Relating To Workers' Compensation.
If enacted, SB 3090 modifies Section 302A-430 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes to classify the State as the responsible employer for workers' compensation purposes during the internship period. The bill is designed to ensure that graduates engaging in approved work programs, regardless of whether they are paid or unpaid, have access to necessary protections under workers' compensation law. This legislative change could lead to increased opportunities for high school graduates and better integration into the workforce.
Senate Bill 3090 aims to extend workers' compensation coverage to newly graduated high school students participating in work-based learning programs sponsored by the Hawaii Department of Education. The bill addresses a gap where former students, now considered no longer enrolled, lack coverage during the summer after graduation when they are involved in these educational and practical work experiences. This initiative supports the legislature's broader goals of enhancing educational outcomes and preparing students for post-graduation success through structured work experiences.
The general sentiment around this bill appears to be supportive, aligning with the strategic objectives of the Department of Education to enhance student readiness for employment. Advocates highlight its importance in promoting equitable access to work-based learning experiences that can significantly impact students' future career prospects. The passage of this bill indicates a recognition of the need to adapt existing laws to better serve the educational and professional aspirations of young graduates.
Potential contention may arise regarding the implications for state funding and the administrative responsibilities of overseeing workers' compensation claims from these internships. Critics may express concerns about the long-term sustainability of such coverage and whether similar protections should extend to other groups of non-students. Overall, the dialogue surrounding SB 3090 reflects broader discussions on youth employment, educational equity, and the fiscal responsibilities of the state in supporting graduates transitioning into the workforce.