REQUESTING THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR AND INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS TO STUDY THE FEASIBILITY OF ESTABLISHING A HAWAII WORKFORCE EXCELLENCE AWARD PROGRAM.

This Senate Concurrent Resolution (SCR 5) requests the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations to study establishing a Hawaii Workforce Excellence Award Program for artisans and craftspersons. The study would examine the feasibility of creating an award system modeled after France's "Meilleur Ouvrier de France," focusing on preserving traditional trades, recognizing skill mastery (not competition), and promoting cultural heritage. It would identify key industries to include, assess costs, and develop recommendations for a potential program. The Department must submit its findings and proposed legislation to the Legislature by January 2027. This resolution does not create the award program but initiates a study to determine if one would be viable.