Here’s something you can do today, that is truly important. And please, don’t doubt for a moment the importance of your voice, and/or our collective voices – because they matter.

HB2510 HD2 increasing the minimum wage via phased-in incremental steps and reaching $18 in 2028, has been scheduled for its first Senate hearing tomorrow, Monday 03/21 at 3:15 pm.

Unfortunately, HB2510 HD2 which has crossed over from the House still falls short of SB2018 (the Senate proposal the House has refused to schedule).

Not only does HB2510 HD2 fail to achieve $18 until 2028 but it also increases the tip penalty to $2.75 (a 367% increase) harming tipped workers. The bill does expand the state earned income tax credit (EITC), which is a good thing and definitely adds value to the package.

Your testimony in support of strengthening HB2510 HD2 is important – today Sunday before 3 pm if possible, but late testimony is also acceptable.

My plan is to testify in support with two amendments.

No expansion of the Tip Penalty
Incremental increases that reach $18 by 2026
Yes, I prefer that the Tip Penalty be eliminated entirely and the wage increased to an actual living wage sooner – but I also know that compromise is necessary.

Increasing the minimum wage in Hawaiʻi to $18 per hour by 2026, without increasing the Tip Penalty, will have a hugely positive impact on the lives of all working people.

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Thank you to Raise Up Hawaiʻi for this action alert!

Please sign-up to testify over zoom, or plan to testify in person at the capitol. Now is the time to use every chance we have to show support.

Hearing: Mon., March 21, 3:15 PM
Testimony Due: Sun., March 20, 3:15 PM (late testimony also accepted)
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Please take the time today to submit your testimony. If possible, please also “show up” at the hearing on Monday via Zoom or in person at the Capitol.

If this is your first time submitting testimony or you are unfamiliar with the process, please follow these simple steps:

Go to the Capitol Website https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov and Register
After you have Registered then SIGN IN
After you Sign In then go to Submit Testimony
Next – see on upper left “Enter Bill or Measure” – enter HB2510
Follow the instructions from here!
 
Mahalo for being involved and taking action.