made promptly. *See how that’s calculated below.
Furthermore, Hawaii Act 029, enacted on May 12, 2025, allocates funds for arbitration awards affecting state departments within the Executive Branch that employ BU1 and BU10 members. This means the money is available. However, it will take time for the state departments to calculate and issue your check.
Key Points
- This is an arbitration award, not a settlement.
- Award: Severe 15% Temporary Hazard Pay of fifteen percent (15%) shall be awarded for all remaining BU 1 and 10 UPW employees for the period March 5, 2020 through March 25, 2022, for all hours worked during that period, calculated at the rate of pay the employee was receiving on the day worked, in accordance with Sections 30.04b and 30.05 of the CBA.
- Overtime Calculation: Where employees are entitled to THP for overtime hours worked in hazardous conditions, the differential shall be calculated as follows:
- Determine the employee’s minimum step hourly rate for their classification;
- Calculate the overtime rate using 1.5 times the minimum step rate;
- Apply the applicable THP percentage 15% to that derived overtime rate;
- Pay the resulting THP amount for each qualiffing hazardous overtime hour.
- Supplemental Decision: In order to ensure that affected employees are fully compensated and to promote prompt compliance with the Arbitrator’s Award, the Employer shall pay post-award interest at the rate of 10% per annum, pursuant to Hawai’i Revised Statutes 478-2 and 478-3. This interest shall accrue on all unpaid amounts from the date of this Supplemental Award and Order (May 16, 2025) until the date of full payment. Interest is a necessary component of the make-whole remedy and ensures that the value of delayed compensation is not diminished over time. It also serves the public policy goal of incentivizing timely implementation of arbitration awards and preventing unjust enrichment through delay.
- Hazard pay differentials shall be based on the minimum step of the Employee’s pay grade and shall be prorated (CBA Section 30).
- When a 10% annual interest rate is prorated daily, it means that the interest is calculated based on a daily rate rather than a yearly rate.
You can use this formula in a scientific calculator:
“THP Owed” × (0.10 ÷ 365) x “Number of Days” = Interest
Additional Resources
Note: If you believe the amount on your check is incorrect, please contact your HR department immediately and request in writing an audit of your time and calculation of your temporary hazard pay.
Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation
April 2025 – Decision Rendered
Those employed by the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation between March 5, 2020, and March 25, 2022, will receive a twenty-five percent (25%) Temporary Hazard Pay differential for all hours worked during the specified period. This reflects the severe hazards faced during the pandemic in the close and overcrowded quarters of Hawaii’s jails and prisons.
Payment Update for Members
The arbitrator has directed the Employer, the State of Hawaii, to comply with the decision within ninety (90) days from April 3, 2025. The arbitrator also issued a supplemental decision that penalizes the Employer, awarding a penalty of 10% annual interest (prorated daily) added to payments made after May 16, 2025. Therefore, we anticipate that the Employer will work diligently to ensure payments are made promptly. *See how that’s calculated below.
Furthermore, Hawaii Act 029, enacted on May 12, 2025, allocates funds for arbitration awards affecting state departments within the Executive Branch that employ BU1 and BU10 members. This means the money is available. However, it will take time for the state departments to calculate and issue your check.
Key Points
- This was an arbitration award, not a settlement.
- Award: Employees of the Department of Public Safety (DPS – now known as Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation), for both BU 1 and 10, shall be awarded Most Severe twenty five percent (25%) Temporary Hazard Pay for the period March 5, 2020 through March 25, 2022 for all hours worked during that period, calculated at the rate of pay the employee was receiving on the day worked, in accordance with Sections 30.04a and 30.05 of the CBA.
- Overtime Calculation: Where employees are entitled to THP for overtime hours worked in hazardous conditions, the differential shall be calculated as follows:
- Determine the employee’s minimum step hourly rate for their classification;
- Calculate the overtime rate using 1.5 times the minimum step rate;
- Apply the applicable THP percentage 25% to that derived overtime rate;
- Pay the resulting THP amount for each qualiffing hazardous overtime hour.
- Supplemental Decision: In order to ensure that affected employees are fully compensated and to promote prompt compliance with the Arbitrator’s Award, the Employer shall pay post-award interest at the rate of 10% per annum, pursuant to Hawai’i Revised Statutes 478-2 and 478-3. This interest shall accrue on all unpaid amounts from the date of this Supplemental Award and Order (May 16, 2025) until the date of full payment. Interest is a necessary component of the make-whole remedy and ensures that the value of delayed compensation is not diminished over time. It also serves the public policy goal of incentivizing timely implementation of arbitration awards and preventing unjust enrichment through delay.
- Hazard pay differentials shall be based on the minimum step of the Employee’s pay grade and shall be prorated (CBA Section 30).
- When a 10% annual interest rate is prorated daily, it means that the interest is calculated based on a daily rate rather than a yearly rate.
You can use this formula in a scientific calculator:
“THP Owed” × (0.10 ÷ 365) x “Number of Days” = Interest
Additional Resources
Note: If you believe the amount on your check is incorrect, please contact your HR department immediately and request in writing an audit of your time and calculation of your temporary hazard pay.
Dept. of Education
May 2025 — Settlement Ratified
Department of Education members have voted to accept the Tentative Temporary Hazard Pay Settlement Agreement, which offers a 15% differential from March 4, 2020, through March 25, 2022, on all hours worked, calculated on base pay.
