Teachers, other unions reach agreement on new contracts
Posted on May 19, 2017 in Capitol Connection, Featured
HSTA rally: DOE teachers gather at State Capitol.
For thousands of working families in public employee unions, managing the state’s high cost of living just got a little easier, thanks to recent contract settlements and arbitration awards.
The contracts, described by union leaders as “fair” given the state’s fiscal outlook, cover teachers, principals and other public school staff, fire fighters, registered nurses, and many other public employees throughout the state. Nine of the 14 union contracts have been settled, with negotiations continuing on the remainder.
Hawaii State Teachers Association President Corey Rosenlee credited Governor Ige’s involvement in negotiations as making the difference for his union. “The governor really worked hard to make this contract happen,” Rosenlee said. “I think it showed that education is a big priority to him.”