HONOLULU (KHON2) -- More than 300 Kauai County employees who worked during the pandemic will finally receive their hazard pay after a nearly five-year fight. Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news On Monday, the United Public Workers union announced a temporary hazard pay settlement was made with the county, which "highlights a major victory for the union in securing recognition and protection for essential workers under extraordinary circumstances." Officials said the settlement comes after a class grievance was filed for employees who reported for work during the COVID-19 pandemic from March 2020 to March 2022. $5M of COVID money reappropriated as hazard pay for City employees UPW members voted overwhelmingly last week to accept the agreement. According to reports, affected employees will be awarded 15% temporary hazard pay for those who worked at their base rate during the two-year period. Refuse collection equipment operators will also receive 15% THP for their work hours, even if they were not physically there. "Throughout the pandemic, our members kept critical services operational, often at great personal risk. We are proud to have secured compensation that reflects the magnitude of their sacrifice and dedication," said Kalani Werner, UPW State Director. THP payments will be issued in lump sums. "I saw a lot of their faces and talking stories with them that being able to put this behind them and not even worry about it as we move forward," Werner added. Check out more news from around Hawaii The union finished arbitration for its workers at the University of Hawaii and is awaiting a ruling for workers on the Big Island. Arbitration with the state is scheduled to start next month.