HI HB603

Repeals the exemption that allows persons with disabilities to be paid below the state minimum wage, effective January 1, 2022.

Amends the definition of "qualified community rehabilitation program" to remove the requirement for federal Department of Labor certification under the Fair Labor Standards Act Section 14(c) and instead requires maintaining a disabled-to-non-disabled employee ratio of at least 3-to-1 across all employment levels.

Removes "handicapped workers" from Hawaii's special minimum wage statute (§387-9), eliminating the ability to pay subminimum wages to individuals whose earning capacity is impaired by disability, old age, or physical or mental deficiency.

Bases the legislative findings on the position that Section 14(c) of the Fair Labor Standards Act discriminates against people with disabilities and has failed to increase competitive employment opportunities, instead subsidizing sheltered workshops.