Hawaii House Bill HCR115

Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/25
• Refer: 3/14/25
• Report Pass: 3/27/25
• Refer: 3/27/25

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Labor And Industrial Relations To Study The Establishment Of A Hawaii Workforce Excellence Award Program.

Impact

The proposed Workforce Excellence Award Program aims to foster a deeper appreciation for traditional craftsmanship in Hawaii. By providing a platform for recognizing skilled workers across various trades, the initiative is expected to help preserve cultural knowledge and encourage participation in professions that may be declining. Furthermore, the annual presentations of awards by the Governor at historically significant venues could shine a spotlight on craft professions, potentially attracting public and governmental support for these trades.

Summary

HCR115 is a House Concurrent Resolution introduced in the Thirty-third Legislature of the State of Hawaii, requesting the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations to study the establishment of a Hawaii Workforce Excellence Award Program. This program is intended to recognize and promote craftsmanship within the state, drawing inspiration from the French competition Meilleur Ouvrier de France, which has successfully elevated the status of artisans through structured competitive recognition.

Contention

A key point of discussion surrounding HCR115 will likely revolve around its applicability and the industries selected for inclusion in the award program. The resolution calls for research on how the program can be adapted from the Meilleur Ouvrier de France model while managing costs effectively. There may be considerations about which specific trades and crafts should be prioritized, as well as how to ensure that the award program operates fairly and effectively within the context of Hawaii's unique cultural landscape. The resolution also stipulates that findings and recommendations must be submitted to the legislature ahead of the Regular Session of 2026, adding a timeline to this initiative.