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Bill

Bill

SB 183

RELATING TO THE HAWAII EMPLOYER-UNION HEALTH BENEFITS TRUST FUND.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Henry Aquino

SB 183 modifies Hawaii's public employee health insurance trust fund structure, impacting coverage for state and county workers; deferred to 2026 for further negotiation.

House Conferee(s) discharged.
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Bill Summary · SB 183

Legislative bill overview

SB 183 addresses modifications to the Hawaii Employer-Union Health Benefits Trust Fund, which provides health insurance coverage to public employees and retirees in Hawaii. The bill underwent conference committee proceedings in April 2025 but was ultimately carried over to the 2026 Regular Session without passage.

Why is this important

The Hawaii Employer-Union Health Benefits Trust Fund affects tens of thousands of public sector workers and their families who depend on this coverage for healthcare. Changes to this fund can impact premium costs, benefit levels, and the long-term solvency of a critical health insurance program for state and county employees.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding mechanisms: Any proposed changes to how the fund is financed (employer contributions, employee premiums, or general revenues) could face opposition from either unions, employers, or taxpayers
  • Benefit coverage levels: Modifications to covered services, deductibles, or copayments would directly affect employees' out-of-pocket costs and union negotiating positions
  • Eligibility or retiree provisions: Adjustments to who qualifies for coverage or retiree healthcare continuation could create conflict between cost-control advocates and worker protections

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

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