Requesting The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism To Evaluate Ways To Expand Remote Employment Opportunities For Hawaii Residents And Reduce Barriers That May Discourage Out-of-state Employers From Hiring Individuals Who Live In The State.
Summary
HCR151 is a nonbinding House Concurrent Resolution that asks the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism (DBEDT) to study ways to expand remote employment opportunities for Hawaii residents and reduce barriers that may discourage out-of-state employers from hiring people who live in the state. The resolution frames remote work as a tool to help diversify Hawaii’s economy beyond tourism, retain local talent, support working families, and increase household income.
The resolution specifically directs DBEDT to evaluate how Hawaii could clarify tax and regulatory compliance expectations for out-of-state employers, simplify employer onboarding and registration, improve coordination among state agencies, and preserve worker protections and compliance with labor and tax laws. It also asks the department to consider policies that prioritize long-term Hawaii residents and people educated in Hawaii, and to report findings and any proposed legislation to the Legislature before the 2027 session.
Impact
Because HCR151 is a concurrent resolution rather than a bill, it does not itself change state law or create new legal obligations. Its practical effect is to request a policy review and potential recommendations from DBEDT, with possible future legislation to follow. The resolution implicates state tax administration, employer registration, labor compliance, and workforce policy, and it specifically contemplates coordination with the Department of Taxation and the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations.
Sentiment
The overall sentiment reflected in the resolution is supportive of remote work and economic diversification. The measure presents remote employment as a positive response to Hawaii’s dependence on tourism and to the outmigration of residents seeking higher-wage opportunities elsewhere. No committee testimony or recorded votes were provided, so there is no documented opposition or amendment history in the available materials.
Contention
The main points of potential contention are the balance between making Hawaii more attractive to out-of-state employers and preserving state oversight. The resolution highlights concerns about tax nexus, employer registration, and compliance obligations, suggesting that some employers may view current rules as burdensome, while labor and tax agencies may be concerned about maintaining worker protections and ensuring full compliance with Hawaii law. Another possible issue is the preference for long-term residents and Hawaii-educated individuals, which could raise questions about how any future policy would be designed and administered.
Same As
Requesting The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism To Evaluate Ways To Expand Remote Employment Opportunities For Hawaii Residents And Reduce Barriers That May Discourage Out-of-state Employers From Hiring Individuals Who Live In The State.
Requesting The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism To Review And Evaluate The Cost-benefit And Return On Investment Of A Possible Sponsorship Of A Michelin Guide For Restaurants Across The State.
Requesting The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism To Review And Evaluate The Cost-benefit And Return On Investment Of A Possible Sponsorship Of A Michelin Guide For Restaurants Across The State.