Advocates appreciate promising first step for Hawaiʻi’s working families

Community groups emphasize that the Legislature, Governor, and businesses must remain committed to passing laws that will truly benefit working families

HONOLULU, January 14, 2019 — The joint legislative package announced today is a promising and crucial first step for Hawaiʻi’s working-class families, according to groups advocating for Hawaiʻi’s working families.

“We commend the start of this historic process bringing together government, business, and nonprofits,” said Deborah Zysman, Executive Director of Hawaiʻi Children’s Action Network. “We’re excited to be working together with legislative leaders, business leaders, and the governor to develop family-friendly policies like universal preschool, affordable childcare, paid family leave, a living wage that workers deserve, and truly affordable housing.”

This initial legislative proposal emerged from an unprecedented alliance between the House, Senate, Governor, business leaders, and nonprofit community groups. The need in Hawaiʻi is dire: Nearly 1 in 2 families struggle to afford basic needs.

“We all agree we’re starting at the right place so all Hawaiʻi families can thrive,” said Gavin Thornton, Executive Director of Hawaiʻi Appleseed Center for Law and Economic Justice. “We must all remain fully committed to creating and passing policies that truly impact working families to the degree that’s so desperately needed.”

Hawaiʻi Children’s Action Network, Hawaiʻi Appleseed Center for Law and Economic Justice, and Faith Action for Community Equity share a vision for Hawaiʻi where everyone can afford to live, work, and raise a family.

“This is a needed first step, and as we work toward this vision, we look forward to including the voices of the working families who will be most affected by these policies,” said Ashleigh Loa, Executive Director of Faith Action for Community Equity. “We want to keep up the momentum with this inclusive process and make Hawaiʻi work for working families.”

Hawaiʻi Children’s Action Network, Hawaiʻi Appleseed Center for Law and Economic Justice, and Faith Action for Community Equity have no comment on any specific legislation until more details are released.