HI HB1890

Hawaii teachers have the lowest cost-of-living-adjusted salaries in the nation at $24,409 starting salary, compared to the national average of $30,086 when adjusted for cost of living.

Teacher retention has declined significantly, with 71% of teachers leaving Hawaii within five years; only 51% of teachers hired in 2013-2014 remained teaching in the state five years later.

Establishes automatic annual salary step increases for teachers who complete one year of satisfactory service, subject to collective bargaining agreement negotiations and available funds.

Provides longevity step increases for teachers who have served satisfactorily for three years at their maximum increment step.

Appropriates funds for teacher retention bonuses distributed in four equal installments through June 30, 2031, for bargaining unit 5 members who were continuously employed between March 4, 2020, and March 25, 2022.