Hawaiʻi lawmakers consider full-time work with pay raises

Hawaiʻi lawmakers are facing a crucial decision regarding proposed pay raises from the state's Salary Commission. These raises could significantly increase their salaries, but they come with expectations. If legislators accept the raises, they must acknowledge their roles as full-time employees. Currently, many lawmakers report no outside income and are set to receive a 32% pay increase starting in July 2027. This raise could bring their salaries up to over $114,000 by 2030. A year-round legislative schedule could enhance the effectiveness of the Legislature. More committee hearings spread throughout the year would allow for better governance, rather than the current model of concentrated sessions. Some lawmakers have shown resistance to this change, favoring the status quo instead. Analysis of financial disclosure shows that most lawmakers do not have other jobs, which could make a year-round schedule feasible. However, many legislators have been hesitant to approve significant reforms in recent years, which raises concerns about public trust. The move to a full-time Legislature could allow for more transparency and accountability. Changing the current practices could help reduce the influence of committee chairs and improve how bills are handled. In addition, a year-round schedule would help lawmakers respond effectively to emergencies, providing more time to address urgent issues. A constitutional amendment might be necessary to formalize the transition to year-round sessions and prevent conflicts of interest from outside jobs. If lawmakers choose to accept raises, they should also commit to the responsibilities that come with those salaries. Failure to embrace this change could lead to frustration among voters, prompting them to seek out reform-minded candidates in future elections.