New health benefit for Kaua‘i workers signed by mayor, union officials

HONOLULU (KHON2) — As part of an agreement between Kaua‘i County and its unions, Kaua‘i County workers will receive free health insurance.

At a recent ceremony with representatives from the Hawai‘i Fire Fighters Association (HFFA) and United Public Workers Hawai‘i (UPW), Kaua‘i Mayor Derek Kawakami praised the collaboration between the unions and the county, highlighting the significant benefit for the workforce.

Mayor Kawakami first announced the new health care premium proposal in March during his State of the County Address. This initiative aims to address the high cost of living in Kaua‘i, which has driven many to seek opportunities elsewhere.

With backing from the Kaua‘i County Council, the proposal was included in the Fiscal Year 2025 budget and approved in May.

A special enrollment period was held in July, allowing employees to sign up for the free insurance, which will take effect on September 1, 2024.

This benefit is also available to new county employees.

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For more information on current job openings with the county, visit their website.