SB 2251 Summary

• Creates a new bargaining unit (15) for state and county ocean safety and water safety officers separate from state law enforcement officers in bargaining unit (14).

• Amends Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 89-6 to establish ocean safety and water safety officers as a distinct bargaining unit with the same representation structure as other specialized units, giving the governor six votes and mayors, chief justice, and Hawaii health systems corporation board one vote each if they employ such officers.

• Amends Section 89-11 to include the new bargaining unit (15) in the impasse resolution procedures, allowing mediation for 20 days followed by binding arbitration if impasse continues.

• Preserves all existing rights, benefits, and privileges of ocean safety and water safety officers under Hawaii Revised Statutes chapters 76, 78, 87A, and 88, with no break in service during the transition to the new bargaining unit.

• Takes effect upon approval with no retroactive effect on rights, duties, or proceedings that occurred before the Act's effective date.