2232 records returned.
PDFMeasure StatusCurrent StatusIntroducer(s)Current ReferralCompanion
HB36 HD2
Excited Delirium; Medical Diagnosis; Cause of Death; Incident Report; Law Enforcement Officers; Hawaii Rules of Evidence
RELATING TO EXCITED DELIRIUM.
Prohibits excited delirium from being recognized as a valid medical diagnosis or cause of death in the State. Prohibits a medical examiner, coroner, or health care provider from stating on a certificate of death or in any report that the cause of death was excited delirium. Prohibits law enforcement officers from using the term excited delirium to describe an individual in an incident report. Establishes a new Hawaii Rule of Evidence that deems evidence that a person experienced or suffered an excited delirium inadmissible in a civil action. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to HHS/PSM, JDC. TAKAYAMA HHS/PSM, JDC
HB48 HD2 SD1
Consumer Protection; Coffee Labeling; Hawaii-Grown and -Processed Coffee; Geographic Origin; Regional Origin
RELATING TO COFFEE LABELING.
Clarifies the labeling and advertising requirements for coffee that is grown and processed in the State. Defines "regional origin". Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(H) 4/22/2025- Received notice of change in Senate conferees (Sen. Com. No. 864). KAHALOA, KUSCH, LOWEN AEN, CPN  SB500
HB54 HD2 SD2
Excessive Speeding; Vehicle; Property Forfeiture; Penalties
RELATING TO MOTOR VEHICLES.
Increases penalties for a third or subsequent offense within five years of excessive speeding to a misdemeanor. Increases penalties for a second offense within five years of excessive speeding. Authorizes the court, as part of the person's sentencing for the third or subsequent offense, to order that the vehicle used by the person in the commission of the offense be subject to forfeiture. Requires individuals convicted of excessive speeding to be subject to identification processing procedures. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD2)
(S) 4/15/2025- Received notice of appointment of House conferees (Hse. Com. No. 732). KITAGAWA TCA, JDC  SB97
HB86 HD2 SD1
DLNR; Makai Watch; Marine Resources; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES.
Appropriates moneys to the Department of Land and Natural Resources for the establishment of full-time equivalent permanent Makai Watch Coordinator positions. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(H) 4/25/2025- Conference Committee Meeting will reconvene on Friday, 04-25-25 at 4:00PM in Conference Room 411. POEPOE, AMATO, BELATTI, CHUN, GRANDINETTI, HOLT, ICHIYAMA, IWAMOTO, KAHALOA, KAPELA, KILA, KITAGAWA, KUSCH, LA CHICA, LAMOSAO, LOWEN, MARTEN, OLDS, PERRUSO, QUINLAN, SOUZA WTL, WAM
HB88 HD1
Department of Education; Student Athletes; Travel; Pilot Program ($)
RELATING TO STUDENT ATHLETES.
Requires the Department of Education to establish and administer a three-year student athlete travel pilot program to provide funding for intra-county travel expenses for student athletes of counties with a population of less than 500,000. Appropriates funds. Repeals 6/30/28. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/4/2025- Referred to EDU, WAM. POEPOE, CHUN, IWAMOTO, KAPELA, KILA, KITAGAWA, LAMOSAO, LOWEN, PERRUSO, SOUZA EDU, WAM
HB89 HD3
Teacher Home Assistance Program; Teacher Recruitment and Retention; Teachers' Housing Revolving Fund; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO TEACHER HOUSING.
Establishes the Teacher Home Assistance Program to provide housing vouchers to certain eligible teachers. Appropriates funds out of the Teachers' Housing Revolving Fund. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD3)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to HOU/EDU, WAM. POEPOE, BELATTI, EVSLIN, GARRETT, GRANDINETTI, HOLT, IWAMOTO, KILA, KITAGAWA, LA CHICA, LAMOSAO, LOWEN, MARTEN, MATAYOSHI, PERRUSO, QUINLAN, SOUZA, TAM, TARNAS HOU/EDU, WAM
HB108 HD2 SD1
Beer; Distilled Spirits; Direct Shipping; Manufacturers
RELATING TO INTOXICATING LIQUOR.
Allows direct shipment of beer and distilled spirits by certain licensees. Requires the liquor commissions to adopt rules. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 3/28/2025- The committee on JDC deferred the measure. MORIKAWA (Introduced by request of another party) CPN/EIG, JDC  SB464
HB127 HD1 SD1
Pretrial Release; Bail
RELATING TO PRETRIAL RELEASE.
Requires bail to be set in an amount that the defendant can afford based on certain factors. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD1)
(S) 4/24/2025- Conference committee meeting to reconvene on 04-24-25 5:15 PM; Conference Room 325. TARNAS, BELATTI, GRANDINETTI, IWAMOTO, MARTEN, PERRUSO, POEPOE, SOUZA, TAKAYAMA JDC
HB128 HD1
Arrests; Warrantless; Citations
RELATING TO CRIMINAL JUSTICE REFORM.
Establishes factors under which officers may, without warrant, arrest and detain persons for petty misdemeanors and violations. Requires officers to record the factors that justified the warrantless arrest. (HD1)
(S) 3/12/2025- The committee on PSM deferred the measure. TARNAS, IWAMOTO, MATAYOSHI, PERRUSO, POEPOE, SAYAMA, TAKAYAMA PSM, JDC
HB131
Research; Office of Information Practices; Government Records; Disclosure
RELATING TO RESEARCH.
Allows agencies to disclose government records to researchers for certain research purposes.
(S) 3/18/2025- The committee on GVO deferred the measure. TARNAS, BELATTI, GRANDINETTI, IWAMOTO, KAPELA, KITAGAWA, MARTEN, PERRUSO, PIERICK, POEPOE, SOUZA, TAM GVO, JDC
HB139 HD2 SD1
Insurance; Mandatory Coverage; Standard Fertility Preservation Services; Iatrogenic Infertility; Medically Necessary Treatment
RELATING TO INSURANCE.
For policies, contracts, plans, and agreements issued or renewed after 12/31/2025, requires insurers, mutual benefit societies, and health maintenance organizations to provide coverage for standard fertility preservation services for persons undergoing medically necessary treatment that may cause iatrogenic infertility. Effective 12/31/2050. (SD1)
(H) 4/23/2025- Bill scheduled for Conference Committee Meeting on Thursday, 04-24-25 3:16PM in conference room 329. QUINLAN, AMATO, KAHALOA, KILA, KITAGAWA, LA CHICA, LAMOSAO, MARTEN, MATAYOSHI, PERRUSO, POEPOE, TAM HHS, CPN/WAM  SB642
HB141 HD1
Elections Commission; Members; Advice and Consent; Quorum
RELATING TO THE ELECTIONS COMMISSION.
Makes the members of the Elections Commission subject to the advice and consent of the Senate. Clarifies that a majority of all members to which the Elections Commission is entitled shall constitute a quorum to do business. (HD1)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to JDC, WAM. TAM, BELATTI, GRANDINETTI, IWAMOTO, MARTEN JDC, WAM  SB948
HB164 HD1 SD1
Indebtedness; Salary or Wage Overpayment; Overpayment Payroll Transactions; Deductions for Recovery; Notice
RELATING TO INDEBTEDNESS TO THE STATE.
Requires disbursing officers to notify employees within sixty days of making a determination that an indebtedness has occurred to the government resulting from salary or wage overpayment. Amends the amount that a disbursing officer may deduct from an employee's salary, wage, or compensation based on the employee's gross income. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 3/19/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. SAYAMA, LEE, M. LBT, WAM
HB175 HD1
Real Property Maintenance; Neglect; Fines; Enforcement; State; Counties
RELATING TO PROPERTY MAINTENANCE.
Requires owners or lessees of real property to maintain their property and establish penalties for failure to do so. Allows for exceptions. Requires DOA to establish rules for the enforcement and collection of fines for violations relating to the proliferation of invasive species. Requires the Office of the State Fire Marshal to adopt rules for the enforcement and collection of fines for violations relating to the prevention of wildfires and other public safety hazards. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to WTL/AEN/PSM, JDC. LAMOSAO, CHUN, GRANDINETTI, KAHALOA, KILA, KITAGAWA, LOWEN, MARTEN, MATAYOSHI, MIYAKE, MORIKAWA, OLDS, PERRUSO, TAKENOUCHI, TAM, TARNAS, TODD WTL/AEN/PSM, JDC  SB1080
HB177 HD1 SD1
Department of Transportation; Civil Identification Card; Free of Charge; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO CIVIL IDENTIFICATION CARDS.
Makes the issuance or renewal of a civil identification card free of charge. Appropriates funds. Effective 6/30/3000. (SD1)
(S) 4/21/2025- Received notice of appointment of House conferees (Hse. Com. No. 755). LAMOSAO, CHUN, GRANDINETTI, KILA, KITAGAWA, LA CHICA, LOWEN, MARTEN, MIYAKE, PERRUSO, POEPOE, TAKENOUCHI TCA, WAM
HB194 HD1
Maritime Day; Day of Observance
RELATING TO MARITIME DAY.
Designates May 22 of each year as Maritime Day. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to TCA. SOUZA, PERRUSO, POEPOE TCA
HB202 HD1 SD2
DLIR; Employment Security Law; Adequate Reserve Fund; Actuarial Study; Report
RELATING TO THE ADEQUATE RESERVE FUND.
Amends the definition of "adequate reserve fund" by increasing the multiplier used to calculate its amount from the existing factor of 1, to unspecified amounts for calendar year 2026 and for calendar year 2027 and thereafter. Requires the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations to conduct an actuarial study and report to the Legislature. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD2)
(H) 4/23/2025- Conference Committee Meeting will reconvene on Thursday 04-24-25 10:00AM in conference room 016. SAYAMA, LEE, M., TAKENOUCHI, YAMASHITA LBT, WAM
HB212 HD2 SD1
OHHS; Homelessness; Return-to-Home Program; Report; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO HOMELESSNESS.
Requires the Statewide Office on Homelessness and Housing Solutions to establish a permanent Return-to-Home Program to return homeless individuals in the State to families and relatives in their home states. Requires the Office to report to the Legislature. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(H) 4/25/2025- Conference Committee Meeting will reconvene on Friday 04-25-25 5:00PM in conference room 329. TAM, IWAMOTO, KILA, KUSCH, LAMOSAO, MARTEN, MATAYOSHI, OLDS, POEPOE, TAKAYAMA, TAKENOUCHI, TARNAS, TODD HHS, WAM  SB360
HB213 HD1
Healthcare Education Loan Repayment Program; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO LOAN REPAYMENT FOR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS.
Appropriates funds for the Healthcare Education Loan Repayment Program. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/19/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading and referred to WAM. TAKAYAMA, KITAGAWA, LA CHICA, LAMOSAO, LOWEN, MARTEN, MATAYOSHI, MORIKAWA, OLDS, PERRUSO, POEPOE, QUINLAN, SAYAMA, SOUZA, TAKENOUCHI, TARNAS, TODD, WARD HHS, WAM  SB299SB1626
HB214 HD1 SD2
DLE; ATG; Retirees; ERS; EUTF; Benefits; School Resource Officers; Investigators; Counties; Report
RELATING TO GOVERNMENT.
Allows a retirant to be employed without reenrollment in the Employees' Retirement System and without loss or interruption of benefits under the System or the Hawaii Employer-Union Health Benefits Trust Fund if the retirant is employed in a position needed for succession planning, as a law enforcement officer stationed at a public school as a resource officer, as an investigator, or in a management position excluded from collective bargaining, subject to certain conditions. Requires the director of human resources of the appropriate state jurisdiction or the human resources management chief executive of each county to include in their annual reports to the Legislature details on the employment of retirants as school resource officers or investigators. (SD2)
(H) 4/25/2025- Conference Committee Meeting will reconvene on Friday, 04-25-25 at 4:30PM in Conference Room 325. TAKAYAMA, KILA, KITAGAWA, LA CHICA, MARTEN, MIYAKE, OLDS, SOUZA, TARNAS, TODD LBT, WAM  SB99
HB229 HD1 SD1
Traffic Code; Oversized Commercial Vehicles; Towing; Restrictions; Penalties
RELATING TO TRANSPORTATION.
Restricts motor vehicles that tow a motor vehicle or trailer from the far left lane on roads with three or more lanes going in the same direction with exemptions. Specifies penalties for restricted motor vehicles who drive in the far left lane on roads with three or more lanes moving in the same direction. Applies restrictions and penalties to a county with a population of 500,000 or more. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD1)
(S) 3/21/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to JDC. KILA, LAMOSAO, MIYAKE, Chun TCA/EIG, JDC
HB239 HD1 SD1
Child Abuse; Neglect; Child Welfare; Financial Ability
RELATING TO CHILD ABUSE.
Amends the definition of "child abuse or neglect" to clarify that the failure to provide certain needs to a child shall not constitute child abuse or neglect if the sole reason the person responsible for the care of the child is unable to adequately provide for the child's care is lack of financial resources; and evidence of parental request for support shall not be deemed as evidence of child abuse and neglect. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD1)
(S) 4/3/2025- The committee on JDC deferred the measure. MARTEN, CHUN, GRANDINETTI, ICHIYAMA, IWAMOTO, KAHALOA, KILA, KITAGAWA, MATAYOSHI, OLDS, PERRUSO, POEPOE, SOUZA, TAKAYAMA, TAM HHS, JDC  SB1104
HB244 HD1 SD1
DHS; Community-based Organizations; Social Services; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES.
Appropriates funds for the Department of Human Services to collaborate with contracted community-based organizations to address the need for social services in the State. Effective 12/31/2050. (SD1)
(H) 4/25/2025- Conference Committee Meeting will reconvene on Friday 04-25-25 5:00PM in conference room 329. MARTEN, CHUN, GRANDINETTI, IWAMOTO, KILA, KITAGAWA, LA CHICA, MATAYOSHI, MORIKAWA, OLDS, PERRUSO, POEPOE, SOUZA, TAKAYAMA, TAKENOUCHI, TAM HHS, WAM
HB256 HD2 SD1
Waste-to-energy Facility; Emissions; Standards; Air Pollution Control Permit
RELATING TO ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION.
Requires an owner or operator of a waste-to-energy facility to comply with certain United States Environmental Protection Agency regulations for emission limitations as they existed on 12/31/2024, unless emission limitations are made more stringent by federal regulations or by the state air pollution control permit issued to that owner or operator by the Department of Health. Sunsets 6/30/2027. Effective 12/31/2050. (SD1)
(S) 4/15/2025- Received notice of appointment of House conferees (Hse. Com. No. 732). MATAYOSHI, CHUN HHS/AEN, CPN
HB286 HD2 SD1
Individual Housing Account; Pre-tax Savings; Maximum Annual Deduction; Increase
RELATING TO THE INDIVIDUAL HOUSING ACCOUNT PROGRAM.
For taxable years, beginning 1/1/2026, increases the maximum annual deduction for contributions to, and maximum account levels for, individual housing accounts. Takes effect 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 4/25/2025- Conference committee meeting to reconvene on 04-25-25 4:30 PM; Conference Room 225. MATSUMOTO, ALCOS, GARCIA, MURAOKA, PIERICK, REYES ODA, SHIMIZU, WARD HSG, ECD, FIN
HB299 HD1 SD1
HISC; Native Resources and Fire Protection Program; Viability Funding; Invasive Species; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO THE HAWAII INVASIVE SPECIES COUNCIL.
Appropriates funds for the Native Resources and Fire Protection Program and Hawaii Invasive Species Council to ensure their long-term viability and continue to control and eradicate invasive species in the State. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD1)
(S) 3/21/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. KAHALOA, BELATTI, CHUN, EVSLIN, GARRETT, GRANDINETTI, HOLT, IWAMOTO, KEOHOKAPU-LEE LOY, KILA, KITAGAWA, KUSCH, LAMOSAO, LOWEN, MARTEN, MATAYOSHI, MIYAKE, MORIKAWA, PERRUSO, POEPOE, TAKAYAMA, TAKENOUCHI, TAM, TARNAS, TODD WTL/AEN, WAM  SB548
HB303 HD2 SD2
Healthcare Preceptor Tax Credit; Dietitians; Physician Assistants; Social Workers; Residency Programs; Preceptor Credit Assurance Committee; Director of Health
RELATING TO HEALTHCARE PRECEPTORS.
Expands the definitions of "preceptor" and "volunteer-based supervised clinical training rotation" to improve accessibility for providers to receive income tax credits for acting as preceptors, including removing "primary care" from the criteria to qualify as a preceptor. Adds dietitians, physician assistants, and social workers to the list of preceptors and eligible students. Expands eligibility for the tax credit to include accredited residency programs that require preceptor support. Adds the Director of Health and representatives of residency programs with eligible students to the Preceptor Credit Assurance Committee. Applies to taxable years beginning after 12/31/2025. Effective 12/31/2050. (SD2)
(H) 4/17/2025- Received notice of Senate conferees (Sen. Com. No. 826). TAKAYAMA, KITAGAWA, MARTEN, MIYAKE, OLDS, PIERICK, SAYAMA, TODD HHS, CPN/WAM  SB1070
HB306 HD2 SD1
State Water Code; CWRM; Penalties
RELATING TO STATE WATER CODE PENALTIES.
Adds a minimum penalty and maximum penalty per violation of the State Water Code and authorizes the Commission on Water Resource Management to consider each day that a violation exists or continues to exist a separate offense. Establishes factors the CWRM must consider when determining the amount of the penalty. Increases maximum fines every five years from 2030 to 2045. Effective 7/1/2040. (SD1)
(S) 4/21/2025- Received notice of appointment of House conferees (Hse. Com. No. 755). POEPOE, GRANDINETTI, IWAMOTO, KAHALOA, LEE, M., LOWEN, MARTEN, PERRUSO, TARNAS, TODD WTL, JDC/WAM
HB307 HD1 SD1
Special Number Plates; Kahoolawe; Kohe Malamalama o Kanaloa Protect Kaho?olawe Fund
RELATING TO SPECIAL NUMBER PLATES.
Authorizes the issuance of special number plates to recognize the island of Kahoolawe. Specifies the decal size for all special number organizational plates. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD1)
(S) 3/21/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. POEPOE, CHUN, GRANDINETTI, IWAMOTO, KAHALOA, MARTEN, MIYAKE, MORIKAWA, PERRUSO, TAKAYAMA, TAKENOUCHI, TAM, TARNAS, TODD TCA, WAM
HB309 HD1 SD1
UH; Fishponds; Working Group; Inventory; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO FISHPONDS.
Establishes a fishpond inventory working group within the University of Hawaii Sea Grant College Program to create an inventory and map of all fishponds on state land and conduct a literature review. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(H) 4/17/2025- Bill scheduled for Conference Committee Meeting on Monday, 04-21-25 10:00AM in conference room 229. POEPOE, AMATO, CHUN, EVSLIN, GRANDINETTI, IWAMOTO, KAHALOA, KILA, KITAGAWA, MARTEN, MIYAKE, PERRUSO, TAKAYAMA, TAKENOUCHI, TARNAS, TODD WTL/HRE, WAM
HB344 HD1 SD2
HSEO; DOT; DAGS; Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure; State Buildings; Retrofitting; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING INFRASTRUCTURE.
Requires the design of all new state building construction where parking is to be included to provide that a number of the parking stalls, as determined by the Department of Accounting and General Services, shall be electric vehicle charger-ready. Requires the Hawaii State Energy Office, in consultation with the Department of Accounting and General Services and Department of Transportation, to conduct a survey and identify certain high-priority state facilities. Establishes a goal of the State to retrofit state facilities to be electric vehicle charger-ready. Requires a report to the Legislature. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD2)
(H) 4/25/2025- Conference Committee Meeting will reconvene on Friday, 04-25-25 at 5:55PM in Conference Room 325. LOWEN, EVSLIN, KAHALOA, KILA, MARTEN, PERRUSO, TODD EIG/GVO, WAM  SB1089
HB348 HD1 SD1
Personal Care Products; Small Plastic Containers; Lodging Establishments; Prohibition; Fines
RELATING TO SINGLE-USE PLASTICS.
Beginning 7/1/2026 for lodging establishments with more than fifty sleeping room accommodations, and beginning 1/1/2028 for lodging establishments with fifty or fewer sleeping room accommodations, prohibits the provision of personal care products in small plastic containers within sleeping room accommodations, any space within sleeping room accommodations, or bathrooms used by the public or guests. Establishes civil penalties. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD1)
(S) 4/25/2025- Received notice of change in conferees (Hse. Com. No. 816). LOWEN, GRANDINETTI, HOLT, IWAMOTO, KAHALOA, MARTEN, OLDS, PERRUSO, POEPOE, QUINLAN, TODD EDT/AEN, CPN/JDC
HB350 HD2
Energy; Water Heater System Requirements; Heat Pump Water Heaters; Variance
RELATING TO ENERGY.
Expands the types of water heater systems that may satisfy the relevant requirement for the issuance of a building permit for new single-family dwellings to include ENERGY STAR certified heat pump water heaters. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(S) 3/13/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading and referred to CPN. LOWEN, EVSLIN EIG/HOU, CPN  SB748
HB367 HD2 SD1
County Permits; Maintenance; Group U Structures; Remodeling; Special Management Areas; Exemptions
RELATING TO BUILDING PERMITS.
Allows for county permit exemptions for certain kinds of activities, including maintenance activities, installing group U structures, and certain interior remodeling work, when located outside a special management area. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 3/17/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to JDC. EVSLIN HOU, JDC
HB369 SD1
Campaign Spending Commission Package; Cash Contribution Limits; Return of Contribution; Escheat
RELATING TO CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTIONS.
Amends section 11-364, Hawaii Revised Statutes, to provide that an excess contribution of more than $100 in cash, in the aggregate, from a single person during an election period to a candidate, candidate committee, or noncandidate committee shall escheat to the Hawaii election campaign fund if not returned to the contributor within 30 days. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(H) 4/25/2025- Received notice of change in Senate conferees (Sen. Com. No. 880). NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) JHA, FIN  SB255
HB370 HD2 SD1
Campaign Spending Commission Package; Partial Public Financing; OHA; Maximum Amount of Public Funds Available; Minimum Qualifying Contribution Amounts; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO PARTIAL PUBLIC FINANCING OF ELECTIONS.
Increases the amount of partial public campaign financing available for all elective offices. Adjusts the minimum amount of qualifying contributions certain candidates must receive to participate in the program. Increases the matching fund payments for excess qualifying contributions. Appropriates funds for the program and staff. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD1)
(H) 4/25/2025- Conference Committee Meeting will reconvene on Friday, 04-25-25 at 5:30PM in Conference Room 325. NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) JDC, WAM  SB256
HB371 HD1 SD1
CSC; State or County Contractors; State or County Grantees; Officers; Immediate Family Members; Prohibited Contributions
RELATING TO CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTIONS.
Prohibits state or county grantees and officers and immediate family members of state or county contractors or grantees from contributing to candidate or noncandidate committees, candidates, or any person for any political purpose for the duration of the contract. Requires any unlawful contribution to be returned to the contributor or it will escheat to the Hawaii Election Campaign Fund. Requires disclosures of the names of any officers and immediate adult family members of a state or county contractor or grantee for contracts exceeding a certain amount. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD1)
(H) 4/25/2025- Conference Committee Meeting will reconvene on Friday, 04-25-25 at 5:30PM in Conference Room 325. NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) JHA, FIN  SB257
HB372 HD1
Campaign Spending Commission Package; Solicitation and Acceptance; Campaign Contributions; State Legislators
RELATING TO CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTIONS.
Prohibits state legislators from soliciting and accepting campaign contributions during any regular session or special session of the Legislature, including any extension of any regular session or special session or any legislative recess day, holiday, or weekend. (HD1)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to JDC, WAM. NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) JDC, WAM  SB258
HB373 HD1
City and County of Honolulu Mayor's Package; HHFDC; Housing; County Powers; Mixed-Use Development; Bond Proceeds
RELATING TO HOUSING.
Repeals the sunset provision in Act 45, SLH 2024, related to the counties' authorization to develop, construct, finance, refinance, or otherwise provide mixed-use developments. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to HOU/EIG, WAM. NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) HOU/EIG, WAM  SB288
HB381 HD1
Hawaii Council of Mayors Package; Procurement; Small Purchases
RELATING TO PROCUREMENT.
Amends the procurement thresholds for small purchases. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to GVO, WAM. NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) GVO, WAM  SB254
HB389 HD1
Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Package; Uncrewed Aircraft; Criminal Offenses
RELATING TO UNCREWED AIRCRAFT OFFENSES.
Clarifies the applicable felony offenses for using an uncrewed aircraft in the furtherance of the commission of a felony. (HD1)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to TCA, JDC. NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) TCA, JDC  SB282
HB395 HD1 SD1
Judiciary Package; Jury Duty; Juror and Prospective Juror Compensation; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO JURY DUTY.
Increases the amount each juror or prospective juror is paid for each day of actual attendance at court. Appropriates funds. Effective 4/23/2057. (SD1)
(H) 4/25/2025- Conference Committee Meeting will reconvene on Friday, 04-25-25 at 5:30PM in Conference Room 325. NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) JDC, WAM  SB261
HB411
State Ethics Commission Package; State Ethics Code; Lobbyist Law; Administrative Fines
RELATING TO ETHICS ADMINISTRATIVE FINES.
Establishes uniform provisions for the assessment of administrative penalties under the State Ethics Code and Lobbyist Law.
(S) 3/4/2025- Referred to JDC. NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) JDC  SB289
HB417 HD1 SD1
HHFDC; RHRF; Housing Efficiency and Innovation Subaccount; Housing; Priorities; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO THE RENTAL HOUSING REVOLVING FUND.
Establishes the Housing Efficiency and Innovation Subaccount within the Rental Housing Revolving Fund. Specifies permissible uses of funding and priorities. Authorizes the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation to transfer funds between the Housing Efficiency and Innovation Subaccount and the Rental Housing Revolving Fund without legislative approval. Appropriates funds. Takes effect 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 3/21/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. EVSLIN HOU, WAM  SB35
HB423 HD2 SD1
Workers' Compensation; Vocational Rehabilitation Services; Certified Providers; Automatic Approval
RELATING TO WORKERS' COMPENSATION.
Clarifies the process for selecting a certified provider of rehabilitation services. Requires providers to automatically approve vocational rehabilitation services for an injured employee if those services will likely be required for suitable gainful employment. Requires providers to file an employee's vocational plan no later than ninety days after submitting an initial evaluation report, with certain exceptions. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(H) 4/25/2025- Conference Committee Meeting will reconvene on Friday, 04-25-25 at 2:30PM in Conference Room 016. MATAYOSHI, CHUN, KITAGAWA, SAYAMA, TARNAS LAB, CPC, FIN
HB424 HD2
Department of Education; Free School Breakfasts and Lunches; Cost; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO SCHOOL MEALS.
Beginning with the 2025-2026 school year, requires the Department of Education to provide free breakfast and lunch to students enrolled in a public school who meet certain requirements. Reduces the amount the Department of Education is authorized to charge for school meals to all students enrolled in department schools to no more than an unspecified portion of the cost of preparing the meals. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to EDU, WAM. MATAYOSHI, CHUN, EVSLIN, GARRETT, HOLT, KAHALOA, KEOHOKAPU-LEE LOY, KITAGAWA, LA CHICA, LEE, M., MARTEN, MORIKAWA, OLDS, QUINLAN, SAYAMA, TAKAYAMA, TAM, TARNAS, TODD EDU, WAM  SB221
HB428 HD1 SD1
Department of Agriculture; Hawaii Farm to Families Program; Reports; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO FARM TO FAMILIES.
Establishes the Hawaii Farm to Families Program to alleviate food shortages in the State. Requires reports to the Legislature before the Regular Sessions of 2026 and 2027. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(H) 4/21/2025- Conference Committee Meeting will reconvene on Tuesday 04-22-25 9:31AM in conference room 325. NAKAMURA, AMATO, BELATTI, CHUN, COCHRAN, EVSLIN, GARRETT, GRANDINETTI, HASHEM, HOLT, HUSSEY, ICHIYAMA, ILAGAN, IWAMOTO, KAHALOA, KAPELA, KEOHOKAPU-LEE LOY, KILA, KITAGAWA, KONG, KUSCH, LA CHICA, LAMOSAO, LEE, M., LOWEN, MARTEN, MATAYOSHI, MIYAKE, MORIKAWA, OLDS, PERRUSO, POEPOE, QUINLAN, SAYAMA, TAKAYAMA, TAKENOUCHI, TAM, TARNAS, TEMPLO, TODD, WOODSON, YAMASHITA AEN, WAM  SB1250
HB429 HD1 SD1
Department of Education; Executive Office on Early Learning; Public Preschools; Teachers; Teacher Assistants; Equipment; Services; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO EARLY LEARNING.
Appropriates funds to hire teachers and teacher assistants and for equipment and services for public preschools. Takes effect 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 4/15/2025- Received notice of appointment of House conferees (Hse. Com. No. 732). NAKAMURA, AMATO, BELATTI, CHUN, COCHRAN, EVSLIN, GARRETT, GRANDINETTI, HASHEM, HOLT, HUSSEY, ICHIYAMA, ILAGAN, IWAMOTO, KAHALOA, KAPELA, KEOHOKAPU-LEE LOY, KILA, KITAGAWA, KONG, KUSCH, LA CHICA, LAMOSAO, LEE, M., LOWEN, MARTEN, MATAYOSHI, MIYAKE, MORIKAWA, OLDS, PERRUSO, POEPOE, QUINLAN, SAYAMA, TAKAYAMA, TAKENOUCHI, TAM, TARNAS, TEMPLO, TODD, WOODSON, YAMASHITA EDU, WAM
HB432 HD1 SD2
HHFDC; Rental Housing Revolving Fund; Mixed-Income Subaccount; Workforce Rental Housing; For-Sale Housing; Rules; Prioritization; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO THE RENTAL HOUSING REVOLVING FUND.
Establishes the Mixed-Income Subaccount within the Rental Housing Revolving Fund to prioritize development of workforce rental and for-sale housing projects for qualified residents. Requires the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation to adopt administrative rules. Appropriates moneys. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD2)
(H) 4/25/2025- Received notice of change in Senate conferees (Sen. Com. No. 880). NAKAMURA, AMATO, BELATTI, CHUN, COCHRAN, EVSLIN, GARRETT, GRANDINETTI, HASHEM, HOLT, HUSSEY, ICHIYAMA, ILAGAN, IWAMOTO, KAHALOA, KAPELA, KEOHOKAPU-LEE LOY, KILA, KITAGAWA, KONG, KUSCH, LA CHICA, LAMOSAO, LEE, M., LOWEN, MARTEN, MATAYOSHI, MIYAKE, MORIKAWA, OLDS, PERRUSO, POEPOE, QUINLAN, SAYAMA, TAKAYAMA, TAKENOUCHI, TAM, TARNAS, TEMPLO, TODD, WOODSON, YAMASHITA HOU, WAM
HB433 HD1 SD1
DCR; Reentry Services; Community-Based Services; Report; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO PUBLIC SAFETY.
Requires the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation to submit an annual report to the Legislature. Appropriates funds to the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation for reentry services to connect offenders with community-based services. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD1)
(S) 4/17/2025- Conference committee meeting to reconvene on 04-21-25 1:30PM; Conference Room 016. NAKAMURA, AMATO, BELATTI, CHUN, COCHRAN, EVSLIN, GARRETT, GRANDINETTI, HASHEM, HOLT, HUSSEY, ICHIYAMA, ILAGAN, IWAMOTO, KAHALOA, KAPELA, KEOHOKAPU-LEE LOY, KILA, KITAGAWA, KONG, KUSCH, LA CHICA, LEE, M., LOWEN, MARTEN, MATAYOSHI, MIYAKE, MORIKAWA, OLDS, PERRUSO, POEPOE, QUINLAN, SAYAMA, TAKAYAMA, TAKENOUCHI, TAM, TARNAS, TEMPLO, TODD, WOODSON, YAMASHITA, Lamosao PSM, WAM
HB437 HD1 SD1
Filipino Caucus; DBEDT; Out-of-state Office; Republic of the Philippines; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO OUT-OF-STATE OFFICES.
Requires, and appropriates funds for, the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to establish an out-of-state office in the Republic of the Philippines. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 4/25/2025- Conference committee meeting to reconvene on 04-25-25 5:46 PM; Conference Room 225. ILAGAN, COCHRAN, GARRETT, HASHEM, HUSSEY, ICHIYAMA, KILA, LA CHICA, LAMOSAO, MIYAKE, REYES ODA, SAYAMA, SOUZA, TAM, TEMPLO, WOODSON EDT/TCA, WAM  SB817
HB448 HD1 SD1
Hawaii Technology Development Corporation; Small Businesses; Technology Enablement; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO TECHNOLOGY ENABLEMENT.
Appropriates funds to the Hawaii Technology Development Corporation to assist small businesses, including those related to the tourism sector, with technology enablement. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 4/15/2025- Received notice of appointment of House conferees (Hse. Com. No. 732). TAM, KITAGAWA, LA CHICA, LAMOSAO, LOWEN, MARTEN, QUINLAN, TAKAYAMA, TARNAS EDT, WAM
HB449 HD1 SD1
HTDC; Economic Development; Hawaii-Manufactured Products; Reports; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT.
Requires the Hawaii Technology Development Corporation to prioritize funding for certain Hawaii-based businesses. Appropriates funds to assist in the development and promotion of Hawaii-manufactured products through the INNOVATE Hawaii program. Requires reports to the Legislature. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD1)
(S) 3/21/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. ILAGAN EDT, WAM
HB450 HD3 SD1
SFCA; King Kamehameha Celebration Commission; DAGS; DBEDT; Comptroller; Works of Art Special Fund; Transfer; Positions; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, AND TOURISM.
Transfers the State Foundation on Culture and the Arts and the King Kamehameha Celebration Commission from the Department of Accounting and General Services to the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism. Transfers the authority held by the Comptroller over the Works of Art Special Fund to the Director of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism. Appropriates funds for positions within the Administrative Services Office of the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism and the State Foundation on Culture and the Arts. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD1)
(S) 3/21/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. ILAGAN TCA/EDT, WAM  SB582
HB454 HD2 SD1
Hawaii Technology Development Corporation; Economic Diversification; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO THE HAWAII TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION.
Establishes state goals related to economic diversification. Appropriates funds to the Hawaii Technology and Development Corporation to meet those goals. Requires the Hawaii Technology Development Corporation to submit annual reports over three years to the legislature. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 4/15/2025- Received notice of appointment of House conferees (Hse. Com. No. 732). ILAGAN EDT, WAM
HB455 HD1 SD2
DBEDT; Start-Up Business; Financing; Support; Contracted Services; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO SMALL BUSINESS LOANS.
Appropriates moneys to the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism for the contracting of services for start-up business financing and support. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD2)
(S) 4/21/2025- Received notice of appointment of House conferees (Hse. Com. No. 755). ILAGAN, EVSLIN, GARCIA, ICHIYAMA, IWAMOTO, KAHALOA, KAPELA, KITAGAWA, KONG, LA CHICA, MARTEN, MATAYOSHI, MORIKAWA, PERRUSO, QUINLAN, SAYAMA, SOUZA, TAKAYAMA, TAM, WARD EDT, WAM  SB132
HB458 HD2 SD1
Brother Joseph Dutton Day; Day of Observance
RELATING TO BROTHER JOSEPH DUTTON DAY.
Designates April 27 of every year as Brother Joseph Dutton Day. Effective 4/27/2843. (SD1)
(S) 4/11/2025- Received notice of disagreement (Hse. Com. No. 704). ILAGAN TCA
HB463 HD3 SD1
Judiciary; Eviction Records; Disassociations; Study; Report; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO EVICTION RECORDS.
Requires the Judiciary to conduct a study to determine the ability, best approaches, various issues, and potential impacts of requiring courts to disassociate a residential tenant from an eviction proceeding brought by a landlord in certain circumstances. Requires a report to the Legislature. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD1)
(S) 3/21/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to JDC/WAM. GRANDINETTI, MARTEN, PERRUSO, TAM, TODD CPN, JDC/WAM  SB154
HB472 HD1 SD2
Digitized Identification Cards; Valid Identification
RELATING TO DIGITAL IDENTIFICATION.
Allows digitized identification cards to be accepted as a valid form of identification, under certain conditions. Authorizes state and county law enforcement agencies to accept a digitized identification card as proof of a person's identity beginning 7/1/2027. Effective 7/1/2077. (SD2)
(H) 4/25/2025- Conference Committee Meeting will reconvene on Friday 04-25-25 5:00PM in conference room 325. LEE, M., AMATO, BELATTI, HASHEM, HOLT, IWAMOTO, KEOHOKAPU-LEE LOY, KITAGAWA, KUSCH, LOWEN, MARTEN, MIYAKE, OLDS, PIERICK, SAYAMA, TAKAYAMA, TODD, Tam PSM/CPN, JDC
HB476 HD2 SD1
Capital Gains Tax
RELATING TO CAPITAL GAINS TAX.
Amends the capital gains tax rate for individuals, estates, and trusts. Amends the alternative capital gains tax for corporations. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 4/4/2025- Recommitted to WAM. SAYAMA, HOLT, KILA, MATAYOSHI WAM
HB480 HD1 SD1
Workers' Compensation; Functional Capacity Examination; Occupational Therapy; Physical Therapy
RELATING TO WORKERS' COMPENSATION.
Authorizes an attending physician to request a functional capacity examination and refer an injured employee for the examination without first obtaining permission from the employee's employer. Allows licensed occupational and physical therapists to be deemed qualified to perform functional capacity examinations. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(H) 4/25/2025- Conference Committee Meeting will reconvene on Friday, 04-25-25 at 5:29PM in Conference Room 325. MATAYOSHI, CHUN, KEOHOKAPU-LEE LOY, KITAGAWA, LEE, M., SAYAMA, TARNAS, TODD LBT, CPN/WAM
HB504 HD2 SD2
DLNR; DOA; HTA; Department of Budget and Finance; Department of Transportation; Transient Accommodations Tax; Minimum Tax; Increase; Natural Resources; Working Group; Fees; Reports; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP.
Amends the transient accommodations tax rate beginning on 1/1/2027. Beginning 1/1/2027, requires collection of a monthly tax of $20 per passenger per port entry or any commercial passenger vessel at any port facility under the jurisdiction of the department of taxation. Establishes a Transient Accommodation Tax Enforcement Working Group. Requires the transfer of all agricultural leases under the jurisdiction of the Department of Land and Natural Resources to the Department of Agriculture. Appropriates funds to the Department of Land and Natural Resources for certain environmental stewardship projects. Appropriates funds to the Hawaii Tourism Authority for its operating budget request. Requires reports to the Legislature. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD2)
(S) 4/11/2025- Received notice of disagreement (Hse. Com. No. 704). ICHIYAMA EDT/WTL, WAM
HB510 HD1 SD2
CWRM; Water Shortage and Emergency; Water Shortage Declaration; Notice
RELATING TO DECLARATION OF WATER SHORTAGE AND EMERGENCY.
Amends the conditions, manner, and areas in which the Commission on Water Resource Management can declare and provide notice of water shortages and emergencies. Limits the duration of a water shortage declaration to ninety days. Limits water usage restrictions imposed on a permittee or owner and operator to twenty per cent of the permittee's or owner and operator's last reported monthly use. Requires CWRM to maintain a list of names and postal or email addresses of persons who request notification of a water shortage declaration and send them a copy of a notice of a water shortage declaration whenever water shortage is declared. Effective 7/1/2040. (SD2)
(S) 4/15/2025- Received notice of appointment of House conferees (Hse. Com. No. 732). ICHIYAMA, HASHEM, TARNAS WTL, JDC  SB145
HB528 HD1
Residential Leases; State Lands; County Lands; Exemption
RELATING TO RESIDENTIAL LEASEHOLDS.
Exempts state and county lands leased after July 1, 2025, for an initial period of no less than ninety-nine years from state law governing residential leaseholds. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to CPN/WTL, JDC. MIYAKE, LAMOSAO CPN/WTL, JDC  SB77
HB531 HD1 SD1
Motor Vehicles; Special Number Plates; UH Cancer Center
RELATING TO SPECIAL NUMBER PLATES.
Authorizes the issuance of special number plates to recognize the University of Hawaii Cancer Center. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD1)
(S) 3/21/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. MIYAKE, AMATO, CHUN, EVSLIN, GARRETT, GRANDINETTI, KAHALOA, KILA, LAMOSAO, MARTEN, MATSUMOTO, OLDS, POEPOE, SOUZA, TAKAYAMA, TAKENOUCHI, TODD TCA, WAM
HB542 HD1
University of Hawaii; Scholarships; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII PROMISE PROGRAM.
Expands the Hawaii promise program to provide scholarships for the unmet needs of qualified students at any four-year university of Hawaii campus who meet certain criteria. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/4/2025- Referred to HRE, WAM. GARRETT, KAPELA, KILA, LA CHICA, OLDS, SOUZA HRE, WAM
HB546 HD1 SD1
UH; Aloha Intelligence Institute; Artificial Intelligence
RELATING TO ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE.
Establishes the Aloha Intelligence Institute within the University of Hawaii to develop, support, and advance artificial intelligence initiatives statewide. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD1)
(S) 3/20/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. GARRETT, KAPELA, KILA, OLDS, SAYAMA HRE/LBT, WAM  SB1622
HB548 HD1
UH; Saint Francis School; Campus; Acquisition; Revenue Bonds; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO THE ACQUISITION OF THE SAINT FRANCIS SCHOOL CAMPUS FOR THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII AT MANOA.
Authorizes the Board of Regents of the University of Hawaii to issue revenue bonds for the acquisition of the Saint Francis School campus located at 2707 Pamoa Road in Honolulu. Appropriates funds to the University of Hawaii for the acquisition of the Saint Francis School campus located at 2707 Pamoa Road in Honolulu. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/4/2025- Referred to HRE/EIG, WAM. GARRETT, AMATO, KAPELA, KILA, LA CHICA, OLDS, SOUZA HRE/EIG, WAM
HB549 HD3 SD1
UH; Early Learning Apprenticeship Grant Program; Childcare; Early Learning Opportunities; Professions and Occupations; Reports; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO AN EARLY LEARNING APPRENTICESHIP GRANT PROGRAM.
Establishes an Early Learning Apprenticeship Grant Program to be administered by the University of Hawaii to provide financial support for early learning program service providers in the State to participate in state- or federally-approved early learning apprenticeship programs. Requires an annual report to the Legislature. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/31/2050. (SD1)
(S) 4/24/2025- Conference committee meeting to reconvene on 04-25-25 3:05PM; Conference Room 229. GARRETT, CHUN, EVSLIN, KILA, LA CHICA, LEE, M., MARTEN, OLDS, SAYAMA, TAKAYAMA, TAKENOUCHI HRE/EDU, WAM  SB426
HB560 HD1 SD1
Judiciary; Community-Based Organizations; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO THE JUDICIARY.
Appropriates funds to the Judiciary to support services contracted with community-based organizations that deliver essential services, streamline judicial processes, and support the judiciary's capacity to effectively meet the needs of vulnerable households. Effective 4/23/2057. (SD1)
(S) 3/19/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. CHUN, EVSLIN, GRANDINETTI, HOLT, IWAMOTO, KAHALOA, LOWEN, MARTEN, MIYAKE, PERRUSO, POEPOE, TAKAYAMA, TAKENOUCHI, TAM, TODD JDC, WAM
HB563 HD1 SD1
UH; Institute for Astronomy; Space Sciences and Engineering Initiative; Workforce Development Program; Maunakea Scholars Program; Internship Program; Equipment and Supplies; Stipends; Positions; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII'S SPACE SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING INITIATIVE.
Appropriates funds for salaries and fringe benefits of positions for the University of Hawaii Institute for Astronomy's Space Science and Engineering Initiative Workforce Development Program, Maunakea Scholars Program, and Internship Program. Appropriates funds for office equipment and supplies, operational costs, and stipends for high school and college students. Effective 7/31/2050. (SD1)
(S) 4/24/2025- Conference committee meeting to reconvene on 04-25-25 3:05PM; Conference Room 229. KEOHOKAPU-LEE LOY, GARRETT, KAHALOA, LOWEN, SOUZA, TAKAYAMA HRE, WAM  SB767SB1268
HB576 HD2 SD1
Housing Development Programs; HHFDC; Restrictions on Transfer; Hawaiian Home Lands; Exception
RELATING TO RESTRICTIONS ON THE TRANSFER OF REAL PROPERTY UNDER CHAPTER 201H, HAWAII REVISED STATUTES.
Exempts transfers of Hawaiian Home Lands from transfer restrictions for real property under housing development programs of the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD1)
(S) 3/21/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. HOLT, KAHALOA, KILA, MARTEN, MIYAKE, TODD HWN/HOU, WAM  SB834
HB596 HD1 SD1
Emergency Management; Disasters; Emergencies; Definitions
RELATING TO EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT.
Clarifies the types of events that constitute disasters and emergencies for the purposes of emergency management. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 4/15/2025- Received notice of appointment of House conferees (Hse. Com. No. 732). POEPOE, GRANDINETTI, IWAMOTO, LAMOSAO, MARTEN, MIYAKE, PERRUSO, SOUZA, TAKENOUCHI PSM, WAM
HB606 HD1 SD1
DHHL; Repair and Maintenance; Mercantile Projects; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF HAWAIIAN HOMELANDS.
Appropriates funds to be used by the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands for mercantile projects, as well as lump sum repair and maintenance, in fiscal year 2025-2026. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD1)
(H) 4/24/2025- Conference Committee Meeting will reconvene on Friday 04-25-25 1:30PM in conference room 325. POEPOE, AMATO, BELATTI, EVSLIN, GARCIA, GRANDINETTI, HOLT, KAHALOA, KAPELA, LOWEN, MARTEN, PERRUSO, QUINLAN, REYES ODA, SOUZA, TAKAYAMA, TAKENOUCHI, TAM, TARNAS HWN/HOU, WAM
HB619 HD1
Board of Education; Public Schools; Financial Literacy
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
Requires the Board of Education to adopt and enact a policy by the 2026-2027 school year directing Department of Education public schools to incorporate financial literacy education in the school's curriculum. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/4/2025- Referred to EDU, WAM. WOODSON, AMATO, CHUN, GARCIA, HOLT, KAHALOA, KILA, KITAGAWA, LA CHICA, LOWEN, MARTEN, MATAYOSHI, MORIKAWA, POEPOE, SAYAMA, TAM, TARNAS, TODD, WARD EDU, WAM
HB620 HD1 SD1
DOE; Braille; Low Vision or Blind Students; Individualized Educational Programs; Section 504 Plans; Braille Instruction; Print Instructional Materials; Braille Literacy Resource Center; Rules; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
Establishes braille literacy as a policy of the State. Requires literacy assessments for eligible low vision and blind students to include braille instruction and the use of braille. Authorizes the Department of Education to adopt administrative rules. Establishes the Braille Literacy Resource Center. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(H) 4/25/2025- Conference Committee Meeting will reconvene on Friday 04-25-25 6:20PM in conference room 229. WOODSON, AMATO, CHUN, GRANDINETTI, HOLT, KAHALOA, KILA, LA CHICA, LEE, M., MARTEN, MATSUMOTO, MORIKAWA, PERRUSO, PIERICK, POEPOE, TAKENOUCHI, TAM, TARNAS, TODD EDU, WAM
HB624 HD1 SD1
DOE; School Psychologists; Working Group; Report
RELATING TO SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGISTS.
Creates a School Psychologists Working Group within the Department of Education to recommend actionable steps or propose legislation for an immediate pathway to licensure for school psychologists that can be acted upon in 2026. Requires a report to the Legislature. Takes effect 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 3/21/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. WOODSON, AMATO, BELATTI, GARRETT, KAPELA, LA CHICA, LOWEN, MARTEN, OLDS, PERRUSO, POEPOE, QUINLAN, SOUZA, TAKAYAMA, TARNAS EDU/CPN, WAM
HB627 HD1
DOE; School Safety, Positions; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO SCHOOL SAFETY.
Appropriates funds to the Department of Education for positions to implement and maintain school safety measures. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/4/2025- Referred to EDU, WAM. WOODSON, AMATO, CHUN, COCHRAN, GARCIA, GARRETT, HOLT, KAHALOA, KITAGAWA, LAMOSAO, LEE, M., LOWEN, MARTEN, MATAYOSHI, MATSUMOTO, MIYAKE, MORIKAWA, POEPOE, SAYAMA, SOUZA, TAKAYAMA, TARNAS, TODD, WARD EDU, WAM
HB628 HD1
Veterans; Armed Services; Wartime Practices; High School Diploma; DOE
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
Authorizes the Department of Education to establish a program to award high school diplomas to persons who did not receive a diploma as a result of compulsory or voluntary induction into the armed services and persons whose high school education was interrupted due to wartime practices during World War II, the Korean War, or the Vietnam War. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to EDU/PSM, WAM. WOODSON, BELATTI, COCHRAN, GARCIA, GRANDINETTI, KAHALOA, KAPELA, KITAGAWA, LOWEN, MARTEN, MATSUMOTO, MIYAKE, MORIKAWA, OLDS, PERRUSO, PIERICK, POEPOE, QUINLAN, REYES ODA, SOUZA, TAKAYAMA, TARNAS, TODD, WARD EDU/PSM, WAM
HB636 HD2
School Capital Improvement Project Modernization Initiative; School Facilities Authority; BOE; DOE; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT.
