Bill > HB695

This bill establishes a comprehensive Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance Program in Hawaii, which will require employers and employees to contribute to a trust fund that will provide paid leave benefits starting January 1, 2028. Eligible employees can receive up to 12 weeks of family leave or 26 weeks of medical leave per application year, with wage replacement benefits calculated on a sliding scale based on the employee's average weekly wage (ranging from 50% to 90% of wages depending on income level). To qualify, individuals must have worked at least 14 weeks for an employer, earning at least $400 per week during the previous 52 weeks, and meet specific criteria such as caring for a new child, caring for a family member with a serious health condition, addressing domestic violence, or handling a qualifying military exigency. The program provides employment protections, ensuring that employees can return to their job or an equivalent position after taking leave, and prohibits employers from retaliating against employees who use the benefit. Employers with five or more employees will be required to remit 100% of the payroll contribution determined by the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations, while smaller employers and self-employed individuals will contribute 50%. The bill also mandates public education efforts to inform employees and employers about the program and requires annual reporting to the legislature on program participation and outcomes.

Labor and Employment

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=695&year=2026