Payment Update for Members
July 1 — There have been no updates on payments for DOE members since ratification took place in May 2025. We will update this page when new information becomes available.
The next step will be for the state to calculate the amounts owed and issue payments directly to affected employees. Hawaii Act 029, enacted on May 12, 2025, allocated funds for settlement agreements and arbitration awards affecting state departments that employ BU1 and BU10 members. This means the money should be available. However, we expect it will take some time before the employer calculates and issues the checks.
Hawaii County
March 2025 — Settlement Ratified
The Employer presented a settlement offer, which the membership ratified.
Payment Update for Members
The Hawai‘i County Council approved settlement funds on May 7, 2025. In accordance with the settlement agreement, the County’s Human Resources Department now has 90 days from May 7, 2025, to calculate and issue payments. If you’re a former employee or have separated or retired, please contact HR to ensure your contact and mailing address are up to date.
Hawaii Health Systems Corporation
February 2025 — Settlement Ratified
The Employer presented a settlement offer, which the membership ratified.
Payment Update for Members
Hawaii Act 029, enacted on May 12, 2025, allocates funds for arbitration awards affecting state departments within the Executive Branch that employ BU1 and BU10 members. This means the money is available. However, it will take time for the state departments to calculate and issue your check.
Honolulu County
June 2025 — Payments Issued
The arbitrator has awarded members a 15% THP differential for all hours worked between March 2020 and March 2022.
Payment Update for Members
Check distribution began at the end of June. Each department issued checks differently. Those separated or retired from the County were mailed their checks. If you haven’t received your payment, contact your Department of Human Resources immediately.
Additional Resources:
- Arbitration Award
- Contract – (See Section 30 on THP)
- Payment Plan
- Employer Provided Explanation on Calculations.
- Employer Proivded Q&A (6/26)
Note: If you believe the amount on your check is incorrect, contact your HR department immediately and request in writing an audit of your time and calculation of your temporary hazard pay.
Judiciary
October 2024 — Payment Issued
The Employer presented a settlement offer, which was ratified by the membership. The payment was issued in October 2024.
Kauai County
February 2025 — Payments Issued
The Employer presented a settlement offer, which the membership ratified. Payments were issued in February 2025.
Maui County
October 2022 — Payment Issued
The Employer presented a settlement offer, which the membership ratified. The payment was issued in October 2022.
University of Hawaii
October 2024 — Decision Rendered
The arbitrator has awarded members a 15% THP differential for all hours worked between March 2020 and March 2022.
Payment Update for Members
Hawaii Act 029, enacted on May 12, 2025, allocates funds for arbitration awards affecting state departments within the Executive Branch that employ BU1 and BU10 members. This means the money is available. However, it will take time for the State departments to calculate and issue your check.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Affected?
All awards and settlements apply to individuals who worked during the affected period. This includes current employees, former employees, individuals who were laid off, as well as those who have retired or passed away.
When Will I Get Paid?
The employer will calculate and issue payments directly to affected employees. If you have questions about when you will receive your payment, please contact your employer.
How will the payments be made (direct deposit, check, etc.)?
Depending on your jurisdiction, payment may be made via a separate paper check. However, some employers only permit payroll payments, meaning you may receive payment in the same manner as your paycheck – direct deposit or check.
What is the amount of Temporary Hazard Pay I can expect to receive?
Every amount of THP is unique to each employee, depending on the specific award or settlement issued. To determine your own payment amount, you can review your timecards or paychecks from the affected period. If you believe the amount on your check is incorrect, contact your HR department immediately and request in writing an audit of your time and calculation of your temporary hazard pay.
What If I Moved?
The employer will issue payments to affected employees. If your address has changed, be sure to notify them. Typically, your HR or Payroll Manager will use the address on file to contact you. Check to ensure they have your latest information.
Will the Temporary Hazard Pay affect my taxes?
Yes, Temporary Hazard Pay (THP) payments are considered income for both state and federal tax purposes. This means they may be subject to taxes just like your regular wages. It’s important to keep this in mind when filing your tax return.
Who can I contact if I have more questions about my eligibility?
Contact the employer, typically the HR Manager to ask questions about your payment or eligibility. If you still have questions, your Union Representative is available to assist.
How do I appeal my payment?
Payments are pending in many jurisdictions. However, if you believe you should have received a payment or the THP payment is incorrect, notify the HR Manager immediately and request in writing an audit of your time and calculation of your temporary hazard pay. Gather any evidence you have, including pay stubs, timecards, and leave requests. Be aware that the time frame for filing an appeal is limited; therefore, it’s important to act quickly.
What documentation will I need to provide to receive my payment?
For current employees, payments will be processed through payroll. For others, please ensure your contact information is up to date to facilitate any necessary communications or payments. The employer may require proof of identification and may ask you to sign to confirm receipt of these payments.
Is there a deadline to claim my Temporary Hazard Pay?
Affected employees do not need to claim Temporary Hazard Pay. The employer will calculate and issue payments based on hours worked during the affected period.
What if I changed jobs during the pandemic?
THP is calculated based on hours worked in the affected position. If you switch to a jurisdiction covered by a THP award or settlement, you’re eligible for THP benefits for the hours worked in each job, based on the specific THP differential for that jurisdiction.
Does the Union have my money?
UPW never receives Temporary Hazard Pay awards or settlement funds from the employer; that money is intended for you and will be sent directly from your employer. Furthermore, UPW is not deducting dues from COVID-19 THP payments.
