Hawaii Senate Bill SB2789

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/21/22
• Refer: 1/24/22
• Report Pass: 2/9/22
• Refer: 2/9/22
• Report Pass: 3/4/22
• Engrossed: 3/8/22
• Refer: 3/10/22
• Report Pass: 3/22/22
• Refer: 3/22/22
• Report Pass: 4/6/22
• Report Pass: 4/29/22
• Enrolled: 5/3/22

Caption

Relating To Public Employment Cost Items.

Impact

The bill directly impacts state employment laws by allocating funds to ensure that salary adjustments and collective bargaining agreements are honored. Specifically, SB2789 appropriates significant sums from the general and special funds, ensuring that state employees can receive their agreed salary increases without delay. This demonstrates a commitment by the state to uphold its obligations under labor agreements, reflecting broader support for public sector employees during this fiscal period.

Summary

SB2789, titled 'Relating to Public Employment Cost Items', was introduced to address the funding requirements for collective bargaining agreements for state employees, particularly those who are included in collective bargaining unit (8) for the fiscal biennium of 2021-2023. The bill aims to provide necessary appropriations to support salary increases and other negotiated cost items as per the agreements reached between the state and the representatives of these bargaining units. This includes provisions for both general and special funding sources to cover these costs.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment regarding SB2789 appears supportive among legislators, particularly those advocating for labor rights and fair compensation for state employees. The passage of such funding measures is often viewed positively as it emphasizes the importance of maintaining fair salaries in public employment. However, there may also exist some financial scrutiny or concerns regarding the source of these appropriations and their long-term impacts on the state's budget.

Contention

One point of contention surrounding the bill may involve discussions about fiscal responsibility and the sources of funding for the appropriations. Some legislators may question the sustainability of the funding, particularly in times of budget constraints or economic uncertainty. Ensuring that federal, special, and other funding sources can adequately support these cost items without detracting from other essential services remains a key area of debate.