Bill > SB1546

This bill modifies the employment rules for retired teachers and administrators in Hawaii by expanding the conditions under which they can be rehired without losing their retirement benefits. Specifically, the bill allows retired educators to be rehired in teacher shortage areas or difficult-to-fill positions with new requirements: they must not have been employed by the state or county in the previous twelve months, there must be no pre-retirement agreement about returning to work, and the hiring entity must contribute to the pension fund to cover unfunded liability. The bill introduces two key new provisions: first, rehired retirants must be paid at least the minimum salary for their experience and qualifications, and second, they will not be eligible for additional employment benefits typically provided to active employees. The Department of Education is directed to establish rules for identifying teacher shortage areas and difficult-to-fill positions, which will help implement these new employment guidelines. The overall goal appears to be addressing workforce gaps in education while maintaining fiscal responsibility and preventing potential retirement system abuses.

Education

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1546&year=2026