A new compliance initiative is taking shape in Hawaiʻi’s construction sector, aiming to ensure contractors working on publicly funded projects are held to strict ethical and legal standards.

Launched through a joint effort between Pacific Resource Partnership (PRP) and the Hawaiʻi Regional Council of Carpenters, the initiative targets fair labor practices, contractor accountability, and transparency on projects that use taxpayer money.

“Our new compliance initiative sends a clear message: every contractor working on public projects in Hawaiʻi must follow the rules,” said Nathaniel Kinney, PRP’s executive director.

Under the program, contractors awarded city, state, or federal construction work will receive formal letters from PRP notifying them that their activities are under review.

The initiative will check for compliance with a wide range of labor laws, including proper worker classification, certified payroll submission, prevailing wages, and overtime pay.

“During construction booms, we often see attempts to skirt regulations, which can lead to worker exploitation and substandard project outcomes,” said Micah Kim, PRP’s compliance manager.

PRP’s compliance team will rigorously examine payroll records, job classifications, and compensation practices to ensure all standards are met.

“By enforcing compliance, we’re protecting workers, supporting ethical businesses and ensuring that our communities benefit from quality construction that meets the highest standards,” Kinney said.

If any potential violations are uncovered, PRP says it will collaborate with government authorities at all levels to take corrective action.

“Our role as a watchdog is to ensure that every contractor plays by the rules,” Kim added. “This initiative empowers us to identify and address violations swiftly, protecting the integrity of Hawaiʻi’s construction industry and the workers who build our communities.”

Workers can report suspected fraud anonymously through PRP’s website.

The launch of this compliance initiative comes amid growing concerns about wage theft, worker misclassification, and unfair labor practices in the construction industry, especially during economic upswings.

Labor leaders and advocates have increasingly called for stronger enforcement mechanisms as public infrastructure funding ramps up across Hawaiʻi.

The collaboration between PRP and the Hawaiʻi Regional Council of Carpenters reflects a proactive stance to ensure that public funds are spent responsibly and that workers receive fair treatment and compensation.

The program not only supports workers' rights but also levels the playing field for law-abiding contractors who compete with those cutting corners to lower costs.

Originally reported by Carley Matsumura in Khon 2 News.