In a landmark decision, healthcare professionals and nurses affiliated with the United Nurses and Health Care Employees of Hawaii (UNHCEH) have overwhelmingly approved a new four-year contract with Maui Health/Kaiser Permanente. This agreement marks significant improvements in wages and staffing levels across several hospitals on Maui, reflecting the dedication and resilience of the union members. The deal includes substantial wage hikes for the lowest-paid staff and enforceable staffing standards, ensuring better patient care and work-life balance for employees.

Substantial Wage Increases and Staffing Improvements

The new contract heralds a transformative era for healthcare workers in Maui County. Over the next four years, the lowest-paid employees, including clerical staff and receptionists, will see raises ranging from 27% to nearly 50%. All union members will benefit from wage increases of at least 21%, with some seeing boosts as high as 97.52%. These adjustments aim to improve living conditions and reduce the need for second jobs, allowing staff more time with their families.

This historic agreement not only addresses financial concerns but also ensures better working conditions. The contract mandates enforceable staffing levels and standards at Maui Memorial Medical Center, Kula Hospital, and Lanai Community Hospital. Union members fought hard for these changes, emphasizing the importance of safe staffing ratios tailored specifically to their facilities. Matt Pelc, Chair of UNHCEH, highlighted that this comprehensive plan will make Maui Health a safer environment for both patients and healthcare providers. The increased wages will enable workers to focus more on patient care without the stress of financial instability.

Achieving Unity and Public Support

The success of this negotiation underscores the power of unity and public backing. UNHCEH members engaged in a series of meetings from January 2 to 6, 2025, where they reviewed and discussed the details of the tentative agreement reached on December 20, 2024. Following these discussions, an anonymous electronic voting process was conducted, leading to today's ratification. The union had previously held its first-ever strike from November 4 to 7, 2024, which significantly influenced the outcome of these negotiations.

The Maui County Council also played a crucial role by passing a resolution on November 26, urging Maui Health and Kaiser to settle in the best interests of all residents. China Kapuras, a Case Manager and member of the lowest-paid classification, expressed her gratitude and pride in achieving this milestone. She emphasized that the victory was a collective effort, showcasing the strength of the healthcare community in fighting for better conditions. The contract, effective from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2028, is a testament to the perseverance and solidarity of the healthcare workers who prioritize patient care above all else.