Establishes a school capital improvement project modernization initiative in the School Facilities Authority to create a planning database for school facilities. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to EDU, WAM. LA CHICA, GARCIA, GRANDINETTI, KAHALOA, KEOHOKAPU-LEE LOY, KILA, KITAGAWA, MARTEN, OLDS, SOUZA, Chun, Matsumoto EDU, WAM  SB449
HB637 HD1
Department of Education; Dyslexia Screening; Universal Screening; Evidence-based Interventions; Teacher Professional Development; Appropriation
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
Requires the Department of Education to implement dyslexia-sensitive universal screenings and evidence-based interventions, offer professional development on structured literacy and evidenced-based interventions, and support pre-teacher programs in training candidates in structured literary instruction. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/4/2025- Referred to EDU, WAM. LA CHICA, AMATO, GRANDINETTI, IWAMOTO, LOWEN, MARTEN, MIYAKE, PERRUSO, POEPOE, TODD, WOODSON, Matsumoto EDU, WAM  SB1001
HB640 HD3
Office of the Ombudsman; Child Welfare Services Branch; Department of Human Services; Complaints ($)
RELATING TO CHILD WELFARE.
Requires the Office of the Ombudsman to publish an annual report on its website that identifies the number and nature of complaints that it receives regarding the Child Welfare Services Branch of the Department of Human Services. Requires the Child Welfare Services Branch to provide notification to certain parties that complaints can also be filed with the Office of the Ombudsman. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD3)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to GVO/HHS, WAM. MARTEN, AMATO, GRANDINETTI, HOLT, IWAMOTO, LAMOSAO, LOWEN, MIYAKE, PERRUSO, PIERICK, POEPOE, QUINLAN, SOUZA, TAKAYAMA GVO/HHS, WAM  SB1108
HB643 HD2 SD1
Department of Agriculture; University of Hawaii; Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle; Prevention; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO THE COCONUT RHINOCEROS BEETLE PROGRAM.
Establishes short-term management initiatives for the coconut rhinoceros beetle response program. Appropriates funds for activities and positions related to coconut rhinoceros beetle infestation control. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD1)
(H) 4/17/2025- Received notice of Senate conferees (Sen. Com. No. 826). MARTEN, AMATO, BELATTI, EVSLIN, GRANDINETTI, IWAMOTO, KAHALOA, KAPELA, KITAGAWA, LAMOSAO, LEE, M., LOWEN, MATSUMOTO, MORIKAWA, OLDS, PERRUSO, PIERICK, POEPOE, QUINLAN, REYES ODA, TAKAYAMA, TAM, TODD, WARD HRE/AEN, WAM  SB686
HB649 HD1
Small Boat Harbors; Commercial Vessels; DLNR; Bonds; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO SMALL BOAT HARBORS.
Establishes the Small Boat Harbor Commercial Vessel Special Fund. Increases moorage fees for commercial vessels. Requires that revenue from the fee increase be used by the Department of Land and Natural Resources for improvements that primarily benefit commercial vessels that utilize state small boat harbors. Authorizes the issuance of general obligation bonds with debt service to be paid from special funds, for repairs of various harbors. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/14/2025- The committee on WTL deferred the measure. HASHEM WTL, WAM
HB661 HD2
Environmental Review; Permitted Activities
RELATING TO ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW.
Permits, under certain circumstances, a previously permitted or authorized activity challenged as being subject to environmental review to continue while the applicable agency or applicant conducts an environmental assessment, prepares an environmental impact statement, or determines whether the activity is exempt. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to WTL/AEN, JDC. HASHEM WTL/AEN, JDC
HB664 HD1 SD2
AG; DLE; Gun Violence and Violent Crimes Commission; Office of Gun Violence Prevention; Gun Violence Prevention Special Fund; Gun Violence Resource Bank; Gun Establishment; Grants; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO GUN VIOLENCE PREVENTION.
Establishes the Office of Gun Violence Prevention to conduct community outreach on gun violence prevention, develop and administer a grant program for gun violence prevention, and develop and administer a gun violence resource bank. Moves the Gun Violence and Violent Crimes Commission from the Office of the Attorney General to the Department of Law Enforcement. Replaces the Attorney General with the Director of Law Enforcement as Chair of the Gun Violence and Violent Crimes Commission and includes the Attorney General as a commission member. Establishes the Gun Violence Prevention Special Fund and appropriates funds into and out of the special fund. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/2077. (SD2)
(S) 4/21/2025- Received notice of appointment of House conferees (Hse. Com. No. 755). KILA, EVSLIN, GARRETT, GRANDINETTI, LAMOSAO, LOWEN, TAKAYAMA, TAKENOUCHI, TAM PSM, WAM/JDC  SB774
HB683 HD2
Student Transportation Coordinators; Department of Education; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO STUDENT TRANSPORTATION.
Establishes and appropriates funds for student transportation coordinators positions within the Department of Education to strengthen student transportation services across the State. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to EDU, WAM. KAPELA, AMATO, GRANDINETTI, MARTEN, PERRUSO, SOUZA, TAKAYAMA, TAM, TARNAS EDU, WAM  SB864
HB697 HD2 SD1
DLE; DOT; Automated Speed Enforcement Systems; Violations; Evidence; State Highway Fund; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO TRANSPORTATION.
Allows authorized employees of the Department of Law Enforcement, in addition to county police departments, to perform certain actions in reviewing recorded images produced by automated speed enforcement systems. Appropriates funds from the State Highway Fund to the Department of Transportation to establish and implement the Automated Speed Enforcement Systems Program. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD1)
(S) 4/25/2025- Conference committee meeting to reconvene on 04-25-25 5:15 PM; Conference Room 225. KILA, LAMOSAO, MARTEN, TAKAYAMA TCA/PSM, WAM/JDC  SB1208
HB698 HD1 SD2
Penal Code; Animal Cruelty; Pet Animals; Service Animals; Law Enforcement Animals; Penalties
RELATING TO ANIMAL CRUELTY.
Increases the criminal penalties for the offenses of cruelty to animals in the first and second degree that involve pet animals. Increases the criminal penalty for a second or subsequent offense of causing injury or death to a service animal or law enforcement animal. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD2)
(H) 4/23/2025- Received notice of Senate conferees (Sen. Com. No. 873). KILA, AMATO, GARRETT, GRANDINETTI, OLDS, TAM, TODD JDC
HB701 HD3 SD2
Kupuna Caucus; DOTAX; Executive Office on Aging; Family Caregiver Tax Credit; Report; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO TAXATION.
Establishes a family caregiver tax credit for nonpaid family caregivers. Requires the Department of Taxation to submit annual reports to the Legislature. Appropriates moneys to the Executive Office on Aging. The tax credit applies to taxable years beginning after 12/31/2026. Effective 12/31/2050. (SD2)
(S) 4/23/2025- Received notice of appointment of House conferees (Hse. Com. No. 801). CHUN, AMATO, BELATTI, COCHRAN, EVSLIN, GARRETT, GRANDINETTI, HASHEM, HOLT, ICHIYAMA, ILAGAN, IWAMOTO, KAHALOA, KAPELA, KEOHOKAPU-LEE LOY, KILA, LA CHICA, LAMOSAO, LOWEN, MARTEN, MATAYOSHI, MIYAKE, MORIKAWA, PERRUSO, REYES ODA, SHIMIZU, SOUZA, TAKAYAMA, TAKENOUCHI, TAM HHS, WAM  SB879
HB702 HD1
DHS; Medicaid; In-Home Services; Matching Funds; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO HUMAN SERVICES.
Appropriates funds to increase the funding for Medicaid in-home services, conditioned on the Department of Human Services obtaining the maximum federal matching funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/4/2025- Referred to HHS, WAM. MARTEN, AMATO, BELATTI, CHUN, COCHRAN, EVSLIN, GARRETT, GRANDINETTI, HASHEM, ICHIYAMA, ILAGAN, IWAMOTO, KAHALOA, KAPELA, KILA, LA CHICA, LAMOSAO, LOWEN, MATAYOSHI, MIYAKE, MORIKAWA, PERRUSO, SAYAMA, SHIMIZU, SOUZA, TAKAYAMA HHS, WAM  SB877
HB706 HD1 SD1
Skateboards; Helmet Requirement; Minors
RELATING TO HIGHWAY SAFETY.
Requires all skateboard users under the age of sixteen to wear a helmet while operating a skateboard. Takes effect 1/1/3000. (SD1)
(H) 4/15/2025- Received notice of Senate conferees (Sen. Com. No. 788). TAKENOUCHI TCA, JDC  SB344
HB714 HD1 SD1
DBEDT; Education; Health Care Workforce; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO HEALTH CARE WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT.
Appropriates funds to support educational training programs to expand the State's health care workforce, including funding to support health care certification programs offered in public high schools and education programs that support certified nurse assistants in becoming licensed practical nurses. Effective 12/31/2050. (SD1)
(S) 4/21/2025- Received notice of appointment of House conferees (Hse. Com. No. 755). TAKAYAMA, AMATO, BELATTI, CHUN, GARRETT, GRANDINETTI, HASHEM, IWAMOTO, KAPELA, LOWEN, MARTEN, OLDS, PERRUSO, SAYAMA, SOUZA, TAKENOUCHI, TAM, TODD, WARD HHS/EDT, WAM  SB294
HB716 HD1 SD1
Health Infrastructure Grant Program; Health Information Technologies; State Health Planning and Development Agency; FQHCs; Rural Health Clinics; Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program Centers; Native Hawaiian Health Centers; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO HEALTH.
Establishes the Health Information Technology Infrastructure Grant Program within the Department of Health, to be administered by the State Health Planning and Development Agency, to support health information technology infrastructure and the implementation of interoperable health information technologies in federally qualified health centers, rural health clinics, Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program centers, and Native Hawaiian health centers. Appropriates funds for the grant program. Effective 12/31/2050. (SD1)
(H) 4/16/2025- Received notice of Senate conferees (Sen. Com. No. 810). TAKAYAMA, AMATO, GRANDINETTI, HOLT, IWAMOTO, KITAGAWA, LAMOSAO, MARTEN, OLDS, PERRUSO, POEPOE, TAKENOUCHI, TARNAS HHS, WAM  SB959
HB729 HD2
Marriage; Legal Age; Family Court; Guardianship; Penal Code
RELATING TO MARRIAGE OF MINORS.
Raises the minimum age to enter into marriage from sixteen to eighteen years of age. Repeals the authority of parents and the family court to consent to a minor's marriage. Repeals spousal cohabitation after the parties attain legal age as an exception for an annulment based on nonage. Repeals exemptions for sexual assault of a minor if the perpetrator is married to the minor. Makes conforming amendments. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to HHS, JDC. KEOHOKAPU-LEE LOY, AMATO, BELATTI, CHUN, GRANDINETTI, ICHIYAMA, IWAMOTO, KAHALOA, KILA, KITAGAWA, KUSCH, LA CHICA, LAMOSAO, LEE, M., LOWEN, MARTEN, MATSUMOTO, MORIKAWA, PERRUSO, POEPOE, REYES ODA, SAYAMA, TAKAYAMA, TAKENOUCHI, TAM, TARNAS, TEMPLO, TODD HHS, JDC  SB528
HB734 HD1 SD1
DOH; Rules; Wastewater Systems; Cesspool Conversion; Report; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO WASTEWATER SYSTEMS.
Requires the Department of Health, in consultation with various agencies and professionals, to review rules and practices and propose changes that have the potential to make wastewater systems and cesspool upgrades more affordable without compromising water quality. Requires a report to the Legislature. Appropriates funds. Effective 12/31/2050. (SD1)
(S) 3/19/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. EVSLIN, LOWEN HHS/AEN, WAM  SB1636
HB739 HD2
Kamaaina Homes Program; Voluntary Deed Restrictions; Counties
RELATING TO HOUSING.
Establishes the Kamaaina Homes Program to provide funding to the counties to purchase voluntary deed restrictions from eligible homeowners or homebuyers. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(S) 3/11/2025- The committee on HOU deferred the measure. EVSLIN, MIYAKE HOU, WAM  SB490
HB740 HD2 SD2
Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation; Rental Housing Revolving Fund; Counties; Accessory Dwelling Units; Purchase of Equity; Voluntary Deed Restrictions; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO HOUSING.
Establishes the Accessory Dwelling Unit Financing and Deed Restriction Program to allocate funds to the counties for the purchase of equity in an accessory dwelling unit by the State. Specifies eligible homeowners or homebuyers for the Program to finance construction costs, development costs, and non-reoccurring closing costs associated with the construction of an accessory dwelling unit and purchase deed restrictions on the property. Appropriates moneys for infrastructure projects. Sunsets 1/1/2031. Takes effect 7/1/2050. (SD2)
(S) 4/25/2025- Conference committee meeting to reconvene on 04-25-25 4:30 PM; Conference Room 225. EVSLIN, AMATO, GRANDINETTI, HOLT, KAHALOA, MATSUMOTO, MIYAKE, MORIKAWA, SOUZA, TARNAS, WARD HOU, WAM  SB491
HB741 HD2
Community Development Financial Institutions; Affordable Homeownership Revolving Fund; Prevailing Wages; Exemption
RELATING TO HOUSING.
Exempts affordable housing projects that are financed by a nonprofit community development financial institution certified by the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation as utilizing less than a certain amount from the Affordable Homeownership Revolving Fund from prevailing wage provisions. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(S) 3/18/2025- The committee on LBT deferred the measure. EVSLIN, MIYAKE, NAKAMURA HOU/LBT, WAM
HB749 HD1
Department of Health; Wastewater Branch; Cesspool Conversion Section; Positions; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO CESSPOOLS.
Establishes a Cesspool Conversion Section within the Department of Health's Wastewater Branch, which shall be responsible for facilitating the conversion of cesspools within the State. Establishes and appropriates funds for positions within the Cesspool Conversion Section. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/4/2025- Referred to HHS/AEN, WAM. LOWEN, BELATTI, EVSLIN, GRANDINETTI, IWAMOTO, KAPELA, LA CHICA, MARTEN, MIYAKE, MORIKAWA, PERRUSO, PIERICK, POEPOE, SHIMIZU, TARNAS, TODD HHS/AEN, WAM  SB675
HB751 HD2 SD1
Solid Waste Reduction; Organic Waste Diversion; Benchmarks; Counties; Solid Waste Management Plans; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO ORGANIC WASTE.
Establishes statewide goals for solid waste reduction and organic waste diversion. Requires each county to incorporate into its next integrated solid waste management plan revision a plan to divert certain organic waste generated within the county in alignment with established state benchmarks. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 3/18/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. PERRUSO, AMATO, BELATTI, GRANDINETTI, IWAMOTO, KAHALOA, KAPELA, LOWEN, MARTEN, PIERICK, POEPOE, QUINLAN, SOUZA, TAM, TODD AEN/EIG, WAM  SB676
HB754 HD2
DOE; Community Schools; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO COMMUNITY SCHOOLS.
Appropriates funds to the Department of Education for community schools and a program manager position. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(S) 3/12/2025- The committee on EDU deferred the measure. WOODSON, AMATO, GRANDINETTI, HOLT, IWAMOTO, LAMOSAO, LEE, M., OLDS, PERRUSO, POEPOE EDU, WAM  SB821
HB756 HD2
Keiki Caucus; Prohibition; Sale; Labeling; Flavored Nicotine Products; Nicotine Product Flavor Enhancers; E-Liquids; Penalties; Appropriation
RELATING TO HEALTH.
Prohibits the sale of flavored nicotine products and nicotine product flavor enhancers and the mislabeling of e-liquids as nicotine free. Establishes penalties for violations. Authorizes the Department of Health to appoint, commission, or contract for services of inspectors. Establishes positions. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(S) 3/4/2025- Referred to CPN/HHS, WAM/JDC. MATAYOSHI, CHUN, GARRETT, GRANDINETTI, ICHIYAMA, KAPELA, KEOHOKAPU-LEE LOY, KITAGAWA, LA CHICA, LEE, M., MARTEN, OLDS, PERRUSO, SAYAMA, TAKAYAMA CPN/HHS, WAM/JDC  SB972
HB763 HD1
Civic Education; Civic Education Trust Fund; Department of Education; Resource Teacher; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO CIVIC EDUCATION.
Establishes the civic education trust fund to support programs benefiting civic education of public school students. Appropriates funds for the expansion of civic education in the public schools and for full-time equivalent permanent civic education resource teacher positions. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/4/2025- Referred to EDU, WAM. PERRUSO, BELATTI, GARRETT, GRANDINETTI, HUSSEY, KAPELA, MATSUMOTO, OLDS, PIERICK, POEPOE, QUINLAN, REYES ODA, SOUZA, TAKAYAMA EDU, WAM
HB773 HD1 SD1
Department of Agriculture; Grant Specialist; Positions; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO AGRICULTURE.
Appropriates funds to establish grant specialist positions to assist farmers and ranchers in meeting the requirements to receive grants offered by the United States Department of Agriculture, State, counties, or private entities. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(H) 4/21/2025- Conference Committee Meeting will reconvene on Tuesday 04-22-25 9:31AM in conference room 325. KAHALOA, AMATO, BELATTI, EVSLIN, HOLT, HUSSEY, LAMOSAO, LOWEN, MORIKAWA, PERRUSO, POEPOE AEN, WAM
HB782 HD1 SD1
DOA; Working Group; Report; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO AGRICULTURE.
Establishes within the Department of Agriculture a working group to review and make recommendations on amending or repealing unnecessary or obsolete laws pertaining to agriculture. Requires a report to the Legislature. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 4/24/2025- Conference committee meeting to reconvene on 04-25-25 9:30AM; Conference Room 325. KAHALOA, AMATO, EVSLIN, HASHEM, KAPELA, KILA, LAMOSAO, MORIKAWA, PERRUSO, TAKAYAMA AEN, WAM  SB1185
HB784 HD1 SD1
Emergency Medical Services; Advanced Life Support Ambulance; Department of Health; Hawaii Health Systems Corporation; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO HEALTH.
Makes an appropriation for the operation of an additional ambulance for the island of Hawaii to be based in Makalei. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(H) 4/23/2025- Bill scheduled for Conference Committee Meeting on Thursday, 04-24-25 3:16PM in conference room 329. LOWEN, KAHALOA, KEOHOKAPU-LEE LOY, KUSCH, TAKAYAMA, TARNAS, TODD HHS, WAM  SB569
HB792 HD1 SD1
Office of the Legislative Analyst
RELATING TO GOVERNMENT SERVICES.
Clarifies the Office of the Legislative Analyst. Effective 1/1/2491. (SD1)
(S) 3/21/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. YAMASHITA GVO, WAM
HB807 HD2 SD1
Hawaii Green Infrastructure Authority; Condominiums; Condominium Loan Program; Condominium Loan Loss Reserves Program; Reports; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO CONDOMINIUMS.
Establishes the Condominium Loan Program to provide condominium associations with low-cost financing, or refinancing for previously obtained loans, for maintenance or repair projects. Establishes the Condominium Loan Loss Reserves Program to incentivize lenders to provide loans at competitive rates and terms to condominium associations for the purpose of allowing condominium associations to make necessary maintenance or repairs. Requires annual reports to the Legislature. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD1)
(S) 4/1/2025- The committee on WAM deferred the measure. MATAYOSHI, CHUN, KAHALOA, KITAGAWA, LA CHICA, LEE, M., MARTEN, OLDS, SAYAMA, TAM, TARNAS, TODD CPN, WAM
HB818 HD2
Waiakea Peninsula Community Development District; Establishment; Hawaii Community Development Authority; Department of Land and Natural Resources; Special Fund ($)
RELATING TO THE WAIAKEA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT.
Establishes the Waiakea Peninsula Community Development District and the Waiakea Peninsula Community Development District Special Fund. Specifies the powers and duties of the Hawaii Community Development Authority as it relates to the new development district. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to EDT/WTL, WAM. KEOHOKAPU-LEE LOY, HASHEM, KAHALOA, KUSCH, SOUZA, TAKAYAMA, TARNAS EDT/WTL, WAM  SB1078
HB826 HD2
Land Use; Residential Housing; Agricultural Workforce Housing; Long-term Rentals; Workforce Fee Simple Ownership; County Planning Commission; Agricultural Districts; Special Permit
RELATING TO HOUSING.
Authorizes a county planning commission, by special permit, to permit land uses exclusively providing residential housing for purposes of agricultural workforce housing, long-term rental, or workforce fee simple ownership in an agricultural district, under certain conditions. Repeals 6/30/2035. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(S) 3/18/2025- The committee on HOU deferred the measure. EVSLIN, HOLT, KAHALOA, KAPELA, KILA, KUSCH, LAMOSAO, MIYAKE, SOUZA, TARNAS WTL/HOU, JDC
HB833 HD1 SD1
HHFDC; DURF; Community Land Trust Equity Pilot Program; Affordable Housing; Reports; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO COMMUNITY LAND TRUSTS.
Authorizes the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation to establish a five-year Community Land Trust Equity Pilot Program to provide community land trusts with a line of credit to fund the acquisition, rehabilitation, renovation, or construction of housing for certain households. Requires reports to the Legislature regarding the pilot program. Appropriates funds from the Dwelling Unit Revolving Fund for establishment of the pilot program. Sunsets the pilot program on 6/30/2030. Takes effect 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 4/15/2025- Received notice of appointment of House conferees (Hse. Com. No. 732). GRANDINETTI, BELATTI, HUSSEY, IWAMOTO, KEOHOKAPU-LEE LOY, KUSCH, MARTEN, PERRUSO, POEPOE, SOUZA, TAM, Kila HOU, WAM
HB850 HD1 SD1
Condominium Associations; Electronic Meetings; Electronic Voting; Mail Voting; Cumulative Voting
RELATING TO CONDOMINIUMS.
Clarifies an association board's authority with respect to calling electronic meetings, electronic voting, and mail voting. Clarifies that, in condominium elections, cumulative voting rights apply to all candidates regardless of whether they are nominated. Clarifies that individual votes are used in cumulative voting. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(H) 4/23/2025- Conference Committee Meeting will reconvene on Thursday 04-24-25 1:30PM in conference room 224. ICHIYAMA CPN
HB858 HD1 SD1
DOA; Agricultural Statistics Program; Positions; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO AGRICULTURAL STATISTICS.
Requires the Department of Agriculture to revitalize and enhance the Agricultural Statistics Program to collect data on local agricultural interests. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 3/17/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. KUSCH, AMATO, GRANDINETTI, IWAMOTO, KAHALOA, KILA, LAMOSAO, LOWEN, MARTEN, MATSUMOTO, MIYAKE, PERRUSO, POEPOE, SOUZA, TAM, TARNAS, TODD, WARD AEN, WAM  SB1111
HB864 HD2
DOE; Workers' Compensation; Work-based Internships
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
Allows newly graduated high school students to be eligible for workers' compensation coverage during the summer following their high school graduation while participating in Department of Education-sponsored work-based learning programs. Requires an annual report. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to EDU/LBT, WAM. LA CHICA, AMATO, GRANDINETTI, IWAMOTO, KILA, MARTEN, PERRUSO, POEPOE EDU/LBT, WAM  SB872SB1063
HB867 HD2
Accessible Recreational Playground Equipment; Department School Playgrounds; Special Fund; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO RECREATIONAL FACILITIES.
Beginning on 6/30/2030, requires all new playgrounds constructed on Department of Education school grounds to include accessible recreational playground equipment as part of the recreational apparatuses. Establishes the Accessible Recreational Playground Equipment Special Fund. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to EDU, WAM. AMATO, BELATTI, IWAMOTO, KAPELA, KILA, MIYAKE, PERRUSO, POEPOE, SOUZA EDU, WAM
HB880 HD3
Early Intervention Services; Early Intervention Specialists; Department of Health; Positions; Department of Human Resources Development; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO EARLY CHILD INTERVENTION.
Appropriates funds for the establishment of new positions within the Early Childhood Services Unit. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD3)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to HHS, WAM. KITAGAWA, AMATO, CHUN, KAPELA, KEOHOKAPU-LEE LOY, KUSCH, LAMOSAO, LEE, M., MARTEN, MATAYOSHI, MIYAKE, REYES ODA, TAKENOUCHI HHS, WAM  SB823
HB892 HD1
Penal Code; Probation; Geographical Restrictions; Limitations
RELATING TO GEOGRAPHICAL RESTRICTIONS.
Establishes limitations on geographical restrictions provided as a condition of probation. (HD1)
(S) 3/18/2025- The committee on JDC deferred the measure. TARNAS JDC
HB893 HD1
Firearms; Assault Rifles; Assault Shotguns; .50 Caliber Rifles; Detachable Magazines; Prohibition
RELATING TO FIREARMS.
Establishes prohibitions on assault rifles, assault shotguns, and .50 caliber rifles. Expands the ban on high-capacity detachable magazines. (HD1)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to PSM/CPN, JDC. TARNAS, AMATO, GARRETT, GRANDINETTI, KEOHOKAPU-LEE LOY, KUSCH, LEE, M., LOWEN, MARTEN, MATAYOSHI, PERRUSO, TAM PSM/CPN, JDC
HB900 HD2
Judiciary; Child Welfare System; Working Group; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO CHILD WELFARE SERVICES.
Establishes a working group for legal services for youth in the child welfare system within the Judiciary. Appropriates funds for the working group. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(S) 3/4/2025- Referred to HHS/JDC, WAM. MARTEN, AMATO, BELATTI, GRANDINETTI, IWAMOTO, KAHALOA, KAPELA, KILA, LAMOSAO, MATAYOSHI, MIYAKE, OLDS, PERRUSO, POEPOE, QUINLAN, SOUZA, TAKAYAMA, TAM HHS/JDC, WAM  SB1228
HB901 HD2
Charter Schools; BOE; Appeals
RELATING TO PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOLS.
Clarifies the grounds for an appeal of non-renewal or revocation of a charter contract. Authorizes public charters schools to appeal directly to the Board of Education on matters regarding the schools' operations, governance, or funding, with certain exceptions. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to EDU, JDC. WOODSON (Introduced by request of another party) EDU, JDC
HB904 HD1 SD1
BOE; State Public Charter School Commission; Public Charter Schools; Annual Report; Review
RELATING TO CHARTER SCHOOLS.
Requires the State Public Charter School Commission to submit an annual report on public charter schools before the opening day of each Regular Session of the Legislature. Requires the Board of Education to review and approve the annual report before the report is issued to the Governor, Legislature, and the public. Takes effect 7/1/3000. (SD1)
(S) 4/15/2025- Received notice of appointment of House conferees (Hse. Com. No. 732). WOODSON, AMATO, IWAMOTO, KAHALOA, KILA, KUSCH, LOWEN, MARTEN, MATAYOSHI, OLDS, SOUZA, TODD EDU
HB918 HD2 SD1
DOH; Labeling Requirements; Do Not Flush; Premoistened Nonwoven Disposable Wipes; Consumer Protection; Waste; Environmental Protection; Positions; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO LABELING.
Establishes labeling requirements for certain premoistened nonwoven disposable wipes. Requires certain manufacturers of covered products to submit for approval, their "DO NOT FLUSH" label notices and symbols to the United States Environmental Protection Agency by 1/1 2026. Appropriates funds. Effective 12/31/2050. (SD1)
(S) 4/15/2025- Received notice of appointment of House conferees (Hse. Com. No. 732). HOLT, KAHALOA, LA CHICA, LOWEN, MARTEN, MATAYOSHI, OLDS, POEPOE, TODD CPC, JHA, FIN
HB925 HD3 SD1
Arts; Performing Arts Special Fund; Concert Ticket Sales; State Venues
RELATING TO THE ARTS.
Establishes a Performing Arts Special Fund to be used for the coordination, planning, promotion, marketing, and execution of performing arts events and to be funded by a percentage of all ticket sales from concerts held at state venues. Establishes exemptions. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD1)
(S) 3/21/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. KAPELA TCA, WAM
HB939 HD1 SD2
Alcohol; Liquor Tax Law; Low Alcohol by Volume Spirits Beverage; Definition; Rate
RELATING TO ALCOHOL.
Defines "low alcohol by volume spirits beverage". Establishes a tax on low alcohol by volume spirits beverages at a rate of $0.93 per wine gallon. Increases small craft producer production limits. Sunsets 12/31/2028. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD2)
(S) 4/25/2025- Conference committee meeting to reconvene on 04-25-25 5:30 PM; Conference Room 224. TODD, QUINLAN CPN, WAM  SB641
HB952 HD1 SD1
SHPDA; Parkinson's Disease; Parkinson's Disease Research Collection Database; Parkinson's Disease Research Collection Database Advisory Committee; Webpage; Reports; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO PARKINSON'S DISEASE RESEARCH.
Establishes the Parkinson's Disease Research Collection Database to be administered by the State Health Planning and Development Agency, to house a collection of data on the incidence of Parkinson's disease in the State. Establishes the Parkinson's Disease Research Collection Database Advisory Committee. Requires the Agency to create a Parkinson's disease research collection database webpage by 1/1/2026, and submit annual reports to the Legislature. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD1)
(S) 3/21/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. TAKAYAMA, AMATO, CHUN, GARCIA, GARRETT, KEOHOKAPU-LEE LOY, KILA, KITAGAWA, LAMOSAO, LEE, M., MARTEN, MATSUMOTO, MIYAKE, MORIKAWA, OLDS, PERRUSO, POEPOE, SOUZA, TARNAS, TODD HHS, WAM  SB1049
HB962 HD1
Department of Education; School Librarian Pilot Program; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
Requires the Department of Education to establish and administer a two-year school librarian pilot program to provide funding for qualifying schools to hire librarians. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/4/2025- Referred to EDU, WAM. TAKENOUCHI, CHUN, EVSLIN, KAHALOA, KAPELA, KILA, KITAGAWA, LA CHICA, LOWEN, MARTEN, MIYAKE, POEPOE, TODD EDU, WAM
HB963 HD2
Criminal Offenses; Sentencing; Strict Liability; Crimes Against Elders
RELATING TO CRIMES AGAINST ELDERS.
Establishes strict liability for crimes against elders with respect to the attendant circumstance that the victim was sixty years of age or older. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to HHS, JDC. TAKENOUCHI, CHUN, EVSLIN, GARRETT, HOLT, KAHALOA, KILA, KITAGAWA, LAMOSAO, LEE, M., LOWEN, MARTEN, MIYAKE, POEPOE, QUINLAN, TAKAYAMA, TAM, TODD HHS, JDC
HB966 HD2
Agricultural Tourism Activities; LUC; Uniform Statewide Standards
RELATING TO AGRICULTURAL TOURISM.
Establishes statewide, uniform standards to promote agricultural tourism activities in the State for all counties that have adopted an agricultural tourism ordinance. Requires agricultural tourism activities to be registered by the county planning department. Requires agricultural tourism activities to coexist with an agricultural activity on a farming operation and requires termination of the agricultural tourism activities upon cessation of the agricultural activity, except under certain circumstances. Makes conforming amendments. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(S) 3/19/2025- The committee on WTL deferred the measure. KAHALOA, AMATO, CHUN, EVSLIN, GARRETT, GRANDINETTI, HOLT, IWAMOTO, KEOHOKAPU-LEE LOY, KILA, KUSCH, LEE, M., LOWEN, MARTEN, MIYAKE, MORIKAWA, PERRUSO, QUINLAN, TAKAYAMA, TAKENOUCHI, TAM, TARNAS, TODD AEN/WTL/EDT/EIG, WAM  SB1251
HB974 HD1 SD1
BNF; Public Utilities Commission; Energy; Step-In Agreements; Power Purchase Agreements; Power Purchase Costs Trust Fund
RELATING TO ENERGY.
Requires the Department of Budget and Finance to enter into step-in agreements for payment obligations arising under certain power purchase agreements. Establishes the Power Purchase Costs Trust Fund. Establishes that money collected from on-bill charges for power purchase agreements and money received from a surcharge supporting a reserve account that are deposited in the Trust Fund shall be held in trust by the State, and that independent power producers shall hold a beneficial interest in the moneys to the extent of the amounts owed under the covered power purchase agreements. Appoints, authorizes, and empowers an electric utility to serve as the billing, collection, and payment agent of the Department of Budget and Finance in the service of performing step-in agreements. (SD1)
(S) 4/3/2025- The committee on WAM deferred the measure. LOWEN EIG/CPN, WAM  SB1501
HB977 HD1 SD1
Energy Financing; Clean Energy and Energy Efficiency Revolving Loan Fund; Underserved Ratepayers; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO ENERGY FINANCING.
Authorizes the Clean Energy and Energy Efficiency Revolving Loan Fund to be used to provide financial assistance to underserved ratepayers, in addition to other eligible borrowers. Appropriates funds into and out of the Clean Energy and Energy Efficiency Revolving Loan Fund. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD1)
(S) 3/18/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. LOWEN, EVSLIN, GRANDINETTI, HUSSEY, KAHALOA, KEOHOKAPU-LEE LOY, KILA, KITAGAWA, LA CHICA, MARTEN, MIYAKE, PERRUSO, POEPOE, QUINLAN, TAM, TARNAS, TODD EIG, WAM  SB1071
HB979 HD1
Summary Possession; GET license; Judiciary
RELATED TO SUMMARY POSSESSION.
Requires that a current general excise tax license number for any rental income be filed with the complaint to the court for summary possession proceedings. Requires the Judiciary to submit an annual list of certain information regarding summary possession cases to the Department of Taxation. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/4/2025- Referred to CPN, JDC. MATAYOSHI, KUSCH, LEE, M., MARTEN, TAM CPN, JDC
HB980 HD1
Mongoose; Feral Chickens; Criminal Offenses
RELATING TO ANIMALS.
Amends the law authorizing the killing of mongoose by clarifying the circumstances under which mongoose may be killed and authorizing feral chickens to be killed under certain circumstances. (HD1)
(S) 3/17/2025- The committee on AEN deferred the measure. MATAYOSHI, BELATTI, CHUN, HOLT, KAHALOA, KILA, KUSCH, LEE, M., LOWEN, SAYAMA, TAKENOUCHI, TARNAS, Amato, Tam AEN, JDC
HB982 HD3 SD1
DCCA; Wildfire Recovery Fund; Working Group; Report ($)
RELATING TO WILDFIRES.
Establishes a working group within the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs to conduct a study concerning the creation of a Wildfire Recovery Fund. Requires a report to the Legislature. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD1)
(S) 3/21/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. MATAYOSHI, CHUN, HASHEM, KILA, TARNAS, Lowen CPN/EIG, WAM  SB1201
HB983 HD1
Board of Public Accountancy; Qualifications; Licensure; Certified Public Accountants; Practice of Public Accountancy: Professional Experience
RELATING TO CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS.
Establishes an alternative pathway to licensure for certified public accountant license applicants by permitting applicants to demonstrate completion of an additional twelve months of professional experience in the practice of public accountancy or completion of no less than an additional thirty semester hours of study. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to CPN. MATAYOSHI, CHUN CPN  SB1291
HB988 HD1 SD1
Hawaii Public Procurement Code; Protest; Debriefing; Disclosure of Competing Proposals
RELATING TO PROCUREMENT.
Prohibits a procurement officer from disclosing a competing offeror's proposal or evaluation scores, except the summary of scores, during a debriefing requested by a non-selected offeror. Authorizes the disclosure of a competing offeror's proposal or evaluation scores after a protest is resolved and the contract is executed. Effective 1/1/2491. (SD1)
(S) 4/15/2025- Received notice of appointment of House conferees (Hse. Com. No. 732). NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) GVO, WAM  SB1307
HB989 HD1
DAGS; Plans; Land Survey; Subdivision; Maps
RELATING TO PLANS.
Removes outdated requirements for plans filed with the registrar's office. Updates the permissible drawing scales used in plans. Clarifies statutory fees are pursuant to rules adopted by the Department of Accounting and General Services. Authorizes the Department of Accounting and General Services to approve the format of plans. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/4/2025- Referred to WTL/GVO, WAM. NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) WTL/GVO, WAM  SB1308
HB1006 HD2 SD1
ADC; DOA; Enterprise; Definition; Agricultural Tourism; Agricultural Development Division; Transfer
RELATING TO THE AGRIBUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION.
Includes agricultural tourism in the definition of "enterprise" to authorize the Agribusiness Development Corporation to financially support farming businesses engaged in agricultural tourism. Transfers the Agricultural Development Division of the Department of Agriculture to the Agribusiness Development Corporation. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD1)
(S) 4/11/2025- Received notice of disagreement (Hse. Com. No. 704). NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) EDT, WAM  SB1325
HB1008 HD2
DLNR; Review of Proposed State Affordable Housing Projects; Request for Determination; Historic Review Requirements
RELATING TO HISTORIC PRESERVATION REVIEWS OF STATE AFFORDABLE HOUSING PROJECTS.
Requires the Department of Land and Natural Resources to determine the effect of any proposed State affordable housing project within ninety days of a request for determination. Bases the historic review requirements on the project area's known or likely density of historic, cultural, and archaeological resources or previous identification of no significant historic properties. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to WTL/HOU, JDC. NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) WTL/HOU, JDC  SB1327
HB1009 HD1
Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation; Dwelling Unit Revolving Fund; Dwelling Unit Revolving Fund Equity Program; Interim Financing
RELATING TO THE DWELLING UNIT REVOLVING FUND.
Makes the Dwelling Unit Revolving Fund Equity Pilot Program permanent. Allows partial or full repayment of Dwelling Unit Revolving Fund interim loans in the form of unit equity through the Dwelling Unit Revolving Fund Equity Program. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to HOU, WAM. NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) HOU, WAM  SB1328
HB1020 HD1 SD2
Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism; Carbon Sequestration; Water Resources; Geothermal Exploration; Report; Positions; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO A PROGRAM TO CHARACTERIZE CARBON SEQUESTRATION POTENTIAL AND UNDERGROUND WATER RESOURCES STATEWIDE.
Establishes a Carbon Sequestration, Underground Water, and Geothermal Exploration Resource Characterization Program via slim hole bores and requires a related statewide environmental assessment. Requires a report to the Legislature. Establishes positions. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD2)
(H) 4/25/2025- Conference Committee Meeting will reconvene on Friday, 04-25-25 at 5:55PM in Conference Room 325. NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) EIG/AEN, WAM  SB1339
HB1025 HD1
East-West Center; Center for Cultural and Technical Interchange Between East and West, Inc.; Chapter 42F Exemption; General Fund Appropriations
RELATING TO THE CENTER FOR CULTURAL AND TECHNICAL INTERCHANGE BETWEEN EAST AND WEST, INC.
Designates the Center for Cultural and Technical Interchange Between East and West, Inc., as the State of Hawaii Center for Cultural and Technical Interchange Between East and West, Inc. Exempts general fund appropriations to the State of Hawaii Center for Cultural and Technical Interchange Between East and West, Inc from the requirements of chapter 42F, Hawaii Revised Statutes. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/4/2025- Referred to TCA, WAM. NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) TCA, WAM  SB1344
HB1036 HD1 SD1
Public Employment Cost Items; BU-10; Appropriations; Expenditure Ceiling ($)
RELATING TO PUBLIC EMPLOYMENT COST ITEMS.
Provides appropriations for collective bargaining cost items for the members of Bargaining Unit (10) and their excluded counterparts, including the cost of salary adjustments negotiated between the State and the bargaining unit representative for fiscal biennium 2025-2027. Declares the expenditure ceiling for fiscal year 2025-2026 is exceeded. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(H) 4/25/2025- Conference Committee Meeting will reconvene on Friday, 04-25-25 at 4:30PM in Conference Room 325. NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) LBT, WAM  SB1355
HB1037 HD1 SD1
Public Employment Cost Items; BU-11; Appropriations; Expenditure Ceiling ($)
RELATING TO PUBLIC EMPLOYMENT COST ITEMS.
Provides appropriations for collective bargaining cost items for the members of bargaining unit (11) and their excluded counterparts, including the cost of salary adjustments negotiated between the State and the bargaining unit representative for fiscal biennium 2025-2027. Declares the expenditure ceiling for fiscal year 2025-2026 is exceeded. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(H) 4/25/2025- Conference Committee Meeting will reconvene on Friday, 04-25-25 at 4:30PM in Conference Room 325. NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) LBT, WAM  SB1356
HB1039 HD1 SD1
Public Employment Cost Items; BU-14; Appropriations; Expenditure Ceiling ($)
RELATING TO PUBLIC EMPLOYMENT COST ITEMS.
Provides appropriations for collective bargaining cost items for the members of Bargaining Unit (14) and their excluded counterparts, including the cost of salary adjustments negotiated between the State and the bargaining unit representative for fiscal biennium 2025-2027. Declares the expenditure ceiling for fiscal year 2025-2026 is exceeded. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(H) 4/25/2025- Conference Committee Meeting will reconvene on Friday, 04-25-25 at 4:30PM in Conference Room 325. NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) LBT, WAM  SB1358
HB1050 HD1 SD1
Insurance; Net Solvency Report; Mutual Benefit Societies; Health Maintenance Organizations; Dental Insurers
RELATING TO TITLE 24, HAWAII REVISED STATUTES.
Provides amendments to net solvency report filing requirements for mutual benefit societies, health maintenance organizations, and dental insurers. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(H) 4/15/2025- Received notice of Senate conferees (Sen. Com. No. 788). NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) CPN  SB1369
HB1059 HD1 SD1
Hawaii Emergency Management Agency; Civil Service; Exempt Positions
RELATING TO THE HAWAII EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY.
Converts the Emergency Management Specialist series positions at level V and higher in the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency from civil service status to exempt status. Effective 7/1/3000. Repeal on 7/1/2027. (SD2)
(S) 4/21/2025- Received notice of appointment of House conferees (Hse. Com. No. 755). NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) WAM  SB1378
HB1066 HD1
Executive Office on Early Learning; Early Learning Board; Composition
RELATING TO THE EARLY LEARNING BOARD.
Adds the head start state collaboration office director as an ex officio, non-voting member of the early learning board, and requires the board to invite the president of the Head Start Association of Hawaii, or the president's designee, to serve as an ex officio, non-voting member of the board. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to EDU, JDC. NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) EDU, JDC  SB1385
HB1069 HD1 SD2
BOE; DOE; School Facilities Authority Board; Membership
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
Adds 2 ex officio, voting members that represent the Department of Education and Board of Education to the School Facilities Authority Board. (SD2)
(S) 4/11/2025- Received notice of disagreement (Hse. Com. No. 704). NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) EDU, WAM  SB1388
HB1079 HD1 SD1
DHS; Office of Wellness and Resilience; Trauma-informed Care; Child Welfare Services; Assessment; Training; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO TRAUMA-INFORMED CARE.
Directs the Office of Wellness and Resilience to collaborate with the Department of Human Services to, either directly or by contract, design, administer, and implement a program for trauma-informed organizational assessments and a training curriculum for the Department of Human Services Child Welfare Services Branch staff. Appropriates funds. Takes effect 12/31/2050. (SD1)
(H) 4/24/2025- Received notice of Senate conferees (Sen. Com. No. 875). NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) HHS, WAM  SB1398
HB1087 HD2
DHHL; Historic Preservation; Project Reviews
RELATING TO HISTORIC PRESERVATION REVIEWS.
Allows the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to assume historic preservation review of the effect of any proposed project for lands under its jurisdiction, except under certain circumstances. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to HWN/WTL, JDC. NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) HWN/WTL, JDC  SB1406
HB1088 HD1
DHHL; School Impact Fees; Education; Housing
RELATING TO SCHOOL IMPACT FEES.
Exempts housing developed by the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands from school impact fees. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/20/2025- The committee on HOU deferred the measure. NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) EDU/HWN/HOU, WAM  SB1407
HB1096 HD1
Hawaii Public Housing Authority; State Low-Income Housing; Tenant Selection; Preferences
RELATING TO TENANT SELECTION.
Repeals the tenant selection preferences for disabled veterans and the spouses of deceased veterans in the State Low-Income Housing Program. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/11/2025- The committee on PSM deferred the measure. NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) HOU/PSM, JDC  SB1415
HB1097 HD1 SD1
HPHA; Public Housing; Evictions; Tenants; Unclaimed Property
RELATING TO PUBLIC HOUSING EVICTIONS.
Reduces the time the Hawaii Public Housing Authority is required to store unclaimed personal effects of a tenant evicted from public housing from thirty days to fourteen days. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 3/21/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to JDC. NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) CPN/HOU, JDC  SB1416
HB1141 HD1 SD2
BLNR; Public Land; Lease Terms and Conditions; Lease Extensions
RELATING TO UPDATING PUBLIC LAND LEASES ISSUED PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 171, HAWAII REVISED STATUTES.
Requires that lease extensions approved by the Board of Land and Natural Resources be drafted on forms that reflect contemporary leasing practices and policies of the Board, and which shall control over conflicting or inconsistent provisions in the lease being extended. Takes effect 7/1/2040. (SD2)
(S) 4/11/2025- Received notice of disagreement (Hse. Com. No. 704). NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) WTL, JDC/WAM  SB1460
HB1144 HD2
DLNR; State Historic Preservation Program; Employees
RELATING TO EMPLOYMENT IN THE STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION PROGRAM.
Allows the Department of Land and Natural Resources to employ non-civil service professional and technical staff in its State Historic Preservation Program. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(S) 3/4/2025- Referred to WTL/LBT, WAM. NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) WTL/LBT, WAM  SB1463
HB1145 HD1 SD1
Conformity to the Internal Revenue Code for 2024; Income Tax; Estate and Generation-Skipping Transfer Tax; Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act of 2023
RELATING TO CONFORMITY TO THE INTERNAL REVENUE CODE.
Conforms Hawaii income and estate and generation-skipping transfer tax laws to the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended as of December 31, 2024. (SD1)
(S) 4/15/2025- Received notice of appointment of House conferees (Hse. Com. No. 732). NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) WAM  SB1464
HB1147 HD1
Income Tax; Earned Income Tax Credit
RELATING TO THE EARNED INCOME TAX CREDIT.
Clarifies that nonresidents who claim the state refundable earned income tax credit are required to adjust the amount claimed using the ratio of their Hawaii adjusted gross income to federal adjusted gross income. Eliminates the unlimited carryforward on nonrefundable earned income tax credits claimed for tax year 2022. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 4/1/2025- The committee on WAM deferred the measure. NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) WAM  SB1466
HB1149 HD1
General Excise Tax Exemptions; Sugar Cane Growers; TRICARE; Patient-Centered Community Care Programs
RELATING TO GENERAL EXCISE TAX EXEMPTIONS.
Repeals the general excise tax exemption for amounts received by independent sugar cane farmers. Repeals the general excise tax exemption for amounts received by contractors of the Patient-Centered Community Care program that is established by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs pursuant to title 38 United States Code section 8153. Effective 1/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/10/2025- The committee on AEN deferred the measure. NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) AEN, WAM  SB1468
HB1155 HD1 SD2
Procurement; Ethical Public Procurement; DOT; Project Management; Government Bodies
RELATING TO PROCUREMENT.
Prohibits all governmental bodies and public employees from procuring services for project management through non-governmental third-party contracts, except for certain procurements of independent verification and validation contracts for information technology services. Temporarily authorizes, until 6/30/2027, outside contractors who prepared specifications and work statements in the development of a Department of Transportation solicitation to bid on those projects if certain requirements are satisfied. Requires a report by the Department of Transportation. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD2)
(H) 4/17/2025- Received notice of Senate conferees (Sen. Com. No. 826). NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) WAM/GVO  SB1474
HB1158 HD1
Department of Transportation; Firefighting at Commercial Harbors; Limited Liability
RELATING TO FIREFIGHTING AT COMMERCIAL HARBORS.
Limits civil liability of individuals who render firefighting services with a firefighting vessel at any of the State's commercial harbors or roadsteads, any commercial harbor or waterfront improvement belonging to or controlled by the State, or any vessel within a commercial harbor or roadstead to only damages resulting from an individual's gross negligence or wanton acts or omissions. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to TCA/PSM, JDC. NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) TCA/PSM, JDC  SB1477
HB1161 HD2 SD1
DOT; Electric Vehicles; State Mileage-Based Road Usage Charge; County Mileage-Based Road Usage Charge; State Highway Fund; Highway Fund; Disposition of Funds; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO TRANSPORTATION.
