Washington D.C. was abuzz with debate as members of Congress prepared to vote on the 2025 budget reconciliation bill. Local 142’s Titled Officers, the Hawai’i Division Director, and a number of Full-time Officers were in the city for the Washington D.C. legislative update. Though in D.C. for updates on the union pension, the Local 142 delegation had meetings with Hawaiʻi’s congressional representatives to discuss issues of concern to the union, including those impacted by the reconciliation bill. 

What is a Reconciliation Bill? 

A reconciliation bill is a special kind of budget-related law that Congress uses to fast-track changes to federal spending, taxes, or deficits. It’s based on a budget plan that Congress passed earlier and is used to make sure the country’s money is being spent the way that plan laid out. Unlike regular laws, a reconciliation bill can’t be blocked by a Senate filibuster—meaning it can pass with just a simple majority (51 votes), instead of the usual 60. That makes it a powerful tool for the party in control of Congress to push through major changes to government programs like Medicare, Medicaid, taxes, or student aid. 

Issues of Concern 

The 142 delegation spoke with Senator Schatz and Representatives Hirono and Tokuda about a number of issues of concern for members ,including changes to Medicaid and Medicare that may impact members and their families, and changes in the tax code. There was also discussion around protecting unions’ non-profit status, especially when it comes to lifting up working-class voices, educating the public, and defending democratic rights. Developing Analysis As of the writing of this article, the House of Representatives passed the reconciliation bill on May 22 by a narrow margin of 215-214, with both Hawaiʻi Reps Ed Case and Jill Tokuda voting “No”. 

Both mainstream and social media are saturated with hot takes and analysis on the bill, which will now be advanced to the Senate for a debate and a vote. Local 142 officers and staff are analyzing the bill and its potential impacts on our members and will provide an independent analysis in the July-August issue of The Voice.