About the Department
The Department of Labor and Industrial Relations (DLIR) is responsible for ensuring and increasing the economic security, well-being, and productivity of Hawaii’s workers. The department promotes access to employment and strives to alleviate the economic hardship of workers during periods of disability or temporary unemployment; and protect the employment rights of workers and assure a safe and healthy workplace.
The DLIR is committed to protecting the rights of working people while ensuring the interests of businesses and employers. Recent economic realities have made it clear that we can no longer operate in a business versus labor approach. Decisions on policies and legislation must now be geared toward mutual success for labor and business, as their fate is undoubtedly dependent on each other. As a result, the department has adopted a more business-friendly approach to work with employers, eliminate regulations, policies and practices that may hinder or prevent the growth of business, and help reduce the cost of doing business in Hawaii. "Hana Lokahi – Working Together" Fiscal year 2002-2003 found the DLIR embarking on a new beginning and path of working closer together with business, labor, government agencies, and employees.
