HI HB1275

Establishes automatic annual salary step increases for public school teachers and educational officers in Bargaining Unit (5) who complete a year of satisfactory service and meet other specified requirements.

Provides longevity step increases for teachers and educational officers who have served satisfactorily for three years at their maximum increment step or any longevity step, with board discretion to grant principals and vice-principals increases more frequently.

Addresses Hawaii's teacher retention crisis by noting that only 51% of teachers hired in 2013-2014 remained five years later, and that Hawaii teachers have the lowest cost-of-living adjusted salaries in the nation at $24,409 starting salary versus national average of $30,086.

Requires compliance with existing sections 302A-602 to 302A-639 and 302A-701 as conditions for salary increases.

Takes effect January 1, 2050.