-
Workers' Comp Reform: A WC reform package pushed
by the state AFL-CIO will probably be vetoed. However. labor has
enough votes for override of veto. The package, including HB 341,
amends the current law to correct certain abuses of injured workers'
rights, and to counteract the DLIR's direction of surrendering more
authority over injured workers claims to the insurance industry.
The bill would (1) prohibit insurance carriers or employers from
unilaterally cutting off medical care or compensation without a fair
hearing or order from the labor director; (2) limit medical examinations
unilaterally and unreasonably imposed by employers' insurers' physicians;
and (3) provide a disincentive to employers and insurers who delay
compensation and/or medical treatment and rehabilitation.
-
Minimum Wage: SB 294, the minimum wage bill, is
on the Governor's desk. The measure would increase the wage 50 cents
in 2006 and then another 50 cents in 2007. Lingle had been pushing
for a tip credit, which labor did not allow. It is unclear whether
she will veto it or let it become law.
-
Social Security. The resolution to oppose privatization
of social security passed. SCR 76 does not require a signature by
the Governor - copies of the resolution have already been transmitted
to Congress.
-
Family Leave. New legislation that would strengthen
Family Leave Law will likely become law. HB 325 would amend the family
leave law definition of "sick leave" to : (1) delete the
exclusion of benefits provided under employee welfare benefit plans
and benefits not payable by the employer; and (2) specify that it
shall not include unemployment compensation due to illness. It allows
use of sick leave in excess of the statutory minimum for temporary
disability benefits for purposes of family leave.
-
Meal Breaks. A meal break measure, which has specific
exemptions, will likely become law. SB 55 requires employers to provide
employees a rest or meal period of at least thirty minutes for employees
who must work a five or more continuous hour shift, unless a collective
bargaining agreement provides an express provision for meal breaks.
-
Healthcare Disclosure. A measure to require that
employers disclose which of their employees are using public assistance
is also on Gov's desk. SB 1772 requires each applicant for medical
assistance to identify the employer of the proposed beneficiary of
medical assistance; requires the Department of Human Services (DHS)
to submit an annual report to the Legislature identifying all employers
who employ 25 or more beneficiaries of medical assistance programs.
The outcome of this measure is unclear.
