The UPW Bargaining Unit 1 Contract of 2019: Understanding the Key Changes
For those who work under the UPW Bargaining Unit 1, the latest contract that went into effect in 2019 may have brought about several changes in employment terms and conditions. This article aims to discuss the most significant updates in the agreement, including their potential impact on UPW members.
What is the UPW Bargaining Unit 1?
The United Public Workers (UPW) is a labor union based in Hawaii that represents government employees in various bargaining units. The UPW Bargaining Unit 1 is composed of non-supervisory blue-collar workers who perform manual labor and trades work for the State of Hawaii and the City and County of Honolulu.
The UPW Bargaining Unit 1 Contract of 2019
The latest contract for UPW Bargaining Unit 1 employees was ratified on March 20, 2019, and went into effect on July 1, 2019. Here are some of the key changes outlined in the agreement:
1. Pay increases
Under the new contract, employees will receive pay increases of 2% annually, retroactive to July 1, 2017, and continuing until June 30, 2021. This means that employees will see a 2% increase in their salary for each year of the contract.
2. Health benefits
The contract includes provisions that maintain health benefits for UPW members. It also establishes guidelines and procedures for the reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses for prescription drugs, dental and vision services, and hearing aids. The contract also provides for the creation of a Health Fund for UPW members, which will be funded at $6.25 per month per member.
3. Overtime and premium pay
The 2019 contract outlines new provisions for overtime and premium pay. Employees who work on holidays will receive premium pay of 1.5 times their regular rate of pay. Overtime pay will be calculated based on the employee`s regular rate of pay plus 50%.
4. Job security
The contract includes provisions that aim to provide job security for UPW members. These provisions include a requirement for employers to notify employees if their position will be eliminated or if their workload will be reduced. It also establishes a process for the rehiring of employees who were laid off or had their hours reduced.
5. Grievance procedures
The contract outlines procedures for filing grievances and resolving disputes between employees and employers. It also establishes a Joint Labor-Management Committee to address issues related to workplace safety and health.
Conclusion
The UPW Bargaining Unit 1 Contract of 2019 brings about several changes in employment terms and conditions for UPW members. The Pay increases, health benefits, overtime and premium pay, job security, and grievance procedures outlined in the agreement are all aimed at providing better working conditions and benefits for UPW members. By understanding the key changes in the latest contract, UPW members can better protect their rights and benefits in the workplace.