Expands collective bargaining rights in Hawaii to include independent contractors and all individuals subject to the National Labor Relations Act.

This bill amends the Hawaii Employment Relations Act to broaden the definition of "employee" to include independent contractors and all individuals subject to the National Labor Relations Act, not just those over whom the National Labor Relations Board has declined to exercise jurisdiction. The purpose is to protect private sector workers' collective bargaining rights in light of potential federal preemption. The bill also highlights the economic and social benefits of unionization, such as higher wages, safer work environments, and reduced income inequality.

Expands collective bargaining rights in Hawaii to include independent contractors and all individuals subject to the National Labor Relations Act.

This bill amends the Hawaii Employment Relations Act to broaden the definition of "employee" to include independent contractors and all individuals subject to the National Labor Relations Act, not just those over whom the National Labor Relations Board has declined to exercise jurisdiction. The purpose is to protect private sector workers' collective bargaining rights in light of potential federal preemption. The bill also highlights the economic and social benefits of unionization, such as higher wages, safer work environments, and reduced income inequality.