HI HR48

Urges the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations to make fighting wage theft a priority in Hawaii.

Identifies wage theft (pay-related violations by employers) as a major economic justice issue that harms workers, families, and the state economy through lost tax revenue and reduced consumer spending.

Notes that Hawaii received a failing grade from Progressive States Network in 2012 for preventing wage theft and had agreed to work with the U.S. Department of Labor in 2011 to address the problem.

Recognizes that ethical employers face economic disadvantages when competing against unscrupulous employers who engage in wage theft practices.

Requires transmission of a certified copy of the resolution to the Director of Labor and Industrial Relations.