Beginning 7/1/2028, authorizes a county to impose a mileage-based road usage charge on electric vehicles. Provides and requires a county to establish the rate of the road usage charge. Repeals the requirement for the Department of Transportation to establish county subaccounts within the State Highway Fund. Clarifies the disposition of funds for state mileage-based road usage charge. Clarifies the rate and calculation of the state mileage-based road usage charge. Specifies that rental motor vehicle companies may visibly pass the costs of the mileage-based road usage charges to the consumer. Expands allowable uses of the State Highway and Highway Funds. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD1)
(S) 4/25/2025- Conference committee meeting to reconvene on 04-25-25 5:15 PM; Conference Room 225. NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) TCA/EIG, WAM  SB1480
HB1164 HD1 SD1
DOT; Budget Provisions; Highway Revenue Bonds; Bond Authorization
RELATING TO HIGHWAY REVENUE BONDS.
Restores the revenue bond authorization for the Department of Transportation to issue Highway Revenue Bonds for highway capital improvement projects authorized in Act 164, SLH 2023, as amended by Act 230, SLH 2024. Takes effect 1/1/3000. (SD1)
(S) 4/25/2025- Conference committee meeting to reconvene on 04-25-25 5:15 PM; Conference Room 225. NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) TCA, WAM  SB1483
HB1166 HD1
Automated Speed Enforcement Systems Program; State Highway Fund; Automated Speed Enforcement Systems Program Special Fund; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO AUTOMATED SPEED ENFORCEMENT SYSTEMS PROGRAM.
Appropriates funds out of the State Highway Fund for deposit into the Automated Speed Enforcement Systems Program Special Fund and appropriates funds out of the Automated Speed Enforcement Systems Program Special Fund for fiscal year 2025-2026. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/18/2025- The committee on TCA deferred the measure. NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) TCA, WAM  SB1485
HB1167 HD1 SD1
Emergency Appropriation; State Highway Fund; Department of Transportation; Motor Carrier Law ($)
MAKING AN EMERGENCY APPROPRIATION TO THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION.
Makes an emergency appropriation out of the State Highway Fund to provide funds for fiscal year 2024-2025 for the Department of Transportation to enforce the Motor Carrier Law. (SD1)
(S) 4/25/2025- Conference committee meeting to reconvene on 04-25-25 5:15 PM; Conference Room 225. NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) TCA, WAM  SB1486
HB1174 HD1 SD1
Payments Under Protest; Procedure
RELATING TO THE PROCEDURE FOR PAYMENT UNDER PROTEST LAWSUITS.
Allows for the interest earned on payments under protest in the litigated claims fund to be paid in nontaxation cases if the claimant prevails. Establishes a procedure for the disposition of moneys and refiling of actions when a payment under protest suit is filed prematurely. (SD1)
(S) 3/19/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. YAMASHITA JDC, WAM
HB1185 HD2
UHCTAHR; Plant-based Building Materials Working Group; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO AGRICULTURE.
Establishes a Plant-based Building Materials Working Group to study and report on how best to grow plants and develop plant-based building materials in Hawaii. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(S) 3/11/2025- The committee on HRE deferred the measure. KUSCH, AMATO, EVSLIN, GRANDINETTI, IWAMOTO, KAHALOA, KAPELA, KEOHOKAPU-LEE LOY, KILA, LEE, M., LOWEN, MARTEN, MIYAKE, PERRUSO, POEPOE, SOUZA, TARNAS, TODD HRE, WAM
HB1187 HD1 SD1
Procurement; State Agencies; Lei; Plant Material Grown and Harvested Outside the State; Restriction
RELATING TO PROCUREMENT.
Phases in a ban on state departments and administratively attached agencies from purchasing lei that contain plant material grown and harvested outside the State. (SD1)
(H) 4/22/2025- Received notice of Senate conferees (Sen. Com. No. 862). KEOHOKAPU-LEE LOY, AMATO, KILA GVO, WAM
HB1234 HD1
DOE; Standards-based Water Safety Education Pilot Program; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO WATER SAFETY.
Requires, and appropriates funds for, the Department of Education to establish a standards-based Water Safety Education Pilot Program. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/4/2025- Referred to EDU, WAM. KAPELA, AMATO, EVSLIN, KEOHOKAPU-LEE LOY, KILA, KITAGAWA, KUSCH, LEE, M., MARTEN, MATAYOSHI, OLDS, POEPOE, QUINLAN, SOUZA, TAM, TARNAS, TODD, Matsumoto EDU, WAM  SB1223
HB1237 HD1 SD1
DOA; Maui County; Biosecurity; Invasive Species; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO BIOSECURITY.
Appropriates funds to the Department of Agriculture for agricultural biosecurity and the prevention, detection, and control of invasive species in Maui County. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 3/19/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. POEPOE, AMATO, IWAMOTO, KILA, LAMOSAO, MIYAKE, PERRUSO, SOUZA, TAKENOUCHI, TODD AEN, WAM
HB1260 HD1 SD2
DOT; Counties; Summer Streets Pilot Program; Reports; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO TRANSPORTATION.
Requires each county, in collaboration with the Department of Transportation, to establish a Summer Streets Pilot Program that closes vehicular traffic and repurposes roads for pedestrian and cyclist use, outdoor events, and other community-driven activities. Requires each county to submit an initial proposal to the Director of Transportation. Requires reports to the Legislature. Appropriates funds. Repeals on 6/30/2027. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD2)
(S) 4/25/2025- Conference committee meeting to reconvene on 04-25-25 5:15 PM; Conference Room 225. TODD TCA, WAM  SB1666
HB1277 HD2
Digital Financial Asset Transaction Kiosk; Daily Maximum; Cryptocurrency
RELATING TO DIGITAL FINANCIAL ASSET.
Imposes a daily maximum of $1,000 on transactions through a digital financial asset transaction kiosk. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to LBT, CPN. TAKENOUCHI, CHUN, KEOHOKAPU-LEE LOY, KILA, KUSCH, LAMOSAO, MARTEN, MATAYOSHI, MIYAKE, POEPOE LBT, CPN
HB1278 HD2
Hazardous Trees; Assessment; Removal; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO HAZARDOUS TREE REMOVAL.
Appropriates funds for the assessment and removal of hazardous trees on state lands across Hawaii. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(S) 3/17/2025- The committee(s) on WTL deleted the measure from the public hearing scheduled on 03-19-25 1:45PM; CR 229 & Videoconference. TAKENOUCHI, EVSLIN, GARRETT, KAHALOA, KEOHOKAPU-LEE LOY, KITAGAWA, KUSCH, LEE, M., MARTEN, MATAYOSHI, MIYAKE, MORIKAWA, TARNAS, TODD, Poepoe WTL, WAM
HB1283 HD2
Paternity Proceedings; Divorce Proceedings; Domestic Abuse; Mediation
RELATING TO FAMILY.
Establishes an exemption from mediation in paternity proceedings where there are allegations of domestic abuse. Clarifies the exemption from mediation in divorce proceedings as it relates to domestic abuse. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to HHS, JDC. LAMOSAO, AMATO, EVSLIN, GARRETT, HOLT, KAHALOA, KILA, LEE, M., MARTEN, MIYAKE, MORIKAWA, PERRUSO, POEPOE, SOUZA, TAKENOUCHI, TARNAS HHS, JDC  SB1520
HB1294 HD2 SD1
DOA; Agricultural Workforce Housing Working Group; Report; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO AGRICULTURAL WORKFORCE HOUSING.
Establishes an Agricultural Workforce Housing Working Group within the Department of Agriculture to address the shortage and challenges of agricultural workforce housing in the State. Requires reports to the Legislature. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(H) 4/23/2025- Bill scheduled for Conference Committee Meeting on Friday, 04-25-25 9:00AM in conference room 224. KAHALOA AEN/HOU, WAM  SB498
HB1295 HD2 SD1
Clean Energy; State and County Agencies; Renewable Energy Projects; Zero-Emission Vehicles; Inflation Reduction Act of 2022
RELATING TO CLEAN ENERGY.
Requires all state and county agencies to utilize applicable federal clean energy tax credits, pursuant to the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, for the purchase and financing of capital improvement projects that use clean energy technology and zero-emission vehicles. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 4/21/2025- Received notice of appointment of House conferees (Hse. Com. No. 755). YAMASHITA EIG, WAM
HB1297 HD1 SD1
Procurement Code; Protests; Bonds
RELATING TO PROCUREMENT.
Sets a time limit for submitting bid protests. Makes the seventy-five-day limit for issuing a written decision on protests apply to any contract awarded by competitive sealed bid or competitive sealed proposal. Caps the protest bond amount. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD1)
(H) 4/16/2025- Received notice of Senate conferees (Sen. Com. No. 810). YAMASHITA GVO, WAM/JDC
HB1307 HD2
DHHL; Hawaiian Home Lands; Geothermal Resources; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF HAWAIIAN HOME LANDS.
Appropriates funds to the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands for water well development for geophysical investigation, exploration, and identification of geothermal resources on Hawaiian home lands. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(S) 3/4/2025- Referred to HWN/EIG, WAM. HOLT, EVSLIN, KAHALOA, KUSCH, LAMOSAO, LEE, M., LOWEN, MARTEN, MATAYOSHI, MIYAKE, SOUZA, TARNAS, Kila HWN/EIG, WAM
HB1308 HD3 SD2
DLE; DOH; Gambling; Sports Wagering; Fantasy Sports; General Excise Tax; Problem Gambling Prevention and Treatment Special Fund
RELATING TO SPORTS WAGERING.
Allows for the regulation of sports wagering by the Department of Law Enforcement. Establishes licensing requirements for sports wagering operators and sports wagering suppliers. Establishes a general excise tax to be levied on sports wagering operator licenses. Establishes the Problem Gambling Prevention and Treatment Special Fund to be administered and expended by the Department of Health. Specifies that legal sports wagering and fantasy sports contests shall not be considered contests of chance or gambling. Authorizes DLE to perform criminal history record checks on applicants and licensees relating to sports wagering. (SD2)
(H) 4/24/2025- Bill scheduled for Conference Committee Meeting on Friday, 04-25-25 12:30PM in conference room 411. HOLT, KILA, TODD EDT/CPN, WAM  SB1569
HB1320 HD1 SD1
UH; Higher Education; Graduate Outcomes; Reports; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
Requires the University of Hawaii System to collect, analyze, and publicly report certain graduate outcome data. Requires and appropriates funds for the development and maintenance of a graduate outcomes dashboard. Appropriates funds for positions within the University of Hawaii's Office of the Vice President of Academic Strategy. Requires annual reports to the Legislature. Effective 7/31/2050. (SD1)
(S) 4/25/2025- Conference committee meeting to reconvene on 04-25-25 6:25 PM; Conference Room 229. GARRETT, AMATO, BELATTI, IWAMOTO, KILA, LAMOSAO, MARTEN, MIYAKE, PERRUSO, POEPOE, TARNAS HRE, WAM
HB1325 HD3 SD1
HHFDC; Affordable Housing Projects; Tenants; Right of First Refusal; Relocation Assistance
RELATING TO HOUSING.
Requires developers developing an affordable housing project under the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation to assist certain tenants who are subject to displacement or eviction by the proposed project by: granting those tenants the right of first refusal of a comparable unit in the housing project or establishing a fund to provide relocation benefits and offer assistance; providing information, either directly or through a contracted service, on how to obtain assistance and exercise the right of first refusal; and establishing procedures to track and maintain communication with those tenants. Establishes consequences for a developer's noncompliance. Takes effect 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 4/21/2025- Received notice of appointment of House conferees (Hse. Com. No. 755). GRANDINETTI, AMATO, EVSLIN, HUSSEY, IWAMOTO, PERRUSO HSG, CPC, JHA, FIN
HB1334 HD3 SD1
Department of Agriculture; Department of Health; Food Donation; Charitable, Religious, or Nonprofit Organizations; Wild Game; Axis Deer
RELATING TO MEAT DONATION.
Exempts the donation of wild game meat or meat products, including axis deer, to a charitable, religious, or nonprofit organization for the purpose of feeding needy individuals from certain laws regarding the inspection and transportation of meat. Effective 12/31/2050. (SD1)
(S) 3/21/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to JDC/CPN. MIYAKE, COCHRAN, KILA, KUSCH, LAMOSAO, SOUZA, TAKAYAMA, TAM, TARNAS, Matayoshi HHS, JDC/CPN  SB1230
HB1337 HD1
University of Hawaii; College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resilience; Endemic Plants; Seed Bank; Pilot Program
RELATING TO ENDEMIC PLANTS.
Requires the University of Hawaii at Manoa College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resilience to establish an endemic plant seed bank pilot program to preserve and promote the planting of plant species that are endemic to Hawaii. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/13/2025- The committee on HRE deferred the measure. KEOHOKAPU-LEE LOY HRE, WAM
HB1343 HD1
Department of Education; Phones; Related Devices; Ban
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
Requires the Board of Education to adopt a policy that bans the use of phones and related devices by students during school hours. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to EDU, JDC. WOODSON, AMATO, CHUN, EVSLIN, GARCIA, GARRETT, GRANDINETTI, HOLT, KAHALOA, KILA, KUSCH, LA CHICA, LAMOSAO, LOWEN, MARTEN, MATAYOSHI, MATSUMOTO, MORIKAWA, OLDS, PERRUSO, PIERICK, POEPOE, QUINLAN, SAYAMA, SOUZA, TAKAYAMA, TARNAS, TEMPLO, TODD, WARD EDU, JDC
HB1345 HD1 SD2
DOE; UH; Four-year College; Tuition Subsidy; Mandatory Fee Subsidy; State-Approved Teacher Education Program; Teacher Education; Resident Student; Service Requirement
RELATING TO TEACHER EDUCATION.
Authorizes the Department of Education to subsidize all tuition and mandatory fees for a resident student enrolled in a 4-year college campus of the University of Hawaii System with an education program or that offers an education degree for the semester or term that the student enrolls in a State-Approved Teacher Education Program under certain conditions. Effective 7/31/2050. (SD2)
(S) 4/15/2025- Received notice of appointment of House conferees (Hse. Com. No. 732). WOODSON, AMATO, COCHRAN, GRANDINETTI, KILA, KUSCH, LAMOSAO, LOWEN, MARTEN, MATAYOSHI, MIYAKE, MORIKAWA, PERRUSO, POEPOE, REYES ODA, SOUZA, TAM, TARNAS HED/EDN, FIN  SB1524
HB1349 HD1
DHS; Medicaid Coverage; Children's Health Insurance Program; Pregnant Persons; Children; Immigration Status; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO MEDICAID.
Appropriates funds to the Department of Human Services to authorize Medicaid coverage through the Children's Health Insurance Program to income-qualified pregnant persons and children regardless of immigration status. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/17/2025- The committee(s) on HHS deleted the measure from the public hearing scheduled on 03-17-25 1:00PM; CR 225 & Videoconference. KEOHOKAPU-LEE LOY, AMATO, MARTEN, TAKAYAMA HHS, WAM
HB1358 HD3
Public Land Trust Working Group; OHA; Public Land Trust; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO THE PUBLIC LAND TRUST WORKING GROUP.
Appropriates moneys to the Office of Hawaiian Affairs to facilitate the hiring of necessary staff and the purchase of equipment and professional services on behalf of the public land trust working group. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD3)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to WTL/HWN, WAM. SOUZA, AMATO, BELATTI, HOLT, KAPELA, KEOHOKAPU-LEE LOY, MARTEN, MIYAKE, PERRUSO, POEPOE, TARNAS, TEMPLO WTL/HWN, WAM
HB1359 HD1
DLNR; Residential Flood Mitigation; Drainage Systems; Grants; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO FLOOD MITIGATION.
Establishes a grant program for drainage system maintenance and flood mitigation measures in residential areas, to be administered by the Board of Land and Natural Resources. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/14/2025- The committee on WTL deferred the measure. TEMPLO WTL, WAM
HB1382 HD1
Department of Human Services; Child Welfare Services; Domestic Violence; Training; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO CHILD WELFARE SERVICES.
Appropriates funds for the Department of Human Services to contract with a non-profit specializing in domestic violence to provide training and staff to be housed on-site in Child Welfare Services Branch offices to support all aspects of screening for and addressing domestic violence within a case. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/4/2025- Referred to HHS, WAM. MARTEN, AMATO, CHUN, GRANDINETTI, IWAMOTO, KAHALOA, KILA, KITAGAWA, LAMOSAO, MATAYOSHI, MIYAKE, PERRUSO, POEPOE, SOUZA, TAKAYAMA, TAM, TARNAS, TEMPLO HHS, WAM
HB1389 HD1
Feral Chicken Program; Feral Animals; City and County of Honolulu; DOH; Grant-in-Aid; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO FERAL ANIMALS.
Appropriates funds to the City and County of Honolulu for the expansion of the feral chicken program and the Vector Control Branch of the Department of Health for a statewide education campaign for the feeding of feral animals. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/4/2025- Referred to EIG/HHS, WAM. SAYAMA, CHUN, GRANDINETTI, HOLT, KAHALOA, KILA, LAMOSAO, LEE, M., MARTEN, MATAYOSHI, TAKAYAMA, TARNAS, TEMPLO EIG/HHS, WAM
HB1391 HD1 SD1 CD1
DBEDT; Hawaii-Ireland Trade Commission; Reports; Out-of-state Relations Activities; Appropriations
RELATING TO TRADE.
Establishes the Hawaii-Ireland Trade Commission within the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism for administrative purposes. Requires annual reports to the Legislature and Governor. Appropriates funds for the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to fund out-of-state relations activities. (CD1)
(H) 4/30/2025- Recommitted to Conference committee as amended in CD 1 with none voting no and Representative(s) Cochran, Pierick excused. QUINLAN EDT/TCA, WAM
HB1405 HD1
Permits; Facilitated Application Process; DBEDT; Positions; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO PERMITS.
Establishes specific deadlines within the facilitated application process to obtain a permit and requires the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to establish certain resources and processes to help streamline permit applications. Establishes and appropriates funds for positions within the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/11/2025- The committee on EDT deferred the measure. ILAGAN, HOLT, HUSSEY, MATSUMOTO, TAM, TEMPLO, TODD EDT, WAM
HB1408 HD1
DHHL; HHFDC; Dwelling Unit Revolving Fund; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF HAWAIIAN HOME LANDS.
Allows the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to utilize the Dwelling Unit Revolving Fund as collateral when the Department acts as an eligible borrower for a loan agreement under section 184A of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1992, as amended. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/18/2025- The committee on HOU deferred the measure. POEPOE, COCHRAN, HOLT, IWAMOTO, KAHALOA, KAPELA, KILA, PERRUSO, SOUZA, TARNAS HOU/HWN, WAM
HB1410 HD2
Conveyance Tax; Supportive Housing Special Fund; Dwelling Unit Revolving Fund; Infrastructure Funding; County-designated Transit-oriented Development ($)
RELATING TO HOUSING.
Establishes the Supportive Housing Special Fund. Restructures the conveyance tax to a marginal rate system and adjusts the tax for multifamily properties to reflect value on a per-unit basis. Allocates revenues from conveyance tax collections to the Supportive Housing Special Fund. Allocates a portion of conveyance tax collections to the Dwelling Unit Revolving Fund to fund infrastructure programs in county-designated transit-oriented development areas that meet minimum standards of transit-supportive density. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to HOU/WTL, WAM. EVSLIN, AMATO, BELATTI, IWAMOTO, KAHALOA, KAPELA, LAMOSAO, MARTEN, MORIKAWA, TARNAS, Kila HOU/WTL, WAM
HB1411 HD1 SD1
HHFDC; Affordable Housing; Geographic Preferences
RELATING TO HOUSING PREFERENCE.
Authorizes the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation to allow projects to grant preferences in the sale or lease of housing units to applicants who live or work within five miles of the project. Takes effect 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 3/17/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. EVSLIN, MIYAKE HOU, WAM
HB1414 HD1
Procurement; Competitive Sealed Bidding; Contract Award; Best Interests of the State
RELATING TO PROCUREMENT.
Authorizes the head of a procurement agency to award a contract to a bidder who is not the lowest responsible and responsive bidder, for procurements conducted by competitive sealed bidding, if the head of the procuring agency determines that the award is most beneficial to taxpayers or otherwise in the best interests of the State. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to GVO, WAM. REYES ODA GVO, WAM
HB1427 HD1 SD1
DOH; DOA; Avian Influenza; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO AVIAN INFLUENZA.
Appropriates funds to the Department of Health and Department of Agriculture to prevent, monitor, and respond to avian influenza in Hawaii. Effective 12/31/2050. (SD1)
(S) 4/15/2025- Received notice of appointment of House conferees (Hse. Com. No. 732). NAKAMURA HHS/AEN, WAM  SB1591
HB1428 HD1 SD1
HHFDC; Housing Counseling Agencies; ALICE Households; Report; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO HOUSING.
Appropriates funds for the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation to allocate to housing counseling agencies certified by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development to provide housing counseling services. Requires a report to the Legislature regarding services provided by the housing counseling agencies. Takes effect 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 3/20/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. NAKAMURA HOU, WAM  SB1592
HB1431 HD2
Department of Health; Oral Health Task Force; Position; Reports; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO ORAL HEALTH.
Establishes an Oral Health Task Force to review the status of oral health in the State and make recommendations to improve the State's oral health infrastructure. Establishes temporary full-time equivalent program specialist V positions. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to HHS, WAM. NAKAMURA HHS, WAM  SB1516
HB1437 HD2
General Excise Tax; Exemption; Nonprofit Schools
RELATING TO GENERAL EXCISE TAX EXEMPTIONS.
Establishes a general excise tax exemption on the gross proceeds or gross income received from sales of commodities or services that benefit nonprofit schools. Effective 1/1/3000. (HD2)
(S) 3/12/2025- The committee on EDU deferred the measure. NAKAMURA (Introduced by request of another party) EDU, WAM
HB1449 HD2 SD1
DOA; Biosecurity; Pest Control; Plant Care Components; Rules; Penalties; Positions; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO PLANT CARE COMPONENTS.
Authorizes the Department of Agriculture to adopt rules related to the Plant Care Component Program. Prohibits distributing plant care components that originated outside the State unless it was subjected to treatment before arrival. Establishes administrative penalties to enforce the Plant Care Component Program. Appropriates funds and establishes positions for purposes of the Plant Care Component Program. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 3/21/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. QUINLAN AEN/JDC, WAM
HB1450 HD2 SD1
DOA; Climate-Resilient Food Systems Grant Pilot Program; Reports; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO AGRICULTURAL CLIMATE RESILIENCY.
Establishes a three-year Climate-Resilient Food Systems Grant Pilot Program, to be administered by the Department of Agriculture. Requires reports to the Legislature. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(H) 4/15/2025- Received notice of Senate conferees (Sen. Com. No. 788). QUINLAN AEN, WAM
HB1467 HD2
DBEDT; Strengthen Hawaii Homes Act; Housing; Disaster Resiliency; Grants; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO HOUSING RESILIENCY.
Establishes the Strengthen Hawaii Homes Program within the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to administer grants to retrofit residential properties to enhance resilience against disaster impacts and reduce potential insurance liabilities. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(S) 3/20/2025- The committee on EDT deferred the measure. AMATO, BELATTI, GRANDINETTI, IWAMOTO, PERRUSO EDT, WAM/CPN  SB1560
HB1494 HD3 SD1
Department of Accounting and General Services; Stadium Authority; Stadium Development Special Fund; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO SPORTS FACILITIES.
Requires conditions placed on appropriations to the Stadium Development Special Fund to be met before expenditure. Restricts private donations to the Stadium Authority to use on stadium infrastructure and stadium development costs. Appropriates funds out of the Stadium Development Special Fund, subject to the completion of specific project readiness conditions. Requires certain moneys expended to be from private sources. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 4/11/2025- Received notice of disagreement (Hse. Com. No. 704). GARRETT, YAMASHITA EDT/HRE, WAM
HB1497 HD1 SD1
DOA; Restricted Use Pesticides; Online Reporting; Position Conversion; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO AGRICULTURE.
Requires and appropriates funds for the Department of Agriculture to develop an online reporting tool on restricted use pesticide usage. Appropriates funds to convert an unspecified number of temporary Environmental Health Specialist III positions into permanent positions. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 3/13/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. KAHALOA, EVSLIN, LAMOSAO, MATAYOSHI, MORIKAWA AEN, WAM
HB1499 HD2
Department of Education; Administration of Medication; Students' Health and Safety
RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION.
Expands the Department of Education's authority to allow more trained staff to volunteer to assist students with the administration of medication. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(S) 3/6/2025- Referred to EDU, CPN/JDC. LA CHICA EDU, CPN/JDC
HCR1
Recess Days; House of Representatives
RELATING TO RECESS DAYS FOR THE REGULAR SESSION OF 2026.
(H) 1/21/2026- Transmitted to Senate. NAKAMURA, ICHIYAMA
HCR2
State of the State Address
REQUESTING THE GOVERNOR TO ADDRESS THE LEGISLATURE ASSEMBLED IN JOINT SESSION.
(H) 1/21/2026- Transmitted to Senate. NAKAMURA, ICHIYAMA
HR1
Caucus Leadership and Committee Assignments; House of Representatives
AMENDING THE MAJORITY CAUCUS LEADERSHIP, MINORITY CAUCUS LEADERSHIP, AND CHAIRS, VICE CHAIRS, AND MEMBERS OF THE STANDING COMMITTEES OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE THIRTY-THIRD LEGISLATURE.
(H) 1/21/2026- Resolution adopted in final form. QUINLAN, MATSUMOTO
SB1
Real Property; Agricultural Lands; HDOA; AG; Restrictions on Foreign Ownership; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO AGRICULTURAL LANDS.
Prohibits certain foreign parties from owning, purchasing, or acquiring an interest in agricultural lands. Establishes an Office of Agricultural Intelligence within the Department of Agriculture to investigate claims that land is unlawfully owned by a prohibited foreign party. Requires the Attorney General to undertake enforcement activities. Appropriates moneys.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to AEN/WLA, JDC/WAM. AWA, DECORTE, FEVELLA AEN/WLA, JDC/WAM
SB2 SD1
Fruit Tree Harvest Pilot Program; Landscaping; Fruit Trees; Harvest; Indemnification; Report
RELATING TO TREES.
Establishes a two-year Fruit Tree Harvest Pilot Program. Requires state agencies, to the extent practicable, to plant fruit trees in new or renovated landscaping that includes trees within the boundaries of the program. Authorizes persons to harvest fruit from those fruit trees. Provides that the State is not liable for any injuries or illnesses resulting from the harvesting or ingesting of fruit, including food-borne illness. Requires a report to the Legislature. Effective 1/1/2491. (SD1)
(S) 2/13/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM/JDC. AWA, DECORTE, FEVELLA GVO, WAM/JDC
SB3 SD1
CWRM; BLNR; Public Trust Purpose; Responsibilities; Board Membership
RELATING TO WATER.
Establishes a public trust purpose for the Commission on Water Resource Management. Allows the Commission on Water Resource Management to retain independent counsel. Repeals the First Deputy to the Chairperson of the Commission on Water Resource Management. Establishes the Executive Director of the Commission on Water Resource Management. Administratively attaches the Commission on Water Resource Management to the Department of Land and Natural Resources. Authorizes members of the Commission on Water Resource Management to be eligible to serve as chairperson. Requires the Chairperson of the Board of Land and Natural Resources and Director of Health to serve as ex officio voting members ineligible to serve as chairperson. Authorizes entities to whom an emergency order is directed to challenge the order under certain conditions. Clarifies the notification requirements and contents of declarations of water shortages. Establishes fines. Makes conforming amendments. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/12/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to JDC/WAM. INOUYE, CHANG, FUKUNAGA, HASHIMOTO, MCKELVEY, Fevella WTL/PSM, JDC/WAM
SB4
DLNR; OHA; Royal Mausoleum; Mauna Ala; Stewardship
RELATING TO THE ROYAL MAUSOLEUM.
Requires the Department of Land and Natural Resources to transfer the stewardship of the Royal Mausoleum, Mauna Ala, to the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to HWN/WLA, WAM. INOUYE HWN/WLA, WAM
SB5 SD1
Legislature; Senators; Representatives; Vacancies; Appointments; Term
RELATING TO LEGISLATIVE VACANCIES.
Establishes that if a state legislative vacancy occurs due to the death or permanent incapacitation of the prior incumbent before a primary election, but after the close of filing for that election, and the prior incumbent was the only person whose name appeared on any ballot for that seat for that election, the Governor's appointment of a replacement shall be valid for both the unexpired term and the next succeeding term. Effective 1/1/2525. (SD1)
(H) 3/19/2025- The committee(s) on LMG recommend(s) that the measure be deferred. INOUYE, CHANG, FUKUNAGA, HASHIMOTO, MCKELVEY, RHOADS LMG, JHA
SB6
BLNR; DLNR; DOCARE; Mauna Kea Stewardship and Oversight Authority; Conservation District; Natural Resource Management; Emergency Response
RELATING TO NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT.
Clarifies that the Board of Land and Natural Resources' authority shall supersede the Mauna Kea Stewardship and Oversight Authority for all lands designated under the state conservation district; provided that the Board of Land and Natural Resources upholds its affirmative and non-transferable duty to protect the traditional and customary rights of native Hawaiians as articulated in the Hawaii State Constitution. Clarifies that the natural resource management enforcement and emergency response over Mauna Kea lands shall remain the responsibility of the Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement of the Department of Land and Natural Resources. Takes effect 7/1/2026.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA/HWN, JDC. INOUYE, CHANG WLA/HWN, JDC
SB7
Employment Practices; Healthy Workplace Act; Abusive Conduct; Prohibition; Penalty; Private Cause of Action; Remedies; Rules
RELATING TO HEALTHY WORKPLACES.
Prohibits any employer or employee from subjecting an employee to abusive conduct. Requires employers and certain employees to take all reasonable preventative and responsive measures to ensure a safe work environment free of abusive conduct. Prohibits employers and certain employees from taking retaliatory actions against employees who engage in certain protected acts. Establishes a penalty, private cause of action, and remedies. Requires the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations to adopt rules.
(S) 2/14/2025- Re-Referred to JDC. INOUYE, CHANG, FEVELLA, Fukunaga, Moriwaki, San Buenaventura JDC
SB8 SD1
Jury Duty; Advanced Practice Registered Nurses; Exemption
RELATING TO JURY DUTY.
Beginning 1/1/2027, allows an advanced practice registered nurse to claim exemption from service as a juror. Effective 12/31/2050. Sunsets 1/1/2032. (SD1)
(S) 2/6/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to JDC. INOUYE, CHANG, HASHIMOTO, MCKELVEY, Fevella, San Buenaventura HHS, JDC
SB9
UH; Plant-Based Building Materials Working Group; Report; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO PLANT-BASED BUILDING MATERIALS.
Appropriates funds to the University of Hawaii for the establishment and administration of the Plant-Based Building Materials Working Group to study how best to develop the plant-based building materials industry in the State. Requires a report to the Legislature.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to EDU, WAM. INOUYE EDU, WAM
SB10
Reusable Air Filters; Disposable Air Filters; Prohibition; Air Filter Standards
RELATING TO AIR FILTERS.
Prohibits the sale and use of disposable air filters beginning January 1, 2030. Requires the State to establish reusable air filters as the new standard.
(S) 1/24/2025- The committee on AEN deferred the measure. INOUYE, CHANG, Fevella AEN, CPN/JDC
SB11 SD2
DLNR; State Fire Marshal; County Fire Departments; Vegetation Management Program; Public Utility Lines; Wildfire Hazard Map; Hazardous Vegetation; Property Owner Obligations; Utility Company Rights; Fines; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO VEGETATION MANAGEMENT NEAR UTILITY LINES.
Requires the Department of Land and Natural Resources to create and annually update a wildfire hazard map. Requires private and public property owners to trim grasses within certain proximities of public rights of way and utility lines, enforced by the State Fire Marshal as to State-owned land and the applicable county fire department as to privately owned land. Authorizes electric utility companies to enter private or public property to trim or remove hazardous vegetation. Appropriates funds. Effective 6/1/2050. (SD2)
(H) 3/13/2025- The committee(s) on WAL/PBS recommend(s) that the measure be deferred. INOUYE WAL/PBS, EEP, FIN
SB12
DOA; Neonicotinoid Pesticides; Restricted Use Pesticides; Prohibition; Seeds; Rules
RELATING TO NEONICOTINOIDS.
Classifies neonicotinoid pesticides as restricted use pesticides and establishes a list of chemicals that shall belong to the neonicotinoid class of chemicals. Prohibits the sale or use of seeds coated or treated with neonicotinoid pesticides. Requires the Department of Agriculture to adopt rules that identify and regulate the most harmful neonicotinoid pesticide formulations and develop guidelines for safer alternatives.
(S) 2/10/2025- The recommendation was not adopted. INOUYE, CHANG, MCKELVEY AEN, CPN/WAM
SB13 SD1
Aquaculture Investment Tax Credit
RELATING TO THE AQUACULTURE INVESTMENT TAX CREDIT.
For taxable years beginning after 12/31/2025, establishes a 5-year aquaculture investment tax credit for taxpayers that incur qualifying investment costs relating to qualified aquaculture businesses. Takes effect 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/12/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. INOUYE AEN, WAM
SB14
Property Insurance; Homeowner's Insurance; Renter's Insurance; Premium Increase; Prohibition; Insurance Commissioner
RELATING TO INSURANCE.
Beginning January 1, 2026, prohibits an insurer of property, homeowner's, or renter's insurance from increasing the premium for a policyholder's insurance policy upon renewal unless the insurer submits a report to the policyholder and Insurance Commissioner and receives approval from the Insurance Commissioner. Establishes penalties. Sunsets 1/1/2029.
(S) 1/16/2025- Referred to CPN, JDC. INOUYE CPN, JDC
SB16
Aquaculture; Aquarium Fish Permit; Aquaculture Research
RELATING TO AQUARIUM FISH PERMITS.
Exempts persons engaging in aquaculture research from the aquarium fish permit requirement. Defines aquaculture research.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA/AEN, WAM. INOUYE WLA/AEN, WAM
SB17
OPSD; Wildfire Mitigation Working Group; Report; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO WILDFIRE MITIGATION.
Establishes the Wildfire Mitigation Working Group. Requires a report to the Legislature. Requires the Office of Planning and Sustainable Development to provide administrative support to the working group. Makes appropriations.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to PSM/WLA, WAM. INOUYE PSM/WLA, WAM
SB18 SD1
SHPD; Inventory; Burial Sites; Historic Properties; Hawaii Historic Preservation Special Fund; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO HISTORIC PRESERVATION.
Appropriate funds into and out of the Hawaii Historic Preservation Special Fund for the State Historic Preservation Division to inventory historic properties and burial sites in the State, collect data on burial site locations, and conduct an archaeological survey necessary to compile the inventory. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/14/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. INOUYE, CHANG, DECORTE, FEVELLA, FUKUNAGA, HASHIMOTO, MCKELVEY, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Moriwaki WTL/HWN, WAM
SB19 SD1
DLNR; DAR; Aquatic Resources; Positions; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES.
Appropriates funds to establish positions within the Division of Aquatic Resources of the Department of Land and Natural Resources. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/12/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. INOUYE WTL, WAM  HB913
SB20
DLNR; Green Jobs Youth Corps Program; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO THE GREEN JOBS YOUTH CORPS.
Makes appropriations to the Department of Land and Natural Resources to continue the Green Jobs Youth Corps program.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA, WAM. INOUYE WLA, WAM  HB316
SB21 SD2 HD2
PUC; Water Carriers; Tariffs; Water Carrier Inflationary Cost Index; Automatic Adjustment Mechanism; Rate Adjustments
RELATING TO WATER CARRIERS.
Authorizes the Public Utilities Commission to establish, no later than 7/1/2026, a Water Carrier Inflationary Cost Index automatic adjustment mechanism and waive or exempt any water carrier from any requirement under the Hawaii Water Carrier Act. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(S) 4/25/2025- Conference committee meeting to reconvene on 04-25-25 5:15 PM; Conference Room 225. INOUYE TRN, CPC, FIN  HB914
SB22
Fisheries; Environmental Review; Exemption
RELATING TO FISHERIES.
Exempts actions involving the operation and management of fisheries in the State from environmental review requirements.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA/AEN, JDC. INOUYE, CHANG, HASHIMOTO, Moriwaki WLA/AEN, JDC
SB23
Health Insurance; In Vitro Fertilization; Mandatory Insurance Coverage; Infertility; Same-Sex Couples; Unmarried Individuals; Transgender Persons; Male Infertility; Parity
RELATING TO INSURANCE.
Removes discriminatory requirements for mandatory insurance coverage of in vitro fertilization procedures to create parity of coverage for same-sex couples, unmarried individuals, transgender persons, and opposite-sex couples for whom male infertility is the relevant factor. Requires the insured or the insured's dependent spouse to have a history of infertility of at least six months' duration, rather than five years. Includes need for medical intervention to conceive due to physiological or anatomical factors.
(S) 1/16/2025- Referred to HHS, CPN. KEOHOKALOLE, CHANG, HASHIMOTO, Moriwaki, San Buenaventura HHS, CPN
SB24 SD1
Housing; Limited-Profit Housing Associations; Limited-Profit Housing Council; Qualified Residents
RELATING TO LIMITED-PROFIT HOUSING ASSOCIATIONS.
Establishes an organizational, tax, and regulatory framework for limited-profit housing associations. Establishes the Limited-Profit Housing Council to oversee limited-profit housing associations. (SD1)
(S) 2/7/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM/JDC. CHANG, FEVELLA, SAN BUENAVENTURA HOU/CPN, WAM/JDC
SB25 SD1
Counties; Reduction in Housing; Maintaining Residential Capacity
RELATING TO HOUSING.
Authorizes a county to reduce the number of housing units that may be built within any portion of the county only if the county increases the number of housing units that may be built elsewhere in the county, such that there is no net loss in residential capacity. Effective 4/23/2057. (SD1)
(H) 3/12/2025- The committee(s) on HSG recommend(s) that the measure be deferred. CHANG, Fevella HSG, JHA
SB26 SD2 HD2
OPSD; Affordable Housing; Land Inventory Task Force; Study; State Lands; County Lands; Transit-Oriented Development; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO AFFORDABLE HOUSING.
Establishes the Affordable Housing Land Inventory Task Force to conduct a study, subject to legislative appropriation, to assess the viability of housing development in transit-oriented development zones or other areas on state or county lands. Requires a report to the Legislature. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(H) 4/25/2025- Received notice of change in Senate conferees (Sen. Com. No. 880). CHANG, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Gabbard, Wakai HSG, WAL, FIN  HB1451
SB27 SD1
Housing Development; County Council Approval Exemption; State Financing Commitments
RELATING TO HOUSING.
Exempts housing developments that have obtained financing commitments from the State from the requirement to obtain approval from the applicable county council. (SD1)
(S) 2/5/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. CHANG, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, Moriwaki, Wakai HOU, WAM  HB416
SB28
Land Use Commission; Decision-Making Process; Boundary Amendment
RELATING TO THE LAND USE COMMISSION.
Specifies that a simple majority of affirmative votes of the members of the Land Use Commission present at a meeting and qualified to vote is required for any boundary amendment.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA, JDC. CHANG, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO WLA, JDC
SB29
Motor Vehicle Rental Industry; Vehicle License Recovery Fees; Fees; Weight Taxes
RELATING TO THE MOTOR VEHICLE RENTAL INDUSTRY.
Repeals the definition of "vehicle license recovery fees". Limits to vehicle license and registration fees and weight taxes the fees and taxes that a motor vehicle lessor may pass on to a lessee. Amends the prorated amount of vehicle license and registration fees and weight taxes that a motor vehicle lessor may pass on to a lessee. Repeals the requirement that rental car companies submit annual audits to the Office of Consumer Protection of the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to TRS, CPN. CHANG, FEVELLA TRS, CPN
SB32
DCCA; Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact (PSYPACT); Adoption; Rules
RELATING TO THE PSYCHOLOGY INTERJURISDICTIONAL COMPACT.
Adopts the Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact to regulate the practice of telepsychology and temporary in-person, face-to-face practice of psychology by psychologists across state boundaries in the performance of their psychological practice. Requires the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs to adopt rules to implement and administer the Compact.
(S) 1/16/2025- Referred to HHS/CPN, WAM/JDC. CHANG, FEVELLA HHS/CPN, WAM/JDC
SB33
DBEDT; Department Name; Rename; Housing
RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, AND TOURISM.
Renames the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to the Department of Housing, Economic Development, and Tourism.
(S) 1/16/2025- Referred to EDT/HOU, WAM. CHANG, GABBARD, RHOADS EDT/HOU, WAM
SB34
DOE; Education; Attendance; Mental Health; Exemption; Excused Absence
RELATING TO MENTAL HEALTH.
Requires the Department of Education to identify an absence due to the mental health of a student as an excused absence. Defines the term "excused absence". Exempts an absence due to the mental health of a student from the enforcement of penalties relating to compulsory attendance at school. Limits the number of excused absences that may be taken by a student due to mental health reasons.
(S) 1/16/2025- Referred to EDU, JDC. CHANG, FEVELLA, Gabbard EDU, JDC
SB35 SD1
HHFDC; RHRF; Housing Efficiency and Innovation Subaccount; Housing; Priorities
RELATING TO THE RENTAL HOUSING REVOLVING FUND.
Establishes the Housing Efficiency and Innovation Subaccount within the Rental Housing Revolving Fund. Specifies permissible uses of funding and priorities. Authorizes the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation to transfer moneys between the Housing Efficiency and Innovation Subaccount and the RHRF without legislative approval. (SD1)
(S) 1/29/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. CHANG, RICHARDS, McKelvey, Moriwaki HOU, WAM  HB417
SB36
LUC; Counties; County General Plan; State Land Use Urban District Boundaries; Reclassification
RELATING TO THE LAND USE COMMISSION.
Requires the Land Use Commission to reclassify lands that are designated for urban growth under a county general plan or county development plan as being in the urban district at the request of the county.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA/EIG, JDC. CHANG, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, Wakai WLA/EIG, JDC
SB37
Mental Health; Suicide Prevention; Hotlines; Student Identification Cards; Public Schools; Charter Schools; Private Schools; Penalty
RELATING TO MENTAL HEALTH.
Beginning with the 2025-2026 school year, requires all public and private schools that serve students in grades 6 through 12 and issue student identification cards to have information on mental health and suicide prevention hotlines printed on the student identification cards. Establishes exceptions and penalties.
(S) 1/16/2025- Referred to EDU, WAM/JDC. CHANG EDU, WAM/JDC
SB39
DOE; Automatic Voter Registration; Enrollment Application; Registration; Students
RELATING TO VOTER REGISTRATION.
Makes an application for voter registration part of the enrollment applications or course registration process for Department of Education high schools. Requires eligible student applicants to be given the choice to be registered to vote. Requires updating of names and addresses of eligible student applicants who are already registered to vote unless the applicant declines. Requires the sharing of certain information among the counties, Department of Education, election personnel, and online voter registration system.
(S) 1/16/2025- Referred to EDU, JDC/WAM. CHANG, FEVELLA, MORIWAKI, RHOADS, WAKAI EDU, JDC/WAM
SB40 SD2 HD1
HHFDC; Bond Volume Cap Recycling Program; Line of Credit; Revenue Bonds
RELATING TO STATE FINANCES.
Authorizes the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation to utilize revenue bonds when securing a line of credit or other instrument of indebtedness for the Bond Volume Cap Recycling Program. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(H) 3/18/2025- Passed Second Reading as amended in HD 1 and referred to the committee(s) on FIN with none voting aye with reservations; none voting no (0) and Representative(s) Cochran, Ward excused (2). CHANG, GABBARD, HASHIMOTO, MORIWAKI, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Fevella, Wakai HSG, FIN  HB529
SB41
Conveyance Tax; Dwelling Unit Revolving Fund; Rental Housing Revolving Fund; Allocations
RELATING TO THE CONVEYANCE TAX.
Allocates ten per cent of conveyance tax collections to the Dwelling Unit Revolving Fund. Removes the annual cap on conveyance taxes paid into the Rental Housing Revolving Fund.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to HOU/WLA, WAM. CHANG, MCKELVEY, RHOADS, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Fevella, Moriwaki HOU/WLA, WAM
SB42
Rental Housing Revolving Fund; HHFDC; Grants; Repeal
RELATING TO THE RENTAL HOUSING REVOLVING FUND.
Repeals statutory language requiring certain housing projects have at least five per cent of available units be for persons and families with incomes at or below thirty per cent of the median family income to be eligible for loans from the Rental Housing Revolving Fund. Repeals statutory language providing grants to developers for rental units set aside for persons and families with incomes at or below thirty per cent of the median family income in any project financed in part or in whole by the Rental Housing Revolving Fund. Repeals statutory language requiring the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation to establish an application process for Rental Housing Revolving Fund allocation that gives preference to projects providing units for persons and families with incomes at or below thirty per cent of the median family income.
(S) 1/23/2025- The committee on HOU deferred the measure. CHANG, FEVELLA HOU, WAM
SB43
Universal Free School Breakfasts and Lunches; DOE; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
Beginning with the 2025-2026 school year, requires the Department of Education to provide free breakfast and lunch to all students enrolled in department schools. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/16/2025- Referred to EDU, WAM. DELA CRUZ (Introduced by request of another party) EDU, WAM
SB44
Counties; Rental Discrimination; Income; Prohibited
RELATING TO HOUSING DISCRIMINATION.
Authorizes the counties to prohibit discrimination against a renter based on the renter's source of income.
(S) 1/16/2025- Referred to EIG/HOU, CPN/JDC. CHANG, FEVELLA, MCKELVEY, RHOADS, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Moriwaki, Wakai EIG/HOU, CPN/JDC
SB45
Negligent Homicide in the First Degree; Operating a Vehicle Under the Influence; Victim Restitution; Financial Support; Children
RELATING TO RESTITUTION.
Provides for the making of restitution by a defendant who has been convicted of violating section 707-702.5(1)(a), HRS, where the violation caused the death of a parent or legal guardian of a child.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to TRS, JDC. CHANG TRS, JDC
SB46
Health Insurance; Mandated Coverage; Annual Mental Health Wellness Examination
RELATING TO INSURANCE.
Requires all health insurers in the state, including Medicaid managed care programs, to cover annual mental health wellness examinations.
(S) 1/29/2025- The committee on HHS deferred the measure. CHANG, FEVELLA, MORIWAKI, RHOADS, SAN BUENAVENTURA HHS, CPN/WAM
SB47 SD1
Public Administration; State Holidays; Lunar New Year
RELATING TO STATE HOLIDAYS.
Designates the day of the second new moon after the winter solstice of each year as the Lunar New Year. Establishes the Lunar New Year as a state holiday. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/12/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. CHANG, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, MCKELVEY, RHOADS TCA/LBT, WAM  HB554
SB48
State Building Code Council; Building Codes and Standards; Financial Impact Assessment; Building Industry Trade Associations
RELATING TO THE STATE BUILDING CODE COUNCIL.
Requires the State Building Code Council to assess the financial impact of the adoption of a code or standard on single-family and multi-family homes. Requires the State Building Code Council to also include amortized utility costs when adopting codes or standards. Amends annual reporting requirements for the State Building Code Council to include assessment of costs and determinations of benefits for residents.
(S) 1/24/2025- The committee on PSM deferred the measure. CHANG, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, SAN BUENAVENTURA PSM, WAM
SB49 SD1
Terminal Illness; Investigative Drug or Biological Product; Access to Care; Right-to-Try
RELATING TO TERMINAL ILLNESSES.
Authorizes manufacturers of investigational drugs or biological products that are pending approval by the United States Food and Drug Administration to make the drugs or products available to terminally ill patients under certain conditions. Effective 12/31/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/7/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to CPN/JDC. CHANG, FEVELLA, MCKELVEY HHS, CPN/JDC
SB50 SD1
Deceptive Trade Practices; Motor Vehicle Rental Industry; Hidden Fees; False Advertising
RELATING TO CONSUMER PROTECTION.
Establishes as a deceptive practice advertising, displaying, or offering a price for goods or services that does not include all mandatory fees or charges, subject to certain exceptions. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/11/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to CPN. CHANG, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Fevella TCA, CPN
SB51 SD1
Comprehensive Public Funding; Campaign Spending Commission; Report; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO PUBLIC FINANCING FOR CANDIDATES TO ELECTED OFFICE.
Establishes a comprehensive system of public financing for all candidates seeking election to state and county public offices in the State of Hawaii, to begin with the 2028 general election year. Requires the Campaign Spending Commission to submit reports to the Legislature. Appropriates funds. Effective 4/23/2057. (SD1)
(H) 3/12/2025- The committee(s) on JHA recommend(s) that the measure be deferred. RHOADS, CHANG, FUKUNAGA, MCKELVEY, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Fevella, Ihara, Moriwaki JHA, FIN
SB52 SD1
DOT; Air Travel; Verified Carbon Offsets; Qualified Air Travel
RELATING TO CARBON OFFSETS.
Requires the Department of Transportation to assist and enable a person to voluntarily purchase a verified carbon offset for carbon dioxide emissions resulting from the person's air travel to or from an airport in the State. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/11/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. RHOADS, CHANG TCA/AEN, WAM
SB53
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program; Eligibility; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO THE SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM.
