HI HB1406

Creates a new bargaining unit (14) for emergency first responder medical personnel and water safety officers employed by the State or counties under Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 89-6.

Amends Section 89-6(d) to establish voting authority for the new bargaining unit, with the governor having four votes and mayors each having one vote, matching the structure used for firefighters and police officers.

Includes the new bargaining unit (14) in the impasse resolution procedures of Section 89-11(e), allowing for mediation and arbitration when collective bargaining reaches an impasse.

Requires employers and public sector unions to submit a report to the legislature no later than twenty days before the 2012 regular session identifying which workers would be migrated to the new bargaining unit and what statutory amendments are needed.

Takes effect upon approval, with the new bargaining unit (14) becoming operational no later than July 1, 2012.