S.B. 1498 Summary

• Amends Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 89-5(i) to add new powers to the Hawaii Labor Relations Board, including authority to resolve disputes over qualifications and criteria of arbitrators selected for collective bargaining impasse resolution.

• Expands the Board's ability to determine qualifications and maintain lists of mediators, grievance arbitrators, or individuals serving in both capacities, with the Board establishing fair and reasonable compensation rates.

• Modifies Section 89-11(e) to require arbitrators selected from the American Arbitration Association list to be "qualified and experienced interest arbitrators" when parties cannot mutually agree on a neutral arbitrator within 30 days of impasse.

• Clarifies arbitration procedures by requiring arbitration panels to verify that final positions submitted by parties comply with rules limiting proposals to those previously submitted in writing and subject to collective bargaining.

• Takes effect upon approval.