Expands eligibility for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program to include any individual or household whose monthly income is equal to or less than three hundred per cent of the federal poverty level. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/29/2025- The committee on HHS deferred the measure. RHOADS, CHANG, Moriwaki HHS, WAM  HB539
SB54
Corporate Welfare; Phase Out; Interstate Compact
RELATING TO AN INTERSTATE COMPACT TO PHASE OUT CORPORATE WELFARE.
Adopts the Interstate Compact to Phase Out Corporate Welfare.
(S) 1/16/2025- Referred to EIG/PSM/EDT, WAM/JDC. RHOADS, CHANG EIG/PSM/EDT, WAM/JDC  HB462
SB55 SD1
Administrative Rules; Rulemaking; Agencies; Digital Accessibility; Searchability; Formatting
RELATING TO ADMINISTRATIVE RULES.
Beginning 1/1/2027, requires all state agencies to make the full text of their rules available on the website of the Office of the Lieutenant Governor in a digitally accessible and searchable format that meets or exceeds certain federal standards. Effective 1/1/2525. (SD1)
(H) 3/13/2025- The committee(s) on JHA recommend(s) that the measure be deferred. RHOADS, CHANG, San Buenaventura JHA, FIN  HB642
SB56
DAGS; Child Care Centers for Eligible Children of State Employees; Pilot Program; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO CHILD CARE.
Requires the Department of Accounting and General Services to establish and operate a Child Care Center Pilot Program on Oahu for eligible children of state employees, one in or near the state capitol and one in Kapolei. Appropriates funds. Repeals on 6/30/2030.
(S) 1/16/2025- Referred to GVO/LBT, WAM. RHOADS, CHANG, GABBARD, DeCorte GVO/LBT, WAM
SB57
Corporation Reports; Independent Campaign Expenditures and Political Contributions
RELATING TO CORPORATIONS.
Requires domestic and foreign corporations to provide their shareholders with reports of independent expenditures and political contributions.
(S) 1/16/2025- Referred to CPN, JDC. RHOADS, CHANG, Ihara, Moriwaki CPN, JDC  HB149
SB58 SD1
DHS; General Assistance; State of Emergency; Emergency Supplementary Income; Eligibility; Hawaii Hurricane Relief Fund
RELATING TO PUBLIC ASSISTANCE.
Allows the Department of Human Services to administer and provide public assistance to eligible residents of the State during a Governor-declared state of emergency. Allows the Department of Human Services to expend funds from the Hawaii Hurricane Relief Fund to provide public assistance to eligible residents during a Governor-declared state of emergency. Effective 12/31/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/14/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. RHOADS, CHANG, SAN BUENAVENTURA HHS, WAM  HB672
SB59
Department of the Attorney General; Algorithmic Decision-Making; Algorithmic Discrimination; Artificial Intelligence; Report
RELATING TO ALGORITHMIC DISCRIMINATION.
Prohibits users of algorithmic decision-making from utilizing algorithmic eligibility determinations in a discriminatory manner. Requires users of algorithmic decision-making to send corresponding notices to individuals whose personal information is used. Requires users of algorithmic decision-making to submit annual reports to the Department of the Attorney General. Provides means of civil enforcement.
(S) 1/16/2025- Referred to LBT, CPN/JDC. RHOADS, CHANG, LEE, C. LBT, CPN/JDC
SB60
Leaf Blowers; Residential Zones; Definition
RELATING TO LEAF BLOWERS.
Defines "residential zone" for purposes of leaf blower restrictions to include residential districts, apartment districts, and business mixed use districts.
(S) 1/16/2025- Referred to EIG, JDC. RHOADS, FUKUNAGA, KIM, MORIWAKI, Wakai EIG, JDC  SB359
SB61
Liquor; Liquor Commissions; Penalties; Multiple Violations
RELATING TO LIQUOR LAW VIOLATIONS.
Establishes enhanced penalties for multiple violations of the same liquor law by licensees in a county with a population of 500,000 or more, under certain circumstances.
(S) 1/16/2025- Referred to EIG, JDC. RHOADS, FUKUNAGA, MORIWAKI EIG, JDC  HB578
SB62
Temporary Liquor Licenses; Liquor Sales; Liquor Consumption; Nonprofit Organizations; Public Access Areas; Restrictions
RELATING TO INTOXICATING LIQUOR.
Restricts the sale of liquor under temporary liquor licenses to confined and demarcated spaces not located on public streets, roads, sidewalks, or pedestrian walkways. Applies restrictions to temporary liquor licenses granted to nonprofit organizations.
(S) 1/16/2025- Referred to CPN, JDC. RHOADS, FUKUNAGA, Moriwaki CPN, JDC
SB63
DOE; School Classes; Start Time
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
Beginning with the - school year, requires public elementary, middle, and high school classes to start no earlier than 8:30 a.m. Requires the Department of Education to adjust state-provided bus and school meal schedules accordingly.
(S) 1/16/2025- Referred to EDU, WAM. CHANG, FEVELLA, GABBARD, HASHIMOTO, MCKELVEY, San Buenaventura EDU, WAM  HB333
SB64
DOE; Public Schools; Public Charter Schools; K-12; Mental Health Professionals; School Counselors; Psychologists; School Psychologists; Social Workers; Report to Legislature; Appropriations; General Fund Expenditure Ceiling Exceeded ($)
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
Beginning with the 2027-2028 school year, requires each public school in the State, including charter schools, to employ, or retain under contract, at least 1 mental health professional for every 250 students enrolled, subject to certain conditions. Requires the Department of Education to submit a progress report to the Legislature no later than 20 days prior to the convening of the Regular Session of 2026. Appropriates moneys for the Department of Education to contract for mental health professionals and to establish an unspecified number of fulltime equivalent mental health professional positions within the Department of Education. Declares that the general fund expenditure ceiling is exceeded.
(S) 1/16/2025- Referred to EDU/CPN, WAM. CHANG, FEVELLA, RHOADS, Elefante, Gabbard EDU/CPN, WAM
SB67 SD1
Housing; Development; Counties; Inclusionary Zoning; Exemption
RELATING TO INCLUSIONARY ZONING.
Prohibits any law, ordinance, or rule from imposing an inclusionary zoning requirement on housing offered exclusively for sale or rent in perpetuity to buyers or renters who are residents of the State, are owner-occupants or renters, and do not own any other real property. (SD1)
(S) 2/12/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to JDC/WAM. CHANG, FEVELLA HOU, JDC/WAM
SB68 SD1
Department of Housing; HCDA; HHFDC; OPSD; HPHA; Establishment; Transfer
RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING.
Establishes the Department of Housing. Places the Hawaii Community Development Authority, Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation, Office of Planning and Sustainable Development, and Hawaii Public Housing Authority within the Department of Housing for administrative purposes. Replaces the Director of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism with the Director of Housing on the Hawaii Community Development Authority. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/12/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. CHANG, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, Moriwaki HOU/GVO, WAM
SB69 SD1
Banks; Loans; Housing; Director of Finance; State Treasury Depository
RELATING TO DEPOSITS OF PUBLIC FUNDS.
Requires the Director of Finance to consider, before the selection of a depository for the state treasury, the beneficial effects to the State of using depositories within the State, including but not limited to lending at favorable terms for the creation of certain affordable housing units. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/13/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. CHANG, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, RHOADS, Gabbard CPN/HOU, WAM
SB70 SD1
RHRF; Eligible Applicants; Organizations; Profits; Government Agencies
RELATING TO HOUSING.
Requires eligible applicants of the Rental Housing Revolving Fund to be either governmental agencies or organizations that are required to use all financial surplus, excluding fees, to develop additional housing in the State. (SD1)
(S) 2/3/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. CHANG, FEVELLA, RHOADS, McKelvey, San Buenaventura HOU, WAM  HB762
SB71 SD2 HD1
Rental Housing Revolving Fund; Mixed-Income Subaccount; Workforce Rental Housing; Director of Finance; Appropriation
RELATING TO THE RENTAL HOUSING REVOLVING FUND.
Establishes the Mixed-Income Subaccount within the Rental Housing Revolving Fund that targets workforce rental housing projects for persons and families with incomes at or below one hundred forty per cent of the area median income. Authorizes the Director of Finance to transfer funds from the Rental Housing Revolving Fund into the Mixed-Income Subaccount. Appropriates funds into and out of the Mixed-Income Subaccount of the Rental Housing Revolving Fund. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(H) 4/16/2025- Received notice of Senate conferees (Sen. Com. No. 809). CHANG, FEVELLA, RHOADS, RICHARDS, McKelvey, Moriwaki HSG, FIN
SB72
HHFDC; Housing Development Programs; Criteria; Preferences; Ranking; Housing Location Proximity; State and County Employees; Returning Resident Graduates; Reserved Units; Rules
RELATING TO HOUSING.
Requires the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation (HHFDC) to consider as a preference under chapter 201H, HRS, the proximity between the housing location and the applicant's place of employment; whether the applicant is a state or county employee; and whether the applicant is a returning resident that left the State to attend a university, college, or trade school and has graduated within the past two years. Requires, for any project developed or administered by the HHFDC under chapter 201, HRS, the HHFDC to set aside as a matter of preference an undetermined per cent of available units for state or county employees, when feasible. Requires HHFDC to determine the order of preferences and rank applicants accordingly, select applicants based on application date within the pool of similarly ranked applicants, and validate the preference status of applicants before occupancy of a unit. Authorizes HHFDC to adopt rules to establish additional eligibility criteria.
(S) 1/16/2025- Referred to HOU/LBT, WAM. CHANG, FEVELLA, RHOADS HOU/LBT, WAM
SB73 SD1
Counties; Permits; State Projects; Designated Staff; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO COUNTY PERMITS.
Requires county permitting agencies to establish and fill positions exclusively to process permit applications submitted for state projects. Appropriates funds. Effective 5/13/2040. (SD1)
(S) 2/11/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. CHANG, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, RHOADS EIG, WAM
SB74
Governor; DAGS; Office of the State Architect; State Architect; State Construction Projects; Design Approvals; Design Review Special Fund; County Building Permit, Inspection, and Certificate of Occupancy Requirements; Exemptions; Report; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO STATE CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS.
Establishes the Office of the State Architect within the Department of Accounting and General Services to be headed by the State Architect. Authorizes the State Architect to organize, manage, and oversee the design review of all state construction projects and issue design approvals. Establishes the Design Review Special Fund. Requires the State Architect to submit a report to the Governor and Legislature. Authorizes DAGS to provide centralized design review services for state construction projects and issue design approvals through the State Architect. Exempts state construction projects from county building permit, inspection, and certificate of occupancy requirements, subject to certain conditions. Makes appropriations.
(S) 2/6/2025- The committee on GVO deferred the measure. CHANG, FEVELLA GVO, WAM/JDC  HB971
SB75
Housing; Qualified Allocation Plan; RHRF; Prioritization; Terms; Working Group; Report
RELATING TO HOUSING.
Establishes a working group to revise the State's Qualified Allocation Plan, the prioritization of the Rental Housing Revolving Fund, and the terms of loans made from the RHRF. Requires a report to the Legislature.
(S) 1/31/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading and referred to WAM. CHANG, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, Wakai HOU, WAM  HB418
SB76 SD1
Housing; Rent-to-Own Program; Fee Simple; Leasehold
RELATING TO HOUSING.
Clarifies that the dwelling units eligible for the Rent-to-Own Program shall be units that are for sale in fee simple or leasehold on state or county land under a lease with an initial term of not less than ninety-nine years. Increases the time period that the sales price of dwelling units under the Rent-to-Own Program shall remain fixed from five years to ten years after the rental agreement is executed. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/7/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM/JDC. CHANG, FEVELLA, MCKELVEY, San Buenaventura HOU/CPN, WAM/JDC  HB525
SB77
Residential Leases; State Lands; County Lands; Exemption
RELATING TO RESIDENTIAL LEASEHOLDS.
Exempts state and county lands leased after July 1, 2025, for an initial period of not less than ninety-nine years from chapters 516 and 516D, Hawaii Revised Statutes.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to CPN/WLA, JDC. CHANG, MCKELVEY, SAN BUENAVENTURA CPN/WLA, JDC  HB528
SB78
Automatic Voter Registration; State Agencies; Dual-Purpose Applications
RELATING TO VOTER REGISTRATION.
Makes an application for voter registration part of certain state agency application processes. Requires the sharing of certain information among certain state agencies, election personnel, and online voter registration system.
(S) 1/30/2025- The committee on GVO deferred the measure. CHANG, RHOADS GVO, JDC
SB80
HHFDC; DURF; Dwelling Unit Revolving Fund Equity Program
RELATING TO THE DWELLING UNIT REVOLVING FUND.
Establishes the Dwelling Unit Revolving Fund Equity Program. Repeals the Dwelling Unit Revolving Fund Equity Pilot Program. Clarifies that the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation may utilize funds in the Dwelling Unit Revolving Fund for the purchase of equity in for-sale housing development projects and interim primary or secondary financing.
(S) 1/16/2025- Referred to HOU, WAM. CHANG, FEVELLA, MCKELVEY HOU, WAM  HB460
SB81
Voter Registration; Department of Human Services; Med-QUEST; Office of Elections; Examiner of Drivers
RELATING TO VOTING.
Requires the Department of Human Services' Med-QUEST division to automatically transmit applicants' voter registration information to the Office of Elections and clerk of the county of the applicant's residence, subject to certain conditions. Authorizes the Office of Elections to designate state agencies for automatic voter registration if the agency collects, processes, or stores certain information. Updates methods for automatic voter registration conducted by the Examiner of Drivers. Makes conforming amendments. Effective 1/30/2026.
(S) 1/16/2025- Referred to HHS, JDC. CHANG, RHOADS, Moriwaki HHS, JDC
SB82
American Rescue Plan Act; Conformity to the Internal Revenue Code; Income Tax
RELATING TO TAXATION.
Conforms the Hawaii income tax laws to the provision of the American Rescue Plan Act relating to tax treatment of restaurant revitalization grants. Applies retroactively to taxable years beginning after 12/31/24.
(S) 1/16/2025- Referred to WAM. CHANG (Introduced by request of another party) WAM
SB83 SD2
Hotels; Hotel Services; Service Disruption; Third-Party Vendor; Guests; Notice; Violation; Penalty
RELATING TO HOTELS.
Requires hotelkeepers to provide adequate notice of service disruptions to third-party vendors and prospective and current guests under certain conditions. Prohibits hotelkeepers from imposing any fee, penalty, or other charge and from retaining any deposit of a guest who cancels a reservation if a service disruption is likely to exist during the period of the reservation. Requires any hotelkeeper that violates or causes another person to violate this Act to forfeit to the injured party three times the amount of the sum charged in excess of what the hotelkeeper is entitled to. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD2)
(H) 3/6/2025- Referred to TOU, JHA, CPC, referral sheet 19 ELEFANTE, AQUINO TOU, JHA, CPC  HB594
SB84
DOE; CPR; AED; Cardiac Emergency Response Plan; Training; Curriculum; Standards; Counties; Pilot Program
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
Beginning with the 2025-2026 school year, establishes a pilot program that requires the Department of Education to include cardiopulmonary resuscitation and automated external defibrillator training for public school students in grades six through twelve as part of existing health or physical education curriculum. Requires all public elementary, middle, intermediate, and high schools in the state to have a cardiac emergency response plan as part of the pilot program. Establishes standards for the cardiac emergency response plan. Requires school officials to work with county emergency medical service providers to integrate the cardiac emergency response plan into the counties' emergency response plan into the counties' emergency medical service provider protocols. Authorizes uncertified trainers to instruct others in the administration of an automated external defibrillator or cardiopulmonary resuscitation if the course does not result in certification. Terminates at the end of the 2029-2030 school year.
(S) 1/16/2025- Referred to EDU/HHS/PSM, WAM/JDC. ELEFANTE, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, GABBARD, LEE, C., McKelvey EDU/HHS/PSM, WAM/JDC
SB85
DOE; University of Hawaii; School Facilities Authority; County Permit Exemptions; Repetitive Construction
RELATING TO PERMITS.
Establishes an exemption from applicable county permit requirements for repetitive construction projects for facilities under the control of the Department of Education, University of Hawaii, or School Facilities Authority. Repeals 1/1/2030.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to EIG/EDU, JDC. ELEFANTE, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, LEE, C., Moriwaki EIG/EDU, JDC
SB86
DOE; Pilot Program; Free School Lunches; Reports; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
Establishes a two-year pilot program that, beginning with the 2025-2026 school year, requires the Department of Education to provide free school lunch to all students enrolled at a department school. Requires reports to the Legislature. Appropriates funds. Repeals on 6/30/2027.
(S) 1/16/2025- Referred to EDU, WAM. ELEFANTE, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, FUKUNAGA, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, LEE, C., MCKELVEY EDU, WAM  HB335
SB87
UH; Mental Health Practitioners; Division of Student Success; Counseling and Student Development Center; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO MENTAL HEALTH AT THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII.
Appropriates funds to the University of Hawaii at Manoa to establish three additional permanent mental health practitioner positions within the Division of Student Success' Counseling and Student Development Center.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to EDU, WAM. ELEFANTE, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, KANUHA, LEE, C., Fukunaga, McKelvey EDU, WAM  HB842
SB89
Cigarettes, Tobacco Products, and Electronic Smoking Devices; Sale; Regulation; County Authority
RELATING TO TOBACCO PRODUCTS.
Repeals existing law that preempted local ordinances or regulations that regulate the sale of cigarettes, tobacco products, and electronic smoking devices and nullified and voided any conflicting local laws and regulations. Allows counties to adopt ordinances that regulate the sale of cigarettes, tobacco products, and electronic smoking devices that do not conflict with and are more stringent than the state law that govern smoking.
(S) 1/23/2025- Re-Referred to HHS, CPN/JDC. ELEFANTE, AQUINO, CHANG, FUKUNAGA, LEE, C., MORIWAKI, Fevella, Gabbard, Kanuha HHS, CPN/JDC  HB156HB204
SB90
DCR; Compensatory Time Cash-Out Pilot Program; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO A COMPENSATORY TIME CASH-OUT PILOT PROGRAM.
Establishes a Compensatory Time Cash-Out Pilot Program for eligible employees of the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation who work in any state correctional facility. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/16/2025- Referred to PSM/LBT, WAM. ELEFANTE, CHANG, HASHIMOTO, Fukunaga PSM/LBT, WAM  HB69
SB91
DOE; Financial Literacy; Personal Transition Plan
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
Beginning with the 2027-2028 school year, requires the Department of Education to include the teaching of financial literacy in the personal transition plan requirement for each student.
(S) 1/16/2025- Referred to EDU, WAM. ELEFANTE, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, LEE, C., Kim, Moriwaki EDU, WAM  HB559
SB92
DAGS; Automated External Defibrillators; Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation; State Buildings; Public Schools; Training; Cardiac Emergency Response Plan; Counties; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO EMERGENCY MEDICAL RESPONSE.
No later than January 1, 2026, requires the Department of Accounting and General Services to install and maintain automated external defibrillators in all state buildings, including all public schools. Requires DAGS to establish a Cardiac Emergency Response Plan and work with the counties to implement the plan into the counties' emergency service provider protocols. Requires DAGS to provide trainings on the use of automated external defibrillators and the performance of cardiopulmonary resuscitation for state employees and security staff of certain state agencies. Makes appropriations.
(S) 2/6/2025- The committee on GVO deferred the measure. ELEFANTE, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, GABBARD, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, LEE, C., MCKELVEY, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Wakai GVO/EIG, WAM/JDC  HB51
SB93
Housing Development; Exemptions; Counties
RELATING TO HOUSING.
Decreases the time period for the legislative body of a county to approve, approve with modification, or disapprove housing developments exempt from certain requirements pursuant to section 201H-38, HRS, from forty-five days to thirty days.
(S) 1/16/2025- Referred to HOU/EIG, JDC. ELEFANTE, AQUINO, CHANG, GABBARD, HASHIMOTO, Moriwaki HOU/EIG, JDC  HB419
SB94
Temporary Restraining Order; Mandatory Jail Sentence; Increase; Mental Health Counseling
RELATING TO TEMPORARY RESTRAINING ORDERS.
Increases the mandatory minimum jail sentence for a first conviction of knowingly or intentionally violating a temporary restraining order from forty-eight to seventy-two hours. Requires mandatory mental health counseling for a first conviction of knowingly or intentionally violating a temporary restraining order.
(S) 1/28/2025- The committee on JDC deferred the measure. ELEFANTE, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, MCKELVEY, MORIWAKI, WAKAI, Fukunaga, Gabbard, Kanuha JDC, WAM  HB198
SB95
Certificate of Inspection; Vehicle Safety; Fines
RELATING TO VEHICLE SAFETY.
Creates additional fines for any individual found operating a vehicle or moped without a current certificate of inspection.
(S) 2/21/2025- The recommendation was not adopted. ELEFANTE, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, FUKUNAGA, HASHIMOTO, LEE, C., MORIWAKI, Gabbard, McKelvey, Wakai TCA, JDC  HB227
SB96
DLE; Traffic Cameras; Citations; Mail; Motor Vehicles; Traffic Code
RELATING TO TRAFFIC CITATIONS.
Authorizes the Department of Law Enforcement to establish traffic cameras and issue a citation by mail for certain violations of traffic-related laws. Establishes that intentional destruction or damage to a traffic camera is a class C felony.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to PSM/TRS, JDC. ELEFANTE, CHANG, FUKUNAGA, RHOADS, Gabbard, Kanuha, Wakai PSM/TRS, JDC  HB334
SB98
Low-Speed Electric Bicycles; Minimum Age; Increase
RELATING TO LOW-SPEED ELECTRIC BICYCLES.
Increases the minimum age to operate a low-speed electric bicycle from fifteen to sixteen years of age.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to TRS, JDC. ELEFANTE, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, KIM, Fukunaga, McKelvey, Wakai TRS, JDC  HB236
SB99
DOE; ATG; ERS; Retirees; Hawaii Employer-Union Health Benefits Trust Fund; Benefits; School Resource Officers; Investigators; Counties; Report
RELATING TO GOVERNMENT.
Allows a retirant to be employed without reenrollment in the Employees' Retirement System and without loss or interruption of retirement benefits if the retirant is employed as a school resource officer or investigator in positions identified by the Department of Education or the Department of the Attorney General, respectively, as a labor shortage or difficult-to-fill positions, subject to certain conditions. Requires the Director of Human Resources of the appropriate state jurisdiction or the human resources management chief executive of each county to include in their annual reports to the Legislature, details on the employment of retirants as school resource officers or investigators.
(S) 1/16/2025- Referred to LBT, WAM. ELEFANTE, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, GABBARD, HASHIMOTO, MCKELVEY, MORIWAKI, Fukunaga, Kanuha LBT, WAM  HB214
SB101 SD1
UH; JABSOM; Resident Tuition Fee; In-State Tuition
RELATING TO MEDICAL SCHOOL TUITION.
Requires graduates of the University of Hawaii John A. Burns School of Medicine who have paid in-state tuition to serve as a physician in the State for at least 2 years following their medical residency or fellowship. Begins with the class of 2029. Effective 7/31/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/11/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. HASHIMOTO, AQUINO, FEVELLA, LEE, C. HRE, WAM  HB221
SB103 SD1
HSEO; Electric Vehicle Battery Recycling and Reuse Working Group; Electric Vehicles; Batteries; Reuse; Recycling; Working Group; Report
RELATING TO ELECTRIC VEHICLE BATTERIES.
Establishes a two-year Electric Vehicle Battery Recycling and Reuse Working Group within the Hawaii State Energy Office. Requires the working group to examine how to maximize the recycling and reuse of electric vehicle batteries and recommend electric vehicle battery management practices. Requires a report to the Legislature. (SD1)
(H) 3/6/2025- Referred to EEP, FIN, referral sheet 19 ELEFANTE, CHANG, FEVELLA, GABBARD, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, KIM, MCKELVEY, MORIWAKI, Fukunaga, Wakai EEP, FIN
SB105
Legislative Staff; Public Employees; Collective Bargaining; Repeal
RELATING TO LEGISLATIVE EMPLOYEES.
Repeals staff of the legislative branch of the State from the list of individuals not included in any appropriate bargaining unit. Specifies that the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives shall each have one vote if they have employees in a particular bargaining unit for the purposes of negotiating a collective bargaining agreement.
(S) 1/16/2025- Referred to LBT, JDC/WAM. RHOADS, CHANG LBT, JDC/WAM  HB1236
SB106 SD1 HD2
Pedestrians; Safety; Street Crossing; Pilot Program
RELATING TO PEDESTRIANS.
Establishes a three-year Pedestrian Safety Pilot Program in a county with population of two hundred fifty thousand or less, under certain conditions. Authorizes the Governor to revoke and abolish the Pilot Program and overturn a county's request to opt-out of the Pilot Program. Authorizes a county with a population of over two hundred fifty thousand to participate in the Pilot Program, subject to certain conditions. Requires reports to the Legislature. Requires a driver of a vehicle to yield to a pedestrian when the pedestrian clearly indicates their intention to cross a roadway within a crosswalk. Sunsets 6/30/2028. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(H) 4/10/2025- Received notice of disagreement (Sen. Com. No. 779). RHOADS, LEE, C. TRN, JHA
SB107
Medical Informed Consent; Timing; Hawaii Medical Board; Standards
RELATING TO MEDICAL INFORMED CONSENT.
Requires the Hawaii Medical Board to establish standards for health care providers to ensure that a patient's consent to treatment is an informed consent. Requires that informed consent for a proposed medical or surgical treatment or a diagnostic or therapeutic procedure shall be obtained before the day of that treatment or procedure. Specifies that if the treatment or procedure is to occur on the same day it is scheduled, the informed consent shall be obtained at the time the decision is made to schedule that treatment or procedure.
(S) 1/27/2025- The committee on HHS deferred the measure. RHOADS HHS, CPN  HB215
SB108 SD1
DOT; Vessels; Harbors; Regulation of Noise; Study; Report
RELATING TO VESSELS.
Requires the Department of Transportation to work with relevant stakeholders to conduct a study of noise regulations and best practices as they apply to other ports in similar locations. Requires a report to the Legislature. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/11/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to CPN/WAM. RHOADS TCA, CPN/WAM
SB109 SD2 HD1
Hawaiian Language; State Law; Public Documents
RELATING TO THE HAWAIIAN LANGUAGE.
Requires that the Hawaiian version of a law be held binding if the law in question was originally drafted in Hawaiian and meets certain criteria. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 4/15/2025- Received notice of appointment of House conferees (Hse. Com. No. 731). RHOADS, SAN BUENAVENTURA JHA  HB304
SB110
Department of Health; Wetlands; Isolated Wetlands; State Waters; Water Pollution
RELATING TO WATER.
Defines "isolated wetlands" and "wetlands". Clarifies the definition of "state waters" to include wetlands and isolated wetlands. Requires the Director of Health to determine all wetlands in the State, including whether a wetland is an isolated wetland or is included in the waters of the United States. Prohibit persons from discharging any water pollutant into or at any location that enters state waters.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to HHS/WLA/AEN, JDC/WAM. RHOADS, GABBARD HHS/WLA/AEN, JDC/WAM  HB343
SB111
Public Improvements; State Building Design and Construction; New State Buildings; Disaster Preparedness; Hurricane; Standards
RELATING TO HURRICANE RESISTANT CRITERIA.
Requires the State to consider hurricane resistant criteria when designing and constructing new state buildings, constructed on or after 7/1/2025, for the capability of providing shelter refuge.
(S) 2/4/2025- The committee on GVO deferred the measure. RHOADS PSM/GVO, WAM  HB659
SB113
Liquor Licenses; Renewal; Protest; Denial
RELATING TO LIQUOR LICENSES.
Provides that the Liquor Commission or other licensing agency of each county shall deny the renewal of certain current liquor licenses upon receipt of sufficient protests.
(S) 1/16/2025- Referred to EIG, CPN. RHOADS, FUKUNAGA EIG, CPN  HB2
SB114 SD1
Presidential Preference Primary Election; Establishment; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO ELECTIONS.
Beginning 6/1/2026, establishes presidential preference primary elections for the 2028 election cycle. Appropriates funds. Effective 4/23/2057. (SD1)
(S) 2/6/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. RHOADS, CHANG, LEE, C., Fukunaga JDC, WAM
SB115 SD1
Real Property; Exemption; Attachment; Execution
RELATING TO ATTACHMENT AND EXECUTION OF REAL PROPERTY.
Increases the real property exemption amount for attachment or execution. (SD1)
(S) 2/6/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. RHOADS, CHANG, FUKUNAGA, HASHIMOTO, LEE, C., MCKELVEY, Moriwaki JDC, WAM  HB147
SB117 SD1
Defamation; Litigation; Sexual Assault; Sexual Harassment; Sexual Discrimination; Immunity
RELATING TO DEFAMATION.
Protects individuals who make claims of sexual misconduct from defamation lawsuits unless the claims were proven to be made with malice. Effective 4/23/2057. (SD1)
(H) 3/11/2025- The committee(s) on JHA recommend(s) that the measure be deferred. RHOADS, CHANG JHA  HB148
SB118 SD1
Campaign Spending Commission; Investigator; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO THE CAMPAIGN SPENDING COMMISSION.
Establishes an investigator position in the Campaign Spending Commission. Appropriates funds. Effective 4/23/2057. (SD1)
(S) 2/12/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. RHOADS, CHANG JDC, WAM
SB120
State Building Code Council; Duties; Recommendations; Analysis
RELATING TO BUILDING CODES.
Amends responsibilities of the State Building Code Council.
(S) 1/24/2025- The committee on PSM deferred the measure. HASHIMOTO, CHANG, INOUYE, MCKELVEY, MORIWAKI, SAN BUENAVENTURA PSM, WAM  HB1
SB122
Cabaret Liquor License; Prohibition; Apartment Mixed Use Subprecinct; Special District; Special Improvement District
RELATING TO CABARET LICENSES.
Expands the prohibition of class 11 cabaret licenses to premises within apartment mixed use subprecincts of special districts and special improvement districts.
(S) 1/17/2025- Referred to EIG, CPN. RHOADS, FUKUNAGA EIG, CPN
SB123 SD1
Department of Budget and Finance; Department of Taxation; Home Mortgage Interest Deduction; Income Tax; Reports
RELATING TO TAXATION.
Eliminates the home mortgage interest deduction for second homes under Hawaii income tax law. Requires reports to the Legislature. (SD1)
(S) 2/10/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. RHOADS, CHANG, LEE, C. HOU, WAM
SB124 SD1
Reapportionment; Census Data; Constitutional Amendment (ConAm)
PROPOSING AMENDMENTS TO ARTICLE IV, SECTIONS 4 AND 6, OF THE HAWAII STATE CONSTITUTION REGARDING REAPPORTIONMENT.
Proposes a constitutional amendment to specify that reapportionment shall be based on the resident population, as counted in the decennial United States census for the respective reapportionment year, rather than the permanent resident population. (SD1)
(S) 3/10/2025- Notice of bill proposing constitutional amendment transmitted to Governor pursuant to Article XVII, Section 3 (Sen. Com. No. 1). RHOADS JHA, FIN  HB140
SB125 SD2 HD1
State Enterprise Zones; Qualified Business; Tax Incentives; Eligible Business Activities; Retail Sales; Value-Added Agricultural Products; Health Care Services; Advanced Manufacturing; Cybersecurity
RELATING TO STATE ENTERPRISE ZONES.
Amends the definition of "eligible business activity" for State Enterprise Zone Program purposes to include retail sales of tangible personal property manufactured and sold in the enterprise zone to the final consumer, the processing of value-added agricultural products grown within an enterprise zone, the provision of professional services by health care professionals in health-care-related sectors, the use of advanced manufacturing to produce products, or the development of cybersecurity technology. Extends the eligibility period of the state business tax credit and general excise tax exemption for qualified businesses within state enterprise zones from 7 years to 9 years. Extends the eligibility period of the general excise tax exemption for qualified businesses within state enterprise zones engaged in the manufacturing of tangible personal property or the producing or processing of agricultural products from 10 years to 12 years. Makes the extension of the state business tax credit eligibility period applicable to taxable years beginning after 12/31/2025. Makes the extension of the general excise tax exemption eligibility period take effect on 1/1/2027. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(H) 4/22/2025- Received notice of Senate conferees (Sen. Com. No. 863). DECOITE, AQUINO, CHANG, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, MCKELVEY, Kidani, Wakai ECD, AGR, FIN
SB126
HDOA; UH; CTAHR; Neonicotinoids; Apiaries; Bee Hives; Study; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO NEONICOTINOIDS.
Requires the Department of Agriculture and University of Hawaii College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources to conduct a study on the effects of neonicotinoids on Hawaii beehive and apiary operations, including beekeeping activities at solar energy facilities. Appropriates moneys.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to AEN/EDU, WAM. DECOITE, CHANG, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, Wakai AEN/EDU, WAM
SB127 SD1
DOA; Conventional Farming; Grants; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO AGRICULTURAL GRANTS.
Establishes the Conventional Farming Grant Program to be administered by the Department of Agriculture to provide grants to small and midsized farmers who practice conventional farming. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/5/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. DECOITE, AQUINO, CHANG, DECORTE, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, RICHARDS, SAN BUENAVENTURA AEN, WAM
SB128
Criminal Trespass; Agricultural Land; Penalty; Firearm
RELATING TO TRESPASS.
Establishes the crime of criminal trespass on agricultural land. Prohibits persons being prosecuted for or convicted of the crime of criminal trespass on agricultural land from owning, possessing, or controlling a firearm or ammunition.
(S) 1/17/2025- Referred to AEN, JDC. DECOITE, AQUINO, CHANG, DECORTE, KANUHA, WAKAI, San Buenaventura AEN, JDC
SB129 SD2
Uniform Packaging and Labeling; Food Labeling; Country of Origin; Raw Ahi; Ahi Poke; Processed Ahi
RELATING TO LABELING REQUIREMENTS.
Prohibits the sale of raw ahi, including ahi poke or processed ahi, in retail establishments without a label that states the country where the ahi was landed. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD2)
(H) 3/6/2025- Referred to AGR, CPC, FIN, referral sheet 19 DECOITE, AQUINO AGR, CPC, FIN  HB534
SB130
Hiking Trails; Search and Rescue; Trespassing; Reimbursement; Signage
RELATING TO SEARCH AND RESCUE.
Requires government entities to seek reimbursement for all or a portion of search or rescue expenses for persons who require rescue after leaving a hiking trail to enter an area closed to the public or hiking on a trail closed to the public, and there is a sign giving notice of the closure.
(S) 2/6/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading and referred to JDC/WAM. DECOITE, AQUINO, CHANG, DECORTE, ELEFANTE, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, MCKELVEY, MORIWAKI, RICHARDS, SAN BUENAVENTURA, WAKAI WTL/PSM, JDC/WAM
SB131
Procurement; Procurement Policy Board; Penalties for NonPerformance or Major Delay
RELATING TO PROCUREMENT.
Requires the Procurement Policy Board to adopt rules requiring contracts to impose mandatory fines or provide for termination of a contract for default if a contractor fails to perform the contractor's duties or if there is a major delay in a deliverable. Requires each contract to establish a schedule of deliverables and to specify what constitutes a "major delay".
(S) 1/30/2025- The committee on GVO deferred the measure. DECOITE, AQUINO, CHANG, HASHIMOTO, MCKELVEY, RICHARDS GVO, JDC
SB132
Hawaii Start-Up Business Loan Program; Hawaii Start-up Business Loan Program Special Fund; DBEDT; Business Development and Support Division; HTDC; Report; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO SMALL BUSINESS LOANS.
Establishes the Hawaii start-up business loan program. Establishes the Hawaii start-up business loan program special fund. Requires DBEDT to submit an annual report to the Legislature regarding the program. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/17/2025- Referred to EDT, WAM. WAKAI, AQUINO, CHANG, DECORTE, ELEFANTE, FEVELLA, FUKUNAGA, HASHIMOTO, INOUYE, KANUHA, MCKELVEY EDT, WAM  HB455
SB133 SD2
PUC; State Facilities; Wheeling; Renewable Energy; Clean Electricity; Report
RELATING TO ENERGY.
Authorizes state facilities to wheel electricity produced by their own facility from renewable energy sources to other state facilities pursuant to administrative rules or orders established by the Public Utilities Commission. Requires the Public Utilities Commission to submit a report to the Legislature. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD2)
(H) 3/10/2025- Re-referred to EEP, CPC, FIN, referral sheet 21 WAKAI, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, LEE, C., MCKELVEY, SAN BUENAVENTURA EEP, CPC, FIN
SB134
Office of Elections; Elections; Voter Service Centers; Report
RELATING TO ELECTIONS.
Requires the Office of Elections to establish three additional voting centers in a county with a population of five hundred thousand or more. Requires a report to the Legislature.
(S) 1/17/2025- Referred to EIG, JDC/WAM. KIM, AQUINO, CHANG, DECOITE, ELEFANTE, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, KEOHOKALOLE, KIDANI, MCKELVEY, MORIWAKI, SAN BUENAVENTURA EIG, JDC/WAM
SB135
Macadamia Nuts; Labeling; Processed
RELATING TO THE LABELING OF MACADAMIA NUTS.
Specifies that the macadamia nut labeling requirements apply if the applicable products are produced in whole or in part from Hawaii-grown and Hawaii-processed macadamia nuts. Effective 1/2/2026.
(S) 2/11/2025- The committee on CPN deferred the measure. HASHIMOTO, CHANG, FEVELLA, KIDANI, KIM, MCKELVEY, Moriwaki EDT/CPN, JDC  HB530
SB136
DLIR; Ironworkers; Iron Projects; Apprenticeship Program; Requirement; Rules
RELATING TO IRONWORKERS.
Prohibits any person from disassembling, dismantling, or demolishing iron projects unless the person has completed an apprenticeship program for ironworkers approved and registered with the Director of Labor and Industrial Relations. Establishes penalties. Requires the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations to adopt rules.
(S) 2/10/2025- The committee on LBT deferred the measure. KEOHOKALOLE, CHANG, Hashimoto, Kanuha, Moriwaki, Richards LBT, JDC  HB956
SB137 SD2 HD1
Public Utilities Commission; Electric Utility Companies; Acquisitions; Mergers; Consolidations; Application Review Process; Alternative Applications; Non-Investor-Owned Utilities Ownership Models; Collective Bargaining Agreements; Power Purchase Agreements
RELATING TO ELECTRIC UTILITIES.
Requires the Public Utilities Commission to consider whether approving a proposed merger or acquisition would or would not further the State's renewable energy goals. Prohibits the acquiring entity of an electric utility company from terminating or attempting to renegotiate any existing and valid power purchase agreements and requires the acquiring entity to assume and be bound by existing collective bargaining agreements and retain all covered employees. Establishes a process to ensure that when an electric utility is subject to an application for a proposed acquisition, merger, or consolidation by a potential acquiring entity that is an investor-owned utility and seeks approval of the application from the Public Utilities Commission, the electric utility shall demonstrate that it solicited bids from potential acquiring entities that operate under a non-investor-owned utility ownership model. Requires the electric utility to submit acceptable bids from a potential acquiring entity operating under a non-investor-owned utility ownership model concurrently with an application by a potential acquiring entity that is an investor-owned utility and the Public Utilities Commission to review those applications concurrently. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(H) 3/19/2025- The committee(s) on CPC recommend(s) that the measure be deferred. KEOHOKALOLE, AQUINO, CHANG, DECOITE, HASHIMOTO, RHOADS, RICHARDS, San Buenaventura, Wakai EEP, CPC, FIN  HB339
SB138 SD1
Income Tax Credit; Safe Room Installation Income Tax Credit; Hurricane-Resistant Safe Rooms; Director of Taxation
RELATING TO TAXATION.
Establishes a nonrefundable income tax credit for taxpayers that incur costs related to the design, materials, installation, and construction of hurricane-resistant safe rooms. Effective 7/1/2077. (SD1)
(S) 2/5/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. KEOHOKALOLE, AQUINO PSM, WAM
SB139
Community Action Programs; Invasive Species; Little Fire Ants; Hawaii Ant Lab
RELATING TO INVASIVE SPECIES.
Authorizes any department of the Invasive Species Council, county, or any agent of a department of the Invasive Species Council or a county, including the Hawaii Ant Lab or an island-based invasive species committee to use community action programs for the control or eradication of certain invasive pests. Defines community action program. Exempts individuals participating in a community action program from pest control operator requirements and regulations.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to AEN/WLA, CPN/WAM. KEOHOKALOLE, AQUINO, CHANG, DECORTE, KANUHA, RICHARDS, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Moriwaki AEN/WLA, CPN/WAM
SB141 SD1
HIEMA; Hawaii Disaster Drill Day; Preparedness; Federal Government; Counties
RELATING TO EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT.
Establishes the eighth day of August of each year as "Hawaii Disaster Drill Day". Requires the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency, in coordination with all state departments and agencies, to conduct drills and perform other activities for that day. (SD1)
(S) 2/13/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. KEOHOKALOLE, CHANG, HASHIMOTO, MCKELVEY, Richards PSM/TCA, WAM
SB142 SD2
Property Insurance; Claims; Payment; Mortgaged Property; Electronic Delivery
RELATING TO INSURANCE.
Allows an insured to authorize the insurer to electronically remit claim proceeds to the insured's mortgagee when a homeowners insurance policy that covers a mortgaged property allows for the payment of proceeds by issuing a check. Requires a mortgagee in receipt of electronic delivery of claim proceeds to deliver the proceeds of the claim to the insured in accordance with the mortgage agreement and the insurance policy. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD2)
(H) 3/6/2025- Referred to CPC, referral sheet 19 KEOHOKALOLE, CHANG, RICHARDS, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Elefante, Hashimoto CPC
SB143
Special Number Plates; Kahoolawe; Kohe Malamalama o Kanaloa Protect Kahoolawe Fund; Motor Vehicles
RELATING TO SPECIAL NUMBER PLATES.
Authorizes the issuance of special number plates to commemorate the island of Kahoolawe.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA, WAM. KEOHOKALOLE, AQUINO, CHANG, DECOITE, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, RHOADS, RICHARDS, SAN BUENAVENTURA WLA, WAM
SB144 SD2
Hawaii Board of Chiropractic; Licensure; Exception; Students; Clinical Practice; Rules
RELATING TO CHIROPRACTIC.
Beginning 7/1/2027, allows chiropractic students enrolled in a qualified chiropractic college to engage in clinical practice as part of their college instruction if directly supervised by a qualified licensed chiropractor. Requires the Hawaii Board of Chiropractic to adopt rules. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD2)
(H) 3/6/2025- Referred to HED, CPC, referral sheet 19 KEOHOKALOLE, AQUINO, CHANG, HASHIMOTO, RHOADS, RICHARDS, Kanuha, San Buenaventura HED, CPC  HB970
SB145
Commission on Water Resource Management; Water Shortage and Emergency; Declaration; Notice
RELATING TO DECLARATION OF WATER SHORTAGE AND EMERGENCY.
Amends the conditions, manner, and areas in which the Commission on Water Resource Management can declare and provide notice of water shortages and emergencies.
(H) 3/6/2025- Referred to WAL, JHA, referral sheet 19 KEOHOKALOLE, CHANG, DECOITE, DECORTE, FUKUNAGA, HASHIMOTO, Inouye, San Buenaventura WAL, JHA  HB510
SB146 SD1 HD2
Condominiums; Alternative Dispute Resolution; Evaluative Mediation; Binding Arbitration
RELATING TO CONDOMINIUMS.
Amends the conditions and procedures of alternative dispute resolution methods for condominium-related disputes, including the use of evaluative mediation or binding arbitration. Effective 7/1/2050. (HD2)
(S) 4/21/2025- Received notice of appointment of House conferees (Hse. Com. No. 754). KEOHOKALOLE, CHANG, DECORTE, RICHARDS, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Hashimoto, Wakai CPC, JHA
SB147 SD2
Condominium Associations; Unit Owners; Tenants; Declarations; By-Laws; House Rules; Violations; Fines; Appeals; Attorneys' Fees
RELATING TO CONDOMINIUMS.
Establishes processes and requirements for associations to impose fines against unit owners, tenants, and guests for violations of the declaration, bylaws, or house rules. Prohibits associations from charging attorneys' fees with respect to any fines that are not deemed collectable. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD2)
(H) 3/6/2025- Referred to CPC, JHA, referral sheet 19 KEOHOKALOLE, CHANG, INOUYE CPC, JHA
SB148 SD2 HD2
State Boxing Commission of Hawaii; Boxing and Combat Sports Commission of Hawaii; Combat Sports Contests; Prohibitions; Mixed Martial Arts Contests; Repeal; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO COMBAT SPORTS.
Renames the State Boxing Commission of Hawaii as the Boxing and Combat Sports Commission of Hawaii. Amends the jurisdiction of the Commission to include combat sports contests. Prohibits no rules combat or similar combat sports contests. Repeals the existing Mixed Martial Arts Contests Program. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(H) 3/21/2025- Report adopted; referred to the committee(s) on FIN as amended in HD 2 with Representative(s) Shimizu voting aye with reservations; Representative(s) Pierick voting no (1) and Representative(s) Cochran, Garrett, Kapela, Kitagawa, Ward excused (5). KEOHOKALOLE, CHANG, RICHARDS, Kanuha ECD, CPC/JHA, FIN
SB149
Discrimination in Public Accommodations; Persons with Disabilities; Discriminatory Practices; Accessibility; Information and Communication Technology
RELATING TO ACCESSIBILITY.
Establishes that it is an unlawful discriminatory practice for public accommodations to deny a person with a disability full and equal enjoyment of information related to their services, facilities, privileges, advantages, or accommodations using information and communication technology intended for use by the general public as applicants, participants, customers, clients, or visitors.
(S) 2/7/2025- Re-Referred to CPN/LBT, JDC. KEOHOKALOLE, AQUINO, CHANG, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, RHOADS, RICHARDS, SAN BUENAVENTURA CPN/LBT, JDC
SB150 SD1
Red Hill WAI Policy Coordinator; Red Hill Remediation Special Fund
RELATING TO RED HILL.
Establishes a Water Alliance Initiative Policy Coordinator for coordination of Red Hill WAI initiatives. Creates the Red Hill Remediation Special Fund. Effective 1/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/14/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. KEOHOKALOLE, CHANG, DECORTE, FUKUNAGA, HASHIMOTO, Kim, San Buenaventura, Wakai WTL/AEN, WAM  HB505
SB151 SD1
DHHL; Geothermal Resources; Permitted Interaction Group; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF HAWAIIAN HOME LANDS.
Establishes a permitted interaction group within the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. Appropriates funds to the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to continue geophysical data collection, investigation, exploration, and identification of geothermal resources on Hawaiian home lands. Authorizes DHHL to hire consultants. Effective 7/31/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/11/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. KEOHOKALOLE, CHANG, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, Moriwaki HWN/EIG, WAM
SB152 SD1
HHFDC; DHHL; DURF; Collateral; Loans; Residential Homestead Lots; Housing
RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF HAWAIIAN HOME LANDS.
Authorizes the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to utilize funds in the Dwelling Unit Revolving Fund as collateral when DHHL is an eligible borrower of a loan guaranteed by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development pursuant to the Housing and Community Development Act, as amended, subject to approval of the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation. Appropriates funds. (SD1)
(S) 2/13/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. KEOHOKALOLE, CHANG, DECOITE, KANUHA, RICHARDS, SAN BUENAVENTURA HOU/HWN, WAM
SB153
Housing; Residential Landlord-tenant Code; Notices; Intent to Raise Rent; Intent to Terminate
RELATING TO HOUSING.
Requires, for tenancies greater than 90 days, a landlord to notify a tenant of any intent to raise the rent for any subsequent rental agreement or any intent to terminate a rental agreement 60 days before the expiration of the original rental agreement. Requires 90 day's notice for a landlord or tenant to terminate tenancies of three years or more and 60 days' notice to terminate tenancies of less than three years, with certain exceptions. Increases the amount of notice required to terminate tenancies that are less than month-to-month.
(S) 1/27/2025- Re-Referred to CPN, JDC. CHANG CPN, JDC  HB464
SB154
Eviction Records; Sealed Court Records; Landlord and Tenant; Summary Possession; Discriminatory Practices; Real Estate Transactions
RELATING TO EVICTION RECORDS.
Requires that all court records of any eviction proceeding be sealed within specified timeframes upon resolution of the proceeding. Authorizes the court to seal certain eviction records prior to the expiration of these timeframes upon motion by a tenant who is able to demonstrate that certain conditions apply. Requires the clerk of the court to provide access to sealed eviction records to the tenant. Makes it a discriminatory practice to require a person to disclose a sealed eviction record as a condition of certain real property transactions. Prohibits discrimination in real property transactions against a person with a sealed eviction record.
