Governor Josh Green signed House Bill 874 into law; a piece of legislation aimed at safeguarding the earnings of child and youth performers from mismanagement, exploitation and abuse.e

Joining him for the bill signing was young actress Maia Kealoha, star of Disney’s “Lilo & Stitch” live-action film, representing the next generation of Hawai‘i’s entertainment talent. The enactment of this law aligns with efforts in other states to ensure that minors in the entertainment industry can access their earnings when they reach legal age.

HB 874, now Act 173, requires a parent or legal guardian to create a trust fund for the benefit of the child performer before the child begins their first employment in the entertainment industry. Under this act, the trust fund must be maintained and employers are required to deposit at least 15% of the child’s gross earnings into the account.

The measure draws from the example set by the California Child Actor’s Bill, commonly known as the Coogan Law, or Coogan’s Law, to provide financial security and rights for minors in the entertainment industry. By enacting this bill, Hawai‘i affirms its commitment to support the well-being and safety of our keiki who choose to pursue a career in entertainment.

Photo credit: Office of Governor Green