Hawaii House Bill HB920

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/27/21
• Refer: 1/29/21

Caption

Relating To Public Employment Cost Items.

Impact

The implementation of HB 920 is expected to have significant implications for public employment compensation practices in Hawaii. By providing a clear funding framework for collective bargaining cost items, the bill supports the state's commitment to its public employees. However, as the appropriations show zero funding in the specified categories, there will be operational and financial discussions needed among state entities regarding the actual provision of funds for these salary increases.

Summary

House Bill 920 aims to provide appropriations for collective bargaining cost items related to public employment in Hawaii. Specifically, the bill establishes funding for salary increases and cost adjustments for state officers and employees who are part of or excluded from collective bargaining unit (6). These appropriations are intended to cover the fiscal biennium for 2021-2023, ensuring that the agreed-upon cost items negotiated with the bargaining unit representative are adequately funded. This funding, however, currently indicates zero allocation for general, special, federal, or other funds for the specified fiscal years.

Contention

One of the notable points of contention surrounding HB 920 is the zero allocation of funds, which raises questions about how the state intends to fulfill the requirements established through collective bargaining agreements. Critics may argue that the lack of stated funding undermines the effectiveness and reliability of public employment compensation adjustments. Consequently, the bill exposes a gap between legislative intentions and fiscal reality, necessitating further dialogue among stakeholders in Hawaii's public sector employment landscape.