(S) 1/17/2025- Referred to CPN, JDC. CHANG CPN, JDC  HB463
SB155
Landlord-Tenant Code; No-fault Evictions; For-cause Evictions; Relocation Assistance; Waiver of Rent
RELATING TO EVICTIONS.
Prohibits landlords from terminating certain tenancies without cause. Establishes criteria under which landlords can undertake a no-fault eviction. Requires landlords, when proceeding with a no-fault eviction, to offer relocation assistance to the tenant or waiver of the final month's rent. Effective 1/1/2026.
(S) 1/17/2025- Referred to CPN, JDC. CHANG CPN, JDC  HB466
SB156
Affordable Housing; Notice; Eligible Parties; Matched Agreement of Sale
RELATING TO HOUSING.
Requires certain landlords to provide a specified notice to a tenant regarding the tenant's potential right to purchase the property, under certain conditions. Allows tenants, families, local governments, affordable housing nonprofits, and community land trusts forty-five days to match or beat the best bona fide offer to buy an eligible affordable housing property.
(S) 1/30/2025- The committee on HOU deferred the measure. CHANG HOU, CPN/JDC  SB1134
SB157 SD2
Attorney General; Antitrust; Rental Housing; Price-fixing; Public Education Program; Penalties
RELATING TO ANTITRUST.
Prohibits the use of algorithmic price-setting in Hawaii's rental market. Requires the Department of the Attorney General to develop and undertake a public education program regarding the prohibition. Establishes fines and penalties. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD2)
(H) 3/6/2025- Referred to CPC, JHA, FIN, referral sheet 19 CHANG CPC, JHA, FIN  HB831
SB158
State-owned Bank Implementation Board; Financial Institutions
RELATING TO PUBLIC BANKING.
Establishes a state-owned bank implementation board within the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs to determine the need for, potential costs and benefits of, and prerequisites to establishing a state-owned bank. Requires a report to the legislature.
(S) 1/28/2025- The committee on CPN deferred the measure. CHANG CPN, WAM  HB721
SB159
School Impact Fees; Housing; Exemption
RELATING TO SCHOOL IMPACT FEES.
Exempts certain housing developments from assessments of school impact fees.
(S) 1/17/2025- Referred to HOU/EDU, WAM. CHANG, HASHIMOTO HOU/EDU, WAM
SB160
DOH; DCR; Inmates; Detainees; Mental Health Facility; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO MENTAL HEALTH.
Requires the Department of Health to construct a mental health facility for inmates or detainees with mental health needs in the custody of the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. Appropriates moneys.
(S) 1/17/2025- Referred to HHS/PSM, WAM. CHANG, FEVELLA, LEE, C., Gabbard HHS/PSM, WAM
SB161 SD1
State Agencies; Counties; State Projects; County Building Permit Requirements; Exemption; Public Disclosure; Programmatic or Project-Specific Agreements; Cooperative Working Groups; Report
RELATING TO COUNTY PERMITTING AND INSPECTION.
Allows state projects to be exempt from county building permit requirements under certain conditions. Requires all exempted state projects to be included in a report that is regularly made available to the public. Allows state agencies that undertake projects to be dedicated to a county to prepare programmatic or project-specific agreements that establish requirements and standards for review and acceptance if the agency wants the project to be exempted. Allows state agencies that want to be exempted from county permitting processes to establish a cooperative working group. Requires cooperative working groups to submit an interim report to the Legislature before the Regular Session of 2026. Effective 5/13/2040. (SD1)
(S) 2/11/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. CHANG, HASHIMOTO, RICHARDS, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Kanuha EIG/GVO, WAM  HB761
SB162
DHRD; DLIR; Workforce Development; State Agencies; Employment; Hawaii State Fellows Program; Report; Appropriations
RELATING TO WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT.
Establishes the Hawaii State Fellows Program within the Department of Human Resources Development to match talented applicants with full-time, paid fellowship roles in various state agencies for a period of ten to eleven months. Establishes minimum qualifications and procedures for eligible applicants to apply to the program. Gives preference to eligible program applicants who have pre-existing ties to the State or a demonstrated commitment to long-term leadership in the State. Requires the Department of Human Resources Development, in consultation with the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations, to coordinate with state agencies to implement and promote the program. Requires a report to the Legislature. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/17/2025- Referred to LBT/GVO, WAM/JDC. CHANG, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, RHOADS LBT/GVO, WAM/JDC  HB209
SB163
HHFDC; RHRF; Allocation; Priorities; Housing; Loans
RELATING TO THE RENTAL HOUSING REVOLVING FUND.
Requires the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation to maximize the amount of housing built that utilizes loans from the Rental Housing Revolving Fund by prioritizing projects with the shortest projected loan repayment terms that produce the highest number of units, per dollar, per year. Repeals all other priorities and preferences for projects utilizing the RHRF.
(S) 1/28/2025- The committee on HOU deferred the measure. CHANG, FEVELLA, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Richards HOU, WAM
SB164
HHFDC; RHRF; SHRF; DURF; Conveyance Tax; Housing Efficiency and Innovation Subaccount; Affordable Housing; Eligible Applicants; Organizations; Profits; Government Agencies; Grants; Allocations; Eligibility; Fund Allocation; Preference; Priorities; Repeal; Qualified Allocation; Terms; Working Group; Report
RELATING TO HOUSING.
Repeals statutory requirements for certain housing projects to be eligible for loans from the Rental Housing Revolving Fund. Repeals certain statutory provisions for grants to developers for rental units eligible to be financed in part or in whole by the RHRF. Repeals statutory language requiring the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation to establish an application process for RHRF allocation that prioritized projects meeting certain requirements. Renames the Rental Housing Revolving Fund to the State Housing Revolving Fund (SHRF). Clarifies eligible applicants of the SHRF. Authorizes the HHFDC to use funds from the SHRF for broader housing projects. Establishes the Housing Efficiency and Innovation Subaccount within the SHRF. Authorizes the HHFDC to transfer funds between the Housing Efficiency and Innovation Subaccount and the RHRF without legislative approval. Amends the criteria and eligibility requirements for applicant developers seeking assistance from the SHRF. Requires the HHDFC to maximize the amount of housing built that utilizes loans from the SHRF by prioritizing projects with the shortest projected loan repayment terms that produce the highest number of units, per dollar, per year. Repeals all other priorities and preferences for projects utilizing the RHRF. Establishes a working group to revise the State's Qualified Allocation Plan, the prioritization of the SHRF, and the terms of loans. Requires a report to the Legislature. Allocates ten per cent of conveyance tax collections to the DURF. Removes the annual cap on conveyance taxes paid into the SHRF.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to HOU/WLA, WAM/JDC. CHANG, AQUINO, FEVELLA HOU/WLA, WAM/JDC
SB165
Housing; Qualified Nonprofit Housing Trusts; Qualified Residents
RELATING TO HOUSING.
Clarifies the definition of "qualified nonprofit housing trust" to specify organizations that exclusively serve qualified residents as defined in section 201H-32, HRS.
(S) 2/10/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading and referred to WAM. CHANG, AQUINO, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, RICHARDS HOU, WAM
SB166
Insurance; Captive Insurance Company; Insurance Commissioner; Certificate of Exemption; Examinations
RELATING TO INSURANCE.
Allows captive insurance companies that are not risk retention captive insurance companies to apply to the Insurance Commissioner for certificates of exemption from examination if the captive insurance companies meet certain requirements.
(S) 1/17/2025- Referred to CPN. CHANG, Hashimoto CPN
SB167
County Permit Exemptions; Repetitive Construction Projects; State Departments; Off-site Improvements
RELATING TO PERMITS.
Establishes an exemption from applicable county permit requirements for repetitive construction projects for facilities under the control of any state department or agency, under certain conditions. Clarifies that contracts for the construction, renovation, or repair of facilities under the control of the department of education, university of Hawaii, or school facilities authority shall be exempt from county permitting requirements that related off-site improvements be made by the contracting government agency as a condition to the issuance of any permit.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to EIG/EDU, WAM. CHANG, AQUINO, HASHIMOTO, MORIWAKI, RICHARDS, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Kanuha EIG/EDU, WAM  HB331
SB168
School Facilities Authority Board; Governance Structure; Dissolution of School Impact District Without Public Hearing
RELATING TO SCHOOL IMPACT FEES.
Places oversight of the School Impact Fee Program under the School Facilities Authority Board. Allows the School Facilities Authority Board to dissolve a school impact district without a public hearing.
(S) 1/17/2025- Referred to EDU, WAM. CHANG, Hashimoto EDU, WAM  HB330
SB169 SD1
Wrongful Convictions; Civil Remedies; Redress; Compensation
RELATING TO REDRESS FOR WRONGFUL CONVICTION AND IMPRISONMENT.
Requires the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation to provide written notice to certain persons regarding the ability to file a claim for redress under applicable wrongful conviction law. Requires the liberal construction of that law. Changes the standard for a claim for compensation for wrongful imprisonment from actual innocence to grounds consistent with innocence. Provides for advance compensation for petitioners under certain circumstances. Requires the State to prove, for claims for compensation for wrongful imprisonment, that the reversal or vacating of the petitioner's conviction or pardoning of the petitioner was inconsistent with innocence. Requires reports to Legislature from the Department of the Attorney General. (SD1)
(S) 2/14/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. RHOADS, CHANG, LEE, C., SAN BUENAVENTURA, Elefante, Gabbard, Ihara, Inouye JDC, WAM  HB151
SB170
Internet Privacy; Ownership of Data; Constitutional Amendment
PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO THE HAWAII STATE CONSTITUTION ESTABLISHING THE RIGHT TO OWN ONE'S OWN DATA.
Proposes to amend the Hawaii State Constitution by establishing the right of each person to own and have an exclusive property right in the data they generate on the Internet.
(S) 1/17/2025- Referred to CPN, JDC/WAM. RHOADS, CHANG, FUKUNAGA, LEE, C., SAN BUENAVENTURA, Gabbard CPN, JDC/WAM
SB171
UH; Hawaii Community College Promise Program; Community College Access; Financial Assistance; Scholarships; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO ACCESS TO HIGHER EDUCATION.
Expands eligibility for scholarships under the Hawaii Community College Promise Program to all qualified students. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to EDU, WAM. RHOADS, HASHIMOTO EDU, WAM  HB869
SB172
Liquor Commissions; Liquor Control Adjudication Boards; License Renewal; Violations; Denial
RELATING TO LIQUOR.
Requires Liquor Commissions or Boards to deny any renewal for a liquor license if the applicant for renewal has violated any provision of the Intoxicating Liquor Law under chapter 281, Hawaii Revised Statutes, on three separate occasions during the twelve-month period preceding the renewal application date.
(S) 1/17/2025- Referred to EIG/CPN, JDC. RHOADS, FUKUNAGA, MORIWAKI EIG/CPN, JDC  HB579
SB173 SD1
Judiciary; Pilot Program; Child Care; Witnesses; Parties; First Circuit; Reports; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO CHILD CARE.
Requires the Judiciary to establish a three-year pilot program to provide free child care services to minor children of parties and witnesses who are attending court hearings in the first circuit. Requires the Judiciary to submit reports to the Legislature. Appropriates funds. Effective 4/23/2057. (SD1)
(S) 2/4/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. RHOADS, CHANG, GABBARD, SAN BUENAVENTURA JDC, WAM
SB174
Ammunition; Purchase; Transfer; License to Sell
RELATING TO FIREARMS AMMUNITION.
Requires the licensing of sellers of ammunition, and for the identification and proper permitting of purchasers or possessors of ammunition. Regulates ammunition in the same manner that firearms are regulated.
(S) 1/17/2025- Referred to PSM/CPN, JDC. RHOADS, CHANG, FUKUNAGA, LEE, C., MORIWAKI PSM/CPN, JDC
SB175 SD1
Constitutional Amendment; Judges; Mandatory Retirement Age
PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE VI, SECTION 3, OF THE HAWAII STATE CONSTITUTION TO INCREASE THE MANDATORY RETIREMENT AGE FOR STATE JUSTICES AND JUDGES.
Proposes a constitutional amendment to increase the mandatory retirement age for justices and judges from seventy to seventy-five years of age. (SD1)
(S) 2/6/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. RHOADS, CHANG, GABBARD, SAN BUENAVENTURA JDC, WAM
SB177 SD1 HD1
DOA; Division of Animal Industry; Aquaculture Program; Import Assessment; Biological Aquatic Risk-Based Framework; Biocontainment Standards; Aquatic Livestock; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO AQUACULTURE.
Authorizes the Division of Animal Industry of the Department of Agriculture to adopt, amend, and repeal rules to develop an assessment and approval process to import and move aquatic livestock in the State. Requires the Aquaculture Program to develop a biological aquatic risk-based framework and biocontainment standards for the aquatic livestock assessment and approval process. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(H) 4/25/2025- Conference Committee Meeting will reconvene on Friday, 04-25-25 2:40 PM; Conference Room 411. WAKAI, CHANG, DECOITE, HASHIMOTO, INOUYE, KANUHA, KIDANI, RICHARDS, Fevella, San Buenaventura AGR, CPC, FIN  HB47
SB178
DOE; Surfing; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO SURFING.
Appropriates funds to the Department of Education to support the establishment of surfing as an interscholastic sport.
(S) 1/17/2025- Referred to EDU, WAM. WAKAI, AQUINO, CHANG, DECOITE, ELEFANTE, FEVELLA, FUKUNAGA, GABBARD, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, KIDANI, LEE, C., Moriwaki, Richards, San Buenaventura EDU, WAM  HB133
SB179 SD1
Contractor Repair Act; Notice of Claim; Inspection; Repair; Rejection of Claims; Limitations on Recovery; Statute of Repose
RELATING TO REMEDIES.
Clarifies the applicability of the statute of repose for actions arising from construction defects. Clarifies the required contents of a notice of claim of construction defect served on a contractor. Amends the process and time frame for a claimant to accept a contractor's offer to settle or inspect and authorize the contractor to proceed with repairs. Limits the amount a claimant can recover if the claimant rejects a contractor's reasonable proposal for inspection or a reasonable offer to remedy. Clarifies the consequences of rejecting an offer of settlement. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/14/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to JDC. AQUINO CPN, JDC  HB420
SB180
DAGS; OETS; State Website; Translation Tool; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO ENTERPRISE TECHNOLOGY SERVICES.
Appropriates funds to the Department of Accounting and General Services for the Office of Enterprise Technology Services to develop and maintain a translation tool for the State's website.
(S) 1/17/2025- Referred to LBT, WAM. AQUINO LBT, WAM
SB181
Hazard Pay Bonus; Coronavirus Disease 2019; Collective Bargaining; Units (5), (6), (7); Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO HAZARD PAY BONUS.
Appropriates funds for a one-time hazard pay bonus to state officers and employees in bargaining units 5, 6, and 7, and their excluded counterparts under certain conditions.
(S) 1/17/2025- Referred to LBT, WAM. AQUINO LBT, WAM  HB618
SB182 SD1
Hotels; Hotel Services; Service Disruptions; Strikes; Lockouts; Third-Party Vendor; Guests; Notice; Damages
RELATING TO SERVICE DISRUPTIONS.
Requires hotelkeepers to provide adequate notice of strikes and lockouts to guests and third-party vendors under certain conditions. Allows for recovery of damages by injured parties. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/21/2025- The committee on JDC deferred the measure. AQUINO LBT, CPN/JDC
SB183 SD1 HD1
EUTF; Collective Bargaining; Contributions; Disputes; Impasses; Arbitration
RELATING TO THE HAWAII EMPLOYER-UNION HEALTH BENEFITS TRUST FUND.
Allows impasses and disputes relating to the amounts of State and county contributions to the Hawaii Employer-Union Health Benefits Trust Fund to be resolved by arbitration. Repeals the prohibition against strikes by members of bargaining units on the issue of the amounts of State and county contributions to the Trust Fund. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 4/22/2025- Conference committee meeting scheduled for 04-24-25 10:16AM; Conference Room 016. AQUINO LAB, FIN  HB160
SB184
Deposit Beverage Container Program; Deposit and Refund Value; Increase
RELATING TO THE DEPOSIT BEVERAGE CONTAINER PROGRAM.
Increases the deposit and refund value for beverage containers from 5 cents to 10 cents under the deposit beverage container program.
(S) 2/4/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading and referred to WAM. AQUINO AEN, WAM  HB109
SB185 SD1
Indebtedness; Salary or Wage Overpayment; Overpayment Payroll Transactions; Deductions for Recovery; Disbursing Officer; Notice
RELATING TO INDEBTEDNESS TO THE STATE.
Requires disbursing officers to notify employees within sixty days of making a determination that an indebtedness has occurred to the government resulting from salary or wage overpayment. Amends the amount that a disbursing officer may deduct from an employee's salary, wage, or compensation based on the employee's gross income. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/12/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to JDC/WAM. AQUINO LBT, JDC/WAM
SB186
Motor Carrier Vehicles; Inspection; Repealed
RELATING TO MOTOR CARRIER VEHICLES.
Repeals inspection requirements for motor carrier vehicles.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to TRS, JDC. FEVELLA, DECORTE, Awa, San Buenaventura TRS, JDC
SB187
Ewa Beach Public and School Library; DOE; James Campbell High School; Transfer
RELATING TO A LIBRARY IN EWA BEACH.
Requires the Department of Education to transfer the Ewa Beach Public and School Library from the State Public Library System to James Campbell High School.
(S) 2/10/2025- The committee on EDU deferred the measure. FEVELLA, Awa EDU, WAM
SB188
State Permitting Office; DOT; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO A STATE PERMITTING OFFICE.
Establishes the State Permitting Office within the Department of Transportation to process building and infrastructure permits for construction of state-owned buildings, state roads and highways, and other construction on state lands. Appropriates moneys.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to GVO/TRS/PSM, WAM/JDC. FEVELLA, AQUINO, CHANG, Awa GVO/TRS/PSM, WAM/JDC
SB189 SD1
Breast Cancer; Mammography; Risk-Factor Screening; Mandatory Health Insurance Coverage
RELATING TO BREAST CANCER SCREENING.
Expands mandatory health insurance coverage for low-dose mammography for occult breast cancer to include any supplemental imaging deemed medically necessary for a patient of any age having an above-average risk for breast cancer as determined by the use of a risk-factor modeling tool. On or before 1/1/2026, expands mandatory health insurance coverage to include additional supplemental imaging for any patient, regardless of age, as deemed medically necessary by the patient's primary care provider. Effective 12/31/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/10/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to CPN/WAM. FEVELLA, AQUINO, CHANG, DECORTE, GABBARD, KIM, Awa, Fukunaga, Moriwaki HHS, CPN/WAM
SB190
Probation; Geographic Restriction; Misdemeanor Conviction; Ewa Beach; Kapolei; Waianae
RELATING TO SAFE NEIGHBORHOODS.
Allows a person who has been convicted of 3 misdemeanors committed in Ewa Beach, Kapolei, or Waianae, to be sentenced to a term of geographic restriction during which the person is prohibited during certain hours from entering the specific area where the acts occurred. Mandates a sentence of imprisonment for 30 days for a violation of the geographic restriction.
(S) 1/27/2025- Re-Referred to JDC. FEVELLA, DECORTE, Awa JDC
SB191 SD1 HD1
DHS; PUC; Hawaii Home Energy Assistance Program; Positions; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO ENERGY ASSISTANCE.
Establishes the Hawaii Home Energy Assistance Program within the Department of Human Services to assist eligible households in paying their energy bills. Requires the Public Utilities Commission Public Benefits Fee Administrator to provide certain information and assistance to recipients of the program. Establishes positions. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(H) 3/21/2025- Report adopted; referred to the committee(s) on FIN with none voting aye with reservations; Representative(s) Pierick voting no (1) and Representative(s) Cochran, Garrett, Kapela, Kitagawa, Ward excused (5). FEVELLA, DECORTE, Chang, San Buenaventura EEP/HSH, CPC, FIN
SB192
Counties; Public Safety; Explosion Detection Technology; Grant In-Aid; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO EXPLOSION DETECTION TECHNOLOGY.
Requires the county police departments to purchase and deploy explosion detection technology equipment to assist in the location of and response to explosions caused by the illegal use of firearms and fireworks. Appropriates moneys to the counties as a grant in aid.
(S) 1/17/2025- Referred to PSM/EIG, WAM/JDC. FEVELLA, AQUINO, GABBARD, MCKELVEY, San Buenaventura PSM/EIG, WAM/JDC
SB193
Sex Trafficking; Penalty; Protection of Minors
RELATING TO CRIME.
Specifies that the penalty for sex trafficking shall be payment of a fine of no less than $50,000 but no more than $100,000, and a definite term of imprisonment of up to 20 years without the possibility of a suspended sentence, probation, or parole. Provides that consent to sexual conduct is not a defense. Defines "sexual conduct". Provides that a minor who reports that the minor is a victim of sex trafficking shall not be subject to criminal liability.
(S) 1/27/2025- Re-Referred to JDC. FEVELLA, AQUINO, DECORTE, KIM, Awa JDC
SB194
General Excise Tax; Exemptions; Food; Medical Services; Feminine Hygiene Products
RELATING TO GENERAL EXCISE TAX EXEMPTIONS.
Establishes general excise tax exemptions for food, medical services, and feminine hygiene products.
(S) 1/17/2025- Referred to HHS, WAM. FEVELLA, GABBARD HHS, WAM
SB195
HDOT; Counties; Mass Transit Fares; Fare Increases; TransitBased Advertisements
RELATING TO PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION.
Requires the counties, before implementing any new mass transit fare or increasing any existing fare, to first seek revenues from alternative sources, including transit-based advertisements. Requires a county that decides, after seeking alternative revenue sources, to implement a new or increased mass transit fare to submit a justification report to the Department of Transportation. Requires the Department of Transportation to reject or approve the proposed new mass transit fare or fare increase within 30 days of receiving a county's justification report.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to TRS/EIG, WAM. FEVELLA, Gabbard, Moriwaki TRS/EIG, WAM
SB196
Education; Public Schools; Public Charter Schools; Epinephrine; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
Requires each public or public charter school to have staff trained in the administration of, and authorized to administer, epinephrine. Requires signs to be displayed in school buildings stating the symptoms of anaphylaxis and the proper method for administering epinephrine. Appropriates moneys.
(S) 1/17/2025- Referred to EDU/HHS, WAM. FEVELLA, KIM EDU/HHS, WAM
SB197
LUC; DHHL; DLNR; UH; Public Notice; Land Use; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO PUBLIC NOTICE.
Establishes enhanced public notice requirements for changes in land use by the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands, Department of Land and Natural Resources, or University of Hawaii and boundary changes by the Land Use Commission. Requires approval of the project by the community through a referendum of nearby adult residents except for projects within the Mauna Kea science reserve, which require a referendum by all adult residents of the country in which the Mauna Kea science reserve is located. Appropriates moneys.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA/HWN/EDU, WAM/JDC. FEVELLA, DECORTE WLA/HWN/EDU, WAM/JDC
SB198
DOD; DLNR; United States Military; Leases; Lease Extensions; Prohibitions; Public Lands
RELATING TO PUBLIC LANDS.
Prohibits the State from leasing public lands to or extending the lease of the US Department of Defense or any branch of the US military if the department or branch is noncompliant with any environmental order, consent decree, or memoranda of agreement, or any law, rule, or order on a matter affecting residents' health and safety. Requires Department of Land and Natural Resources to request that the military agree to remediation of existing leased lands prior to the end of the lease term.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA/PSM, JDC. FEVELLA, DECORTE WLA/PSM, JDC
SB199 SD1
OHA; Native Hawaiian Cultural Centers; Reports; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO HAWAIIAN CULTURE.
Requires the Office of Hawaiian Affairs to establish and maintain Native Hawaiian cultural centers within the State. Requires the Office of Hawaiian Affairs to construct one cultural center on Oahu by 2040. Requires the Office of Hawaiian Affairs to submit reports to the Legislature regarding the Office of Hawaiian Affairs' compliance with this Act. Appropriates funds for the planning and design of the first Native Hawaiian cultural center. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/11/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. FEVELLA, DECORTE, MCKELVEY, MORIWAKI HWN, WAM
SB200
Penal Code; Criminal Procedure; Victims and Witnesses of Sexual Offenses; Right to Speedy Trial; Child Abuse; Expedited Criminal Proceedings
RELATING TO SPEEDY TRIALS.
Creates a statutory right of victims and witnesses of sexual offenses under part V of chapter 707, Hawaii Revised Statutes, to a speedy trial in criminal cases involving adult defendants. Requires the court and the prosecution to take appropriate action to ensure a prompt trial to minimize the length of time a child abuse victim or minor witness must endure the stress of the proceedings.
(S) 1/27/2025- The committee on HHS deferred the measure. FEVELLA, DECORTE, Moriwaki HHS, JDC
SB201
DOE; Out-Of-Service-Area Attendance; District Exemption; Geographic Exception; Report
RELATING TO STUDENT OUT-OF-SERVICE-AREA ATTENDANCE.
Prohibits the Department of Education from mandating that any student attend a school outside the student's service area. Establishes a 5 year phaseout period. Requires the DOE to submit annual progress reports.
(S) 1/17/2025- Referred to EDU, JDC/WAM. FEVELLA, CHANG EDU, JDC/WAM
SB202 SD1
Net Energy Metering; Electric Utilities; Net Energy Producers; Compensation
RELATING TO RENEWABLE ENERGY.
Requires electric utilities to compensate customer-generators for excess electricity credits. (SD1)
(S) 2/11/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to CPN. FEVELLA, CHANG EIG, CPN
SB203
Gambling; Drugs; Special Intergovernmental Task Force; Community Safe Zones
RELATING TO CRIME.
Establishes a special intergovernmental task force to eradicate illegal gambling and drug activities and to establish community safe zones across the State. Requires a report to the Legislature.
(S) 1/17/2025- Referred to PSM, JDC. FEVELLA, CHANG PSM, JDC
SB204
State Water Code; Commission on Water Resource Management; Penalties
RELATING TO STATE WATER CODE PENALTIES.
Adds a minimum penalty and amends the maximum penalty per violation of the State Water Code, expands the types of potential violations of the State Water Code, and makes each day that a violation exists or continues to exist a separate offense. Requires the Commission on Water Resource Management to consider certain factors when imposing penalties. Makes the setting, charging, and collecting of administrative fines by the Commission on Water Resource Management mandatory, rather than discretionary.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA, JDC/WAM. KEOHOKALOLE, CHANG, DECOITE, FUKUNAGA, HASHIMOTO, RHOADS WLA, JDC/WAM
SB205
Department of Hawaiian Home Lands; HHC; CWRM; Membership
RELATING TO THE COMMISSION ON WATER RESOURCE MANAGEMENT.
Adds the Chairperson of the Hawaiian Homes Commission, or the chairperson's designee, to the Commission on Water Resource Management.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA/HWN, WAM. KEOHOKALOLE, CHANG, DECOITE, RICHARDS, Kanuha, San Buenaventura WLA/HWN, WAM
SB206
Residential Property; Nonresident Aliens; Prohibitions
RELATING TO PROPERTY.
Prohibits nonresident aliens and businesses and trusts that are significantly controlled by nonresident aliens from acquiring certain residential property in the State, except as otherwise provided by law.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to HOU/WLA, JDC. FEVELLA HOU/WLA, JDC
SB207
DOT; Airports; Harbors; Illegal Fireworks; Inspection Facilities
RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION.
Requires the Department of Transportation to install and use at each state airport and commercial harbor electronic equipment capable of scanning for illegal fireworks.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to PSM/TRS, WAM. FEVELLA, AQUINO, CHANG, GABBARD PSM/TRS, WAM
SB208
DHS; Senior Citizen Discount; Study; Report
RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES.
Requires the Department of Human Services to assess the feasibility of offering a 20% discount on certain goods and services for the State's low- to moderate-income elders.
(S) 1/17/2025- Referred to HHS, WAM. FEVELLA, AQUINO, CHANG, DECORTE, GABBARD, RICHARDS, Moriwaki HHS, WAM
SB209
Water Use; Commission on Water Resource Management; Recreational or Ornamental Purposes; Prohibition
RELATING TO WATER.
Prohibits the use of 1,000,000 or more gallons of water per year for recreational or ornamental purposes.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA, JDC. FEVELLA WLA, JDC
SB210
DLNR; United States Military; Leases; Lease Extensions; Prohibitions; Public Lands
RELATING TO PUBLIC LANDS.
Prohibits the Department of Land and Natural Resources from approving any land disposition to the United States military that allows for or facilitates any military training activities on the subject lands. Requires that any lease or lease extension between the State and the US Department of Defense or branches of the US military include certain provisions, including an acknowledgement that the State retains authority over all environmental matters within its jurisdiction. Provides that violation of state or federal environmental law, or any law, rule, or order on a matter affecting the health and safety of the State's residents, shall be grounds for terminating the lease.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA/PSM, JDC. FEVELLA, DECORTE WLA/PSM, JDC
SB211
Hawaii Community Development Authority; OHA; Residential Development; Kakaako Makai
RELATING TO THE HAWAII COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY.
Allows the raising of the building height limit for 2 of the 5 parcels owned by the Office of Hawaiian Affairs in the Kakaako Makai area to 400 feet. Lifts the current restriction against residential development on the 5 OHA-owned parcels in Kakaako Makai to allow residential development by OHA or by third parties to which OHA conveys the parcels. Requires OHA and any developer to provide written notice to any tenant or resident of potential aircraft related nuisances before entering into a lease, and to assess and propose mitigation efforts to address aircraft related nuisances in development plans and proposals.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA/HWN/HOU/TRS, JDC/WAM. FEVELLA, CHANG, Richards WLA/HWN/HOU/TRS, JDC/WAM
SB212
Cesspool Conversion; Mandate; Exemption
RELATING TO CESSPOOLS.
Authorizes the Director of Health to grant an exemption from the requirement to upgrade, convert, or connect a cesspool if the State is unable to present evidence that the cesspool is affecting the State's drinking water supply or recreational waters.
(S) 1/17/2025- Referred to HHS/AEN, WAM/JDC. FEVELLA, DECORTE HHS/AEN, WAM/JDC
SB213
Abortion Survivor; Infant Born Alive; Penalties
RELATING TO CHILDREN.
Requires medically appropriate and reasonable life-saving and life-sustaining medical care and treatment for all infants born alive. Establishes civil and criminal penalties.
(S) 1/17/2025- Referred to HHS, JDC/WAM. FEVELLA, DECORTE, GABBARD HHS, JDC/WAM
SB214
Minimum Wage; Tip Credit
RELATING TO INCOME.
Implements a phased elimination of the tip credit.
(S) 1/17/2025- Referred to LBT/CPN, WAM. FEVELLA, CHANG LBT/CPN, WAM  HB684
SB215 SD1
Towing Companies; Fees
RELATING TO TOWING COMPANIES.
Changes the fees that a towing company may charge to tow vehicles left unattended on private and public property. Prohibits a towing company or parking management company from installing immobilization devices on motor vehicles. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/11/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to CPN. FEVELLA, CHANG, Hashimoto, Richards TCA, CPN
SB216 SD1
BOA; DOA; Agricultural Park Lots; Farm Dwellings; Land Use; Inspections
RELATING TO FARM DWELLINGS.
Prohibits residing on agricultural park lots unless within a farm dwelling permitted by the Board of Agriculture. Authorizes the Department of Agriculture to conduct inspections of agricultural park lots for unpermitted farm dwellings during fiscal year 2025-2026. (SD1)
(S) 2/13/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to JDC. DECOITE (Introduced by request of another party) AEN, JDC
SB217
DOT; Toll Roads; Toll Charges; Hana Highway
RELATING TO TRANSPORTATION.
Authorizes the Director of Transportation to designate as a toll road, and impose toll charges for the use of, any existing state highway. Requires the Director of Transportation to designate as a toll road a certain portion of Hana Highway. Requires the Department of Transportation to develop a plan to exempt resident vehicle operators from the imposition of toll charges for the use of Hana Highway.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to TRS, WAM. DECOITE (Introduced by request of another party) TRS, WAM
SB218
Tourism; Hawaii Tourism Authority; Corporation for the Stewardship of Hawaii Tourism; Destination Management
RELATING TO TOURISM.
Replaces the Hawaii Tourism Authority with the Corporation for the Stewardship of Hawaii Tourism, a nonprofit entity to guide Hawaii's visitor economy in collaboration with public, private, nonprofit, and community stakeholders in achieving beneficial outcomes from tourism based on the principles of destination stewardship and regenerative tourism.
(S) 1/17/2025- Referred to EDT, WAM/JDC. DECOITE (Introduced by request of another party) EDT, WAM/JDC  HB19
SB219
Ocean Recreation and Coastal Areas Programs; DLNR; State Small Boat Harbors; Maui County; Inter-Island Ferry Services; Fees
RELATING TO INTER-ISLAND FERRY SERVICE.
Clarifies that harbor use fees shall not be waived for vessels engaging in inter-island ferry service within Maui county.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA/TRS, WAM/CPN. DECOITE (Introduced by request of another party) WLA/TRS, WAM/CPN
SB220
County Surcharge on State Tax; Extension; General Excise Tax; Transient Accommodations Tax
RELATING TO TRANSPORTATION FINANCING.
Authorizes a county that has adopted a surcharge to state tax to extend the surcharge to 12/31/2056. Extends the end date of the one percent Transient Accommodation Tax increase to 12/31/2056. Requires the State Auditor to conduct an audit and annual review of the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation until 12/31/2056. Requires the Comptroller to certify the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation's invoices for capital costs until 12/31/2056.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to TRS/EIG, WAM. ELEFANTE, AQUINO, CHANG, RICHARDS TRS/EIG, WAM
SB221
Department of Education; Free School Breakfasts and Lunches; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO SCHOOL MEALS.
Beginning with the 2025-2026 school year, requires the Department of Education to provide free breakfast and lunch to students enrolled in a public school who meet certain requirements. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/17/2025- Referred to EDU, WAM. ELEFANTE, AQUINO, CHANG, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, MCKELVEY, RICHARDS, San Buenaventura, Wakai EDU, WAM  HB424
SB225
Negligent Homicide in the First Degree; Driving Under the Influence; Victim Restitution; Child Support
RELATED TO DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE.
Requires defendants convicted of causing the death of a parent or legal guardian of a minor child by the operation of a vehicle in a negligent manner while under the influence of drugs or alcohol to make restitution in the form of financial support to each surviving child of the victim.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to TRS, JDC. ELEFANTE, CHANG, FUKUNAGA, HASHIMOTO, MCKELVEY, MORIWAKI, RICHARDS, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Kanuha, Wakai TRS, JDC  HB711
SB226
Health Insurance; Prescription Drugs; Step Therapy Protocol; Clinical Review Criteria; Clinical Practice Guidelines; Exceptions
RELATING TO PRESCRIPTION DRUGS.
Establishes requirements for the clinical review criteria and clinical practical guidelines used to establish step therapy protocols. Provides a process for a patient to request an exception to using step therapy protocols. Establishes insurance coverage requirements relating to the use of step therapy protocols and standards to appeal an adverse step therapy exception determination.
(S) 1/17/2025- Referred to HHS, CPN. ELEFANTE, CHANG, DECOITE HHS, CPN  HB216
SB227 SD1 HD2
DLE; Illegal Fireworks Enforcement Division; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO FIREWORKS.
Establishes the Illegal Fireworks Enforcement Division within the Department of Law Enforcement. Appropriates funds. Sunsets 6/30/2028. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(H) 4/10/2025- Received notice of disagreement (Sen. Com. No. 779). ELEFANTE, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, FUKUNAGA, GABBARD, INOUYE, KANUHA, RHOADS, WAKAI JHA, FIN
SB228 SD1 HD2
Excited Delirium; Medical Diagnosis; Cause of Death; Incident Report; Law Enforcement Officers; Hawaii Rules of Evidence
RELATING TO EXCITED DELIRIUM.
Prohibits excited delirium from being recognized as a valid medical diagnosis or cause of death in the State. Prohibits a medical examiner, coroner, or health care provider from stating on a certificate of death or in any report that the cause of death was excited delirium. Prohibits law enforcement officers from using the term excited delirium to describe an individual in an incident report. Establishes a new Hawaii Rule of Evidence that deems evidence that a person experienced or suffered an excited delirium inadmissible in a civil action. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(H) 4/16/2025- Received notice of Senate conferees (Sen. Com. No. 809). ELEFANTE, CHANG, Fevella HLT, JHA
SB229
Department of Education; Farm to School Program; Geographic Preference; Locally Grown Food
RELATING TO DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION FARM TO SCHOOL PROCUREMENT.
Requires the Department of Education to establish rules for the procurement of goods and services related to the administration of food programs at public schools that incorporate a geographic preference for unprocessed locally grown and locally raised food products.
(S) 1/17/2025- Referred to EDU, WAM. GABBARD, CHANG EDU, WAM  HB191
SB230
HSEO; DOT; DAGS; Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure; State Buildings; Retrofitting; Report; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING INFRASTRUCTURE.
Requires that if parking is to be included in any new state building construction, the design provide that at least twenty-five per cent of parking stalls be electric vehicle charger-ready. Requires the Hawaii State Energy Office, in consultation with the Department of Accounting and General Services and the Department of Transportation, to conduct a survey and identify certain high-priority state facilities. Establishes a goal of the State to retrofit state facilities to be electric vehicle charger-ready. Requires a report to the Legislature. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/17/2025- Referred to GVO/EIG, WAM. GABBARD, RHOADS GVO/EIG, WAM
SB231
Agricultural Tourism; Accessory and Secondary Use; Restrictions; Productive Agricultural Use
RELATING TO AGRICULTURAL TOURISM.
Requires the counties to adopt ordinances setting forth procedures and requirements for the review and permitting of agricultural tourism uses and activities as secondary uses, in addition to accessory uses, on a working farm or farming operation. Requires the counties' ordinances to include requirements that: the principal agricultural use on a working farm or farming operation preexists the issuance of any land use permit or building permit for any accessory and secondary use; agricultural tourism includes only those activities that are allowed under existing zoning and land use regulations; and agricultural tourism be allowed only on land on which productive agricultural use is occurring.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA/AEN/EIG/EDT, WAM. GABBARD, CHANG, San Buenaventura WLA/AEN/EIG/EDT, WAM  HB189
SB232
Solar Distributed Energy Resource Systems; Building Permits; Online Automated Permitting Platform; Self-Certification Process
RELATING TO RENEWABLE ENERGY.
Requires government entities in the State that issue building permits to implement SolarAPP+ or a functionally equivalent online automated permitting platform that verifies code compliance and issues permits to licensed contractors for solar distributed energy resource systems in real-time by 1/1/2026. Requires government entities in the State that issue building permits in areas served by an investor-owned electric utility to adopt a self-certification process for solar distributed energy resource systems that are not SolarAPP+ compatible.
(S) 1/30/2025- The committee on EIG deferred the measure. GABBARD, CHANG, San Buenaventura EIG/GVO, CPN/WAM
SB233
Climate Resilience; Emergency Preparedness; Workforce Development; Energy Security Special Fund
RELATING TO CLIMATE RESILIENCE.
Requires the Hawaii Clean Energy Initiative Program to design and implement a plan to increase jobs that strengthen emergency preparedness and climate resilience. Authorizes the use of the Energy Security Special Fund to advance the State's goals of strengthening emergency preparedness and climate mitigation.
(S) 2/14/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading and referred to WAM. GABBARD, CHANG EIG, WAM
SB234
Plant-Based Building Materials Working Group; Report
RELATING TO AGRICULTURE.
Establishes a Plant-Based Building Materials Working Group to study how best to grow plants, develop plant-based building materials in Hawaii, and provide economic development and green jobs while sequestering greenhouse gases to help achieve the State's climate target. Requires a report to the legislature.
(S) 1/17/2025- Referred to AEN/EDT, WAM. GABBARD, AQUINO, CHANG, RHOADS AEN/EDT, WAM
SB235
Department of Education; Farm to School Meals; Department Schools; School Meals; Plant-based Option; Plant-Based Meal Program
RELATING TO SCHOOL MEALS.
Requires the Department of Education to authorize and facilitate complex areas or individual department schools to form their own farm to school meal programs through partnerships to meet the local farm to school meal goal of thirty per cent of food served in the school to consist of locally sourced products by 2030. Allows the Department of Education to establish a plant-based meal program no later than the 2026-2027 school year.
(S) 1/17/2025- Referred to EDU/AEN, WAM. GABBARD, CHANG, Fukunaga, San Buenaventura EDU/AEN, WAM  HB328
SB236
DOH; Auditor; Cesspools; Mandatory Upgrade, Conversion, or Connection; Prioritization; Income Tax Credit; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO CESSPOOLS.
Part II: Requires certain priority level 1 cesspools to be upgraded, converted, or connected before 1/1/2035, and priority level 2 cesspools to be upgraded, converted, or connected before 1/1/2040, rather than before 1/1/2050. Part III: Appropriates funds to the Department of Health to implement the Cesspool Compliance Pilot Grant Project established pursuant to Act 153, Session Laws of Hawaii 2022. Part IV: Establishes an income tax credit for the cost of upgrading or converting a qualified cesspool to a Director of Health-approved wastewater system or connecting to a sewerage system, and requires the Auditor to periodically review the tax credit.
(S) 1/17/2025- Referred to AEN/HHS, WAM/JDC. GABBARD, CHANG, FUKUNAGA AEN/HHS, WAM/JDC
SB237
Adaptation Pathways; Adaptation Planning for Residential and Resort Shoreline Development; Sea Level Rise Exposure Area; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO ADAPTATION PATHWAYS PLANNING.
Expands the authority of the State and counties to develop adaptation pathways plans to modify and relocate infrastructure away from critically threatened areas to locations outside sea level rise and coastal flooding exposure areas. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA/AEN, WAM. GABBARD, CHANG, San Buenaventura WLA/AEN, WAM  HB1245
SB238
UH; DOH; Water Resources Research Center; New Wastewater System and Individual Wastewater System Technology Demonstration and Implementation Pilot Program; Reports; Positions; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO WASTEWATER SYSTEMS.
Establishes and appropriates funds for a three-year New Wastewater System and Individual Wastewater System Technology Demonstration and Implementation Pilot Program within the University of Hawaii at Manoa Water Resources Research Center. Requires the University of Hawaii at Manoa Water Resource Research Center to submit reports to the Legislature. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to AEN/EDU/HHS, WAM. GABBARD, CHANG, KANUHA, RHOADS, Fukunaga AEN/EDU/HHS, WAM
SB239 SD1
State Buildings; Public Schools Buildings; Design; Hurricanes; Shelter
RELATING TO DISASTER PREPAREDNESS.
Requires certain state buildings, including public school buildings, for which construction is anticipated to commence on or after 7/1/2026 to be designed to withstand category five hurricanes and be used as shelters in the event of an emergency. (SD1)
(S) 2/11/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. GABBARD, AQUINO, RHOADS GVO/PSM, WAM  HB358
SB240
Hawaii Right to Farm Act; Farming Operations; Customary and Traditional Subsistence Farming; Animal Feeding Operations; Ownership and Beneficiary Structure; Nuisance Claims
RELATING TO THE RIGHT TO FARM.
Amends the definition of "farming operation" by including customary and traditional subsistence farming conducted by native Hawaiian cultural practitioners and excluding concentrated animal feeding operations and business entities with unclear or non-transparent ownership or beneficiary structures. Establishes additional criteria for farming operations to meet in order to be protected against nuisance claims. Clarifies the purpose and intent of the Hawaii Right to Farm Act.
(S) 1/27/2025- The committee on AEN deferred the measure. GABBARD, CHANG, San Buenaventura AEN/HWN, JDC  HB193
SB241
DLNR; Climate Health and Environmental Action Special Fund; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO STATE FINANCES.
Establishes the Climate Health and Environmental Action Special Fund in the Department of Land and Natural Resources to minimize the impacts of, and respond to, climate crises, which, beginning 1/1/2026, will be funded by a $25 tax on transient accommodations. Exempts certain housing used for emergencies during a state disaster from the Transient Accommodations Tax. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA/AEN/EDT, WAM/JDC. GABBARD, RHOADS, Moriwaki WLA/AEN/EDT, WAM/JDC
SB242 SD2
DOA; Agricultural Land; Foreign Entities; Lease Limitations; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO FOREIGN OWNERSHIP OF AGRICULTURAL LAND.
Prohibits foreign entities from owning, leasing, or holding a controlling interest in more than an unspecified number of acres of agricultural land. Limits the lease term for agricultural land by foreign entities. Requires foreign entities that own or lease interest in agricultural lands to file an annual report with the Department of Agriculture. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD2)
(H) 3/6/2025- Referred to AGR/WAL, JHA, FIN, referral sheet 19 GABBARD, AWA, Moriwaki AGR/WAL, JHA, FIN  HB192
SB243
PUC; Energy-Efficiency Portfolio Standards; Extension; Update
RELATING TO ENERGY-EFFICIENCY PORTFOLIO STANDARDS.
Extends the State's energy-efficiency portfolio standards from 2030 to 2045. Authorizes the Public Utilities Commission to establish interim goals and clarifies procedures.
(S) 1/23/2025- Re-Referred to EIG, CPN/WAM. GABBARD, Moriwaki EIG, CPN/WAM
SB244
Conservation and Resources; Parrotfish; Spearing; Prohibitions
RELATING TO PARROTFISH.
Amends conservation and resources law to prohibit: (1) Commercial sales of parrotfish that have been caught by spearing; and (2) The spearing of parrotfish in state waters after sunset or before sunrise.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA, CPN/JDC. GABBARD WLA, CPN/JDC
SB245
Agricultural Lands; Real Property; Restrictions on Ownership; Exemptions
RELATING TO OWNERSHIP OF AGRICULTURAL LAND.
Beginning 1/1/2026, prohibits certain entities from owning, purchasing, or acquiring ownership of agricultural lands.
(S) 2/10/2025- The committee on AEN deferred the measure. GABBARD AEN, JDC/WAM
SB246
DLNR; NOAA; Coral Reef Herbivores; Coral Reefs; Report; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO CORAL REEFS.
Requires the Department of Land and Natural Resources to conduct a study on the populations of coral reef herbivores around the island of Oahu and an analysis of policies and strategies to increase the populations of coral reef herbivores around Oahu, in consultation with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center and other experts. Requires a report to the Legislature. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA, WAM. GABBARD, AQUINO, CHANG, KANUHA WLA, WAM
SB247
Conveyance Tax Surcharge; Net Capital Gains; Agricultural Land
RELATING TO AGRICULTURAL LAND CONVEYANCE TAX.
Establishes a surcharge on the conveyance tax upon the net capital gain from the transfer or conveyance of agricultural land.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA, WAM. GABBARD, CHANG, Fevella WLA, WAM  HB929
SB248
DOE; Farm to School Program; Complex Area Superintendents; DHRD; Compensation Review; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO DECENTRALIZATION OF DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION FARM TO SCHOOL.
Provides that complex area superintendents have the authority to implement the farm to school and farm to school meals programs. Requires certain school cafeteria supervisors to report directly to complex area superintendents. Establishes school cafeteria supervisor positions. Requires the Department of Human Resources Development to conduct a compensation review of school cafeteria supervisor positions. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/17/2025- Referred to EDU/LBT, WAM. GABBARD, CHANG, FEVELLA, Fukunaga, San Buenaventura EDU/LBT, WAM  HB190
SB249 SD1
DOE; Food Contracts; Local Agricultural Products; Benchmarks
RELATING TO LOCAL AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS.
Clarifies certain benchmark goals and timeline for the Department of Education to provide locally-sourced agricultural and food products. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/13/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. GABBARD, CHANG, DECOITE, FEVELLA, FUKUNAGA EDU, WAM  HB110
SB250 SD1
Department of Agriculture; Department of Taxation; Income Tax Credit; Interisland Shipping; Agricultural Products and Inputs
RELATING TO TAXATION.
Creates an income tax credit for qualified transportation costs incurred by certain taxpayers who ship agricultural products and inputs between counties. Applies to taxable years beginning after 12/31/2025. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/5/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. GABBARD, FEVELLA AEN, WAM
SB251
DOA; Counties; Invasive Species Placard Program; Invasive Species; Plant Nurseries
RELATING TO INVASIVE SPECIES.
Requires the Department of Agriculture to adopt rules and carry out an Invasive Species Placard Program for plant nurseries. Allows a county to adopt an Invasive Species Placard Program if the Department does not adopt the Program within a certain number of years.
(S) 2/4/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading and referred to CPN/WAM. GABBARD, CHANG, DECOITE, FEVELLA, FUKUNAGA, RHOADS, San Buenaventura AEN, CPN/WAM
SB252 SD2 HD2
DOA; Pests; Invasive Species; Importation; Inspection; Sale; Prohibition; Quarantine; Penalties
RELATING TO INVASIVE SPECIES.
