Hawaii Senate Bill SB275

Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/23
• Refer: 1/23/23
• Refer: 1/25/23

Caption

Relating To Education.

Impact

If enacted, SB275 would establish a dedicated 'rounding up for teachers' salaries special fund' which is intended to supplement the existing budget allocated to the Department of Education. The funds collected are specified to be used for increases in teacher salaries or bonuses, thereby directly aiming to improve the financial welfare of educators in Hawaii. The bill also ensures that any money contributed through this program will not be considered taxable revenue for electric utilities and thus will avoid additional taxation, which may encourage consumer participation.

Summary

Senate Bill 275, introduced in the Thirty-Second Legislature of Hawaii, focuses on enhancing teacher compensation through a unique funding mechanism called the 'rounding up for teachers program.' The bill proposes to amend Hawaii Revised Statutes by allowing customers of electric utilities and water supply boards to voluntarily round up their utility bills to the nearest dollar or to contribute a specific donation. The funds collected through this program would be funneled into a special fund aimed specifically at providing additional compensation to teachers in the Department of Education. It is noteworthy that participation in this program is voluntary for consumers.

Contention

One of the key points of contention surrounding SB275 is its reliance on voluntary donations through utility bills to fund teacher salaries. Critics may argue that this approach could result in inconsistent funding levels, potentially leaving teachers subject to financial instability if public participation is low. Moreover, opponents might raise concerns about the efficacy of relying on utility customers to contribute to state-funded education efforts, arguing that teacher compensation should be addressed through direct state budgetary measures rather than indirect fundraising methods. Proponents, however, may emphasize the merit of community involvement in supporting education as a shared responsibility.