On January 11, 2016, the Hawaii Employers Council will be holding a complimentary webinar for members to discuss bills that will likely be introduced during the 2016 legislative session.  In 2016, we anticipate that measures addressing a number of different employment-related issues will be introduced.  For instance, following positions taken by President Obama and U.S. Department of Labor, state lawmakers are likely to introduce measures mandating paid sick leave and increasing the salary threshold for wage and hour exemptions.  The new Director of Labor and Industrial Relations will also introduce a package of bills, one of which is expected to propose increased penalties for employers who fail to obtain workers' compensation and temporary disability insurance.  In addition, the rights of medical marijuana patients will certainly be a hot topic of discussion now that the state has legalized medical marijuana dispensaries. 

As we prepare for the upcoming legislative cycle, employers are encouraged to take an active role in the legislative process by learning about proposed legislation, speaking with or writing to their legislators, and attending and testifying at hearings.  To get a head start, please join HEC Senior HR Consultant & Assistant General Counsel Ryan Sanada for this informative program. 

For information on registration call Vicky Tasaka-Loando at 440-8888.