S.B. 3317 Summary

• Establishes a new bargaining unit (16) for graduate assistants employed by the University of Hawaii and community college system, effectuating a Hawaii Labor Relations Board order from January 4, 2024

• Defines "graduate assistant" as a student in a renewable, part-time academic appointment with teaching and research responsibilities who has roles as apprentice-level professionals in the university community

• Designates the governor (3 votes), University of Hawaii Board of Regents (2 votes), and University of Hawaii president (1 vote) as the public employer representatives for negotiating with graduate assistant bargaining unit

• Includes graduate assistants in the impasse resolution procedures under section 89-11, allowing access to mediation and board assistance when contract negotiations reach an impasse

• Takes effect on July 1, 2055