Bill > SCR145

This concurrent resolution requests the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations to convene a working group to develop comprehensive recommendations for establishing a statewide paid family and medical leave program. The resolution recognizes that the United States lacks mandated paid family leave, and only one in four private sector workers in Hawaii currently have access to such benefits. The proposed working group would be tasked with developing a program that covers both public and private sector workers, conducting an actuarial study of the workforce, reviewing existing federal and state laws, and creating an implementation plan that includes potential administrative frameworks, costs, and contribution rates. The working group would be composed of diverse representatives from government agencies, labor unions, business organizations, and advocacy groups, and would be asked to consider key parameters such as leave duration, wage replacement, coverage types (including serious illness, child bonding, and military deployment), and employment protections. The group is expected to submit a detailed report with findings and proposed legislation to the Legislature before the 2026 Regular Session, with the ultimate goal of developing a paid family and medical leave program that supports workers, especially those in small businesses and caregiving roles, while addressing workforce challenges and potential economic benefits.

Budget and Finance, Labor and Employment

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SCR&billnumber=145&year=2025