The public school teachers union plans to wait for the Hawaii Labor Relations Board to decide whether an imposed contract violated members’ rights before proceeding with legal or other action.
The executive board of the Hawaii State Teachers Association met earlier this month and delayed further steps while the board ruling is pending.
"We’re just waiting for the results," said Wil Okabe, HSTA president.
HSTA previously said it was evaluating whether to pursue legal action against the state or seek a strike authorization vote, as the dispute that began 13 months ago drags on.
It was not clear when the board will rule. The union wrapped up its case before the board in May.
No new negotiations between the state and union are planned.
The state is asking teachers to return to the bargaining table while the union believes a six-year agreement teachers had previously rejected then approved in May should be honored.
The dispute began in July 2011 when the state unilaterally implemented a "last, best and final" contract offer for teachers that included wage reductions and higher health insurance premiums.
HSTA argued to the labor board that the state’s imposition of a contract violated its members’ rights and collective bargaining laws. The state countered it had to act to avoid massive layoffs.
The lack of movement on the issues means teachers continue working under the "last, best" offer, which expires June 30.
In an interview with the Star-Advertiser, Okabe reiterated his belief that the state should honor the agreement that teachers first rejected then approved.
"The governor can validate this contract at any time," he said. This particular contract allows stability for students."
He said the continuing dispute was "very discouraging" for teachers.
Gov. Neil Abercrombie has repeatedly called the agreement invalid and says a new deal needs to be negotiated.
Under the agreement union members approved, teachers would continue to take 5 percent wage reductions through June 30, before moving to a new salary schedule that recognizes teachers’ years of service.
The state Department of Education would also move to a revised teacher evaluation system linked to student performance. Teachers rated "effective" or higher would be eligible for annual raises.
