Hawaii House Bill HB634

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/21
• Refer: 1/27/21

Caption

Relating To The Department Of Labor And Industrial Relations.

Impact

If enacted, HB634 mandates the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations to open in-person employment offices in each county of Hawaii. This initiative is designed to improve accessibility for workers who struggle with online systems for filing unemployment claims. The bill also outlines that at least two offices should be set up in the county of Honolulu. This change is expected to significantly enhance the state's ability to assist its unemployed citizens, particularly those with language barriers or limited technical skills.

Summary

House Bill 634, presented during the Thirty-First Legislature of 2021 in Hawaii, addresses the challenges faced by unemployed workers due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill recognizes that many individuals have been adversely affected by the pandemic, particularly in terms of accessing employment services. It aims to provide more effective assistance by establishing in-person support options through employment offices, which are critical for those lacking digital skills or internet access.

Contention

The legislation underscores the urgency of upgrading the existing unemployment claims system. It allocates $10 million for technological improvements, which is pivotal for increasing efficiency in processing claims. The collaboration with state libraries to support claimants in using public access computers is another notable aspect, ensuring that these vital resources are available and effectively utilized. Stakeholders may debate the implementation of this fund allocation and whether the resources provided will be sufficient to meet the growing demands of unemployment claims during such unprecedented times.