HONOLULU (KHON2) — In light of a dramatic scene that unfolded in front of Kapiolani Medical Center on Monday, Governor Josh Green M.D. and Attorney General Anne Lopez urge the hospital and the Hawaii Nurses’ Association to seek a federal mediator.
Both parties entered their sixth day of negotiations and have yet to reach a deal. Governor Green and AG Lopez believe a mediator would help break barriers and help both sides reach a fair agreement.
“Our nurses are a critical piece of our health care system in Hawai‘i. I encourage both parties, who I respect, to request the assistance of a federal mediator,” Green said.
By law, the Governor cannot intervene in private negotiations between Kapiolani Medical Center and its nurses, but he is ready to assist through mediation if requested.
“During this phase of the negotiation, with a federal mediator, I would ask that both parties ensure that no services are interrupted at Kapiolani and that the nurses continue to receive their health benefits. These gestures of good faith should help the parties move forward,” Green added.
Governor Green has also offered state resources and neutral spaces for discussion, including conference rooms.
“Now more than ever, we must remain focused on resolution,” Green continued. He emphasized the importance of working together and called for calm dialogue.
In a statement released by Kapiolani Medical Center Chief Operating Officer Gidget Ruscetta, the hospital agrees a federal mediator can help reach the final step in a contract settlement.
Additionally, the hospital plans to “extend our nurses’ health, dental and vision benefits beyond Sept. 30, as long as HNA accepts the governor’s recommendation and adheres to the terms of Kapiolani’s response.”