HI SB2904

Moves teachers and other department of education personnel (bargaining unit 5) from the impasse resolution procedures in section 89-11(d) to those in section 89-11(e) of Hawaii Revised Statutes.

Requires mediation within the first twenty days of an impasse, followed by binding arbitration with a three-member panel if the impasse continues beyond twenty days.

Establishes arbitration procedures including submission of final positions by each party, hearings within 120 days, and arbitration panel decisions within 30 days of hearing conclusion.

Exempts collective bargaining agreements for the 2009-2010 and 2010-2011 school years from the new binding arbitration requirements.

Takes effect upon approval, addressing Hawaii's history of teacher strikes and furloughs by creating a binding dispute resolution process to keep teachers in classrooms during contract negotiations.