Clarifies that the importation of any pest or material infested or infected with an insect or other animal, disease, or pest is prohibited. Authorizes the Department of Agriculture to administratively inspect any article imported or moved into the State from the continental United States or between the Hawaiian Islands. Prohibits the sale, barter, or donation of items or material that is a pest, is infested or infected with a pest, or prohibited from being sold. Authorizes the Department of Agriculture to compel the quarantine, treatment, or destruction of certain materials. Clarifies penalties for various quarantine and import law violations, based in part on whether violations were knowingly committed. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(H) 3/21/2025- Report adopted; referred to the committee(s) on FIN as amended in HD 2 with none voting aye with reservations; none voting no (0) and Representative(s) Cochran, Garrett, Kapela, Kitagawa, Ward excused (5). KEOHOKALOLE, AQUINO, FUKUNAGA, GABBARD, MORIWAKI, RHOADS, Kidani AGR, JHA, FIN
SB253 SD2 HD1
Condominiums; Budget Summaries; Condominium Associations; Boards of Directors; Compliance; Standing; Good Faith Defense; Burden of Proof
RELATING TO CONDOMINIUM RESERVES.
Requires a detailed budget summary to contain all required information without referring the reader to other portions of the budget or reserve study. Excludes the good faith defense for associations whose boards adopt a budget that omits the required detailed budget summary. Clarifies a unit owner's standing and the association's burden of proving substantial compliance. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 4/21/2025- Received notice of appointment of House conferees (Hse. Com. No. 754). KEOHOKALOLE, FUKUNAGA, SAN BUENAVENTURA, McKelvey, Moriwaki, Wakai CPC, JHA
SB254 SD1
Hawaii Council of Mayors Package; Public Procurement; Small Purchases
RELATING TO PROCUREMENT.
Increases the procurement thresholds for small purchases. Effective 1/1/2525. (SD1)
(S) 2/10/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) GVO, WAM  HB381
SB255
Campaign Spending Commission Package; Cash Contribution Limits; Return of Contribution; Escheat
RELATING TO CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTIONS.
Amends section 11-364, Hawaii Revised Statutes, to provide that an excess contribution of more than $100 in cash, in the aggregate, from a single person during an election period to a candidate, candidate committee, or noncandidate committee shall escheat to the Hawaii election campaign fund if not returned to the contributor within 30 days.
(S) 2/5/2025- The committee on JDC deferred the measure. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) JDC, WAM  HB369
SB256
Campaign Spending Commission Package; Partial Public Financing; OHA; Maximum Amount of Public Funds Available; Minimum Qualifying Contribution Amounts; Expenditure Ceiling; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO PARTIAL PUBLIC FINANCING OF ELECTIONS.
Increases the amount of partial public campaign financing available for all state and county elective offices. Amends section 11-425, Hawaii Revised Statutes (HRS), by increasing the maximum amount of public funds available for each election for candidates (1) for Mayor of the County of Kauai and the County of Maui by 125%; (2) for the Office of Hawaiian Affairs from $1,500 to 10% of the expenditure limit established in section 11-423(d), HRS; and (3) for candidates for all other offices by 50%. Amends section 11-429(a), HRS, by increasing the amounts of qualifying contributions for the Office of Hawaiian Affairs from more than $1,500 in the aggregate to more than $5,000 in the aggregate. Provides a downward adjustment of the amounts of qualifying contributions for the Office of Prosecuting Attorney for the City and County of Honolulu, County of Hawaii, and County of Kauai and for the Office of County Council for the County of Maui. Provides for an unspecified appropriation to pay for the increase in the partial public financing program. Provides for an appropriation in the amount of $200,000 for the Commission to hire 2 additional staff members.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to JDC, WAM. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) JDC, WAM  HB370
SB257
Campaign Spending Commission; State or County Contractors; State or County Grantees; Officers; Immediate Family Members; Prohibited Contributions
RELATING TO CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTIONS.
Prohibits state or county grantees, officers and immediate family members of state or county contractors, and officers and immediate family members of state or county grantees from contributing to candidate or noncandidate committees for the duration of the contract. Requires candidates, candidate committees, or noncandidate committees to return any unlawful contribution to the contributor within 30 calendar days of receipt. Provides that if any unlawful contribution is not returned to the contributor within 30 calendar days, the unlawful contribution shall escheat to the Hawaii Election Campaign Fund.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to JDC, WAM. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) JDC, WAM  HB371
SB258
Campaign Spending Commission Package; Solicitation and Acceptance; Campaign Contributions; Candidate Committees.
RELATING TO CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTIONS.
Prohibits state and county elected officials from soliciting and accepting campaign contributions during any regular session or special session of the state legislature, including any extension of any regular session or special session or any legislative recess day, holiday, or weekend.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to JDC, WAM. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) JDC, WAM  HB372
SB259 SD1
Honolulu Police Department Package; Pawnbrokers; Secondhand Dealers; Recordkeeping
RELATING TO RECORDKEEPING.
Establishes recordkeeping requirements for secondhand dealers, requiring records to be retained for two years from the date of sale. Amends and standardizes recordkeeping requirements for pawnbrokers, requiring records to be retained for two years from the date of maturity. Effective 7/1/2077. (SD1)
(S) 2/7/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to CPN. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) PSM, CPN  HB382
SB260 SD1
Judiciary Package; Appropriations; Budget ($)
RELATING TO THE JUDICIARY.
Appropriates funds for the Judiciary for the fiscal biennium beginning 7/1/2025, and ending 6/30/2027. Effective 7/1/2025. (SD1)
(S) 2/13/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) JDC, WAM  HB400
SB261 SD1
Judiciary Package; Jury Duty; Juror and Prospective Juror Compensation; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO JURY DUTY.
Increases the amount each juror or prospective juror is paid for each day of actual attendance at court. Appropriates funds. Effective 4/23/2057. (SD1)
(S) 2/4/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) JDC, WAM  HB395
SB262 SD1
Judiciary Package; Prospective Jurors; Juror Qualification Form
RELATING TO PROSPECTIVE JURORS.
Authorizes the Judiciary to determine the format of the juror qualification form and the means of its delivery and return. Authorizes the Judiciary to use more than one method of delivery and attempt to contact any one juror more than once. Removes the requirement that the form be mailed. Effective 4/23/2057. (SD1)
(H) 3/11/2025- The committee(s) on JHA recommend(s) that the measure be deferred. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) JHA  HB402
SB263 SD1
Judiciary Package; Criminal Proceedings; Court-Appointed Counsel; Fees; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO COMPENSATION FOR COURT-APPOINTED COUNSEL.
Increases the rate of compensation and maximum allowable amounts per case for court-appointed counsel in criminal proceedings. Appropriates funds. Effective 4/23/2057. (SD1)
(S) 2/4/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) JDC, WAM  HB396
SB265
Judiciary Package; Family Courts; Court-Appointed Counsel; Guardian Ad Litem; Fees
RELATING TO COMPENSATION FOR COURT-APPOINTED REPRESENTATION.
Increases the rate of compensation and maximum allowable amounts per case for court-appointed counsel and guardians ad litem in family court proceedings.
(S) 2/4/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading and referred to WAM. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) JDC, WAM  HB398
SB266
Judiciary Package; District Court Judges; First Circuit
RELATING TO DISTRICT COURT JUDGES.
Establishes 1 additional district court judgeship in the First Circuit.
(S) 2/6/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading and referred to WAM. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) JDC, WAM  HB399
SB267
Judiciary Package; District Court Judges; Third Circuit
RELATING TO DISTRICT COURT JUDGES.
Establishes 1 additional district court judgeship in the Third Circuit.
(S) 2/6/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading and referred to WAM. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) JDC, WAM  HB401
SB268 SD1 HD1
Office of Hawaiian Affairs Package; Burial Councils; Composition
RELATING TO ISLAND BURIAL COUNCILS.
Decreases the size of the Island Burial Councils from nine to seven members. Removes the requirement for the councils to include members having development and large property owner interests. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(H) 3/19/2025- Passed Second Reading as amended in HD 1 and referred to the committee(s) on JHA with Representative(s) Amato voting aye with reservations; Representative(s) Garcia, Muraoka, Reyes Oda, Shimizu voting no (4) and Representative(s) Cochran, Ward excused (2). KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) WAL, JHA  HB409
SB269 SD1
Office of Hawaiian Affairs Package; Budget ($)
RELATING TO THE BUDGET OF THE OFFICE OF HAWAIIAN AFFAIRS.
Appropriates moneys to fund the operating expenses of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs for the fiscal biennium beginning on 7/1/2025, and ending on 6/30/2027. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/11/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) HWN, WAM  HB410
SB270
Kauai County Council Package; Sunshine Law; Boards; Members; Informational Meeting; Presentation; Board Business
RELATING TO THE SUNSHINE LAW.
Authorizes any member of a board to attend an informational meeting or presentation on matters relating to board business; provided that the meeting or presentation is not specifically and exclusively organized for or directed toward members of the board. Repeals the requirement of a subsequent report of attendance and the matters presented and discussed that related to board business at the informational meeting or presentation.
(S) 1/30/2025- The committee on GVO deferred the measure. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) GVO, JDC  HB403
SB271
Maui County Council Package; Statewide Composting; DOH; Agricultural District Lands; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO STATEWIDE COMPOSTING.
Requires the Department of Health to adopt or amend rules to establish a classification system for composting facilities or operations. Allows composting and co-composting in the agricultural district, including on lands with class A or class B soils. Appropriates moneys.
(S) 2/7/2025- The committee on HHS deferred the measure. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) AEN/HHS, WAM  HB404
SB272
Maui County Council Package; Water; CWRM; Emergency Orders; Water Shortages; Fines
RELATING TO WATER.
Defines the public trust responsibilities of the Commission on Water Resource Management. Allows the Commission to retain independent legal counsel. Amends the scope of the Commission to include declaration of emergencies. Repeals the position of Deputy to the Chairperson of the Commission on Water Resource Management and establishes the position of Executive Director. Amends the composition of the Commission. Authorizes entities to challenge an emergency order of the Commission under certain conditions. Establishes fines for certain water use offenses.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA/PSM, JDC/WAM. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) WLA/PSM, JDC/WAM  HB405
SB273
Maui County Council Package; Police; Deferred Retirement
RELATING TO DEFERRED RETIREMENT FOR POLICE.
Establishes a deferred retirement option program for police officers.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to LBT/PSM, WAM. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) LBT/PSM, WAM  HB406
SB274
Maui County Council Package; DCCA; Licensed Midwives; Licensed Certified Midwives; Licensed Certified Professional Midwives; Task Force; Reports
RELATING TO MIDWIVES.
Establishes a licensing scheme for licensed certified midwives and licensed certified professional midwives, to be overseen by the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs. Reestablishes the home birth task force to provide recommendations on issues related to home births. Dissolves the task force on 6/30/2026. Requires reports to the Legislature.
(S) 1/27/2025- Re-Referred to HHS/CPN, WAM/JDC. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) HHS/CPN, WAM/JDC  HB407
SB275
Office of Elections Package; Voter Registration; Deadlines; Forms
RELATING TO VOTER REGISTRATION.
Extends the deadline to register to vote by mail from 30 to 10 days prior to a primary or general election. Repeals obsolete language regarding permanent absentee ballots.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to JDC. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) JDC  HB408
SB276
Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Package; Criminal Offenses; Sentencing; Violation of Order for Protection
RELATING TO ORDERS FOR PROTECTION.
Reinstates mandatory minimum jail sentences for successive violations of the same order for protection. Removes the distinction between domestic and non-domestic violations of an order for protection. Eliminates the court's ability to suspend mandatory minimum sentences.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to JDC. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) JDC  HB383
SB277
Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Package; Criminal Offenses; Penal Code; Sexual Offenses Against Minors
RELATING TO SEXUAL OFFENSES AGAINST MINORS.
Increases the penalty for promoting minor-produced sexual images to a felony if the person is more than 3 years older than the minor. Extends the probationary term for felony obscenity offenses. Tolls the statute of limitations for obscenity offenses during a victim's minority. Requires sex offender registration for felony obscenity offenses involving minors.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to HHS, JDC. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) HHS, JDC  HB384
SB278
Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Package; Criminal Offenses; Sentencing; Elder Persons
RELATING TO ELDER CRIME VICTIMS.
Removes state of mind requirement pertaining to a victim's age for felony assaults aggravated by the victim's age. Raises the threshold age from 60 years of age or older to 65 years of age or older.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to HHS, JDC. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) HHS, JDC  HB385
SB279
Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Package; Criminal Offenses; Offenses Relating to Drugs and Intoxicating Compounds; Fentanyl
RELATING TO DANGEROUS DRUGS.
Conforms fentanyl to the possession offense thresholds for methamphetamine, heroin, morphine, and cocaine.
(H) 3/6/2025- Referred to JHA, referral sheet 19 KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) JHA  HB386
SB280
Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Package; Criminal Offenses; Negligent Injury
RELATING TO HIGHWAY SAFETY.
Amends the offense of negligent injury in the first degree to include injuries negligently inflicted by intoxicated drivers.
(S) 2/6/2025- The committee on JDC deferred the measure. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) JDC  HB387
SB282
Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Package; Uncrewed Aircraft; Criminal Offenses
RELATING TO UNCREWED AIRCRAFT OFFENSES.
Increases the penalty for using an uncrewed aircraft in the furtherance of the commission of a felony.
(S) 2/10/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading and referred to JDC. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) TCA, JDC  HB389
SB283 SD1
Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Package; Criminal Offenses; Bribery
RELATING TO BRIBERY.
Establishes heightened penalties for the offense of bribery, under certain circumstances. (SD1)
(H) 3/20/2025- The committee(s) on JHA recommend(s) that the measure be deferred. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) JHA  HB390
SB285
Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Package; Criminal Offenses; Firearms; Ghost Guns
RELATING TO FIREARMS.
Prohibits the possession, transfer, and sale of ghost guns. Establishes mandatory minimum sentencing for use of a ghost gun in the commission of a felony.
(S) 1/27/2025- Re-Referred to PSM, JDC. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) PSM, JDC  HB392
SB286 SD1
Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Package; Career Criminal Prosecution Unit; Appropriation ($)
MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR CAREER CRIMINAL PROSECUTION.
Appropriates funds to the Department of the Prosecuting Attorney of the City and County of Honolulu for the Career Criminal Prosecution Unit. Effective 4/23/2057. (SD1)
(S) 2/10/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) JDC, WAM  HB393
SB287 SD1
City and County of Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Package; Victim Witness Assistance Program; Appropriation; GIA ($)
MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR THE VICTIM WITNESS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM.
Appropriates funds as a grant-in-aid to the Department of the Prosecuting Attorney of the City and County of Honolulu for the Victim Witness Assistance Program. Effective 4/23/2057. (SD1)
(S) 2/10/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) JDC, WAM  HB394
SB288
City and County of Honolulu Mayor's Package; HHFDC; Housing; County Powers; Mixed-Use Development; Bond Proceeds
RELATING TO HOUSING.
Repeals the sunset provision in Act 45, SLH 2024, related to the counties' authorization to develop, construct, finance, refinance, or otherwise provide mixed-use developments.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to HOU/EIG, WAM. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) HOU/EIG, WAM  HB373
SB290
State Ethics Commission Package; Lobbying; Transparency
RELATING TO LOBBYING.
Establishes certain presumptions regarding testimony when provided by a lobbyist. Makes certain contracts voidable when entered into in violation of the state lobbying law. Expands the definition of "lobbying" in the state lobbying law to include certain communications with high-level government officials regarding procurement decisions.
(S) 1/29/2025- Re-Referred to JDC. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) JDC  HB412
SB291
State Ethics Commission Package; Lobbyists; Contributions
RELATING TO LOBBYIST CONTRIBUTIONS.
Clarifies administrative oversight of statutory restrictions relating to prohibited lobbyist contributions. Clarifies that the regular or special sessions in which lobbyist contributions are prohibited are periods during which both houses of the legislature are in session.
(S) 1/29/2025- Re-Referred to JDC. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) JDC  HB413
SB293
Residential Real Property; Mandatory Disclosure; USPS Delivery
RELATING TO REAL PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS.
Requires a seller or its agent in a residential real property transaction to disclose that the United States Postal Service cannot deliver mail or packages to the residential real property being offered for sale.
(S) 2/14/2025- The committee on CPN deferred the measure. SAN BUENAVENTURA, CHANG, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, MCKELVEY, RHOADS, RICHARDS CPN
SB294
DOE; UH; Education; Health Care Workforce; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO HEALTH CARE WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT.
Appropriates funds to support educational training programs to expand the State's health care workforce. Allocates funds to the Department of Education for health care certificate programs and classroom renovations for health care training in public high schools. Allocates funds to the University of Hawaii for education programs that support certified nurse assistants in becoming licensed practical nurses.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to HHS/EDU, WAM. SAN BUENAVENTURA, AQUINO, CHANG, DECOITE, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, MCKELVEY, MORIWAKI, Elefante, Fukunaga, Gabbard, Richards, Wakai HHS/EDU, WAM  HB714
SB296
Minors; Consent; Medical Care; Sexual Offenses; DHS; Hawaii Youth Correctional Facilities; Minor Offenders
RELATING TO MINORS.
Authorizes a physician, upon consultation with a minor patient who indicates that the minor was the victim of a sexual offense, with the consent of the minor patient, to perform customary and necessary examinations to obtain evidence of the sexual offense and may prescribe for and treat the patient for any immediate condition caused by the sexual offense. Provides that the consent of the parent, parents, or legal guardian of a minor offender who has been committed to the Hawaii youth correctional facilities is not necessary in order to authorize hospital, medical, mental health, dental, emergency health, or emergency surgical care.
(S) 2/7/2025- The committee on HHS deferred the measure. SAN BUENAVENTURA, CHANG, DECOITE, FEVELLA, MCKELVEY, MORIWAKI, RICHARDS HHS/PSM, WAM  HB731
SB297
Constitutional Amendment; Reproductive Freedom; Abortion; Contraceptives; Pregnancy Outcomes
PROPOSING A CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION OF THE STATE OF HAWAII TO PROTECT THE RIGHT TO REPRODUCTIVE FREEDOM.
Amends the Hawaii State Constitution to prohibit the State from denying or interfering with an individual's reproductive freedom, including the right to choose to obtain an abortion and to obtain or use contraceptives.
(S) 2/14/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading and referred to JDC/WAM. SAN BUENAVENTURA, CHANG, DECOITE, KANUHA, MCKELVEY, MORIWAKI, RHOADS, RICHARDS, Kidani HHS, JDC/WAM  HB728
SB298 SD1 HD1
DHS; Medicaid; In-Home Services; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO HUMAN SERVICES.
Appropriates funds to be expended by the Department of Human Services to increase funding for Medicaid in-home services. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 4/22/2025- Conference committee meeting scheduled for 04-23-25 3:30PM; Conference Room 329. SAN BUENAVENTURA, AQUINO, CHANG, DECOITE, FEVELLA, FUKUNAGA, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, MCKELVEY, MORIWAKI, RHOADS, RICHARDS HSH, FIN
SB299 SD2 HD1
Healthcare Education Loan Repayment Program; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO LOAN REPAYMENT FOR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS.
Appropriates funds for the Healthcare Education Loan Repayment Program. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 4/22/2025- Conference committee meeting scheduled for 04-23-25 3:30PM; Conference Room 329. SAN BUENAVENTURA, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, MCKELVEY, MORIWAKI, RHOADS, RICHARDS HLT, FIN  HB213
SB300
Legislature; Senators; Representatives; Vacancies; Governor
RELATING TO STATE LEGISLATIVE VACANCIES.
Establishes unspecified deadlines for the governor to appoint, and for political parties to nominate, individuals to fill certain state senatorial vacancies. Provides that if the Governor fails to appoint an individual to fill a state legislative vacancy by an applicable statutory deadline, the President of the Senate or the Speaker of the House of Representatives shall make the appointment within an unspecified number of calendar days after the deadline.
(S) 1/30/2025- The committee on GVO deferred the measure. SAN BUENAVENTURA, CHANG, FEVELLA, Moriwaki GVO, JDC
SB301 SD1 HD1
Dog Owner; Liability; Agricultural Land; Penalty
RELATING TO DOGS.
Establishes an additional penalty for a dog owner whose dog destroys property while on land zoned for agricultural use. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(H) 3/19/2025- Passed Second Reading as amended in HD 1 and referred to the committee(s) on JHA with none voting aye with reservations; none voting no (0) and Representative(s) Cochran, Ward excused (2). SAN BUENAVENTURA, CHANG, GABBARD, RICHARDS, Fevella AGR, JHA
SB302 SD1
State Fire Council Package; Fireworks
RELATING TO FIREWORKS.
Amends the definition of "cultural". Prohibits the use of consumer fireworks except for cultural use by permit. Repeals the wording of section 132D-3(1), HRS, that generally allows the use of consumer fireworks without a permit on New Year's Eve, New Year's Day, and the Fourth of July. Makes it unlawful to offer, display for sale, sell, or furnish consumer fireworks to any person except for cultural use by permit, with a cap of not more than five permits per person. Prohibits the sale of fireworks to a person more than 5 calendar days before a permitted cultural use. Imposes a fee of $25 per permit for the purchase and cultural use of consumer fireworks. Imposes a statewide limitation on consumer fireworks, except by permit for cultural use. Effective 7/1/2025. (SD1)
(S) 2/12/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to JDC. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) PSM/TCA, JDC  HB414
SB303
State Fire Council Package; Public Safety; Fire Sprinklers; Counties; Residences
RELATING TO PUBLIC SAFETY.
Amends the sunset date of Act 83, Session Laws of Hawaii 2012, to repeal section 46-19.8, Hawaii Revised Statutes, on June 29, 2025.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to PSM/EIG, CPN/JDC. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) PSM/EIG, CPN/JDC  HB415
SB305
Medical Providers; Social Security Disability Benefits; Medical Records; Requests; Reasonable Fees; Timely Response; Penalties
RELATING TO MEDICAL RECORDS.
Establishes fees that medical providers may charge for requests for a patient's medical records from the patient's family member, caregiver, or representative. Requires medical providers to respond to requests in a timely manner. Establishes penalties.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to HHS, JDC. RHOADS, MCKELVEY, SAN BUENAVENTURA HHS, JDC  HB248
SB306
Landlord-Tenant Code; Habitability; Retaliatory Evictions
RELATING TO THE LANDLORD-TENANT CODE.
Prohibits a landlord from recovering possession of a dwelling unit from a tenant if the habitability of the premises is significantly impaired. Caps a tenant's liability for rent if the habitability of the premises is significantly impaired. Provides remedies for retaliatory evictions.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to CPN, JDC. RHOADS, CHANG, MCKELVEY CPN, JDC
SB307 SD2 HD2
Law Enforcement Activities; Recordings; Private Right of Action
RELATING TO RECORDINGS OF LAW ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES.
Establishes the right of a person to record law enforcement activities. Establishes a private right of action for any violation of the right to record law enforcement activities. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(H) 3/21/2025- Report adopted; referred to the committee(s) on FIN as amended in HD 2 with none voting aye with reservations; none voting no (0) and Representative(s) Cochran, Garrett, Kapela, Kitagawa, Ward excused (5). RHOADS, CHANG LAB, JHA, FIN  HB595
SB308 SD2
Firearms; Detachable Magazines
RELATING TO FIREARMS.
Expands the ban on pistols with a detachable magazine with over a ten-round capacity to any firearm with a detachable magazine with over a thirty-round capacity. Exempts detachable ammunition magazines with a capacity in excess of thirty rounds that are designed for or capable of use with any firearm other than a pistol obtained before 1/1/2026. Effective 1/1/2026. (SD2)
(H) 3/13/2025- The committee(s) on JHA recommend(s) that the measure be deferred. RHOADS, CHANG, KIDANI, MORIWAKI JHA
SB309
Buildings; Inspections; Structural Integrity; State Building Code
RELATING TO BUILDING INSPECTIONS.
Requires periodic inspections of certain walls and appurtenances of buildings five or more stories in height. Establishes procedures for inspections, preparing inspection reports, and responding to report findings.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to PSM, WAM. RHOADS, MCKELVEY PSM, WAM
SB310
General Excise Tax; County Surcharge; Tax Assessment; Use
RELATING TO TAXATION.
Authorizes a county with a pre-existing surcharge to continue the surcharge after December 31, 2030, at a lower rate of one-fourth per cent. Authorizes counties that have not adopted a surcharge ordinance on state tax to adopt a surcharge ordinance at the current rate of one-half of one per cent through December 31, 2030, and at a rate of one-fourth of one per cent after December 31, 2030. Expands the authorized use of surcharge revenues to more than capital costs of a locally preferred alternative for a mass transit project for counties with a population greater than five hundred thousand.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to EIG, WAM. RHOADS, CHANG, KIDANI, RICHARDS, Elefante, Fevella EIG, WAM
SB311 SD1 HD1
Constitutional Amendment; Freedom of Speech; Monetary Expenditures to Influence Elections (ConAm)
PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO THE HAWAII STATE CONSTITUTION REGARDING THE FREEDOM OF SPEECH.
Proposes an amendment to the Hawaii State Constitution to provide that freedom of speech protected under the Hawaii State Constitution does not include the expenditure of money to influence elections. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(H) 3/18/2025- Passed Second Reading as amended in HD 1 and referred to the committee(s) on FIN with none voting aye with reservations; Representative(s) Alcos, Garcia, Muraoka, Pierick, Shimizu voting no (5) and Representative(s) Cochran, Ward excused (2). RHOADS, CHANG, FUKUNAGA, INOUYE, KIDANI, MCKELVEY, MORIWAKI, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Gabbard, Richards JHA, FIN
SB312 HD1
Audible Reverse Warning Systems; Broadband Sound; Exemptions; Report
RELATING TO AUDIBLE VEHICLE REVERSE WARNING SYSTEMS.
Prohibits a state- or county-owned vehicle purchased on or after 1/1/2028, from using an audible reverse warning system that emits a warning sound other than one using broadband technology. Authorizes the Director of Transportation to grant exemptions under certain circumstances. Requires the Director of Transportation to maintain an updated record of all exemptions granted and a report to the Legislature. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(H) 3/18/2025- Passed Second Reading as amended in HD 1 and referred to the committee(s) on FIN with none voting aye with reservations; Representative(s) Garcia voting no (1) and Representative(s) Cochran, Ward excused (2). RHOADS, CHANG, FUKUNAGA, KIM TRN, FIN  HB1479
SB313 SD1
Department of Taxation; Wealth Asset Tax; Wealth Tax; State Net Worth
RELATING TO A WEALTH ASSET TAX.
Beginning January 1, 2030, establishes a wealth asset tax of one per cent of the state net worth of each individual taxpayer who holds $20,000,000 or more in assets in the State. Effective 4/23/2057. (SD1)
(S) 2/12/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. RHOADS JDC, WAM  HB1235
SB314
Taxation; Corporations; Combined Reporting
RELATING TO TAX HAVEN ABUSE.
Requires corporations to include the income of all foreign subsidiaries to the State. Applies the State's apportionment formula to determine the share of reported profits subject to the appropriate tax. Effective 1/1/2026.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to CPN/JDC, WAM. RHOADS CPN/JDC, WAM  HB116
SB315
Department of Land and Natural Resources; Feral Pigs; Permitting Process; Expedited
RELATING TO FERAL PIGS.
Creates an expedited permitting process to authorize the destruction or control of feral pigs on privately owned land, if the feral pigs have caused or are likely to cause substantial damage to agricultural or aquacultural crops, indigenous plants or wildlife, or pose a threat to human health and safety.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA/AEN, JDC. SAN BUENAVENTURA, CHANG, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, KIDANI, KIM, MCKELVEY, RHOADS, RICHARDS WLA/AEN, JDC
SB316
Counties; Housing Subdivisions; Infrastructure; Roads; Repair and Maintenance; Working Group; Act 200, SLH 2022; Assessments; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO INFRASTRUCTURE MAINTENANCE IN HOUSING SUBDIVISIONS.
Requires lot owners in subdivisions that are not planned communities to pay for the repair and maintenance of subdivision roads. Authorizes counties to assess and collect fees for repair and maintenance of subdivision roads if no courtappointed or deeddesignated entity is authorized to do so. Requires counties to provide certain services to associations. Restricts provisions to counties having a population greater than 200,000 but less than 500,000. Extends the reporting date and sunset date for the working group established pursuant to Act 200, SLH 2022. Appropriates moneys.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to EIG/CPN, WAM. SAN BUENAVENTURA, CHANG, FEVELLA, RHOADS, Hashimoto, McKelvey, Richards EIG/CPN, WAM
SB317
Lactation Consultants; Breast Feeding; Licensure; DCCA
RELATING TO LACTATION CONSULTANTS.
Establishes the Board of Lactation Consultants of the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs and requires that lactation consultants be licensed by the board.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to CPN/HHS, JDC/WAM. SAN BUENAVENTURA, CHANG, Fevella, Hashimoto CPN/HHS, JDC/WAM
SB318
DCCA; Genetic Information; Genetic Testing; Privacy; Rules
RELATING TO GENETIC INFORMATION.
Requires the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs to adopt rules establishing privacy requirements for directtoconsumer genetic testing in the State. Requires the Department's rules to specify whether consumers' genetic information may be used for purposes of investigative genetic genealogy.
(S) 1/28/2025- The committee on CPN deferred the measure. SAN BUENAVENTURA, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, LEE, C., MCKELVEY, RHOADS CPN, JDC
SB319
Marijuana; Possession; Decriminalization
RELATING TO MARIJUANA.
Changes from 1 ounce to 30 grams the minimum amount of marijuana that constitutes the offense of promoting a detrimental drug in the second degree. Increases from 3 grams or less to 15 grams or less the amount of marijuana that constitutes the offense of promoting a detrimental drug in the third degree.
(S) 2/28/2025- Failed to pass Third Reading. Ayes, 11; Aye(s) with reservations: none . Noes, 12 (Senator(s) Aquino, DeCorte, Dela Cruz, Elefante, Fevella, Gabbard, Hashimoto, Inouye, Kim, Moriwaki, Richards, Wakai). Excused, 2 (Senator(s) Fukunaga, Kidani). SAN BUENAVENTURA, LEE, C., Chang, Fevella JDC
SB320
Civil Asset Forfeiture; Property Forfeiture
RELATING TO PROPERTY FORFEITURE.
Restricts civil asset forfeiture to cases involving the commission of a felony offense where the property owner has been convicted of an underlying felony offense. Directs forfeiture proceeds to the general fund. Amends the allowable expenses for moneys in the criminal forfeiture fund. Requires the Attorney General to adopt rules necessary to carry out the purpose of the Hawaii Omnibus Criminal Forfeiture Act. Amends the deadline for the Attorney General to report to the Legislature on the use of the Hawaii Omnibus Criminal Forfeiture Act. Limits the transfer of certain forfeiture property to federal agencies. Establishes records requirements.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to JDC, WAM. SAN BUENAVENTURA, CHANG, LEE, C., MCKELVEY, RHOADS JDC, WAM
SB322 SD1
DHS; Medicaid; Long-Term Care Services; Home- and Community-Based Services; Rates; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO MEDICAID.
Appropriates funds to the Department of Human Services to achieve the full funding, including estimated payment increases, of Medicaid home- and community-based services. Effective 12/31/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/14/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. SAN BUENAVENTURA, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, LEE, C., MCKELVEY, MORIWAKI, Elefante, Gabbard HHS, WAM
SB323
DOH; Mental Health; Intoxication; Incapacity; Voluntary Treatment
RELATING TO MENTAL HEALTH.
Authorizes a person intoxicated by alcohol, under the influence of drugs, or incapacitated by substances, including a minor, to voluntarily admit themself to a psychiatric facility or a behavioral health crisis center for an emergency evaluation to determine need for treatment.
(S) 2/10/2025- The committee on HHS deferred the measure. SAN BUENAVENTURA, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, FUKUNAGA, HASHIMOTO, LEE, C., MCKELVEY, Gabbard HHS, JDC
SB324
Insurance Coverage; Pharmacists; Reimbursement
RELATING TO PHARMACISTS.
Mandates reimbursement for services provided by participating registered pharmacists practicing within their scope of practice by private and public health plans in the State beginning January 1, 2026.
(S) 2/10/2025- The committee on HHS deferred the measure. SAN BUENAVENTURA, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, LEE, C., MCKELVEY, RICHARDS, Fukunaga, Hashimoto HHS, CPN
SB325 SD1 HD1
Mandatory Tax Credit; Emergency and Budget Reserve Fund; Other Post-Employment Benefits Trust Fund; Constitution; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO THE GENERAL FUND.
Provides a tax credit to taxpayers and makes deposits to the emergency and budget reserve fund and other post-employment benefits trust fund pursuant to article VII, section 6, of the Hawaii State Constitution. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(H) 4/21/2025- Received notice of Senate conferees (Sen. Com. No. 848). DELA CRUZ FIN
SB327 SD2 HD1
Department of Labor and Industrial Relations; Private Sector; Internships; Workforce Development; Workers' Compensation Coverage; Appropriation
RELATING TO INTERNSHIPS.
Permits the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations to enter into contracts with eligible employers or registered apprenticeship programs in the private sector to provide on-the-job training to eligible interns. Provides that the State shall be the responsible employer for purposes of workers' compensation coverage for students or recent graduates in the on-the-job-training work experience program, subject to certain limitations. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(H) 3/21/2025- Passed Second Reading as amended in HD 1 and referred to the committee(s) on FIN with none voting aye with reservations; none voting no (0) and Representative(s) Cochran, Garrett, Kapela, Kitagawa, Ward excused (5). DELA CRUZ, AQUINO, CHANG, DECOITE, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, KIDANI, KIM, MORIWAKI, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Richards LAB, FIN
SB328 SD1 HD2
Income Tax; Dairy Farm Retrofit; Hog Farm Conversion; Tax Credit
RELATING TO TAXATION.
Establishes an income tax credit for capital infrastructure costs incurred in the conversion of a dairy farm to a hog farm. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(H) 4/15/2025- Received notice of Senate conferees (Sen. Com. No. 789). DELA CRUZ, AQUINO, CHANG, DECOITE, HASHIMOTO, INOUYE, KIDANI, KIM, Richards, San Buenaventura AGR, ECD, FIN
SB329 HD1
Water Pollution; Recycled Water; Treatment Works Effluent; Counties; Reports
RELATING TO WATER POLLUTION.
Requires at least fifty per cent of treatment works effluent to be R-1 recycled water by January 1, 2045. Requires each county to report to the Department of Health by 1/1/2027 on the feasibility of recycling treatment works effluent that meets certain standards. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(H) 3/20/2025- Passed Second Reading as amended in HD 1 and referred to the committee(s) on FIN with none voting aye with reservations; Representative(s) Pierick voting no (1) and Representative(s) Cochran, Ward excused (2). DELA CRUZ, CHANG, DECOITE, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, KIDANI, KIM, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Elefante EEP, FIN
SB331
Contractor Repair Act; Notice of Claim; Inspection; Repair; Rejection of Claims; Limitations on Recovery
RELATING TO THE CONTRACTOR REPAIR ACT.
Expands the required contents of a notice of claim of construction defect served on a contractor. Requires the claimant to provide actual evidence of the nature and cause of the construction defect and extent of necessary repairs along with the notice of claim to the extent the claimant has evidence. Amends the process and time frame for a claimant to accept a contractor's proposal to inspect and authorize the contractor to proceed with repairs. Limits the amount a claimant can recover if the claimant unreasonably rejects a contractor's proposal to inspect or an offer to remedy.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to CPN, JDC. CHANG CPN, JDC
SB333
DOH; Study; Addictive Online Activities; Report; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO HEALTH.
Requires the Department of Health to conduct a study on addictive online activities engaged in by residents of the State and submit a report to the Legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the Regular Session of 2026. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to HHS, WAM. CHANG HHS, WAM
SB334
Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism; Tourism; Restaurants; Michelin Guide; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO TOURISM.
Appropriates funds to sponsor a Michelin Guide for restaurants statewide.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to EDT, WAM. CHANG EDT, WAM
SB335
Candidates; Office of Elections; Nomination Papers; Challenges; Hearings
RELATING TO CANDIDATES.
Requires objections made by an officer of a political party to candidate nomination papers to be filed with and determined by the Office of Elections.
(S) 2/6/2025- The committee on JDC deferred the measure. CHANG JDC  HB104
SB337 SD1
HLRB; Collective Bargaining; Resolution of Disputes; Impasse; Arbitrator Selection
RELATING TO COLLECTIVE BARGAINING.
Authorizes the Hawaii Labor Relations Board to request the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service to furnish a list of five qualified and experienced interest arbitrators in the event the parties fail to select the neutral third member of the arbitration panel. Clarifies that the list of five interest arbitrators may contain arbitrators from both the American Arbitration Association and the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service. (SD1)
(S) 2/10/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, RHOADS, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Fukunaga, Gabbard LBT, WAM  HB162
SB338 SD2 HD1
DOTAX; Technology Infrastructure Renovation Tax Credit; Reinstatement; Technology-Enabled Infrastructure; Data Servers; Report
RELATING TO TAXATION.
For taxable years beginning after 12/31/2025, temporarily reinstates the Technology Infrastructure Renovation Tax Credit and expands the definition of "technology-enabled infrastructure" to include data servers. Requires the Department of Taxation to submit a report to the Legislature. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(H) 3/21/2025- Passed Second Reading as amended in HD 1 and referred to the committee(s) on FIN with none voting aye with reservations; none voting no (0) and Representative(s) Cochran, Garrett, Kapela, Kitagawa, Ward excused (5). AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, Fukunaga ECD, FIN
SB339
Long-Term Care Facilities; Needs Allowance; State Supplemental Payment for Domiciliary Care
RELATING TO NEEDS ALLOWANCE.
Clarifies that the monthly needs allowance afforded to individuals living in certain long-term care facilities is not intended to replace or affect funds received as a state supplemental payment for domiciliary care and shall be supplemental to any funds provided to a recipient as a state supplemental payment for domiciliary care.
(S) 2/12/2025- The committee on HHS deferred the measure. AQUINO, CHANG, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Elefante HHS, WAM
SB340 SD1 HD1
HLRB; Collective Bargaining in Public Employment; Orders; Enforcement
RELATING TO COLLECTIVE BARGAINING IN PUBLIC EMPLOYMENT.
Clarifies that the Hawaii Labor Relations Board has the authority to enforce its own orders issued pursuant to state law governing collective bargaining in public employment, in addition to discretion to seek judicial enforcement of its orders under the Hawaii Employment Relations Act. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(H) 3/20/2025- Passed Second Reading as amended in HD 1 and referred to the committee(s) on JHA with Representative(s) Amato voting aye with reservations; none voting no (0) and Representative(s) Cochran, Ward excused (2). AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, MORIWAKI, RHOADS, Gabbard, San Buenaventura LAB, JHA
SB341
Reimbursement; Public Employees; Travel Costs; Interest Owed
RELATING TO REIMBURSEMENT OF PUBLIC OFFICERS AND EMPLOYEES.
Requires the State or a county to reimburse an officer or employee within thirty calendar days of a request for reimbursement for travel costs that the officer or employee loaned to the State or a county. Requires the State or a county to pay a percentage of interest on the total amount owed to an officer or employee until the loan is fully reimbursed.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to GVO/LBT, WAM. AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, GABBARD, KANUHA, RHOADS, San Buenaventura GVO/LBT, WAM  HB163
SB342 SD1
State and County Employees; Paid Family Leave; Collective Bargaining Agreement
RELATING TO PAID FAMILY LEAVE.
Requires five days of paid family leave annually for certain state and county employees. Ensures the protection of wage, seniority, and other employment benefits of employees who take paid family leave. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/12/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. AQUINO LBT, WAM
SB343
DHRD; Counties; Public Employees; Temporary Hazard Pay
RELATING TO HAZARD PAY.
Allows the Director of Human Resources Development and the Director's county counterparts, with the approval of the Civil Service Commission in the case of the county, to grant temporary hazard pay to public employees.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to LBT, WAM. AQUINO LBT, WAM
SB345 SD1 HD1
Campaign Spending Commission; Partial Public Financing; OHA; Maximum Amount of Public Funds Available; Minimum Qualifying Contribution Amounts; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO PUBLIC FINANCING.
Increases the amount of partial public campaign financing available for all elective offices. Adjusts the minimum amount of qualifying contributions certain candidates must receive to participate in the program. Increases the matching fund payments for excess qualifying contributions. Appropriates funds for the program and staff. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(H) 3/18/2025- Passed Second Reading as amended in HD 1 and referred to the committee(s) on FIN with Representative(s) Matsumoto, Shimizu voting aye with reservations; Representative(s) Alcos, Garcia, Muraoka, Pierick, Reyes Oda voting no (5) and Representative(s) Cochran, Ward excused (2). RHOADS, CHANG, FUKUNAGA, KIDANI JHA, FIN
SB346
Blood Alcohol Concentration; Driving Under the Influence; Motor Vehicles; Alcohol
RELATING TO THE USE OF INTOXICANTS WHILE OPERATING A VEHICLE.
Lowers the blood alcohol concentration threshold for driving while under the influence of alcohol from 0.08 to 0.05.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to TRS, JDC. RHOADS TRS, JDC
SB347
Landlord Tenant Law; Unpaid Rent; Security Deposit
RELATING TO LANDLORD-TENANT LAW.
Authorizes a tenant to change the date on which the tenant's rent is due by making a one-time payment to cover the period between the original due date and the newly established due date. Clarifies that a landlord may only assess a late fee on any unpaid rent and not the entire monthly rent. Reduces the maximum amount of a late charge for unpaid rent from 8% of the unpaid amount to 5% of the unpaid amount. Specifies that if rent is increased, the landlord may also proportionately increase the amount due as a security deposit; provided that a continuing or renewing tenant shall have at least 30 days to pay the additional amount due. Makes conforming amendments.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to CPN, JDC. RHOADS CPN, JDC
SB348
Uniform Antitrust Pre-Merger Notification Act
RELATING TO THE UNIFORM ANTITRUST PRE-MERGER NOTIFICATION ACT.
Establishes the Uniform Antitrust Pre-Merger Notification Act.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to CPN, JDC. RHOADS, Richards CPN, JDC
SB349
Capital Gains Tax; Rate; Repeal
RELATING TO CAPITAL GAINS.
Taxes capital gains income at the same rate as ordinary income.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to WAM. RHOADS, MORIWAKI WAM
SB350 SD1
Constitutional Amendment; Right to Obtain Contraceptives; Right to Engage in Contraception (ConAm)
PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO THE HAWAII CONSTITUTION TO PROTECT THE RIGHT TO CONTRACEPTION.
Proposes an amendment to article I of the Constitution of the State of Hawaii to protect a person's right to obtain contraceptives and engage in contraception. (SD1)
(S) 3/10/2025- Notice of bill proposing constitutional amendment transmitted to Governor pursuant to Article XVII, Section 3 (Sen. Com. No. 1). RHOADS, CHANG, RICHARDS, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Moriwaki HLT, JHA, FIN
SB351
DOA; Pesticides; Restricted Use; Geospatial Data; Reports; Online Reporting Tool
RELATING TO PESTICIDES.
Requires quarterly rather than annual reporting of all use of restricted use pesticides. Amends the contents of reports to include specific geospatial data and information and increased detail on the amount of restricted use pesticides used. Requires the Department of Agriculture to develop an online reporting tool for restricted use pesticides.
(S) 2/4/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading and referred to CPN/WAM. RHOADS, GABBARD AEN, CPN/WAM  HB1284
SB352 SD2
DOA; Pesticides; Buffer Zones; Restricted Use Pesticides; Consistent Unit of Measurement
RELATING TO PESTICIDES.
Requires the Department of Agriculture to use consistent units of measurement in its summary to the public on the amounts of restricted use pesticides applied. Establishes a one-half mile buffer zone for pesticides around schools during normal school hours and state and county public parks. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD2)
(H) 3/6/2025- Referred to AGR, CPC, referral sheet 19 RHOADS, GABBARD AGR, CPC  HB1285
SB353 SD2 HD3
Emergency Management; State of Emergency
RELATING TO EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT.
Amends emergency management laws to clarify state and county authority. Prohibits the Governor or Mayor from suspending requests for records or vital records and statistics during a state of emergency. Adds definition of the term "severe weather warning". Allows the Legislature and county councils to terminate a state of emergency after thirty days, in whole or in part, issued by the Governor or Mayor, respectively. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD3)
(H) 4/10/2025- Received notice of disagreement (Sen. Com. No. 779). RHOADS, ELEFANTE, MCKELVEY PBS, JHA, FIN  HB673
SB354
Consumer Protection; Transient Accommodations; Booking Transactions; Drip Pricing; Disclosures; Junk Fees
RELATING TO CONSUMER PROTECTION.
Prohibits any person from charging any fees on a transient accommodation or resort time share vacation interest, plan, or unit that were not disclosed before the time of purchase. Requires a person to clearly and conspicuously display a rate or price that includes all fees to be charged at the time of purchase in each advertisement for a transient accommodation or resort time share vacation interest, plan, or unit. Requires any taxes and fees that are displayed as a percentage of the cost on a booking transaction also be displayed as a dollar amount at the time of purchase.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to EDT, CPN. RHOADS, RICHARDS EDT, CPN  HB321
SB355
Consumer Protection; Transient Accommodations; Booking Transactions; Disclosures; Taxes; Government-Related Fees; Unfair and Deceptive Practices
RELATING TO CONSUMER PROTECTION.
Prohibits any person from advertising, displaying, or offering a price for the rental or letting of a transient accommodation or resort time share vacation unit that does not include all taxes and fees imposed by a government entity that the renter or guest must pay. Requires a person to clearly and conspicuously display a rate or price that includes all taxes and fees imposed by a government entity that the renter or guest must pay in each advertisement for the rental or letting of a transient accommodation or resort time share vacation unit. Requires any taxes and fees that are displayed as a percentage of the cost on a booking transaction to also be displayed as a dollar amount at the time of purchase.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to EDT, CPN. RHOADS EDT, CPN
SB356 SD1
Disability; Driving Under the Influence; Victim Restitution; Child Support
RELATING TO DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE.
Requires defendants convicted of causing the death or disability of a parent or legal guardian of a minor child by the operation of a vehicle while under the influence of an intoxicant to make restitution in the form of financial support to each child of the victim. (SD1)
(H) 3/6/2025- Referred to JHA, referral sheet 19 RHOADS, MCKELVEY JHA  HB115
SB357
Labor; Unpaid Internships; Students; Guidelines
RELATING TO LABOR.
Establishes clear criteria for unpaid student internship programs under the state wage laws.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to LBT, JDC. RHOADS, HASHIMOTO, KIDANI LBT, JDC  HB1469
SB358
Labor; Shift Schedules; Fair Scheduling; Work Schedules; Notice; Employee; Employer
RELATING TO FAIR SCHEDULING.
Requires employers to provide employees with written notice of the employee's shift schedule at least ten calendar days before the employee is scheduled to work, under certain circumstances. Requires certain employers to pay their employees twice as much as their regular rate of pay for time worked when their shift schedule was not timely given.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to LBT, JDC/WAM. RHOADS, AQUINO LBT, JDC/WAM
SB359
Leaf Blowers; Residential Zones; Definition
RELATING TO LEAF BLOWERS.
Defines "residential zone" for purposes of leaf blower restrictions to include residential districts, apartment districts, and business mixed use districts.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to EIG, JDC. RHOADS, MORIWAKI EIG, JDC  SB1088
SB360
OHHS; Homelessness; Return-to-Home Program; Report; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO HOMELESSNESS.
Requires the Statewide Office on Homelessness and Housing Solutions to establish a permanent Return-to-Home program to return homeless individuals in the State to families and relatives in their home states. Requires the Office to report to the Legislature. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to HHS, WAM. MORIWAKI, CHANG, FEVELLA, GABBARD, HASHIMOTO, INOUYE, KANUHA, Fukunaga HHS, WAM  HB212
SB361 SD2 HD1
Judiciary; Community Outreach Court; Homelessness; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO THE COMMUNITY OUTREACH COURT.
Permanently establishes and appropriates funds for the Community Outreach Court as a division of the District Court of the First Circuit. Effective 4/23/2057. (HD1)
(H) 3/18/2025- Passed Second Reading as amended in HD 1 and referred to the committee(s) on FIN with none voting aye with reservations; none voting no (0) and Representative(s) Cochran, Ward excused (2). MORIWAKI, CHANG, FEVELLA, GABBARD, HASHIMOTO, Elefante, Fukunaga, Kanuha JHA, FIN  HB280
SB362
Digital Currency; Companies; Activity; Money Transmitters Modernization Act; Applicability
RELATING TO DIGITAL CURRENCY.
Clarifies that chapter 489D, HRS, relating to the Money Transmitters Modernization Act, applies to digital currency companies and activity.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to CPN. MORIWAKI CPN
SB363 SD1
Firearms; Firearm Parts; Criminal Offenses; Penalties
RELATING TO FIREARMS.
