HI SR75

Department of Labor and Industrial Relations is urged to convene a working group to improve access to government services for immigrants and increase opportunities for civic and economic contributions.

Working group shall include the Governor, Director of Labor and Industrial Relations, Executive Director of the Office of Community Services, Executive Director of the Office of Language Access, and representatives from the Hawaii Coalition for Immigrant Rights and Inter-Agency Council for Immigrant Services.

Working group shall select one member to serve as chairperson and submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation no later than twenty days before the 2022 Regular Session convenes.

Resolution notes that 18 percent of Hawaii's population (256,000 persons) were immigrants or foreign-born residents as of 2018, with immigrants representing 40 percent of agricultural workers, 33 percent of tourism and hospitality workers, and 23 percent of health care workers, while collectively contributing over $668 million in state and local taxes.

Certified copies of the resolution shall be transmitted to relevant state agencies and community organizations.