Bill > HB160

This bill modifies provisions related to the Hawaii Employer-Union Health Benefits Trust Fund, which is a fund that manages health and life insurance benefits for state and county employees. The bill allows arbitration to resolve impasses and disputes regarding the amounts of state and county contributions to the trust fund, which was previously prohibited. By removing the existing language, the bill also eliminates the restriction that prevented union members from striking over contribution amounts. Additionally, the bill streamlines the process for handling arbitration decisions by removing complex procedural requirements about submitting contribution recommendations to the legislature. The changes give unions and government employers more flexibility in negotiating health benefit fund contributions and provide a clear arbitration pathway for resolving disagreements. The bill will take effect immediately upon approval, allowing for more straightforward negotiations and dispute resolution regarding employee health benefits contributions.

Labor and Employment

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=160&year=2026