Bill > SB1660

This bill establishes comprehensive protections for hospitality workers in Hawaii by requiring employers in the hospitality industry to implement several key safety measures. Specifically, employers must develop a written anti-harassment policy with clear reporting procedures, provide mandatory annual training on harassment prevention and worker safety, and equip workers who perform isolated tasks like cleaning rooms or delivering meals with portable panic buttons that can immediately summon assistance if they feel threatened. The bill prohibits employers from retaliating against workers who report harassment, use panic buttons, or participate in related investigations, with potential consequences including civil fines ranging from $500 to $5,000 per violation, and the possibility of license suspension for repeated or egregious violations. The Department of Labor and Industrial Relations will be responsible for developing enforcement procedures, conducting audits, and maintaining an annual report on complaint resolutions. The legislation is modeled after a similar law passed in Washington state and aims to address the increased risk of harassment and assault that hospitality workers face due to working in isolated conditions. While the bill is set to take effect in 2050, hospitality employers must be fully compliant with its requirements by January 1, 2026.

Business and Industry, Justice, Labor and Employment

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1660&year=2026