Allows the carrying or possessing of firearm parts only at or between certain locations and in an enclosed container. Defines firearm parts and prohibited persons. Establishes and increases penalties for the carrying or possessing of certain firearms or firearm parts other than at or between specific locations and in an enclosed container. (SD1)
(S) 2/27/2025- The recommendation was not adopted. MORIWAKI, CHANG, ELEFANTE, RHOADS, Wakai PSM, JDC  HB279
SB364
BLNR; DLNR; DOBOR; State Boating Facility Lease Program; Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor; State Boating Facilities; Reports
RELATING TO STATE BOATING FACILITIES.
Establishes a State Boating Facility Lease Program within the Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation of the Department of Land and Natural Resources to be administered by DOBOR. Authorizes the Board of Land and Natural to lease Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor for private development, management, maintenance, and operation. Repeals provisions relating to the leasing of fast lands and submerged lands of Ala Wai Boat Harbor. Requires annual reports to the Legislature. Repeals the State Boating Facility Lease Program on 6/30/2045.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA, WAM. MORIWAKI, CHANG, FEVELLA, KIDANI, Hashimoto WLA, WAM  HB210
SB365
Gasoline-Powered Leaf Blowers; Noise and Air Pollution; Prohibition; Repeal
RELATING TO LEAF BLOWERS.
Beginning 1/1/2027, prohibits the sale or offer for sale of gasoline-powered leaf blowers. Repeals the exemption on leaf blower restrictions for government agencies.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to CPN, JDC. MORIWAKI, CHANG, GABBARD, RHOADS CPN, JDC
SB366
DLNR; Abandoned Property; Personal Property; Property Storage; Streams; Tributaries
RELATING TO STREAM MAINTENANCE.
Clarifies that personal property stored in or near a public stream or tributary for a continuous period of more than twenty-four hours shall become abandoned property which the Department of Land and Natural Resources shall dispose of.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA, JDC. MORIWAKI, RHOADS, Gabbard WLA, JDC  HB211
SB367
Mopeds; Motor Vehicles; Mufflers; Certificate of Inspection
RELATING TO TRANSPORTATION.
Prohibits the issuance of a certificate of inspection for a moped or motor vehicle that has been altered, installed, or otherwise modified in any way which will noticeably increase the noise emitted by the motor vehicle or moped above that emitted by the motor vehicle or moped as equipped from the factory.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to TRS, JDC. MORIWAKI, GABBARD, RHOADS, Wakai TRS, JDC  HB102
SB368
Health Care Providers; Medical Records; Billing Records; Record Request; Response Timeframe; Account Credit; Notice to Patient; Penalties
RELATING TO MEDICAL RECORDS.
Requires health care providers to provide patients with copies of billing records within ten working days of a request from the patient and provide written notice to patients if there is a credit on the patient's account. Clarifies that health care providers must respond to medical record requests from patients in a timely manner pursuant to federal regulations, with exceptions. Establishes penalties for violations.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to HHS, JDC. FUKUNAGA, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, GABBARD, KIDANI, RHOADS, Elefante HHS, JDC
SB369
DBEDT; DOTAX; Food and Beverage Supply Chain; Resiliency; Tax Credit; Permits
RELATING TO RESILIENCY.
Establishes the Food and Beverage Supply Chain Resiliency Income Tax Credit to be administered by the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism and Department of Taxation. Requires DBEDT to establish expedited permitting processes for food and beverage supply chain activities.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to EDT, WAM. FUKUNAGA, CHANG, DECOITE, FEVELLA, MCKELVEY EDT, WAM  HB499
SB370
DCCA; Licensed Midwives; Licensed Certified Midwives; Licensed Certified Professional Midwives; Task Force; Reports
RELATING TO MIDWIVES.
Establishes a licensing scheme for licensed certified midwives and licensed certified professional midwives, to be overseen by the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs. Reestablishes the home birth task force to provide recommendations on issues related to home births. Dissolves the task force on 6/30/2026. Requires reports to the Legislature.
(S) 1/27/2025- Re-Referred to HHS/CPN, WAM/JDC. FUKUNAGA HHS/CPN, WAM/JDC
SB371 SD2 HD1
Offenses Against Property Rights; Criminal Property Damage of Critical Infrastructure Facilities; Felony
RELATING TO PROPERTY DAMAGE OF CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE FACILITIES.
Establishes the offense of criminal property damage to critical infrastructure facilities in the first and second degree. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(H) 3/21/2025- Passed Second Reading as amended in HD 1 and referred to the committee(s) on JHA with none voting aye with reservations; none voting no (0) and Representative(s) Cochran, Garrett, Kapela, Kitagawa, Ward excused (5). WAKAI, AQUINO, CHANG, DECOITE, GABBARD, HASHIMOTO, INOUYE, KANUHA, KIDANI, MORIWAKI, Elefante, McKelvey, Richards, San Buenaventura PBS, JHA
SB372
DAGS; Naming Commission; State Buildings, Parks, Facilities, Events; Members
RELATING TO STATE NAMING COMMISSION.
Establishes an Advisory Commission in the Department of Accounting and General Services to propose names or a change of names for state buildings, parks, facilities, and events.
(S) 1/30/2025- The committee on GVO deferred the measure. MCKELVEY, CHANG, KIDANI, Fevella, Fukunaga, Gabbard, Kanuha GVO, WAM
SB373
Online Fantasy Sports Contests; Gambling; Exemption; Online Fantasy Sports Contests Special Fund; Department of the Attorney General; Taxation; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO ONLINE FANTASY SPORTS.
Establishes an online fantasy sports contests registration and monitoring program under the Department of the Attorney General. Imposes an online fantasy sports contests tax on the gross revenues of registrants. Establishes the Online Fantasy Sports Contests Special Fund and allocates proceeds of the fund to the Lahaina community recovery efforts. Exempts registered online fantasy sports contests from state gambling laws. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to EDT, WAM/JDC. MCKELVEY, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Wakai EDT, WAM/JDC
SB374
Tax Increment Bonds; County Debt Limit Statements; Comprehensive Economic Impact Analysis; Reports
RELATING TO TAX INCREMENT BONDS.
Requires counties to commission a comprehensive economic impact analysis before issuing tax increment bonds and make the analysis publicly available. Requires counties issuing tax increment bonds to conduct publicly available biennial independent audits and report to the Legislature. Requires counties issuing tax increment bonds to establish a review board to oversee tax increment bond projects. Restricts the amount of total outstanding tax increment bonds that may be excluded from the calculation of a county's debt limits from exceeding twenty per cent. Conforms county debt limit statements law to exclude tax increment bonds from the debt limit of the counties if a constitutional amendment authorizing the use of tax increment bonds and excluding tax increment bonds from determinations of the counties' funded debt is ratified.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to EIG, WAM. MCKELVEY, FEVELLA, KIDANI, Fukunaga, Hashimoto EIG, WAM
SB375 SD1
Office of the Governor; Government Restructuring; Commission; Reports; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO GOVERNMENT.
Establishes and appropriates moneys for a Select Commission on Government Restructuring within the Office of the Governor. Requires interim reports and a final report to the Legislature. Dissolves the Commission on 12/31/2027. Effective 1/1/2525. (SD1)
(S) 2/10/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. MCKELVEY, CHANG, GABBARD, KIDANI, Fevella, Hashimoto GVO, WAM
SB376 SD1
Home Fire Safety Improvement Nonrefundable Tax Credit; Insurance Commissioner; Fire Safety; Homeowner's Insurance
RELATING TO TAX CREDITS.
Establishes a nonrefundable income tax credit for taxpayers who construct or install improvements to their residence that increase the residence's fire safety rating as calculated by the taxpayer's homeowner's insurance policy. Applies to taxable years beginning after 12/31/2025. Effective 7/1/2077. (SD1)
(S) 2/14/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. MCKELVEY, AQUINO, CHANG, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, Fevella, Wakai PSM/CPN, WAM
SB377
General Excise Tax; Medical Services; Exemption
RELATING TO TAXATION.
Exempts medical services from the general excise tax.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to HHS, WAM. MCKELVEY, DECOITE, FEVELLA, GABBARD, KANUHA, KIDANI, Chang, Hashimoto, Wakai HHS, WAM
SB378 HD1
HHFDC; Maui County; Mixed-used Developments; Potential Acquisitions; Working Group; Report
RELATING TO THE HAWAII HOUSING FINANCE AND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION.
Establishes a working group within the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation to identify existing mixed-use developments in Maui County that could be acquired by the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation for use as affordable housing and commercial rental leases. Requires a report to the Legislature. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(H) 3/18/2025- Passed Second Reading as amended in HD 1 and referred to the committee(s) on FIN with none voting aye with reservations; none voting no (0) and Representative(s) Cochran, Ward excused (2). MCKELVEY, CHANG, FEVELLA, GABBARD, KIDANI, Kanuha, San Buenaventura HSG, FIN
SB379
HHFDC; Affordable Housing; Housing Projects; Affordability; Perpetuity; Special Flood Hazard Area
RELATING TO AFFORDABLE HOUSING.
Requires that Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation housing projects include a restrictive covenant that states that the units designated as affordable housing, as described in the submitted project application, shall remain as affordable housing in perpetuity. Prohibits development of affordable housing in a special flood hazard area.
(S) 2/10/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading and referred to WAM. MCKELVEY, CHANG, FEVELLA, FUKUNAGA, GABBARD, KIDANI, Moriwaki, San Buenaventura HOU, WAM
SB380
DAGS; Auditor; Report; Recommendations; Reclassification of Funds; Non-General Funds
RELATING TO NON-GENERAL FUNDS.
Reclassifies certain non-general funds of the Department of Accounting and General Services, pursuant to the recommendations made by the Auditor in Auditor's Report No. 23-17.
(S) 1/30/2025- The committee on GVO deferred the measure. MCKELVEY, CHANG, FEVELLA, KIM, RHOADS, Moriwaki GVO, WAM
SB381 SD1
Public Agency Meetings and Records; Sunshine Law; Open Deliberation; Open Meeting; Appointment; Selection; Head of a State Division or Agency; Voting
RELATING TO PUBLIC AGENCY MEETINGS.
Requires appointments and selections of heads of state divisions and agencies that require a board approval to be made through a publicly established process and timeline. Requires the approval of the process and timeline to appoint or select a new head of a state division or agency to be determined in an open meeting. Requires that votes to appoint or select heads of state divisions and agencies be conducted in an open meeting. Provides that any vote to appoint or select a head of a state division or agency cast in violation of the foregoing shall be invalid. Effective 1/1/2491. (SD1)
(S) 2/12/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to JDC. MCKELVEY, CHANG, DECORTE, GABBARD, Fevella GVO, JDC
SB382 HD1
Hawaii Public Procurement Code; Protest; Debriefing; Disclosure of Competing Proposals
RELATING TO PROCUREMENT.
Prohibits a procurement officer from disclosing a competing offeror's proposal or evaluation score, except the summary of scores, during a debriefing requested by a non-selected offeror. Authorizes the disclosure of a competing offeror's proposal or evaluation score after any protest is resolved and the contract is executed. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 4/25/2025- Conference committee meeting to reconvene on 04-25-25 1:00 PM; Conference Room 016. MCKELVEY, AQUINO, CHANG, DECORTE, FEVELLA, KIM, Fukunaga, Kanuha, Richards FIN
SB384 SD1
Victim Restitution; Negligent Homicide in the First Degree
RELATING TO VICTIM RESTITUTION.
Requires, when a defendant is convicted of negligent homicide in the first degree for causing the death of another while driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, that victim restitution shall include financial support to raise the decedent's surviving minor children until each child reaches the age of eighteen, or until the age of twenty-three for any child who enrolls full-time in a college, university, vocational school, or trade school, in an amount to be determined by the court and to be paid to the person responsible for raising the children. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/11/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to JDC. MCKELVEY, CHANG, ELEFANTE, FEVELLA, GABBARD, HASHIMOTO, MORIWAKI, RHOADS, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Fukunaga, Wakai TCA, JDC
SB386
DLNR; Maui County; Water Systems; Eminent Domain
RELATING TO WATER SYSTEMS.
Requires the Department of Land and Natural Resources to acquire all West Maui water systems by eminent domain and hold the water systems in trust for the County of Maui to manage.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA, WAM/JDC. MCKELVEY, CHANG, DECORTE, FEVELLA, SAN BUENAVENTURA WLA, WAM/JDC
SB387 SD1
DOA; Service Animal; Neighbor Island Inspection Permit Fees; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO SERVICE ANIMALS.
Requires the Department of Agriculture to be responsible for all neighbor island inspection permit fees for service animals that are located in the State and are being transported for release at Kona, Kahului, or Lihue airports. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/4/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. MCKELVEY, CHANG, FEVELLA, Moriwaki, San Buenaventura AEN, WAM
SB388
DOE; Teacher Loans; Loan Forgiveness; Teacher Incentives; Teacher Loan Program Revolving Fund; Appropriations ($)
RELATED TO TEACHER LOANS.
Establishes a teacher loan program revolving fund to encourage individuals to become teachers in hard-to-fill positions of Department of Education schools. Allows a loan to be forgiven for teachers who become a licensed teacher in Hawaii or for teachers who will commit to teach for seven years at a Hawaii public school or public charter school. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to EDU, WAM. MCKELVEY, CHANG, FEVELLA, GABBARD, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, SAN BUENAVENTURA EDU, WAM
SB389
General Excise Tax; Exemption; Medicaid; Medicare; TRICARE; Optometrists; Audiologists; Chiropractors; Act 47 (2024)
RELATING TO THE GENERAL EXCISE TAX.
Expands the general excise tax exemption established by Act 47, Session Laws of Hawaii 2024, to include amounts received by optometrists, audiologists, and chiropractors, for healthcare-related goods or services purchased under the Medicare, Medicaid, and TRICARE programs.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to HHS, WAM. MCKELVEY, CHANG, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, RHOADS, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Moriwaki HHS, WAM
SB390
CIP; 16th Senatorial District; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE SIXTEENTH SENATORIAL DISTRICT.
Appropriates funds for capital improvement projects in the 16th senatorial district.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to WAM. ELEFANTE WAM
SB391 SD1
Hawaii State Energy Office; End-of-Life Lithium-ion Battery Management Working Group; Report
RELATING TO RECYCLING.
Establishes an End-of-Life Lithium-ion Battery Management Working Group. Requires a report to the Legislature. Effective 1/1/2026. (SD1)
(H) 3/18/2025- The committee(s) on EEP recommend(s) that the measure be deferred. ELEFANTE, CHANG, FEVELLA, FUKUNAGA, GABBARD, RHOADS, RICHARDS, Hashimoto, Kanuha, Moriwaki EEP, CPC  HB332
SB392
Electric Bicycles; Regulations; Registration; Minimum Age to Operate
RELATING TO ELECTRIC BICYCLES.
Amends the definition of electric bicycles subject to various state laws and classifies electric bicycles by top assisted speed. Establishes additional regulations for the registration and use of electric bicycles. Increases the minimum age to operate an electric bicycle.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to TRS/CPN, JDC. ELEFANTE, CHANG, FEVELLA, KIDANI, Hashimoto, Kanuha, Moriwaki, Richards TRS/CPN, JDC  HB435
SB393
DOH; Hospitals; Surgical Smoke; Smoke Evacuation System
RELATING TO HOSPITALS.
Requires any hospital with an operating room licensed by the Department of Health to adopt and implement policies to prevent exposure to surgical smoke.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to HHS, CPN. ELEFANTE, CHANG, FEVELLA, FUKUNAGA, GABBARD, Richards HHS, CPN  HB218
SB394
Department of Budget and Finance; Spay and Neuter Special Fund; Advisory Committee; Income Check-Off; Free-Roaming Cats; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO THE SPAYING AND NEUTERING OF ANIMALS.
Establishes a Spay and Neuter Special Fund. Allows funds from an income tax check-off to be deposited into the Spay and Neuter Special Fund. Establishes the Spay and Neuter Special Fund Advisory Committee to establish eligibility criteria and disbursement procedures from the Special Fund. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to AEN, WAM. RHOADS, CHANG AEN, WAM
SB395
DOH; Minors; Lead Poisoning; Lead Screening Tests; Mandatory Testing; Recommendations; Report
RELATING TO LEAD POISONING.
Beginning 1/1/2026, requires physicians to perform or order lead screening tests for minor patients at certain intervals as recommended by the Department of Health and make an entry of the lead screening test in the minor patient's record. Requires the Department of Health to adopt recommendations for lead screening tests. Requires the Department of Health to report to the Legislature if it adjusts the recommendations.
(S) 1/31/2025- Re-Referred to HHS/CPN, WAM. RHOADS HHS/CPN, WAM
SB396 SD1
DHRD; Transportation; Commuting; State Employees; Plan; Commuting Choice Benefit Program; Report; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO COMMUTING.
Requires the Director of Human Resources Development, in consultation with the Hawaii Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission, State Energy Office, and Department of Accounting and General Services, to develop and implement a comprehensive Commuting Choice Benefit Program for all state employees regardless of mode of transportation. Requires a report to the Legislature. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/13/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. RHOADS LBT/TCA, WAM  HB461
SB397
Child Labor Law; Exemption; State of Hawaii; Political Subdivisions; United States
RELATING TO CHILD LABOR LAW.
Removes the exemption of the State, its political subdivisions, and the United States from the Child Labor Law.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to LBT, JDC. RHOADS LBT, JDC
SB398 SD1
Motor Vehicle Rental Fees; Spouse; Additional Driver
RELATING TO MOTOR VEHICLE RENTAL FEES.
Prohibits the charging of a fee for a lessee's spouse by a lessor under certain conditions. (SD1)
(S) 2/11/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to CPN. RHOADS TCA, CPN
SB399
HSEO; HNEI; Atmospheric Carbon Capture Plant; Feasibility Study; Report
RELATING TO AN ATMOSPHERIC CARBON CAPTURE PLANT.
Directs the Hawaii State Energy Office, in conjunction with the Hawaii Natural Energy Institute, to conduct a feasibility study for the construction of an atmospheric carbon capture plant in the State. Requires a report to the Legislature.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to EIG/AEN, WAM. RHOADS, GABBARD, Richards EIG/AEN, WAM
SB400
Firearms; Lending; Firearm Permit; Firearm Registration
RELATING TO FIREARMS.
Prohibits a person from lending a firearm to a person who does not have a firearm permit or does not have a registered firearm. Requires an adult who is borrowing a firearm to have either a firearm permit or a registered firearm, and not be prohibited to own or possess a firearm. Specifies that an adult who is twenty-one years of age or older may be lent a rifle or shotgun for a period not to exceed twelve hours. Repeals the authorization to use a rifle or shotgun outside of the State for up to seventy-five days. Repeals the authorization to lend a rifle or shotgun without a permit.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to PSM, JDC. RHOADS, CHANG PSM, JDC  HB150
SB401 SD2 HD1 CD2
Firearms; Gun Safety; Assault Rifles; Assault Shotguns; .50 Caliber Firearms; Detachable Magazines; Prohibition
RELATING TO FIREARMS.
Establishes prohibitions on assault rifles, assault shotguns, and .50 caliber firearms. Expands the ban on high-capacity detachable magazines. Allows possession of an assault rifle, assault shotgun, or detachable magazine with a capacity greater than ten rounds when certain conditions are met. Effective 1/1/2026. (CD2)
(H) 4/30/2025- Recommitted to Conference committee as amended in CD 1 with none voting no and Representative(s) Cochran excused. RHOADS, CHANG, Wakai JHA
SB402
Workers' Compensation; Disability Benefits; Death Benefits; Notice by Employer; Medical Benefits; Knowledge of Injury
RELATING TO WORKERS' COMPENSATION.
Establishes notice requirements for employers under Hawaii's Workers' Compensation Law. Requires employers who deny the compensability of an employee's injury to submit a written report supporting the denial to the Director of Labor and Industrial Relations within a specified period. Requires employers to furnish to the injured employee up to $10,000 for medical care, services, and supplies for the period immediately following the injury and so long as reasonably needed or until the employer files a written report with the Director denying the compensability of the injury, whichever is earlier. Clarifies that failure to give an employer notice of an employee's injury does not bar a claim for compensation if any person having authority in the interest of the employer had knowledge of the injury.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to LBT, JDC/WAM. RHOADS LBT, JDC/WAM  HB13
SB403
Waikiki Beach Replenishment; Public Funding Limit; Resort Zoned Areas; Greater Private Sector Contributions
RELATING TO BEACHES.
Limits public funding of beach replenishment projects in resort zoned areas to twenty per cent of the total cost.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA/EDT, WAM. RHOADS WLA/EDT, WAM
SB404
Deaf and Blind Task Force; Emotional Support Animal; Disclaimer; Service Animal; Penalties
RELATING TO SERVICE ANIMALS.
Requires sellers or providers of emotional support animals or of certificates, identifications, tags, vests, leashes, and harnesses that identify an animal as an emotional support animal to provide certain disclaimers to the buyer or recipient. Establishes penalties.
(S) 2/7/2025- The committee on CPN deferred the measure. RHOADS, GABBARD HHS/CPN, JDC
SB406 SD1
Digital Copies of Public Records; Costs and Fees
RELATING TO COPYING FEES.
Prohibits the cost of reproducing government records in a digital format from exceeding 5 cents per digital record that has already been digitized. Effective 1/1/2525. (SD1)
(S) 2/10/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to JDC/WAM. RHOADS GVO, JDC/WAM
SB407
DOH; TDI; Eligibility Criteria Exemption; Family Leave; Pregnancy; Childbirth; Preterm Birth; NICU; Kangaroo Care; Breast Milk Expression
RELATING TO EMPLOYEE BENEFITS.
Expands the State's temporary disability insurance coverage to, and exempts from TDI benefit eligibility requirements that are employment-related, employees who are unable to perform their employment duties due to the employee's childbirth or provision of kangaroo care to, or expression of breast milk for, the employee's child who is required to stay in a neonatal intensive care unit. Extends under certain conditions the temporary disability benefit payment period and family leave period for employees who are unable to perform their employment duties due to a preterm birth of a child who is required to stay in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) or birth of a child who is required to stay in a NICU for more than eight weeks. Defines "kangaroo care" and "preterm birth". Requires the Department of Health to amend its rules to include neonatal care as related condition where the phrase "pregnancy, childbirth, or other related condition" is used.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to LBT/HHS, WAM. RHOADS, Hashimoto LBT/HHS, WAM
SB408
DOE; Per-Pupil Expenditure; Increase; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
Appropriates funds to the Department of Education to increase per-pupil expenditures to $18,000 per student.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to EDU, WAM. MCKELVEY, CHANG, FEVELLA, KANUHA, RHOADS EDU, WAM
SB409
DOE; Photovoltaic Panels; Playgrounds; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION.
Appropriates funds to the Department of Education to design and construct photovoltaic panel coverings over playgrounds at all Department of Education schools.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to EDU, WAM. MCKELVEY, CHANG, GABBARD, KANUHA, RHOADS, Elefante, Fevella, San Buenaventura EDU, WAM
SB410
State Employees; County Employees; Bachelor's Degree; Requirement; Prohibition; Exemption
RELATING TO STATE AND COUNTY EMPLOYMENT.
Prohibits the State or any of its branches, political subdivisions, or agencies or any county from requiring a bachelor's degree as a condition of eligibility for hire to a position in state or county employment. Establishes exemptions.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to LBT/GVO, WAM. MCKELVEY, AQUINO, CHANG, GABBARD, KIDANI, MORIWAKI, San Buenaventura LBT/GVO, WAM
SB411 SD2 HD1
DLNR; Small Boat Harbors; State Parks; Capital Improvement Projects; Existing Facilities; Exception; Reports
RELATING TO CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS AT STATE SMALL BOAT HARBORS AND STATE PARKS.
Authorizes the Department of Land and Natural Resources to engage in certain capital improvement projects at state small boat harbors and state parks without prior approval from the Legislature and Governor for existing facilities. Requires quarterly reports to the Legislature. Sunsets 5 years after the effective date. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(H) 3/19/2025- Passed Second Reading as amended in HD 1 and referred to the committee(s) on FIN with none voting aye with reservations; none voting no (0) and Representative(s) Cochran, Ward excused (2). MCKELVEY, CHANG, DECORTE, FEVELLA, Gabbard, San Buenaventura WAL, FIN
SB412 SD1
HSEO; Renewable Energy; State Facilities; Reports; First Responder Facilities; Solar Energy
RELATING TO RENEWABLE ENERGY.
Requires the Hawaii State Energy Office to assess the feasibility of installing distributed energy resource systems at each state department facility. Requires state departments to implement and install the distributed energy resource systems detailed in the reports no later than five years from the issue date of the reports. Gives priority for the required energy efficiency measures to first responder facilities. (SD1)
(S) 2/6/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. MCKELVEY, CHANG, GABBARD, RHOADS, San Buenaventura, Wakai EIG/GVO, WAM
SB413
Fireworks Control Law; Civil Liability
RELATING TO FIREWORKS.
Establishes a civil cause of action that may be brought by any person, other than an officer or employee of the State or employee of a local governmental entity in the State, for certain violations or aiding or abetting certain violations of the Fireworks Control Law.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to PSM, JDC. MCKELVEY, CHANG, FEVELLA, GABBARD, WAKAI, San Buenaventura PSM, JDC
SB414 SD2 HD2
Department of Transportation; County of Maui; Permanent Housing; Villages of Leialii; Land; Access Road; Condemnation; Major Disaster Fund; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO RESTORING ACCESS TO DISASTER-AFFECTED AREAS.
Requires the Department of Transportation to institute proceedings to condemn certain lands in Lahaina to build a new access road from Keawe Street to the Kilohana and Kalaiola sites developed in the Villages of Leialii. Appropriates funds out of the Major Disaster Fund for the appraisals and other preparations for the condemnation proceedings. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(H) 4/16/2025- Received notice of Senate conferees (Sen. Com. No. 809). MCKELVEY, CHANG, Fevella, Fukunaga, Gabbard HSG, PBS, FIN
SB415
DLNR; Division of State Parks; Accessible Wilderness and State Parks Trails Program; Accessible Wilderness and State Parks Trails Program Special Fund; Trail Accessibility; Americans with Disabilities Act; Reports; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO TRAIL ACCESSIBILITY.
Establishes the Accessible Wilderness and State Parks Trails Program within the Division of State Parks of the Department of Land and Natural Resources. Establishes the Accessible Wilderness and State Parks Trails Program Special Fund. Requires reports to the Legislature. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA, WAM. MCKELVEY, CHANG, FEVELLA, GABBARD, KANUHA, Elefante, Richards, San Buenaventura WLA, WAM  HB1269
SB416 SD1
Residential Landlord-Tenant Code; Pet Animals; Restrictions Prohibited; Liability Insurance Coverage
RELATING TO THE RESIDENTIAL LANDLORD-TENANT CODE.
Prohibits rental agreements from prohibiting tenants from keeping pet animals in dwelling units, subject to certain conditions. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/14/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to JDC. MCKELVEY, CHANG, FEVELLA, GABBARD CPN, JDC
SB417 SD1
National Emergencies; States of Emergency; Disasters; Contractors; Unlicensed Performance of Work; Penalties
RELATING TO CONTRACTORS.
Establishes as a class B felony the unlicensed performance of contractor work, during or within 5 years following a national emergency, state of emergency, or disaster proclamation, in an affected political subdivision. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/13/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to JDC. MCKELVEY, FEVELLA, FUKUNAGA, GABBARD, KIDANI CPN/PSM, JDC
SB418 SD1
AG; Regulatory Review Program; Hawaii Administrative Rules; State Agencies; Reports; Rules; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO REGULATORY SUNSET REVIEW IN HAWAII.
Establishes a regulatory review program overseen by the Department of the Attorney General to evaluate all Hawaii Administrative Rules adopted by state agencies and identify any rules that should be retained, modified or repealed. Requires each state agency to review 20 per cent of their rules every year and submit a report to the Department of the Attorney General. Requires the Department of the Attorney General to notify the Governor and Legislature of any noncompliance by a state agency, adopt rules, and submit annual reports to the Legislature and Governor. Appropriates funds. Effective 1/1/2525. (SD1)
(S) 2/10/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM/JDC. MCKELVEY, CHANG, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, RHOADS, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Gabbard GVO, WAM/JDC
SB419 SD1 HD1
Insurance; Motor Vehicles; Child Passenger Restraint Systems; Replacement
RELATING TO INSURANCE.
Requires each motor vehicle insurance policy to cover the replacement cost of a child passenger restraint system that was damaged or in use by a child during a motor vehicle accident for which liability coverage under the policy is applicable. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(H) 3/13/2025- Passed Second Reading as amended in HD 1 and referred to the committee(s) on CPC with none voting aye with reservations; none voting no (0) and Representative(s) Cochran, Holt, Ward, Woodson excused (4). MCKELVEY, CHANG, FEVELLA, GABBARD, Fukunaga, Hashimoto, San Buenaventura, Wakai TRN, CPC, FIN
SB420 SD1
DOE; Workers' Compensation; Work-Based Internships; Recent Graduates
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
Allows newly graduated high school students to be eligible for workers' compensation coverage during the summer following their high school graduation while participating in Department of Education-sponsored work-based learning programs. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/12/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. KIDANI, AQUINO, CHANG, ELEFANTE, FEVELLA, GABBARD, HASHIMOTO, INOUYE, KANUHA, Richards, San Buenaventura EDU/LBT, WAM
SB421 SD1
DOE; Dyslexia Screening; Reading Proficiency; English Language Arts Universal Screening; Professional Development; Teacher Training; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO LITERACY.
Requires the Department of Education to administer a general dyslexia screening to all students in kindergarten through grade three. Requires the Department of Education to continue to administer the general English language arts universal screening for students in kindergarten through grade nine. Requires the Department of Education to collaborate with teacher training programs to ensure prospective candidates are trained on literacy instruction, including evidence-based intervention, to support all students. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/12/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. KIDANI, AQUINO, CHANG, DECOITE, FEVELLA, GABBARD, HASHIMOTO, INOUYE, KIM, MCKELVEY, RICHARDS, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Moriwaki, Wakai EDU, WAM
SB422 HD1
DOE; Veterans; High School Diploma
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
Authorizes the Department of Education to award a high school diploma to qualified persons who did not receive a high school diploma as a result of compulsory or voluntary induction into the armed services of the United States or whose high school education was interrupted due to wartime practices during World War II, the Korean War, or the Vietnam War. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(H) 3/21/2025- Report adopted; referred to the committee(s) on FIN with none voting aye with reservations; none voting no (0) and Representative(s) Cochran, Garrett, Kapela, Kitagawa, Ward excused (5). KIDANI, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, GABBARD, HASHIMOTO, INOUYE, KANUHA, KIM, MCKELVEY, RICHARDS, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Wakai EDN, PBS, FIN
SB424
DLIR; Health; Hospitals; Work Environment; Registered Nurses; Minimum Staffing Standard; Staffing Committee; Staffing Plan; Complaints; Penalties; Appeals; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO LABOR STANDARDS AT HEALTH CARE FACILITIES.
Establish certain minimum registered nurse-to-patient ratios for hospitals. Establishes a process to obtain a variance from the minimum registered nurse staffing standards. Requires hospitals to establish hospital registered nurse staffing committees by 9/1/2025 to develop and adopt registered nurse staffing plans. Requires the staffing committees to submit a charter to the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations. Beginning 7/1/2026, requires hospitals to submit their registered nurse staffing plan on an annual basis, and implement the staffing plan. Establishes a complaint and appeals process and penalties. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to LBT/HHS, WAM/JDC. AQUINO LBT/HHS, WAM/JDC
SB425 SD1
Civil Service; Exemptions; Contracts; Qualified Community Rehabilitation Programs
RELATING TO QUALIFIED COMMUNITY REHABILITATION PROGRAMS.
Clarifies that the civil service exemption for personal service contracts for building, custodial, and grounds maintenance services with qualified community rehabilitation programs shall not cost more than $850,000 in the aggregate per private person or entity, regardless of the number of contracts or qualified community rehabilitation programs utilized for the personal service. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/12/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, KIDANI LBT, WAM  HB159
SB426 SD1
UH; Early Learning Apprenticeship Grant Program; Childcare; Early Learning Opportunities; Professions and Occupations; Reports; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO AN EARLY LEARNING APPRENTICESHIP GRANT PROGRAM.
Establishes an Early Learning Apprenticeship Grant Program to be administered by the University of Hawaii to provide financial support for early learning program service providers in the State to participate in state- or federally-approved early learning apprenticeship programs. Requires an annual report to the Legislature. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/31/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/14/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, FUKUNAGA, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, MORIWAKI, Elefante, Wakai HRE/EDU, WAM  HB549
SB427
Office of the Governor; Board of Land and Natural Resources; Impact Aid; Public Lands; Leases
RELATING TO LAND LEASES.
Prohibits the State from leasing any public lands, or extending the lease of any public lands, to any individual, corporation, or federal agency that is in arrears in the payment of certain moneys to the State, noncompliant with a consent decree or memoranda of agreement with the State that requires environmental maintenance or remediation with regard to the subject public lands, or convicted of a crime. Requires certification by the Office of the Governor before the issuance or extension of any federal lease that the individual, corporation, or federal agency is in good standing with the State. Provides that, if any existing lessee of public lands is found not to be in good standing with the State as of the effective date of this Act, the lessee shall have three years, or until the end of the lease term, whichever is sooner, to correct the violation or the lease shall be terminated.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA, JDC. RHOADS WLA, JDC  HB491
SB429
Tobacco Products; Electronic Smoking Devices; Incremental Prohibition; Date of Birth Restriction
RELATING TO TOBACCO PRODUCTS.
Creates an incremental prohibition on tobacco products and electronic smoking devices by restricting their sale, possession, furnishing, or consumption in a public place to people born after 1/1/2005. Effective 1/1/2026.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to HHS/CPN, JDC/WAM. RHOADS, Chang HHS/CPN, JDC/WAM
SB430 SD1
Income Tax; Refund
RELATING TO TAXATION.
Requires the Department of Taxation to provide refunds to taxpayers at the same interest rate as the federal government. Effective 7/1/2025. (SD1)
(H) 3/4/2025- Referred to FIN, referral sheet 18 RHOADS FIN
SB431
DLE; Traffic Violations; Parking for Disabled Persons; Citizen Reporting
RELATING TO PARKING FOR DISABLED PERSONS.
Allows persons entitled to park in disabled parking spaces to report vehicles illegally parked in disabled parking spaces to the Department of Law Enforcement. Upon receipt of a legitimate report, requires the Department to send a notice to the offender informing them of the report and advising them of the law and penalties for illegally parking in a handicapped space.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to PSM/TRS, JDC/WAM. RHOADS, CHANG PSM/TRS, JDC/WAM
SB432
DCCA; Gender Representation; Corporate Boards; Reports; Penalties
RELATING TO EQUITABLE GENDER REPRESENTATION ON CORPORATE BOARDS.
Requires publicly held domestic corporations to have gender-diverse boards of directors. Requires the Director of Commerce and Consumer Affairs to publish certain reports on the Department's website. Establishes penalties.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to CPN, JDC. RHOADS, FUKUNAGA, KIDANI, Moriwaki CPN, JDC
SB433
Deadly or Dangerous Weapon; Bladed Weapon; Open Carry; Affirmative Defense
RELATING TO WEAPONS.
Prohibits any person from openly carrying a deadly or dangerous weapon. Includes bladed weapon in the list of deadly or dangerous weapons. Establishes an affirmative defense to a prosecution for the purposes of lawful self-defense and transporting a weapon.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to PSM, JDC. RHOADS, CHANG, Elefante PSM, JDC
SB434
DOH; Intensive Mobile Team Pilot Program; Reports; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO TREATMENT FOR MENTAL ILLNESS.
Establishes a pilot program in the Department of Health to provide intensive mobile treatment-type services, e.g., "street psychiatry", to chronically houseless adult individuals suffering from serious brain disorders like schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder. Requires reports to the Legislature. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to HHS, WAM. RHOADS, AQUINO, CHANG, ELEFANTE, FUKUNAGA, GABBARD, KANUHA, RICHARDS, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Moriwaki HHS, WAM  HB593
SB435 SD1
Office of Elections; Voter Guide; Notice; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO VOTING.
Requires the Office of Elections to include a notice to voters that a digital and print voter information guide is available. Requires the notice to be in thirty-two-point font and enclosed as a separate insert with each ballot. Requires the Office of Elections to maintain a notice on its website providing certain information about the voter information guide. Requires the Office of Elections to make the digital voter information guide available to the public no later than twenty-one days before the primary election and no later than fifty days before the general election. Appropriates funds. Effective 4/23/2057. (SD1)
(S) 2/10/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. RHOADS, CHANG, GABBARD JDC, WAM
SB436 SD1
State Fire Marshal; Term of Office; Term Limit; Maximum
RELATING TO THE STATE FIRE MARSHAL.
Provides that no person shall serve as State Fire Marshal for more than three terms. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(H) 3/13/2025- The committee(s) on LAB recommend(s) that the measure be deferred. DELA CRUZ, AQUINO, ELEFANTE, KIDANI, KIM, Wakai LAB, FIN
SB437
East-West Center; Grants; Standards and Conditions; Exemption
RELATING TO THE EAST-WEST CENTER.
Exempts the Center for Cultural and Technical Exchange Between East and West, Inc. from the qualifying standards and conditions related to the receipt of funds contained in chapter 42F, Hawaii Revised Statutes, provided that if the center contracts with a recipient or provider, then the conditions in chapter 42F, shall apply to that recipient or provider and the contract.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA, WAM. DELA CRUZ, AQUINO, KIDANI WLA, WAM
SB438 SD2 HD3
DOH; CWRM; Waste or Disposal Facilities; Landfill Units; Agricultural Districts; Buffer Zones; Underground Injection Control Lines; Prohibition
RELATING TO WASTE DISPOSAL FACILITIES.
Prohibits landfill units on land in an agricultural district with class A soils. Beginning 7/1/2025, narrows the prohibition on constructing, modifying, or expanding waste or disposal facilities within a one-half mile buffer zone of residential, school, or hospital property lines to apply specifically to landfill units or components of landfill units. Beginning 7/1/2025, prohibits the construction, modification, or expansion of a landfill unit, or any component of a landfill unit, inland of an underground injection control line in a county with a population greater than five hundred thousand, with certain exemptions. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD3)
(H) 4/10/2025- Received notice of disagreement (Sen. Com. No. 779). DELA CRUZ, KIDANI, MORIWAKI, Kim EEP, WAL, JHA
SB439 SD1 HD1
BLNR; State Parks; Trails; User Fees; Nonresidents; Rules
RELATING TO FEES.
Requires the Board of Land and Natural Resources to adopt rules to impose user fees that apply solely to nonresidents visiting state parks and trails, as selected by the Board. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(H) 4/15/2025- Received notice of Senate conferees (Sen. Com. No. 789). DELA CRUZ, AQUINO, CHANG, ELEFANTE, HASHIMOTO, KIDANI, MORIWAKI, Kanuha, San Buenaventura, Wakai TOU/WAL, FIN
SB440 SD2 HD1
DOE; University of Hawaii; Scholarship; Career and Technical Education; Teacher Shortages; Teaching License; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
Establishes the Future Career and Technical Education Teacher Scholarship Program to be administered by the Department of Education to facilitate the recruitment and retention of career and technical education teachers in Hawaii public schools. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 4/21/2025- Received notice of appointment of House conferees (Hse. Com. No. 754). DELA CRUZ, CHANG, ELEFANTE, HASHIMOTO, INOUYE, KANUHA, KIDANI, KIM, LEE, C., MORIWAKI, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Wakai EDN, FIN
SB441 SD1 HD1
Hawaii Symphony Orchestra; State Foundation on Culture and the Arts; Designation; Funding; Chapter 42F Exemption; General Fund; State of Hawaii Endowment Fund; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO THE HAWAII SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA.
Designates the Hawaii Symphony Orchestra as the State of Hawaii Symphony Orchestra. Exempts general fund appropriations to the State of Hawaii Symphony Orchestra from the requirements of chapter 42F, Hawaii Revised Statutes. Requires annual reports to the Legislature. Appropriates funds for general operating costs of the Orchestra and for deposit into the State of Hawaii Endowment Fund. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(H) 4/22/2025- Received notice of Senate conferees (Sen. Com. No. 863). DELA CRUZ, CHANG, HASHIMOTO, KIDANI, KIM CAA, FIN
SB442 SD1 HD1
ERS; Retirants; Employment; Succession Planning
RELATING TO GOVERNMENT.
Allows a retirant to be employed without reenrollment in the Employees' Retirement System and without loss or interruption of benefits if the retirant is employed in a position identified for succession planning purposes. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(H) 3/20/2025- Passed Second Reading as amended in HD 1 and referred to the committee(s) on FIN with Representative(s) Reyes Oda voting aye with reservations; Representative(s) Pierick voting no (1) and Representative(s) Cochran, Ward excused (2). DELA CRUZ, AQUINO, CHANG, HASHIMOTO, KIDANI, Moriwaki, San Buenaventura LAB, FIN
SB443 SD1 HD2
DOA; Solar; Wind; Agricultural Lands
RELATING TO AGRICULTURAL LANDS.
Requires that lands within the agricultural district with class B or C soils that have solar or wind energy facilities must also obtain certification from the Department of Agriculture that the lands are also used for a farming operation. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(H) 4/15/2025- Received notice of Senate conferees (Sen. Com. No. 789). DELA CRUZ, AQUINO, HASHIMOTO, INOUYE, KIDANI, KIM, San Buenaventura AGR/EEP, CPC
SB444
State Government; Boards and Commissions; Employment Decisions
RELATING TO STATE GOVERNMENT.
Authorizes boards and commissions to make employment decisions related to its officers and employees without the approval of the head of the department to which the board or commission is administratively attached.
(S) 2/6/2025- The committee on LBT deferred the measure. DELA CRUZ, CHANG, HASHIMOTO, KIDANI, KIM, MORIWAKI, San Buenaventura GVO/LBT, WAM  HB50
SB445
PUC; Renewable Energy; Electric Utilities; Rate Base; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO RENEWABLE ENERGY.
Requires and appropriates moneys for the Public Utilities Commission to establish standards requiring each electric utility company to remove from the rate base a commensurate amount of costs related to fossil fuel resources when adding new or converted renewable electrical energy and renewable energy resources.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to CPN, WAM. DELA CRUZ, HASHIMOTO, KIDANI, Wakai CPN, WAM  HB337
SB446 SD2
Waste Management; Landfills; Aquifers; County Integrated Solid Waste Management Plans; Fly Ash; Bottom Ash
RELATING TO WASTE MANAGEMENT.
Beginning 7/1/2025, prohibits the construction, modification, or expansion of a landfill unit or any component of a landfill unit mauka of the underground injection control line without first establishing a buffer zone of not less than one-quarter mile around the landfill unit. Prohibits the utilization of fly ash, bottom ash, or a combination of fly and bottom ash from a municipal waste combustor, including any ash residue that remains after removal of metals for recycling into new metal products, for the purposes of road building, construction, or as alternative daily cover material on a landfill. Effective 12/31/2050. (SD2)
(H) 3/6/2025- Referred to EEP, WAL, JHA, referral sheet 19 DELA CRUZ EEP, WAL, JHA
SB448 SD1 HD1
ADC; Conservation Easement; Agriculture; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO AGRICULTURE.
Appropriates funds to the Agribusiness Development Corporation to acquire a conservation easement on agricultural lands in Central Oahu. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(H) 3/11/2025- Passed Second Reading as amended in HD 1 and referred to the committee(s) on FIN with none voting aye with reservations; Representative(s) Pierick voting no (1) and Representative(s) Cochran, Ward excused (2). DELA CRUZ AGR, FIN
SB449
School Capital Improvement Project Modernization Initiative; School Facilities Authority; BOE; DOE; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT.
Establishes a school capital improvement project modernization initiative in the School Facilities Authority to create a planning database for school facilities. Appropriates funds.
(S) 2/5/2025- The committee on EDU deferred the measure. DELA CRUZ EDU, WAM  HB636
SB450 SD1
Department of Human Services; Med-QUEST Division; Autism; Applied Behavioral Analysis Services; Reimbursement; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO AUTISM.
Appropriates funds to increase the funding for the Med-QUEST Division's reimbursement for applied behavioral analysis services for persons with autism. Effective 12/31/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/14/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. SAN BUENAVENTURA, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, GABBARD, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, LEE, C., MCKELVEY, RICHARDS, Kidani, Moriwaki HHS, WAM
SB451 SD1
DHS; Workers with Disabilities; Medicaid; Buy-In Program
RELATING TO PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES.
Requires the Department of Human Services to establish a Medicaid buy-in program for workers with disabilities. Effective 12/31/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/14/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. SAN BUENAVENTURA, AQUINO, CHANG, DECOITE, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, MCKELVEY, Fukunaga, Gabbard, Richards HHS, WAM
SB452
Employment Practices; Meal Breaks; Meal Periods; Penalties
RELATING TO MEAL BREAKS.
Prohibits employers from requiring employees to work for more than five consecutive hours without a meal break unless otherwise provided in collective bargaining agreements. Establishes penalties.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to LBT, JDC. RHOADS LBT, JDC
SB453
DOE; Sex Trafficking Prevention and Response Training
RELATING TO SEX TRAFFICKING.
Requires the Department of Education to offer training for teachers, educational officers, and school-based behavioral health specialists on sex trafficking prevention and response.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to EDU/HHS, WAM. RHOADS EDU/HHS, WAM
SB454 SD1
Taxes; Rental Motor Vehicles
RELATING TO THE RENTAL MOTOR VEHICLE SURCHARGE TAX.
Requires the rental motor vehicle surcharge tax to be pro-rated if the vehicle is rented or leased for a portion of the day. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/14/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. RHOADS CPN/TCA, WAM
SB455
Minimum Wage Calculation; Consumer Price Index
RELATING TO MINIMUM WAGE.
Beginning September 30, 2028, requires the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations to annually calculate an adjusted minimum wage rate to within the nearest twenty-five cents using the Urban Hawaii Consumer Price index to take effect on January 1 of the following year unless the adjustment would result in a lower minimum wage rate.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to LBT, WAM. RHOADS, CHANG, Moriwaki LBT, WAM
SB456 SD1
Bed Bugs; Landlords; Tenancy
RELATING TO BED BUGS.
Requires landlords to ensure that the dwelling unit premises is free of bed bugs at all times during the tenancy. (SD1)
(S) 2/10/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to CPN. RHOADS, Fukunaga HOU, CPN  HB1186
SB457
BLNR; Submerged Lands; Sea-Level Rise; Penalties; Easements
RELATING TO STATE LANDS.
Establishes penalties for failure to comply with certain submerged land reclamation regulations. Adds requirements for presently reclaimed land to be disposed of by the Board of Land and Natural Resources, without recourse to public auction, to an abutting owner, by sale, or by lease. Provides requirements for the Board of Land and Natural Resources to lease state submerged lands and lands beneath tidal waters.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA, JDC. RHOADS, Richards WLA, JDC
SB458
Employment; State and County Employers; Payment of Wages
RELATING TO EMPLOYMENT.
Amends the definition of "employer" in state law that governs payment of wages and other compensation to include the State and counties when a provision in that law has no comparable provision in state law that governs public officers and employees.
(S) 2/5/2025- The committee on LBT deferred the measure. RHOADS LBT, JDC  HB478
SB459
DOT; Deputy Director of Highways; Advice and Consent
RELATING TO THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF HIGHWAYS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION.
Requires the Deputy Director of Highways of the Department of Transportation to be subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to TRS, JDC. RHOADS TRS, JDC  HB101
SB460
Domestic Abuse; Order for Protection; Temporary Restraining Order; Minors; Family Court; Judiciary
RELATING TO DOMESTIC ABUSE.
Specifies that any minor who resides in the same household as a victim of domestic abuse may file a petition for and be granted an order of protection or temporary restraining order.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to HHS, JDC. RHOADS, FUKUNAGA, MORIWAKI HHS, JDC
SB461
DLIR; Wage and Hour Law; Order of Wage Payment Violation; Enforcement; Penalties
RELATING TO WAGES.
Requires the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations to issue an order of wage payment violation to employers in violation of the State's Wages and Hour Law. Establishes penalties, enforcement, and appeal procedures related to orders of payment violations. Amends the definition of "wage" under the State's Wage and Hour Law to clarify that it means compensation for labor or services rendered by an employee regardless of how it is calculated.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to LBT, JDC. AQUINO LBT, JDC
SB462 SD1
Procurement; Contract; Performance Incentive Contracts
RELATING TO PROCUREMENT CONTRACTS.
Requires all performance incentive contracts to specify a pricing basis, performance goals, and a formula in calculating the contractor's profit, fees, or price decrease if the specified performance goals are exceeded or not met. Effective 1/1/2525. (SD1)
(S) 2/10/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, GABBARD, HASHIMOTO, Richards GVO, WAM
SB463
Hawaii Kratom Consumer Protection Act; Kratom Products; Registration
RELATING TO CONSUMER PROTECTION.
Beginning 1/1/2026, requires kratom products to be registered with the Department of Health and imposes labeling requirements.
