Hawaii Senate Bill SCR208

Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/23
• Refer: 3/15/23
• Report Pass: 4/4/23
• Engrossed: 4/5/23
• Refer: 4/11/23

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Labor And Industrial Relations To Analyze The Available Data On Hawaii Workers' Compensation Cases Relating To Death Benefits For The Past Ten Years And Obtain Any Additional Data From The Hawaii Insurers Council Or Any Other State Or Federal Source To Recommend Any Updates To The Workers' Compensation Law.

Impact

The resolution emphasizes the necessity for the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations to gather data from various sources, including the Hawaii Insurers Council and other state or federal institutions, to ensure a thorough review. Historical data suggests that the existing framework, which has not significantly changed since 1963, may lead to unfair distributions of benefits due to evolving dependency norms. By updating the Workers' Compensation Law, Hawaii aims to create a more equitable system that better reflects the current dependency dynamics.

Summary

Senate Concurrent Resolution 208 (SCR208) requests the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations to conduct a comprehensive analysis of data related to Hawaii workers' compensation cases focusing specifically on death benefits over the past ten years. The purpose of this resolution is to assess whether the existing laws adequately support beneficiaries of deceased workers and to determine if any updates are necessary to the Workers' Compensation Law, particularly section 386-41 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes. This analysis is intended to provide a solid foundation for legislative recommendations that reflect contemporary economic and social realities.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SCR208 appears to be supportive, as it demonstrates a proactive approach by state lawmakers to address potential shortcomings in workers' compensation benefits. Stakeholders recognize the urgency of modernizing outdated structures to provide fair compensations for beneficiaries, especially in light of changing family dynamics and economic conditions. The resolution seems to unify various parties who believe that the well-being of dependents should be prioritized.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the implications of modifying existing benefit calculations and how these changes might affect payout structures. Some stakeholders may express concern about the potential financial impacts on insurers or the state's budget. There may also be discussions about the methodology for determining dependency levels, particularly given that decisions affecting benefits can have significant emotional and financial consequences for families of deceased workers.