Hawaii House Bill HB1036

Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/25
• Refer: 1/23/25
• Report Pass: 2/10/25
• Refer: 2/10/25
• Report Pass: 2/27/25
• Engrossed: 2/27/25
• Refer: 3/4/25
• Report Pass: 3/18/25
• Refer: 3/18/25
• Report Pass: 4/4/25

Caption

Relating To Public Employment Cost Items.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1036 will have implications on the state laws regulating public employment and collective bargaining. The bill aims to ensure that state officers and employees who are part of Bargaining Unit (10) receive the appropriated salary increases and adjustments as negotiated. This support is particularly critical as it reflects the state's commitment to its workforce while ensuring that the expenses associated with such increases meet legislative financial guidelines. Furthermore, the bill highlights the pressing need to address the salary disparities faced by state employees who may be excluded from collective bargaining.

Summary

House Bill 1036 relates to public employment cost items in the state of Hawaii. Specifically, it seeks to provide appropriations for collective bargaining cost items for Bargaining Unit (10) and their excluded counterparts for the fiscal biennium of 2025-2027. This bill includes the cost of salary increases and other adjustments resulting from negotiations between the state and the bargaining unit representatives. Although the bill outlines necessary funding, it indicates that no funds will be allocated through general or special funds, relying instead on other unspecified sources to cover these costs.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 1036 appears to be cautious and pragmatic. Supporters of the bill recognize the importance of adequately funding public employment costs, as it ensures fair compensation for state employees. However, there might be concerns among legislators regarding the implications of exceeding the state’s general fund expenditure ceiling, which could lead to discussions about the sustainability of such appropriations and the fiscal health of the state budget. Hence, while the bill garners support for its intent, there is also a recognition of the fiscal challenges it presents.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the declaration that the state general fund expenditure ceiling for the fiscal year 2025-2026 is exceeded due to the appropriations suggested in the bill. This aspect raises important discussions about budget constraints and fiscal responsibility, with implications for future funding decisions and potential impacts on other state-funded programs. As a result, legislators may debate the balance between supporting public employees and maintaining budgetary discipline, making the passage of HB 1036 a pivotal point in this legislative session.