Feds Match Hawaii's Minimum Wage

Last month's increase in the federal minimum wage to $7.25, doesn't affect Hawaii employees because our minimum wage has been $7.25 since January 1, 2007. Minimum wage in the Territory of Hawaii was first determined in 1942, four years after a federal minimum wage was introduced. Originally, there was a higher standard for Oahu than the Neighbor Islands, but a State standard has been in place since 1958. Federal law allows the States to set a higher minimum wage if they choose. Before 1992 Hawaii was setting standards to catch up with increasing federal standards. From 1992 to July 24, 2009, Hawaii's minimum wage was higher than the federal standard. For a short history on the Hawaii minimum wage go to: http://hawaii.gov/labor/rs/a-short-history-of-the-minimum-wage

Looking for new paths

Everyone is talking about how the recent economy is hurting our operations. The Wage Standards Office is interested in weathering this storm and looking around for a new way to reach employees and employers. We'll be posting articles and comments that we think will be of interest to the people we serve-the general public. We look forward to a continuing dialogue.