Relating To Public Employment Cost Items.
The provisions in SB3068 entail direct appropriations from varied funding sources for collective bargaining cost items. The bill emphasizes the need for salary increases and cost adjustments as outlined in Chapter 89C of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, ensuring that state officers and employees who are excluded from collective bargaining receive equitable compensation. Notably, it covers adjustments for employees within the Department of Education and those associated with the Hawaii Health Systems Corporation.
Senate Bill 3068, known as the Public Employment Cost Items Act, introduces appropriations necessary to fund collective bargaining cost items for public employees in Hawaii for the fiscal year of 2022-2023. The bill is specifically designed to support collective bargaining unit (13) and their excluded counterparts, providing necessary adjustments in salaries and associated costs as negotiated between the state and representatives of the unit.
While the bill primarily appears to provide necessary funding for salary adjustments, there could be underlying concerns regarding the overall budget implications for the state. The appropriations listed are notably set at zero for several funding sources, raising questions about the availability of funds and the potential need for future state budget allocations. Additionally, there may be debates surrounding the transparency and fairness of the negotiated agreements, particularly how they affect collective bargaining practices within the state government.