HI SB2949

Defines "furlough" as a temporary layoff from work without pay or similar effect, including furloughs occurring during an existing collective bargaining agreement that did not previously address furloughs.

Adds furlough to the definition of "wages" under collective bargaining to include wages, incremental steps, longevity steps, pay ranges, furlough, and movement between pay ranges.

Establishes furlough as a mandatory subject of collective bargaining between public employers and exclusive employee representatives.

Requires employers to make every reasonable effort to consult with exclusive representatives and consider their input before implementing any furlough.

Makes the Act effective upon approval and applies retroactively to any unresolved furlough issues existing at the time of enactment, regardless of whether the underlying collective bargaining agreement addressed furloughs.