HI HB1362

Amends Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 269-2(b) to restructure the salary framework for Hawaii Public Utilities Commission (PUC) commissioners effective July 1, 2019.

Sets the PUC chairperson's salary equal to the highest pay tier of a supervising deputy attorney general, replacing the previous formula tied to 87% of the director of human resources development's salary.

Sets each other PUC commissioner's salary equal to the lowest pay tier of a first deputy attorney general, replacing the previous formula of 95% of the chairperson's salary.

Maintains commissioners' exemption from civil service chapters 76 and 89 while preserving their membership in the state employees' retirement system and eligibility for state employee benefits.

Aims to retain high-caliber commissioners by aligning their compensation with other states and supporting Hawaii's renewable energy transition goals by 2045.