Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

Hawaii House Bill HR63

Introduced
3/9/23  
Refer
3/15/23  
Report Pass
4/3/23  

Caption

Requesting The Hawaii Labor Relations Board To Establish Objective Standards And Criteria For Splitting Off A Group Of State Workers Into A New Bargaining Unit.

Impact

The anticipated impact of HR63 is significant as it addresses the mechanics of collective bargaining for state workers. By facilitating the establishment of new bargaining units through clearly defined criteria, the resolution aims to streamline negotiations regarding wages, hours, and working conditions. This step could enhance employee representation and empower workers to advocate for their rights effectively. Moreover, the request for a report from the Hawaii Labor Relations Board will guide the Legislature in future sessions to make informed decisions regarding labor relations and worker organization in the state.

Summary

House Resolution 63, introduced in the 32nd Legislature of Hawaii, calls for the Hawaii Labor Relations Board to establish objective standards and criteria for splitting off a group of state workers into a new bargaining unit. The bill recognizes the importance of collective bargaining, as stated in the National Labor Relations Act, and emphasizes that having a clear framework would enable the appropriate formation of new bargaining units while promoting fair working conditions and worker rights. By establishing such standards, the bill seeks to mitigate any arbitrary decision-making process surrounding the formation of these units, ensuring that any new bargaining groups reflect a true community of interest among employees.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HR63 is supportive within the context of improving labor relations. Proponents assert that establishing well-articulated standards is crucial for the ongoing development of labor rights, thereby ensuring fair practices across the board. They see it as a constructive movement toward recognizing the diverse needs of state workers. However, any apprehensions about the complexities of implementation and potential disruptions in existing bargaining relationships could be points of contention raised by critics who favor maintaining the status quo.

Contention

While HR63 has the support of many labor advocates, there are concerns about the practicality of implementing these new standards. Critics may argue that creating additional bargaining units could complicate the existing negotiation landscape, possibly leading to fragmentation among employee groups. Additionally, there are apprehensions about how these new criteria may affect negotiations with employers, including potential increases in bureaucratic hurdles during the bargaining process. Thus, while the bill is rooted in improving labor relations, the implications of its implementation warrant careful scrutiny.

Companion Bills

HI HCR61

Same As Requesting The Hawaii Labor Relations Board To Establish Objective Standards And Criteria For Splitting Off A Group Of State Workers Into A New Bargaining Unit.

Previously Filed As

HI HB1378

Relating To Labor Standards At Health Care Facilities.

HI SB1580

Relating To Labor Standards At Health Care Facilities.

HI SB2991

Relating To Collective Bargaining Unit Creation.

HI SCR33

Requesting The Department Of Labor And Industrial Relations To Convene An Interagency Task Force To Combat The Underground Economy And Employee Misclassification In The State's Construction Industry.

HI SCR195

Requesting The National Energy Laboratory Of Hawaii Authority To Work With The University Of Hawaii At Manoa To Develop New Master And Strategic Plans.

HI SR22

Requesting The Department Of Labor And Industrial Relations To Convene An Interagency Task Force To Combat The Underground Economy And Employee Misclassification In The State's Construction Industry.

HI SR167

Requesting The National Energy Laboratory Of Hawaii Authority To Work With The University Of Hawaii At Manoa To Develop New Master And Strategic Plans.

HI HCR97

Requesting The Department Of Accounting And General Services To Establish A Working Group To Plan And Construct A Hawaii First Responders Memorial.

HI HR81

Requesting The Department Of Accounting And General Services To Establish A Working Group To Plan And Construct A Hawaii First Responders Memorial.

HI HCR32

Requesting The Office Of Hawaiian Affairs To Identify The Scope Of Native Hawaiian Cultural Appropriateness For The Purpose Of Addressing Native Hawaiian Disparities.

Similar Bills

CA AB368

Energy: building standards: passive house standards.

CA AB1857

Building codes: earthquake safety: immediate occupancy standard.

CA AB852

Pupil instruction: academic content standards: update of adopted standards.

CA SB1102

Occupational safety and health.

CA SB597

Building standards: rainwater catchment systems.

CA SB745

The Drought-Resistant Buildings Act.

CA AB588

State Fire Marshal: lithium battery working group: membership: funding.

CA AB1476

Community Redevelopment Law of 2023.