‘Lilo & Stitch’ star helps Gov. Green protect Hawaii’s child performers
HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - Money that child performers or influencers make in Hawaii is now protected by law.
Gov. Josh Green signed House Bill 874 on Wednesday with the help of actress Maia Kealoha, the 8-year-old star of Disney’s live-action remake of “Lilo & Stitch”.
The Kailua-Kona native was named “junior governor” for the day and put her signature on the bill.
“Getting to be part of a Disney movie has been a dream come true, but it’s also a job,” Kealoha said. “I’m really happy that Hawaii now has a law to help protect kids like me who are working in movies or shows. It means that when we grow up, we’ll have something saved for our future.”
This law was written with the goal of helping minors in the entertainment industry access their earnings when they reach legal age.
“These earnings, they’re protected. They’re untouchable until the child becomes an adult and can access them as she sees fit,” Green said. “Empowering these young people who are ahead of their years, light years ahead, of course. But then they can also have a safe future.”
Under the new law, parents or legal guardians are required to set up a trust fund, and employers are required to deposit at least 15% of the child’s gross earnings into that account.
The legislation draws from elements of the California Child Actor’s Bill, commonly known as Coogan’s Law, to provide financial security and rights for minors in the entertainment industry.
“This is a win for our keiki and a win for our keiki is a win for our future,” said Representative Mike Lee, the vice chair of the House Committee on Labor, who introduced the measure.
The goal of the law may be serious, but Kealoha’s excitement helped to lighten everyone’s mood.
“I’m just so proud I get to be here and it’s such an amazing thing. But most importantly, I love all of you guys. You guys are doing a great job on everything. The press, everyone. You look so beautiful today, but yeah, shaka out!” she told the media as the room erupted in cheers.
But the governor had one more surprise for the young actress. He named June 4, 2025, “Maia Kau’ionalani Kealoha Day” across the state.
“You guys are amazing,” Kealoha said as she beamed with pride. “Thank you!”
“Lilo & Stitch” is in theaters now.
Copyright 2025 Hawaii News Now. All rights reserved.
