Honolulu, Hawaii
Speaker, House of Representatives
Thirty-Third State Legislature
State of Hawaii
Madame:
Your Committee on Judiciary & Hawaiian Affairs, to which was referred H.R. No. 96 entitled:
"HOUSE RESOLUTION REQUESTING THE STATE OF HAWAII TO REQUIRE THAT ANY INDIVIDUAL OR GROUP THAT ADMINISTERS THE MANDATORY HARASSMENT AND DISCRIMINATION TRAINING TO EMPLOYEES DEMONSTRATE ADEQUATE COMPETENCY IN LGBTQ+ (LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL, TRANSGENDER, QUEER, AND MORE IDENTITIES) IDENTITY AND CULTURALLY SPECIFIC GENDER IDENTITY RELEVANT TO HAWAIʻI,"
begs leave to report as follows:
The purpose of this measure is to ensure that mandatory harassment and discrimination training in Hawaiʻi is conducted by individuals or groups with demonstrated competency in LGBTQ+ identities and culturally specific gender identities. This will promote inclusivity, prevent discrimination, and create safer, more equitable workplaces for all employees.
Your Committee received testimony in support of this measure from the Hawaii Civil Rights Commission and two individuals. Your Committee received testimony in opposition from one individual.
Your Committee finds that effective harassment and discrimination training requires cultural and identity competency. Many LGBTQ+ individuals in Hawaiʻi face unique challenges related to gender identity and cultural context. Ensuring trainers demonstrate adequate knowledge of LGBTQ+ identities, including culturally specific aspects relevant to Hawaiʻi, will improve workplace safety, inclusivity, and compliance. This resolution supports equitable and meaningful training that reflects the diverse identities and lived experiences of Hawaiʻi’s workforce.
As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Judiciary & Hawaiian Affairs that is attached to this report, your Committee concurs with the intent and purpose of H.R. No. 96 and recommends its adoption.
Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Judiciary & Hawaiian Affairs,
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DAVID A. TARNAS, Chair |
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