Hawaii House Bill HB69

Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

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

Caption

Relating To A Compensatory Time Cash-out Pilot Program.

Impact

The proposed pilot program is designed to operate over three years and will assess the effectiveness of cashing out compensatory time on employee attendance and overtime costs. By providing compensation for unused time, the State aims to incentivize attendance and alleviate the financial burden caused by overtime. The Department of Corrections is required to report annually on the program's impact, tracking metrics such as changes in overtime hours and the participation rates of employees in the program, which will help ensure accountability and transparency.

Summary

House Bill 69 establishes a Compensatory Time Cash-Out Pilot Program aimed at addressing high absenteeism rates among employees in the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation in Hawaii. The bill is initiated in response to the rising instances of employee burnout and the resultant operational challenges in high-stress environments, particularly within state correctional facilities. It proposes a voluntary program allowing employees to cash out a portion of their accrued compensatory time at the end of each fiscal quarter, which is seen as a means to enhance attendance and reduce overtime expenditures for the State.

Contention

A notable concern surrounding HB 69 is its potential impact on collective bargaining agreements and employee agreements regarding compensatory time off. As participation in the cash-out program is voluntary, questions arise about how employees will perceive these options in the context of their overall benefits and job satisfaction. Additionally, there are anxieties regarding balancing the financial incentives with employee wellbeing, especially considering the already high stress levels reported in correctional work environments. Opponents may argue that cashing out compensatory time could lead to employees feeling pressured to forgo necessary breaks to maintain productivity.