HI SR48

Department of Labor and Industrial Relations is requested to study establishment of a Hawaii Workforce Excellence Award Program recognizing craftspersons, modeled on France's Meilleur Ouvrier de France competition established in 1924.

Study should research and recommend key industries to include in the program, how to adapt the French model to Hawaii, and cost-effective implementation methods.

Program would collect public nominations and present annual awards to craftspersons by the Governor at a historically significant venue.

Department must submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2026 Regular Session convenes.

Resolution references the French model's approach of judging craftspeople against a standard of perfection rather than each other, with lifetime award titles and mentorship responsibilities for winners.