Hawaii’s labor laws are designed to protect workers’ rights, ensure fair wages, and promote safe working conditions. As of 2025, several key regulations have been updated to reflect the state’s commitment to its workforce.
Here’s an overview of the most important labor laws affecting employees in Hawaii.
Minimum Wage and Scheduled Increases
As of January 1, 2024, Hawaii’s minimum wage is set at $14.00 per hour. This rate applies uniformly across all counties, as local governments are prohibited from establishing their own minimum wage ordinances. The state has scheduled annual increases, with the minimum wage set to rise to $16.00 per hour on January 1, 2026, and $18.00 per hour by January 1, 2028.
For tipped employees, employers may apply a tip credit of 75¢ per hour, provided the employee earns at least $7.00 more per hour in tips than the minimum wage. In such cases, the employer may pay a reduced direct wage of $13.25 per hour.
Overtime Pay
Under Hawaii labor laws, employees are entitled to overtime pay at a rate of one and a half times their regular hourly wage for any hours worked over 40 in a workweek. However, there is no daily overtime requirement for hours worked in excess of eight per day.
It’s important to note that certain employees may be exempt from overtime pay. For instance, salaried employees earning at least $4,000 per month are exempt from the state’s minimum wage and overtime laws.
Pay Transparency
Effective January 1, 2024, Hawaii requires employers with 50 or more employees to disclose the hourly rate or salary range in job postings. This law aims to promote pay equity and transparency in the hiring process.
Domestic Workers’ Rights
Hawaii labor law has enacted a Domestic Workers’ Bill of Rights, providing essential labor protections for individuals employed in domestic work. This includes an eight-hour workday, overtime pay for hours exceeding 40 per week, and one day off every seven days. After one year of employment, domestic workers are entitled to three paid days off annually.
Health and Safety Standards
The Hawaii Occupational Safety and Health (HIOSH) laws require employers to provide a workplace free from recognized hazards. Employers must also comply with safety standards and regulations, maintain records of employee injuries and illnesses, and participate in safety programs to ensure a safe working environment.
Family and Medical Leave
Hawaii’s Family Leave Law provides eligible employees with up to four weeks of unpaid leave per year for the birth or adoption of a child, or to care for a family member with a serious health condition. Employers with 100 or more employees are required to provide this leave.
Anti-Discrimination Protections
Hawaii law prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, disability, age, marital status, arrest and court record, military status, and breastfeeding. These protections apply to all aspects of employment, including hiring, firing, promotions, and compensation.
Workers’ Compensation
Employers in Hawaii are required to provide workers’ compensation insurance to cover medical expenses and lost wages for employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. This coverage is mandatory for all employees, and employers must post notices informing workers of their rights under the law.
Child Labor Laws
Hawaii’s child labor laws regulate the employment of minors to ensure their safety and well-being. Minors aged 14 and 15 are permitted to work up to three hours on school days and eight hours on non-school days, with a maximum of 18 hours per week during school weeks and 40 hours during non-school weeks. They are also entitled to a 30-minute rest or meal period after five consecutive hours of work.
Employment Posters
Employers in Hawaii are required to display certain labor law posters in the workplace to inform employees of their rights. These posters cover topics such as wage and hour laws, discrimination, occupational safety and health, unemployment insurance, and workers’ compensation.
Conclusion
Hawaii’s labor laws in 2025 continue to evolve, reflecting the state’s commitment to protecting workers’ rights and promoting fair employment practices. From minimum wage increases to enhanced anti-discrimination protections, these laws aim to create a fair and safe working environment for all employees. Both employers and employees need to stay informed about these regulations to ensure compliance and uphold workers’ rights.
