HI HB553

Allows part-time and full-time graduate student assistants employed by the University of Hawaii to collectively bargain their wages, hours, and other terms of employment.

Amends Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 89-6(f) to exclude graduate student assistants from coverage exemptions, making them eligible bargaining unit members.

Requires the University of Hawaii and exclusive representatives of existing bargaining units to meet and submit a report to the legislature no later than 20 days before the 2016 regular session with findings and recommendations regarding negotiable items.

Any collective bargaining agreement shall not take effect until July 1, 2016, giving time for further legislative consideration.

Takes effect upon approval with provisions that the Act does not affect rights, duties, or penalties that matured prior to its effective date.