Preserve and advance employee rights and benefits through collective bargaining, legislative advocacy and political action.
HGEA’s Mission
Hawaii's Largest Union
The Hawaii Government Employees Association is Hawaii’s largest union with nearly 37,000 members statewide. HGEA prides itself on being a democratic union -- a union by the members, for the members. The highest policy-making body is the General Assembly. Delegates meet every two years to act on resolutions that guide the union and its officers. They consist of HGEA members from all islands and all bargaining units.
When the General Assembly is not in session, the Board of Directors is responsible for policy decisions affecting the organization. The board consists of elected representatives who are active members representing all bargaining units and all islands, and a representative of the Retirees Unit. Each bargaining unit is also organized as a representational form of government.
Who We Represent
Public state and county employees are divided into 15 collective bargaining units and HGEA has exclusive representation of nine of these units. HGEA also services a large Associate membership, composed primarily of retirees, other state/county employees & officials and federal & private sector employees. The bargaining units that HGEA represents are:
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Administrative, professional and tech employees of the University of Hawaii and community colleges
What We Do: HGEA Services and Benefits
CONTRACT NEGOTIATIONS AND ADMINISTRATION
HGEA is responsible for negotiating contracts on behalf of the members in the nine bargaining units as well as daily enforcement of the collective bargaining agreements.
POLITICAL AND LEGISLATIVE ACTION
HGEA organizes and coordinates a wide range of legislative and political action activities. It endorses candidates for elective offices, establishes priorities on HGEA legislation, & develops political action strategy.
MEMBER BENEFITS AND PROGRAMS
HGEA provides benefits that go beyond what is required under collective bargaining. These benefits complement the union's services, and are designed to enhance the member's personal needs on the job and at home.
