Relating To Child Performers.
The bill requires parents or legal guardians to establish a trust account for minors in theatrical employment with earnings over specific thresholds. A minimum of 15% of the child’s gross income must be deposited into this trust account until the minor attains the age of majority. Additionally, it introduces penalties for any misappropriation or fraudulent behavior regarding the funds. This legislation represents a significant update to Hawaii's laws surrounding child actors and aims to provide a structured financial precedent meant to secure the earnings of young talents working in the entertainment industry.
House Bill 874 establishes a mandatory trust account for child performers in the state of Hawaii, aimed at providing financial protection and ensuring that a portion of their earnings is secured until they reach adulthood. Named after the Coogan Law of California, which seeks to prevent exploitation of child actors, this legislation requires that parents set up trust accounts with independent third-party trustees for minors earning significant income from theatrical roles. This proactive measure intends to safeguard the well-being and financial interests of child performers, reflecting similar protective principles upheld by the Coogan Law.
Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 874 appears to be positive among supporters, particularly those who advocate for the protection of children's rights in the entertainment sector. Proponents believe the bill is a necessary step toward ensuring that child performers are not exploited and that their financial future is secured. However, the legislation may face scrutiny if stakeholders express concerns regarding administrative burdens or the feasibility of compliance for smaller employers in the industry.
Notable points of contention include the logistics of establishing and managing these trust accounts, especially for smaller production companies that may find the financial requirements burdensome. Some may argue that the bill imposes heavy regulations that could impact hiring of child performers, while others might raise concerns over the effectiveness of compliance and oversight of these trust accounts. Balancing the protection of child performers without overregulating the industry remains a nuanced aspect of the ongoing discussions regarding this legislation.