Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SB1354

Introduced

1/23/25

Refer

1/27/25

Report Pass

2/7/25

Refer

2/7/25

Caption

Relating To Public Employment Cost Items.

Impact

The introduction of SB1354 may influence existing state laws related to public employment and collective bargaining by providing a clear framework for funding salary adjustments and collective bargaining costs. This could streamline processes within state departments and provide them with the necessary resources to comply with negotiated agreements. However, because the bill marks expenditures that exceed the general fund expenditure ceiling, it raises questions about budgetary constraints and fiscal sustainability for upcoming budgetary periods.

Summary

SB1354, titled 'Relating to Public Employment Cost Items,' is a legislative proposal in Hawaii for the fiscal biennium 2025-2027. The bill appropriates necessary funds to address collective bargaining cost items negotiated with the exclusive representative of collective bargaining unit (9). It outlines specific funding provisions for various state departments and emphasizes the salary increases and cost adjustments authorized under Hawaii's employment laws. Notably, the bill does not allocate specific amounts from general or special funds, indicating a focus on negotiating frameworks rather than definite budgetary earmarks.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB1354 appears to be one of cautious support among legislators. Supporters highlight the importance of honoring collective bargaining agreements and ensuring that public employees receive their due compensation. However, there may also be reservations regarding the implications of exceeding budgetary limits, which could lead to future economic strain or necessitate cuts in other areas. As such, there is a balance to be struck between fulfilling employee compensation obligations and maintaining fiscal responsibility.

Contention

The notable contention regarding SB1354 revolves around its impact on the state's overall budget and financial health. By declaring that the general fund expenditure ceiling for the fiscal year 2025-2026 has been exceeded, critics may argue that the bill risks financial stability in the long term. Additionally, the lack of specific financial allocations could lead to uncertainty regarding the availability of funds for necessary programs and services, prompting concerns among stakeholders about prioritization and resource allocation.

Companion Bills

HI SB1354

Carry Over Relating To Public Employment Cost Items.

Previously Filed As

HI SB1354

Relating To Public Employment Cost Items.

HI SB1353

Relating To Public Employment Cost Items.

HI SB1351

Relating To Public Employment Cost Items.

HI SB1350

Relating To Public Employment Cost Items.

HI SB1358

Relating To Public Employment Cost Items.

HI SB1356

Relating To Public Employment Cost Items.

HI SB1352

Relating To Public Employment Cost Items.

HI SB1347

Relating To Public Employment Cost Items.

HI SB1357

Relating To Public Employment Cost Items.

HI SB1349

Relating To Public Employment Cost Items.

Similar Bills

MD HB390

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2027)

MD SB282

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2027)

MD HB350

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

MD SB319

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

PA HB1330

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of certain agencies of the Executive Department for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.

PA SB160

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024.

PA SB280

PA SB1161

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.