Bill > SB2129

This bill requires the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism, specifically its research and economic analysis division, to study the effects of the minimum wage increases that were put into place by Act 114 of the 2022 Session Laws of Hawaii. The study will examine how many businesses and employers in Hawaii are affected by these wage increases, and whether any businesses have closed down due to higher labor costs, while also considering other contributing factors to closures. Additionally, the department will research how businesses in other states with higher minimum wages have fared. The findings and any recommendations, including potential new legislation, must be reported to the Legislature by December 31, 2027, and funds are appropriated for this study for the 2026-2027 fiscal year, with the entire act taking effect on July 1, 2050.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=2129&year=2026