HI SB2881

Amends section 89-9 to include "benefits and" contributions to the Hawaii employer-union health benefits trust fund as mandatory subjects of collective bargaining negotiations.

Removes language that previously prohibited parties from negotiating cost items for the 1999-2001 biennium, allowing these items to be negotiated going forward.

Eliminates the provision allowing the Legislature to establish contribution amounts to the health benefits trust fund if parties cannot reach agreement within ten working days after arbitration.

Modifies section 89-11(g) to make arbitration panel decisions on health benefits contributions final and binding without requiring legislative approval or alternative legislative action.

Changes the exclusion in section 89-9(d) from "benefits of but not contributions" to exclude only "benefits and contributions" from mandatory bargaining subjects, clarifying the negotiable scope of health benefits matters.