Honolulu Firefighters Ratify $11.7M COVID Hazard Pay

The deal will provide additional compensation for frontline workers during the pandemic.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 11:14am

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A close-up photograph of a shiny, metallic firefighter's helmet resting on a plain, monochromatic background, conveying the bravery and sacrifice of Honolulu's frontline workers during the pandemic.A symbolic representation of the hazard pay agreement honoring Honolulu's firefighters for their courageous service during the COVID-19 crisis.Honolulu Today

Honolulu firefighters have ratified an agreement to receive $11.7 million in COVID-19 hazard pay. The deal will provide additional compensation for the city's frontline workers who faced increased risks and demands during the pandemic.

Why it matters

The hazard pay agreement recognizes the sacrifices and challenges faced by Honolulu's firefighters, who continued to serve the community throughout the COVID-19 crisis. It sets an important precedent for compensating essential workers who put themselves at greater risk to maintain critical public services.

The details

Under the new agreement, Honolulu's 1,000 firefighters will receive a one-time lump sum payment as hazard pay for their work during the pandemic. The $11.7 million deal was negotiated between the city and the firefighters' union, the International Association of Fire Fighters Local 1463.

  • The agreement was ratified on April 9, 2026.

The players

International Association of Fire Fighters Local 1463

The labor union representing Honolulu's firefighters, which negotiated the hazard pay deal with the city.

Honolulu

The city in Hawaii where the firefighters are employed and will receive the COVID-19 hazard pay.

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What they’re saying

“Our firefighters have been on the frontlines throughout the pandemic, putting themselves at risk to serve the community. This hazard pay agreement is a well-deserved recognition of their sacrifice and commitment.”

— Bobby Lee, President, International Association of Fire Fighters Local 1463

The takeaway

The Honolulu firefighters' hazard pay agreement demonstrates the importance of supporting and compensating essential workers who risked their health to maintain critical public services during the COVID-19 pandemic. It sets an important precedent that could inspire similar deals for other frontline professions.