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HR 143

REQUESTING THE DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, AND TOURISM TO EVALUATE WAYS TO EXPAND REMOTE EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR HAWAII RESIDENTS AND REDUCE BARRIERS THAT MAY DISCOURAGE OUT-OF-STATE EMPLOYERS FROM HIRING INDIVIDUALS WHO LIVE IN THE STATE.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Elle Cochran and 5 co-sponsors

Hawaii requests study of barriers limiting remote work opportunities for residents with out-of-state employers to increase income and economic opportunity.

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#economicdiversification #remotework #workforceretention
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Bill Summary · HR 143

Legislative bill overview

HR 143 is a request for Hawaii's Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to study and recommend ways to expand remote work opportunities for Hawaii residents and remove obstacles that discourage out-of-state employers from hiring them. The bill seeks to identify barriers—such as tax requirements, licensing issues, or regulatory complications—that may prevent Hawaii workers from accessing remote employment with mainland companies.

Why is this important

Remote work represents a significant economic opportunity for Hawaii residents, potentially providing higher wages and career advancement without requiring relocation to expensive mainland job markets. Expanding this opportunity could increase household incomes, reduce brain drain, and diversify Hawaii's economy beyond tourism and military-dependent sectors, while also improving quality of life by enabling work-from-home arrangements suited to island living.

Potential points of contention

  • Tax revenue concerns: States and counties may worry that facilitating out-of-state employment could reduce local tax revenue if Hawaii residents are paid by non-Hawaii employers
  • Cost of living paradox: Remote work at mainland salaries could exacerbate Hawaii's housing crisis by increasing demand and property values for a limited housing stock
  • Implementation scope: Unclear whether recommendations would require legislative action or regulatory changes, potentially raising questions about feasibility and political will to implement costly reforms

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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