Bill > HB931

This bill seeks to expand collective bargaining protections for private sector workers in Hawaii by modifying the definition of "employee" in the Hawaii Employment Relations Act. Specifically, the bill removes the existing exclusion of independent contractors from the definition of employee and includes all individuals subject to the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), regardless of whether the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has chosen to exercise jurisdiction over them. The legislature's motivation stems from concerns about potential erosion of worker rights under "Project 2025" and recognizes the economic and social benefits of unionization, noting that Hawaii has the highest union density in the United States at 24.1% in 2023. The bill aims to provide broader protections for workers, including those in smaller workplaces and independent contractors, by ensuring they can collectively bargain and are protected from unfair labor practices. The changes would take effect immediately upon approval, expanding the scope of workers who can seek collective bargaining rights and legal protections under state law.

Labor and Employment

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=931&year=2026