RELATING TO THE HAWAII NATIONAL GUARD.

2024 Regular Session Introduced by Scott Saiki

HB 2395 enhances retirement benefits for Hawaii National Guard members on active duty by clarifying eligibility in the Employees' Retirement System, ensuring fair treatment.

Act 070, on 06/21/2024 (Gov. Msg. No. 1171).

#activeduty #employees'retirementsystem #ineligible #nationalguard

Overview

Bill Number: HB 2395
Title: Relating to the Hawaii National Guard
Status: Act 070, effective June 21, 2024
Introduced: January 22, 2024
Primary Sponsor: Representative Saiki
Companion Bill: SB 3084

HB 2395 is a legislative measure aimed at addressing specific provisions related to the Hawaii National Guard, particularly concerning active duty service members and their eligibility within the Employees' Retirement System.

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of HB 2395 is to clarify and amend the eligibility criteria for members of the Hawaii National Guard regarding their participation in the Employees' Retirement System. This bill seeks to ensure that those serving on active duty are appropriately recognized and compensated within the retirement framework.

Key Provisions

Eligibility Adjustments: The bill modifies the criteria under which members of the Hawaii National Guard can be considered eligible for benefits under the Employees' Retirement System.

Active Duty Recognition: It emphasizes the importance of recognizing active duty service members, ensuring they receive the retirement benefits they are entitled to during their service.

Amendments to Existing Laws: The bill includes amendments to existing statutes to align with the new eligibility criteria and to clarify any ambiguities regarding the status of National Guard members.

Impact

Affected Parties: The bill directly impacts members of the Hawaii National Guard, particularly those who are or have been on active duty. It also affects the Employees' Retirement System by altering how benefits are calculated and distributed to eligible service members.

Retirement Benefits: By clarifying eligibility, the bill aims to enhance the retirement security of National Guard members, ensuring they receive fair treatment in the retirement system.

Legislative Process and Timeline

Introduced: January 22, 2024

Passed Final Reading: April 19, 2024, with unanimous support (0 votes against).

Governor's Approval: The bill was transmitted to the Governor on April 19, 2024, and was signed into law on June 21, 2024.

Effective Date: The provisions of the bill will take effect on June 21, 2024.

Conclusion

HB 2395 represents a significant step in recognizing the contributions of the Hawaii National Guard by ensuring that its members are adequately supported through the Employees' Retirement System. The bill's passage reflects a commitment to the welfare of service members and their families, providing them with the necessary benefits as they serve the state and nation.

Bill