On July 30, 2025, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) released guidance regarding “Unlawful Discrimination,” which applies to many Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs. Entities may jeopardize federal funding and grant monies if it engages in unlawful discrimination or knowingly funds “unlawful practices of contractors,
HEC is excited to host our first fully remote HR Bootcamp: Building a Foundation in HR in September! HR Bootcamp is a series of HR training classes designed specifically for new HR professionals or professionals new to HR. This series is also ETF-approved. This means that both members and non-members can attend Bootcamp at a discounted price. Highlights
Starting in August, members may notice a familiar smiling face missing from our HEC team. After 11 years, Lori Fukumae—our VP & Director of Membership Development--will be leaving the organization on July 31, 2025 to embark on a new chapter in her professional journey. Throughout her tenure, Lori has been a committed, steady leader who played a
The Hawaii Employers Council (HEC) extends a heartfelt mahalo to everyone who helped make Talent Summit 2025 a resounding success. Held on July 11, the sold-out event brought together over 250 passionate HR professionals, business leaders, and changemakers from across Hawaii to explore the future of workforce strategy and talent development. From the
Finding the right talent has never been easy, and in Hawaii’s current labor market, it’s become one of the most urgent challenges facing employers across industries. From hospitality and healthcare to construction and professional services, organizations are struggling not only to fill open roles, but to find candidates who align with their
On June 27, 2025, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) issued Field Assistance Bulletin No. 2025-3 directing that its Wage and Hour Division (WHD) will no longer seek liquidated damage payments in pre-litigation wage and hour investigations. Effective June 27, 2025, WHD must limit recovery payments to unpaid wages and overtime compensation. What Changed?
On July 4, 2025, President Trump signed the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” into law. While there are many provisions in this Act that have widespread impacts, we are focusing this article on upcoming changes to taxation of tips and overtime. Please note that the Treasury Secretary is expected to publish additional rules and regulations regarding
Have you ever walked into a business and immediately felt something different – an energy that told you the staff wanted to be there? Maybe it wasn’t loud or obvious, but you could feel it. The warmth. The willingness to help. The sense that people were present and committed with genuine authenticity, not just performing tasks. As humans,
As Hawai'i's business landscape continues to shift-economically, technologically, and socially-employers are being asked to do more than just "get through uncertainty." They need to adapt. That's the driving force behind Talent Summit 2025, a gathering designed to equip Hawai'i's leaders with the insight, tools, and partnerships needed to navigate the
On June 6, 2025, Governor Green notified the legislature of his intent to veto 19 out of the 320 bills passed during the 2025 legislative session. The Governor’s entire list of bills, along with the veto rationale for each, is available on his website. While Governor Green is not obligated to veto any of the listed bills, he has until July 9, 2025,