Bill > HB1290

This bill establishes a Portable Benefits Program for gig workers in Hawaii, creating a comprehensive system to provide benefits to independent contractors who typically work short-term jobs for multiple clients. The program will be administered by a nine-member board of trustees appointed by the governor and will require contracting agents (businesses that facilitate gig work) to contribute funds to qualified benefit providers for workers. These contributions will be used to provide workers' compensation insurance and potentially other benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, and retirement benefits. The bill defines gig workers as individuals who provide services through contracting agents and are paid via 1099 forms, with some specific exclusions like sales representatives and workers under collective bargaining agreements. Contracting agents will be required to contribute a percentage of transaction fees or a set amount per hour of work, with contributions made monthly and assigned proportionally if multiple workers are involved in a single transaction. Workers will have the ability to select their benefit provider annually and will be given options to allocate their contributions among various benefits. The program aims to address the lack of traditional employee benefits for gig workers, providing them with more financial stability and protection. The bill will take effect on January 1, 2026, with initial funding appropriated for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027.

Labor and Employment

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1290&year=2026