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GM 1277

Informing the Legislature that on June 6, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: SB1402 SD1 HD2 (ACT 177).

2025 Regular Session

Bill GM 1277 mandates collective bargaining for securing mooring lines at commercial harbors, impacting labor unions while exempting certain vessels and activities.

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Bill Summary · GM 1277

Summary of Bill GM 1277

Bill Number: GM 1277
Title: Informing the Legislature that on June 6, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: SB1402 SD1 HD2 (ACT 177)
Status: Received
Introduced: June 06, 2025
Classification: Proclamation
Subject: Act 177

Purpose and Intent

Bill GM 1277 serves as a formal notification to the Hawaii State Legislature that the Governor, Josh Green, M.D., signed Senate Bill 1402 (SB 1402) into law on June 6, 2025. This bill, now known as Act 177, pertains to the management and labor regulations concerning vessels in state commercial harbors.

Key Provisions

Amendments to Hawaii Revised Statutes

  1. Collective Bargaining Requirement:

    • The bill amends Section 266-61 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes to mandate that the securing of mooring lines from vessels to commercial docks, wharves, piers, quays, and landings must be performed by labor that is subject to collective bargaining agreements.

  2. Exemptions:

    • The requirement does not apply to:
      • Labor performed at shipyards or drydocks.
      • Activities related to ship repair, construction, and overhaul services.
      • Securing mooring lines from fishing vessels, government-owned or sponsored vessels, tour boats, and training vessels.

  3. Contract Protection:

    • The Act ensures that it will not impair any existing contracts as of the effective date, in compliance with the Constitution of the State of Hawaii.

  4. Severability Clause:

    • If any provision of the Act is found to conflict with federal or state constitutional provisions, the entire Act may be rendered invalid.

Effective Date

  • The provisions of Act 177 will take effect on July 1, 2025.

Impact

Who is Affected?

  • Labor Organizations: The bill directly impacts labor unions and workers involved in securing mooring lines at commercial harbors, as it enforces collective bargaining agreements.
  • Vessel Operators: Fishing vessels, government vessels, and tour boats are exempt from these requirements, which may affect operational costs and labor practices in the maritime industry.
  • State Agencies: The Department of Transportation will be responsible for enforcing these new regulations.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was passed by both the Senate and House of Representatives of the Thirty-Third State Legislature prior to being signed into law by the Governor. The final readings occurred on April 23, 2025, in the Senate and April 3, 2025, in the House.

Conclusion

Bill GM 1277 serves as an important legislative update regarding labor practices in Hawaii's commercial harbors. By mandating collective bargaining for certain labor activities, it aims to enhance labor rights while providing specific exemptions to maintain operational flexibility for various types of vessels. The effective date of July 1, 2025, allows stakeholders time to prepare for the changes outlined in Act 177.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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