Hawaii House Bill HB167

Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/25
• Refer: 1/21/25

Caption

Relating To Hazard Pay.

Impact

If enacted, HB167 will amend Chapter 78 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes to create a statutory framework for hazard pay. The bill authorizes the establishment of differentials in pay that may not exceed 25% of the minimum salary range for employees working in hazardous conditions, validated by departmental heads. The approval of such differentials will require regular review and may be reassessed every six months depending on ongoing needs and funds available.

Summary

House Bill 167 (HB167) introduces provisions for hazard pay for state and county public employees who are exposed to unusually hazardous working conditions. The bill emerged in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, which highlighted existing inequities in compensation for first responders and essential workers. During the pandemic, many workers risked their health by continuing their duties, yet they were not entitled to hazard pay due to contractual limitations in their collective bargaining agreements. This was deemed unfair and disrespectful to those who have served the public under dangerous circumstances.

Contention

While the bill aims to address equity among public employees, it may face scrutiny regarding its financial implications and the potential administrative burden of implementing hazard pay differentials. Questions may arise about which conditions qualify as 'unusually hazardous' and the criteria for determining eligibility among various employee groups. Additionally, fiscal officers will be required to certify funding availability, introducing an extra layer of complexity in an already strained budget environment.