(S) 2/12/2025- The committee on HHS deferred the measure. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) CPN/HHS, JDC/WAM  HB717
SB464
Beer; Distilled Spirits; Direct Shipping; Manufacturers
RELATING TO INTOXICATING LIQUOR.
Allows direct shipment of beer and distilled spirits by certain licensees. Requires the liquor commission of each county to adopt rules and regulations.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to CPN/EIG, JDC. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) CPN/EIG, JDC  HB108
SB466
Hawaii State Association of Counties Package; HHFDC; Housing Development Programs; Criteria; Preferences; Ranking; Housing Location Proximity; State and County Employees; Returning Resident Graduates; Reserved Units; Rules
RELATING TO HOUSING.
Requires the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation (HHFDC) to consider as a preference under chapter 201H, HRS, the proximity between the housing location and the applicant's place of employment; whether the applicant is a state or county employee; and whether the applicant is a returning resident that left the State to attend a university, college, or trade school and has graduated within the past two years. Requires, for any project developed or administered by the HHFDC under chapter 201, HRS, the HHFDC to set aside as a matter of preference an undetermined per cent of available units for state or county employees, when feasible. Requires HHFDC to determine the order of preferences and rank applicants accordingly, select applicants based on application date within the pool of similarly ranked applicants, and validate the preference status of applicants before occupancy of a unit. Authorizes HHFDC to adopt rules to establish additional eligibility criteria.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to HOU, WAM. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) HOU, WAM  HB374
SB467
Hawaii State Association of Counties Package; County Surcharge on State Tax; General Excise Tax Law; Extension
RELATING TO GENERAL EXCISE TAX.
Authorizes each county that has established a surcharge on state tax before 7/1/2015 to extend the surcharge until 12/31/2045, at the same rates, if the county does so before 1/1/2028; Provides that no county surcharge on state tax authorized for a county that has not established a surcharge on state tax before 7/1/2015, shall be levied before 1/1/2019, or after 12/31/2045; and Repeals certain conditions on the use of surcharges received from the State for counties having a population equal to or less than 500,000 that adopt a county surcharge on state tax.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to EIG, WAM. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) EIG, WAM  HB375
SB468
Hawaii State Association of Counties Package; Tobacco Products
RELATING TO THE REGULATION OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS.
Repeals existing statutory language that: (1) declares that the sale of cigarettes, tobacco products, and electronic devices are a statewide concern; and (2) preempts all local ordinances and regulations that regulate the sale of cigarettes, tobacco products, and electronic devices.
(S) 1/27/2025- Re-Referred to HHS, CPN/JDC. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) HHS, CPN/JDC  HB380
SB469
Hawaii State Association of Counties Package; DHS; Affordable Housing; Conveyance Tax; Rates; Exemption; Homeless Services Fund; Affordable Homeownership Revolving Fund; Land Conservation Fund; Rental Housing Revolving Fund; Dwelling Unit Revolving Fund
RELATING TO THE CONVEYANCE TAX.
Establishes the Homeless Services Special Fund. Allows counties to apply for matching funds from the Affordable Homeownership Revolving Fund for certain housing projects. Increases the conveyance tax rates for certain properties. Establishes conveyance tax rates for multifamily residential properties. Establishes new exemptions to the conveyance tax. Allocates collected conveyance taxes to the Affordable Homeownership Revolving Fund, Homeless Services Special Fund and, and Dwelling Unit Revolving Fund. Amends allocations to the Land Conservation Fund and Rental Housing Revolving Fund.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to HHS/HOU/WLA, WAM. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) HHS/HOU/WLA, WAM  HB377
SB470
Hawaii State Association of Counties Package; Retirement; Pension; Benefits; Police
RELATING TO DEFERRED RETIREMENT FOR POLICE.
Establishes a deferred retirement option program to allow qualified officers who are eligible for retirement to continue working.
(S) 2/3/2025- The committee on PSM deferred the measure. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) LBT/PSM, WAM  HB378
SB471
Hawaii State Association of Counties Package; Environment; Individual Wastewater Systems; Nearshore Waters; Denitrification Capacity
RELATING TO THE ENVIRONMENT.
Requires newly installed or modified individual wastewater systems that are near the shoreline, or likely to pollute groundwater, to include denitrification capacity.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to AEN/WLA, WAM. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) AEN/WLA, WAM  HB379
SB472
Hawaii State Association of Counties Package; Upgrade, Conversion, or Connection of Cesspools; Tax Credit; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO CESSPOOLS.
Accelerates the dates for the required upgrades, conversions, or connections of priority level 1 and priority level 2 cesspools to 2035 and 2040, respectively. Appropriates funds to implement the cesspool compliance pilot grant program. Re-establishes a cesspool upgrade, conversion, or connection tax credit.
(S) 1/31/2025- The committee on AEN deferred the measure. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) HHS/AEN, WAM  HB376
SB473
State Budget
RELATING TO THE STATE BUDGET.
Appropriates funds for the operating and capital improvement budget of the Executive Branch for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to WAM. KOUCHI (Introduced by request of another party) WAM  HB300
SB474 SD1
DCR; Psychologists; Licensing
RELATING TO PSYCHOLOGISTS.
Requires clinical psychologists employed by the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation to obtain licensure within five years from the date of employment. Sunsets on 7/1/2030. Effective 7/1/2077. (SD1)
(S) 2/7/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to CPN. ELEFANTE, CHANG, FEVELLA, INOUYE, KIDANI, Hashimoto, San Buenaventura PSM, CPN
SB475
DHS; Colorectal Cancer Screenings; State-Funded; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO COLORECTAL CANCER.
Requires and appropriates moneys for the Department of Human Services to develop and implement a public assistance program offering state-funded colorectal screenings for certain persons. Requires coverage for all colorectal cancer screenings in the State to be consistent with the Affordable Care Act Implementation Frequently Asked Questions published by the United States Department of Labor, United States Department of Health and Human Services, and United States Department of the Treasury.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to HHS/CPN, WAM. ELEFANTE, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, San Buenaventura HHS/CPN, WAM  HB556
SB476
Illegal Fireworks; Fines
RELATING TO FIREWORKS.
Increases fines that may be assessed against certain fireworksrelated violations. Effective 7/1/2025.
(S) 2/5/2025- The committee on PSM deferred the measure. ELEFANTE, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, GABBARD, KANUHA, KIDANI, KIM, MCKELVEY, MORIWAKI, RHOADS, Hashimoto, Richards, Wakai PSM, JDC  HB187
SB477
Domestic Abuse Protective Orders; Repeat Offenders; Penalties
RELATING TO DOMESTIC ABUSE PROTECTIVE ORDERS.
Makes a second or subsequent conviction for violation of a domestic abuse protective order a class C felony. Increases the sentencing requirements for second or subsequent convictions.
(S) 2/7/2025- Re-Referred to JDC. ELEFANTE, CHANG, FUKUNAGA, GABBARD, WAKAI JDC  HB301
SB478
Low-Speed Electronic Bicycles; Operator Requirements
RELATING TO ELECTRIC BICYCLES.
Requires operators of low-speed electronic bicycles to possess a valid driver's license, instruction permit, or provisional license.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to TRS, JDC. ELEFANTE TRS, JDC  HB184
SB480
Department of Health; Affordable Health Care; Prescription Drugs; 340B Drug Pricing Program; Pharmacies; Covered Entities; Discriminatory Practices
RELATING TO HEALTH.
Prohibits drug manufacturers and wholesale distributors from restricting or denying access for pharmacies contracted with 340B covered entities to purchase 340B drugs at a discounted price under the federal 340B Drug Pricing Program. Imposes civil penalties for engaging in unfair or deceptive acts or practices in the conduct of any trade or commerce.
(S) 2/10/2025- The committee on HHS deferred the measure. SAN BUENAVENTURA, Fukunaga HHS, CPN/JDC  HB712
SB481
Board of Dentistry; Community Service License; Accreditation; Unrestricted Dental Practice License; Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada
RELATING TO COMMUNITY SERVICE LICENSES.
Allows a dental graduate from a dental college accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada to be an eligible candidate for a community service license (CSL). Repeals the requirement that the licensing examinations be completed within five years of a request for a CSL. Repeals the requirement that a CSL applicant provide a copy of an active, unrestricted dental practice license form another state. Repeals the prohibition against a person who failed the license examination from obtaining a CSL. Requires a CSL to be eligible for conversion to an unrestricted dental practice license when a dental provider who holds a CSL completes at least five thousand hours of community service to patients in the State.
(S) 2/10/2025- The committee on HHS deferred the measure. SAN BUENAVENTURA, RHOADS HHS, CPN
SB482
Cognitive Assessments; Medicare Beneficiaries; Annual Wellness Visits; Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias; Reporting Requirements; Executive Office on Aging; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO COGNITIVE ASSESSMENTS.
Requires all health care providers who accept Medicare to provide a cognitive assessment as part of the Medicare Part B annual wellness visit for Medicare beneficiaries sixty-five years of age or older, with certain exceptions. Requires health care providers to submit certain information to the Executive Office on Aging and the Executive Office on Aging to report de-identified aggregated data to the Legislature on an annual basis. Appropriates funds. Effective 1/1/2026.
(S) 2/10/2025- The committee on HHS deferred the measure. SAN BUENAVENTURA, Fukunaga, Moriwaki HHS, WAM/CPN  HB700
SB483
DHS; Rate Study; Medicaid; Home Health Services; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO A RATE STUDY FOR HOME HEALTH SERVICES.
Appropriates funding for the Department of Human Services to conduct a rate study for Medicaid home health services in Hawaii.
(S) 2/10/2025- The committee on HHS deferred the measure. SAN BUENAVENTURA, MORIWAKI, RHOADS HHS, WAM  HB713
SB484
Department of Transportation; Rebate; Electric Mobility Subaccount; Electric Mobility Device Rebate Program
RELATING TO TRANSPORTATION.
Renames the Electric Bicycle and Electric Moped Rebate Program to the Electric Mobility Device Rebate Program. Expands eligibility and amends the maximum rebate amount.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to TRS, WAM. CHANG TRS, WAM  HB670
SB485 SD1
Motor Vehicles Regulations; Motor Vehicle Sun Screening Devices; Exemption; Number Plates
RELATING TO MOTOR VEHICLES.
Decreases the exempted light transmittance for motor vehicle sun screening devices on front side wing vents and windows from thirty-five per cent to twenty per cent plus or minus six per cent. Exempts the light transmittance for motor vehicle sun screening devices for side windows that are to the rear of the driver and rear windows in sedans. Repeals the requirement that a front number plate be affixed to the front of a motor vehicle. Makes conforming amendments. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/11/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to JDC. CHANG TCA, JDC
SB486
Department of Budget and Finance; Pomaikai Hawaii Fund; Visitor Green Fee; Trust Fund; Established; Rules
RELATING TO THE POMAIKAI HAWAII FUND.
Establishes the Pomaikai Hawaii Fund within the Department of Budget and Finance for administrative purposes. Requires the Department of Budget and Finance to adopt administrative rules to administer the Pomaikai Hawaii Fund.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to WAM. CHANG WAM
SB487
Data and Artificial Intelligence Governance and Decision Intelligence Center; Established; Data Sharing; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO A STATEWIDE DATA AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE GOVERNANCE AND DECISION INTELLIGENCE CENTER.
Establishes and appropriates funds for a data and artificial intelligence governance and decision intelligence center and necessary positions to improve data quality and data sharing statewide.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to LBT, WAM. CHANG LBT, WAM  HB726
SB488
DOH; Water Fluoridation; Exemption; Water Testing; Training; Reports
RELATING TO WATER FLUORIDATION.
Requires certain water suppliers in the State to adjust the fluoride level in their public water systems to the applicable United States Department of Health and Human Services standards for optimal water fluoridation levels. Exempts federal water suppliers. Requires water suppliers to test water systems for fluoride levels at intervals established by the Department of Health. Requires the Department of Health to provide training to water suppliers for the implementation of water fluoridation. Requires the Department of Health to submit annual reports to the Legislature.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to HHS, WAM. CHANG HHS, WAM
SB489
Hawaii Community Development Authority; Transit-oriented Development Infrastructure Improvement Districts; Environmental Impact Statements
RELATING TO TRANSIT-ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT.
Requires the Hawaii Community Development Authority to prepare environmental impact statements for the Iwilei/Kapalama and University of Hawaii West Oahu transit-oriented development infrastructure improvement districts on the island of Oahu.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA, WAM. CHANG WLA, WAM  HB742
SB490
Kamaaina Homes Program; Voluntary Deed Restrictions; Counties
RELATING TO HOUSING.
Establishes the Kamaaina Homes Program to provide funding to the counties to purchase voluntary deed restrictions from eligible homeowners or homebuyers.
(S) 2/4/2025- The committee on HOU deferred the measure. CHANG HOU, WAM  HB739
SB491 SD1
HHFDC; Counties; Accessory Dwelling Units; Equity; Purchase; Voluntary Deed Restrictions
RELATING TO HOUSING.
Establishes the Accessory Dwelling Unit Financing and Deed Restriction Program to be administered by the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation to allocate funds to the counties for the purchase of equity for eligible homeowners or homebuyers to finance construction costs, development costs, and non-reoccurring closing costs associated with the construction of an accessory dwelling unit and purchase deed restrictions on such property. Exempts the conveyance tax for certain properties for taxable years beginning on 1/1/2026. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/12/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. CHANG HOU, WAM  HB740
SB492 SD1
County Surcharge on State Tax; General Excise Tax Law; Extension
RELATING TO GENERAL EXCISE TAX.
Authorizes each county that has established a surcharge on state tax before 7/1/2015 to extend the surcharge until 12/31/2045, at the same rates, if the county does so before 1/1/2028. Provides that no county surcharge on state tax authorized for a county that has not established a surcharge on state tax before 7/1/2015, shall be levied before 1/1/2019, or after 12/31/2045. Repeals certain conditions on the use of surcharges for housing infrastructure costs. Effective 5/13/2040. (SD1)
(S) 2/14/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. RICHARDS, CHANG EIG, WAM
SB493 SD1
Board of Veterinary Medicine; Veterinarian Workforce Development Special Fund; Scholarships; Loan Repayment; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO VETERINARIANS.
Establishes the Veterinarian Workforce Development Special Fund. Establishes the Veterinarian Workforce Development Fee to support recruitment and retention of veterinarians in the State. Establishes the Veterinarian Workforce Development Loan Repayment and Scholarship Program to support qualified veterinarians committed to or currently working in veterinary medicine in the State. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/13/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. RICHARDS, CHANG, FEVELLA, FUKUNAGA, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, MCKELVEY, San Buenaventura CPN, WAM
SB494 SD2
Auditor; Charter Schools; State Public Charter School Commission; Financial Audit; Report; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO CHARTER SCHOOLS.
Requires the Auditor to conduct a financial audit of each charter school under the State Public Charter School Commission. Requires a report to the Legislature. Requires the State Public Charter School Commission to take action based on the Auditor's recommendations. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD2)
(H) 3/11/2025- The committee(s) on EDN recommend(s) that the measure be deferred. RICHARDS, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, KIM, Chang EDN, LMG, FIN
SB495
DBEDT; ADC; Hawaii Agricultural Development Revolving Fund; Meat Processing; Shock Aging Processes; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO MEAT PROCESSING.
Appropriates funds for the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to develop, construct, and support facilities that can accommodate shock aging processes for meat products. Appropriates funds into and out of the Hawaii Agricultural Development Revolving Fund for programmatic funding relating to facilities using shock aging processes for meat products. Authorizes the Agribusiness Development Corporation to contract with existing and future slaughterhouses in the State.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to EDT/AEN, WAM. RICHARDS, CHANG, DECORTE, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, MCKELVEY, Elefante EDT/AEN, WAM
SB496 SD1
BOA; Bona Fide Farmer; Bona Fide Agricultural Activity; Definitions; Report
RELATING TO AGRICULTURE.
Requires the Board of Agriculture to define the terms "bona fide farmer" and "bona fide agricultural activity". Requires a report to the Legislature. (SD1)
(S) 2/10/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. RICHARDS, AQUINO, CHANG, DECOITE, FEVELLA, GABBARD, HASHIMOTO, MCKELVEY, Kanuha, San Buenaventura AEN, WAM
SB497
DOE; Financial Literacy; Curriculum
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
Beginning with the 2026-2027 school year, requires the Department of Education to require the teaching of financial literacy to be included in the existing personal transition plan requirement for each student.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to EDU, WAM. RICHARDS, CHANG, DECORTE, ELEFANTE, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, KIM, San Buenaventura EDU, WAM
SB498 SD1
DOA; Agricultural Workforce Housing Working Group; Report; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO AGRICULTURAL WORKFORCE HOUSING.
Establishes an Agricultural Workforce Housing Working Group within the Department of Agriculture to address the shortage and challenges of agricultural workforce housing in the State. Requires reports to the Legislature. Appropriates funds. (SD1)
(S) 2/5/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. RICHARDS, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, San Buenaventura AEN, WAM  HB1294
SB499
ADC; Agriculture; Succession Planning Education Program; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO AGRICULTURE.
Requires the Agribusiness Development Corporation to develop a succession planning education program to educate and assist farmers and ranchers in the process of transitioning agricultural businesses to new owners. Requires the program to connect individuals interested in entering farming or ranching, or existing farmers or ranchers interested in expanding their business, with farmers and ranchers who have not yet identified a successor owner. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to EDT/AEN, WAM. RICHARDS, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO EDT/AEN, WAM
SB500 SD1
Consumer Protection; Coffee Labeling; Geographic Origins; Regional Origins
RELATING TO COFFEE LABELING.
Clarifies the labeling and advertising requirements for coffee that is grown and processed in the State. Defines regional origin. (SD1)
(S) 2/12/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to CPN. RICHARDS, CHANG, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, KIDANI, Moriwaki AEN, CPN  HB48
SB501 SD1
DOH; Cesspools; Septic Systems; Clean Water State Revolving Fund; Prioritization
RELATING TO CESSPOOLS.
Requires the Department of Health, to the extent allowable under federal law, to prioritize the use of Water Pollution Control Revolving Fund moneys for projects by homeowners to upgrade cesspools to director-approved wastewater systems or connect homeowners' properties to sewerage systems, including projects for the installation of cluster systems or community package plants. Effective 12/31/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/12/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. RICHARDS, AQUINO, CHANG, GABBARD, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, MCKELVEY HHS/AEN, WAM
SB502
All-Terrain Vehicles; Highways; Drivers; Equipment; Agriculture
RELATING TO VEHICLES.
Allows all-terrain vehicle to drive on streets with posted speed limits of not more than forty-five miles per hour. Allows all-terrain vehicles to drive in the evening and night if they are equipped with headlights, tail lights, and while displaying a slow moving vehicle emblem. Allows drivers of all-terrain vehicles to wear a safety helmet with a securely fastened chin strap. Includes in the definition of "utility-terrain vehicle" a motor vehicle that accommodates one driver and one passenger sitting side-by-side, and up to six people in seat belts.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to TRS, JDC. RICHARDS, CHANG, FEVELLA, GABBARD, HASHIMOTO, San Buenaventura TRS, JDC
SB503
DLNR; BLNR; Dam and Reservoir Safety; Inspections; Risk Assessment; Risk Mitigation; Dam Insurance; High Hazard; Burden of Proof; Dam and Appurtenance Improvement or Removal Grant Program
RELATING TO DAM AND RESERVOIR SAFETY.
Requires the Department of Land and Natural Resources to incorporate into their assessment process the possession of dam insurance or the active seeking of dam insurance by private dam owners, as part of their valid mitigation strategies, in conjunction with approved modifications or repairs. Authorizes the DLNR to relax any restrictions and stringent standards on a dam or appurtenance upon verification of certain insurance coverage. Authorizes the DLNR to consider a dam, reservoir, or appurtenance is safe absent certain documents. Shifts the burden of proof to the DLNR to find that a dam is categorized as high-risk. Establishes additional requirements for the DLNR and Board of Land and Natural Resources regarding the Dam and Appurtenance Improvement or Removal Grant Program.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA/CPN, WAM/JDC. RICHARDS, CHANG, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, MCKELVEY, Fukunaga WLA/CPN, WAM/JDC
SB504 SD1
DOA; Transportation Costs; Shipping Costs; Reimbursements; Position; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO AGRICULTURE.
Establishes a Local Agriculture Transportation Cost Reimbursement Program within the Department of Agriculture to reimburse eligible ranchers and farmers a portion of their costs to transport livestock, livestock products, agricultural commodities, and certain supplies, under certain conditions. Establishes a position to administer the Program. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/10/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. RICHARDS, CHANG, DECOITE, DECORTE, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, MCKELVEY AEN, WAM
SB505
DBEDT; READ; Minimum Wage; Small Business; State Economy; Study; Report; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO THE MINIMUM WAGE.
Requires the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism's Research and Economic Analysis Division to conduct a comprehensive study to assess the impacts of minimum wage increases on small businesses and the overall economic health of the State. Requires a report to the Legislature. Makes an appropriation.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to EDT/LBT, WAM. RICHARDS, CHANG, DECOITE, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, Fevella EDT/LBT, WAM
SB506 SD1
DOA; Agricultural Markets Study; Agricultural Statistics Services; Positions; Report; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO AGRICULTURE.
Requires the Department of Agriculture to conduct a study on agricultural markets for Hawaii farmers. Appropriates funds for the one-year study on agricultural markets for Hawaii farmers. Establishes and funds two full-time equivalent (2.0 FTE) positions to collect agricultural data and conduct data analysis for public consumption. Requires a report to the Legislature. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/5/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. RICHARDS, CHANG, FEVELLA, FUKUNAGA, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, MCKELVEY AEN, WAM
SB507
DOA; UH; Meat Processing; Educational Pathway; Working Group; Reports
RELATING TO MEAT PROCESSING.
Establishes a working group within the Department of Agriculture to develop a plan that creates an educational pathway in the University of Hawaii community college system to equip interested students with the necessary entry level knowledge, skill set, expertise, and advancement potential in the field of meat processing. Require reports to the Legislature.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to AEN/EDU, WAM. RICHARDS, CHANG, DECORTE, FEVELLA, FUKUNAGA, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, MCKELVEY AEN/EDU, WAM
SB508
DLNR; Hiking Trails; Search and Rescue; Hike Safe Card; Search and Rescue Special Fund; Mandatory Reimbursement; Counties; Administrative Rules; Trespassing; Misdemeanor; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO SEARCH AND RESCUE.
Establishes the hike safe card program and search and rescue special fund to be administered by the Department of Land and Natural Resources. Requires government entities to seek reimbursement for all or a portion of search or rescue expenses when the person or entity knowingly enters state, county, or private property, knowingly enters a hiking trail that is closed to the public, or violates applicable laws, provided that the closure is posted by sign, barricade, or other device that gives reasonable notice of the closure. Exempts persons who possess a hike safe card from search and rescue cost reimbursement, under certain conditions. Requires counties and the State Fire Council to adopt ordinances or rules as necessary to pursue reimbursements. Raises the penalty for criminal trespass from a petty misdemeanor to a misdemeanor. Makes appropriations.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA/PSM, WAM/JDC. RICHARDS, CHANG, DECOITE, DECORTE, FEVELLA, FUKUNAGA, KIM, MCKELVEY, WAKAI, Moriwaki, San Buenaventura WLA/PSM, WAM/JDC
SB509
DBEDT; ADC; Slaughterhouse Facilities; Development; Food; Market; Animals; Meats; Hogs; Sheep; Goats; Economy; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO FOOD SUPPLY.
Requires the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to identify sites throughout the State that are suitable for the development of slaughterhouses. Requires the Agribusiness Development Corporation to plan, design, construct, and operate certain animal slaughterhouses throughout the State. Makes appropriations.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to EDT/AEN, WAM. RICHARDS, AQUINO, INOUYE, San Buenaventura EDT/AEN, WAM
SB510
DLNR; Lapakahi Marine Life Conservation District; Fishing; Moratorium
RELATING TO THE LAPAKAHI MARINE LIFE CONSERVATION DISTRICT.
Directs the Department of Land and Natural Resources to adopt rules lifting the moratorium on fishing in the Lapakahi Marine Life Conservation District.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA/EDT, WAM. RICHARDS, CHANG, FEVELLA WLA/EDT, WAM
SB511 SD1
HHFDC; Housing Development; Counties; Affordable Housing; Application; Approval
RELATING TO HOUSING.
Clarifies that projects seeking exemptions from planning and development laws and rules may be modified by the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation under certain conditions. Authorizes HHFDC to make recommendations to appropriate Legislative bodies. Requires HHFDC or a county to accept an application seeking certain exemptions within thirty days, and to process the application within one hundred twenty days before final approval by a county legislative body for certain housing projects. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/12/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. RICHARDS, FEVELLA, Gabbard HOU, WAM
SB512
State Fire Marshal; Statewide Firefighting Helicopter Program; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO FIREFIGHTING.
Requires the State Fire Marshal to establish a Statewide Firefighting Helicopter Program. Appropriates funds for the State Fire Marshal to obtain helicopters, facilities equipment, drones, and supplies; hire and train staff; and do other things necessary to ensure that the Program is ready to begin providing aerial firefighting services on 7/1/2026.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to LBT/PSM, WAM. RICHARDS, CHANG, FEVELLA, KANUHA, San Buenaventura LBT/PSM, WAM
SB513 SD1
DOH; Counties; Gray Water Recycling Program; Farming; Agriculture; Irrigation
RELATING TO WATER.
Authorizes the Department of Health to allow any county to implement a Gray Water Recycling Program that permits certain small farms of less than ten square acres in size the ability to use gray water for the purposes of irrigation. (SD1)
(S) 2/14/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. RICHARDS, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, MCKELVEY, MORIWAKI, SAN BUENAVENTURA HHS/AEN, WAM
SB514
DCCA; Hawaii Wildfire Relief Fund; Hawaii Wildfire Relief Fund Corporation; Public Utilities Commission; Catastrophic Wildfire; Report; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO WILDFIRES.
Establishes the Hawaii Wildfire Relief Fund and Hawaii Wildfire Relief Fund Corporation within the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs to provide compensation for property damage resulting from catastrophic wildfires in the State. Requires reports to the Legislature and Governor. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to PSM/CPN, WAM/JDC. RICHARDS, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, GABBARD PSM/CPN, WAM/JDC
SB515
DOA; Auditor; Sugar-Sweetened Beverages Fee Program; Exemptions; Sugar-Sweetened Beverages Fee Special Fund; Hawaii Healthy Food Initiative Program (DA BUX); Enforcement; Penalties; Rules; Audit; Reports; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO THE SUGAR-SWEETENED BEVERAGES FEE PROGRAM.
Establishes a Sugar-Sweetened Beverages Fee Program to be administered by the Department of Agriculture that, beginning 1/1/2026, imposes a fee on the distribution and sale of sugar-sweetened beverages in the State. Establishes the Sugar-Sweetened Beverages Fee Special Fund. Requires moneys in the Sugar-Sweetened Beverages Fee Special Fund to be expended for the Hawaii Healthy Food Incentive Program and administration of the Sugar-Sweetened Beverages Fee Program. Allows the Department to contract with a third-party to administer the program. Requires the Auditor to conduct a management and financial audit of the program. Requires the Chairperson of the Board of Agriculture to adopt rules by 12/31/2025. Establishes criminal and civil penalties. Requires reports to the Legislature and the Governor. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to HHS/AEN/CPN, WAM/JDC. RICHARDS, CHANG, Fevella HHS/AEN/CPN, WAM/JDC
SB516
Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism; Creative Industries Division; Agricultural Film Production Land Use Act; Agricultural Film Production Land Use Oversight Committee
RELATING TO LAND USE.
Permits film production on lands that are zoned for agricultural use in counties with a population of less than five hundred thousand and that meet other conditions. Establishes the Agricultural Film Production Land Use Oversight Committee to monitor and enforce compliance with regulations on film permit activities on agricultural zoned lands.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to EDT/WLA, WAM. RICHARDS, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, KIM, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Wakai EDT/WLA, WAM
SB517
DOA; UH; CTAHR; Microbial Algae Soil Products Pilot Program; Microbial Algae Soil Products Pilot Program Special Fund; Rules; Reports; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO AGRICULTURE.
Establishes a Microbial Algae Soil Products Pilot Program within the Department of Agriculture in collaboration with the University of Hawaii College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources and other relevant stakeholders. Establishes the Microbial Algae Soil Products Pilot Program Special Fund. Authorizes the Department of Agriculture to adopt administrative rules. Requires reports to the Legislature. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to AEN/EDU, WAM. RICHARDS, CHANG, GABBARD, Fevella AEN/EDU, WAM
SB518
DLNR; Commercial Activity; Right-of-Entry Permits; Unencumbered State Lands; State Beaches; Wiki Permits Service
RELATING TO COMMERCIAL ACTIVITY PERMITS.
Requires the Department of Land and Natural Resources to update the online Wiki Permits service to include locations for which a right-of-entry permit for commercial activity is available via the service. Requires public input prior to the removal of any location from the list of available locations. Requires the Department to refund fees for right-of-entry permits if the permitted location is removed from the list of available locations before the commercial activity occurs.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA, WAM. RICHARDS, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Gabbard WLA, WAM
SB519
DLNR; Division of Aquatic Resources; Marine Resources; Aquaculture
RELATING TO AQUATIC LIFE.
Requires the Department of Land and Natural Resources to amend the definition of "aquarium purposes", in Hawaii Administrative Rules, to allow a bona fide aquaculture entity or scientific research entity to collect aquatic life without a permit so long as the aquatic life remains in the county in which it was collected while it is alive.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA/EDT, JDC. RICHARDS, CHANG, Fevella, Wakai WLA/EDT, JDC
SB520 SD1
DOH; Individual Wastewater Systems; Dwelling Units; Dwellings; Bedrooms; Rules
RELATING TO WASTEWATER SYSTEMS.
Requires the Department of Health to amend its administrative rules to: (1) Authorize not more than five dwellings and dwelling units connected to a single individual wastewater system; and (2) Provide that not more than five bedrooms may be connected to a single individual wastewater system. (SD1)
(S) 2/14/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. RICHARDS, CHANG, HASHIMOTO HHS/AEN, WAM
SB521
DHHL; County Board or Department of Water Supply; Access to Water; Hawaiian Home Lands; Agreements
RELATING TO ACCESS TO WATER ON HAWAIIAN HOME LANDS.
Requires the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to work with the appropriate county board or department of water supply to provide access to potable and agricultural water on Hawaiian home lands; provided that any agreement between DHHL and that county board or department of water supply is made available to the public.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to HWN/WLA, JDC. RICHARDS, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, GABBARD HWN/WLA, JDC
SB522 SD1
ADC; North Kohala; GO Bonds; Agriculture; Agricultural Development; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO THE HALAULA AGRICULTURAL PARCEL.
Authorizes the issuance of general obligation bonds to the Agribusiness Development Corporation for the purchase of the Halaula Agricultural Parcel for agricultural development. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/13/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. RICHARDS, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, GABBARD, KANUHA EDT/AEN, WAM
SB523 SD1
DOA; Biosecurity Fencing Cost-Sharing Program; Agricultural Fencing Costs; Reimbursements; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO AGRICULTURAL BIOSECURITY.
Requires the Department of Agriculture to establish and administer a Biosecurity Fencing Cost-Sharing Program. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/12/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. RICHARDS, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, GABBARD, San Buenaventura AEN, WAM
SB524
DBEDT; Eminent Domain; Parcel Purchase; Community Needs; Economic Development; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO LAND.
Requires the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to exercise its power of eminent domain to acquire certain parcels. Appropriates funds for the acquisition of those parcels.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to EDT, WAM/JDC. MORIWAKI EDT, WAM/JDC  HB445
SB525
Cemetery and Funeral Trusts; Mortuary Services Contracts; Human Remains; Cremation; Precious Metals; Notice; Consent
RELATING TO MANDATORY PRIOR WRITTEN NOTICE AND CONSENT IN CONTRACTS TO PROVIDE CREMATION SERVICES.
Beginning 10/1/2025, requires mortuaries, cemeteries, and pre-need funeral authorities that contract to provide cremation services to provide written notice if precious metals are recovered after cremation and to obtain written consent before the sale or recycling of any recovered precious metals. Requires mortuaries, cemeteries, and pre-need funeral authorities that have contracted to provide cremation services to give certain notice of updated terms by 1/1/2026.
(S) 2/4/2025- The committee on CPN deferred the measure. FUKUNAGA, AQUINO, CHANG, INOUYE, MCKELVEY, MORIWAKI, RHOADS, Fevella, Gabbard, San Buenaventura CPN, JDC  HB565
SB526 SD1
Women's Court Pilot Program; Report; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO THE WOMEN'S COURT.
Establishes a temporary three-year Women's Court Pilot Program within the second, third, and fifth circuits. Establishes temporary positions. Requires a report. Appropriates funds. Sunsets 6/30/2028. Effective 4/23/2057. (SD1)
(S) 2/10/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. KIDANI, AQUINO, CHANG, DECOITE, FEVELLA, FUKUNAGA, MCKELVEY, RHOADS, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Hashimoto, Kanuha, Moriwaki JDC, WAM  HB727
SB527 SD1
DOE; Civil Rights Compliance Branch; Equity Specialists; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
Appropriates funds for the establishment of five full-time equivalent (5.0 FTE) positions within the Civil Rights Compliance Branch of the Department of Education. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/11/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. KIDANI, CHANG, DECOITE, FEVELLA, FUKUNAGA, HASHIMOTO, RHOADS, Gabbard, Kanuha, Moriwaki, Richards, San Buenaventura EDU, WAM
SB528
Marriage; Legal Age
RELATING TO MARRIAGE OF MINORS.
Raises the minimum age to enter into marriage from sixteen to eighteen years of age. Repeals the authority of parents and the family court to consent to a minor's marriage. Repeals spousal cohabitation after the parties attain legal age as an exception for an annulment based on nonage. Makes conforming amendments.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to HHS, JDC. KIDANI, AQUINO, DECOITE, FEVELLA, FUKUNAGA, RHOADS, RICHARDS, Moriwaki HHS, JDC  HB729
SB529 SD1
DOE; Hoakea; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
Appropriates funds to the Department of Education for its Hoakea Program. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(H) 2/28/2025- Referred to EDN, FIN, referral sheet 17 KIDANI, AQUINO, CHANG, GABBARD, KANUHA, MCKELVEY, SAN BUENAVENTURA EDN, FIN
SB530 SD1
DOE; Braille; Low Vision or Blind Students; Individualized Educational Programs; Section 504 Plans; Braille Instruction; Print Instructional Materials; Braille Literacy Resource Center; Rules; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO BRAILLE LITERACY.
Establishes Braille literacy as a policy of the State. Requires literacy assessments for eligible low vision and blind students to include Braille instruction and the use of Braille. Authorizes the Department of Education to adopt administrative rules. Establishes the Braille Literacy Resource Center. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/12/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. KIDANI, CHANG, GABBARD, HASHIMOTO, MCKELVEY, MORIWAKI, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Kanuha EDU/HHS, WAM
SB531
DOE; Bronchodilators; Stock Supply; Medication Administration and Assistance; Protocol; Blood Glucose Monitoring; Diabetes Testing; Seizure Rescue Medication; Inhalers; Volunteers; School Health Assistants; Prescriptions
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
Establishes provisions for the storage and maintenance of a stock supply of bronchodilators at schools. Requires the Department of Education to establish a protocol for the storage, usage, and administration of bronchodilators. Establishes provisions regarding the administration of certain medications by a volunteer at Department of Education schools. Clarifies labeling requirements for bronchodilator prescriptions issued to the Department of Education for a stock supply of bronchodilators.
(S) 1/31/2025- The committee on EDU deferred the measure. KIDANI, CHANG, HASHIMOTO, Fukunaga, Gabbard, San Buenaventura EDU, WAM
SB533 SD2 HD1
Planned Public Safety Power Shutoff; Response; Department of Education; Appropriation
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
Appropriates funds to the Department of Education to support public schools impacted by a local investor‑owned electric utility's planned public safety power shutoff program. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(H) 3/14/2025- Re-referred to EEP, EDN/CPC, FIN, referral sheet 23 KIDANI, CHANG, HASHIMOTO, MCKELVEY, RHOADS, Fukunaga, San Buenaventura EEP, EDN/CPC, FIN
SB534 SD1
HCDA; OHA; Kakaako Makai; Residential Development; Height Limit; Workforce Housing; Owner-Occupant; Hawaii Community Development Revolving Fund; Special Account; Kakaako Makai; Association Fee
RELATING TO THE HAWAII COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY.
Clarifies the process by which the Hawaii Community Development Authority may approve residential development on certain parcels of Kakaako Makai. Raises the building height limit and the maximum floor area ratio on certain parcels in the area. Requires a certain percentage of the residential units developed on certain parcels to be allocated to households at or below a certain income level in perpetuity, with priority given to certain essential workforce in the area. Limits the sale of residential units developed in certain residential developments to prospective owner-occupants. Requires the Office of Hawaiian Affairs to determine a Kakaako Makai association fee to be collected from residents, tenants, and lessees of certain parcels to be deposited into a special account in the Office of Hawaiian Affairs Special Fund to fund various services and projects in the Kakaako Makai area. (SD1)
(S) 2/28/2025- The committee on WAM deferred the measure. KIDANI, AQUINO, CHANG, DECOITE, FEVELLA, KEOHOKALOLE, MCKELVEY, RICHARDS, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Kanuha, Wakai WTL/HWN/HOU, JDC/WAM
SB535
DLNR; DOH; Land Transfer; Advisory Committee; Reports
RELATING TO FEDERAL LAND.
Establishes an Advisory Committee convened by the Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Department of Health to inventory lands owned by the United States government which may be reasonably transferred back to the State and to make recommendations on relevant land conditions and appropriateness of potential transfer. Requires reports to the Legislature.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA/HHS, JDC. GABBARD, CHANG, KIDANI, Hashimoto, San Buenaventura WLA/HHS, JDC  SB1188
SB536
DOH; Environmental Toxins Testing Laboratory; Report; CIP; GO Bonds; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO AN ENVIRONMENTAL TOXINS LABORATORY.
Requires the Department of Health to construct, establish, and operate an environmental toxins testing laboratory to test samples submitted by the public for diseases; water, air, and soil quality; and complex testing. Requires a report to the Legislature. Authorizes the Director of Finance to issue general obligation bonds. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to HHS/AEN, WAM. GABBARD, KIDANI, MORIWAKI, RHOADS, RICHARDS, San Buenaventura HHS/AEN, WAM
SB537
DOH; Counties; Solid Waste Reduction; Organic Waste Diversion; Benchmarks; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO ORGANIC WASTE.
Establishes statewide goals for solid waste reduction and organic waste diversion. Requires each county to incorporate into its next integrated solid waste management plan revision a plan to reduce all organic waste produced within the county by facilities generating more than a specified amount of organic waste per year in alignment with established state benchmarks. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to AEN/EIG, WAM. GABBARD, CHANG, KANUHA, KIDANI, MCKELVEY, RHOADS, RICHARDS, San Buenaventura AEN/EIG, WAM
SB538
Solid Waste Control; Municipal Waste Combustor Ash; Disposal; Prohibition on Reuse
RELATING TO SOLID WASTE.
Requires municipal solid waste combustor ash to be disposed of only in a lined landfill. Prohibits the reuse of municipal solid waste incinerator ash for uses such as roadbuilding, fill, or construction.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to AEN/HHS/EIG, JDC. GABBARD, AQUINO, KIDANI, RHOADS AEN/HHS/EIG, JDC
SB539
EALs; Toxic Chemicals; Pollutants; Procedural Requirements; Public Notice
RELATING TO TOXIC CHEMICALS.
Requires state agencies that monitor environmental toxins and pollutants to establish environmental action levels (EALs) to ensure the preservation of a safe environment. Prohibits modifications to EALs unless certain procedural requirements are met. Establishes a process to allow any resident to petition for modifications to an established EAL.
(S) 2/14/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading and referred to WAM. GABBARD, KIDANI, RHOADS AEN/GVO, WAM
SB540
DCR; DAGS; DOH; Plant-Based-By-Default Program; Reports
RELATING TO PLANT-BASED FOOD AND DRINKS.
Requires state agencies to establish a Plant-Based-By-Default Program for food and drinks offered at state-operated prisons, state-licensed hospitals, and government-sponsored events. Requires the Director of Corrections and Rehabilitation, Comptroller, and Director of Health to submit annual reports to the Hawaii Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission. Effective 7/1/2026.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to GVO/AEN/PSM/HHS, WAM. GABBARD, FUKUNAGA, KIDANI, RHOADS GVO/AEN/PSM/HHS, WAM  HB828
SB541
Water Quality; Underground Storage Tanks and Tank Systems; Confirmed Release; Environmental Restoration; Zero Jet Fuel; Rules
RELATING TO WATER QUALITY.
Clarifies the level of environmental restoration owners and operators of underground storage tanks or tank systems that had a confirmed release must satisfy by requiring the removal of all jet fuel, including fuel additives and all compounds resulting from the degradation of jet fuel or jet fuel additives or the reaction of jet fuel or jet fuel additives with water or other chemicals. Establishes a rebuttable presumption that the detection of these contaminants in the vicinity of an underground storage tank or a tank system after a confirmed release is a result of the confirmed release.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to HHS/AEN, JDC. GABBARD, CHANG, KIDANI, RHOADS, McKelvey, Richards, San Buenaventura HHS/AEN, JDC
SB542
DOH; Cesspools; Mandatory Upgrade, Conversion, or Connection; Prioritization; Cesspool Compliance Pilot Grant Project; Appropriations; GO Bonds ($)
RELATING TO CESSPOOLS.
Requires certain priority level 1 cesspools to be upgraded, converted, or connected before 1/1/2035. Requires priority level 2 and other cesspools to be upgraded, converted, or connected before 1/1/2040, rather than before 1/1/2050, with certain exemptions. Authorizes the Director of Finance to issue general obligation bonds. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to AEN/HHS, WAM/JDC. GABBARD, CHANG, KIDANI AEN/HHS, WAM/JDC
SB543
DLNR; CWRM; Red Hill WAI; Policy Lead and Coordination; Red Hill Remediation Special Fund; Public Trust Purpose; Responsibilities; Commission Membership; Executive Director; Independent Legal Counsel; Emergency Order; Water Emergencies; Water Shortage Declarations; Fines; Reports; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO WATER.
Part I: Establishes a WAI Policy Coordinator and other positions within the Commission on Water Resource Management for coordination of Red Hill WAI initiatives. Creates the Red Hill Remediation Special Fund. Requires reports to the Legislature, Governor, and Mayor and City Council of the City and County of Honolulu. Appropriates funds. Part II: Allows the Commission of Water Resource Management to retain independent legal counsel. Repeals the position of Deputy to the Chairperson of the Commission and establishes the position of Executive Director of the Commission. Amends the composition of the Commission and administratively attaches it to DLNR. Authorizes entities to challenge an emergency order of the Commission under certain conditions. Establishes fines for certain water use offenses. Amends the Commission's authority to declare water emergencies and issue orders to address them and declare water shortages and related notice requirements. Specifies that the nominating committee of the Commission shall include one person appointed by the Chief Executive Officer of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA/EIG, WAM/JDC. GABBARD, AQUINO, CHANG, KIDANI, Richards WLA/EIG, WAM/JDC
SB545
DOE; Charter Schools; School Meals; Synthetic Substances; Prohibited
RELATING TO SCHOOL MEALS.
Prohibits the usage of synthetic substances in school meals at Department of Education and public charter schools. Defines "synthetic substances".
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to EDU, JDC. GABBARD, Richards EDU, JDC
SB546
State Arborists; Contractors; Best Management Practices
RELATING TO ARBORISTS.
Requires the State to ensure and enforce that all certified arborists in its employ, including contractors, adhere to best management practices.
(S) 2/10/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading and referred to WAM. GABBARD, CHANG, KIDANI, Hashimoto GVO, WAM  HB1380
SB547 SD1
DOTAX; DBEDT; Water Conservation; Water Conservation Income Tax Credit; Graywater Recycling Systems; Atmospheric Water Generators; Rebate Program; State Building Code Council; Water Efficiency and Sanitation Standard
RELATING TO WATER CONSERVATION.
Incentivizes the installation and use of gray water recycling systems and atmospheric water generators in the State by establishing an income tax credit to be administered by the Department of Taxation. Requires the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to establish a rebate program. Requires the State Building Code Council to adopt certain standards on gray water recycling systems and atmospheric water generators in the State. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/14/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. GABBARD, CHANG, HASHIMOTO, MCKELVEY, RHOADS, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Richards AEN/PSM/EDT, WAM
SB548 SD1
HISC; Native Resources and Fire Protection Program; Viability Funding; Invasive Species; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO THE HAWAII INVASIVE SPECIES COUNCIL.
Appropriates funds for the Native Resources and Fire Protection Program and Hawaii Invasive Species Council to ensure their long-term viability and continue to control and eradicate invasive species in the State. Effective 1/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/14/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. GABBARD, AQUINO, CHANG, FUKUNAGA, KANUHA, MCKELVEY, RHOADS, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Richards WTL/AEN, WAM  HB299
SB549
DOE; Farm to School Meals; Recognition Program; High Schools; School Meals; Plant-Based Option
RELATING TO SCHOOL MEALS.
Requires the Department of Education to establish a recognition program to incentivize schools to submit to the Department a plan for the school to reach the local farm to school meal goal of thirty per cent of food served in the school to consist of locally sourced products by 2030. Requires all department high schools to provide a plant-based meal option for school meals, under certain conditions.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to EDU/AEN, WAM. GABBARD, CHANG, RICHARDS, McKelvey, San Buenaventura EDU/AEN, WAM
SB550
DOH; DLNR; Landfill Advisory Committee; Landfills; Solid Waste; Hazardous Waste; Aquifers; Prohibition; Penalties
RELATING TO WATER.
Establishes the Landfill Advisory Committee within the Department of Health. Requires the DOH, in consultation with the Department of Land and Natural Resources and each county's department of board or water supply to create maps of the State's drinking water aquifers. Prohibits the siting, construction, modification, or expansion of any waste or disposal facility for hazardous or solid waste on land that is near or above an aquifer as determined by the DOH in consultation with the affected county's department or board of water supply. Expands buffer zones from one-half mile to one mile around a waste or disposal facility. Establishes penalties. Expands the definition of buffer zone to include aquifers, hotel or tourist accommodations, and businesses.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to HHS/WLA, WAM/JDC. GABBARD, KIDANI, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Richards HHS/WLA, WAM/JDC
SB551
DOH; Single-Use Compostable Plastic Packaging or Utensils for Food or Beverages Sold; Composting Collection Bins; Collection and Disposal; Reports
RELATING TO COMPOSTABLE PLASTIC PACKAGING.
Beginning 1/1/2026, requires persons that provide single-use compostable plastic packaging or utensils for any food or beverages sold in the State to have on-site composting collection bins and ensure the collection and delivery of disposed single-use compostable plastic packaging or utensils to certain commercial composting facilities under certain circumstances. Requires the Department of Health to report to the Legislature before the Regular Sessions of 2026 through 2035.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to AEN/HHS, CPN. GABBARD, KIDANI, RHOADS AEN/HHS, CPN
SB552 SD1 HD1
DOA; Healthy Soils Program; Carbon Sequestration; Reports; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO AGRICULTURE.
Requires the Department of Agriculture to establish a Healthy Soils Program. Requires an annual report to the Legislature. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(H) 3/11/2025- Passed Second Reading as amended in HD 1 and referred to the committee(s) on FIN with none voting aye with reservations; Representative(s) Pierick voting no (1) and Representative(s) Cochran, Ward excused (2). GABBARD, AQUINO, CHANG, KANUHA, KIDANI, MCKELVEY, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Richards AGR, FIN  HB968
SB553
Energy; Environmental Impact Assessments; Power-Generating Facilities; Combustion; Fuel Source
RELATING TO ENERGY.
Clarifies the definition of "power-generating facility" for the purposes of environmental impact assessments to include facilities that rely on the combustion of any fuel source, including facilities operating beginning 1/1/2025, and facilities that convert from one source of energy to another source, where the new source requires combustion and the electrical output rating of the converted facility exceeds 5.0 megawatts.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to EIG, CPN. GABBARD, KIDANI EIG, CPN
SB554
Workers' Compensation; PTSD; First Responders; Firefighters; Emergency Medical Attendants; Law Enforcement Officers
RELATING TO WORKERS' COMPENSATION.
Requires claims of post-traumatic stress disorder suffered by first responders to be compensable under workers' compensation under certain conditions if the post-traumatic stress disorder resulted from the first responder acting within the course and scope of the first responder's employment. Defines "first responder." Exempts injuries caused by post-traumatic stress disorder from certain time limitations applicable to workers' compensation claims.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to LBT/PSM, WAM. DECOITE, CHANG, FEVELLA, LEE, C., MCKELVEY, RHOADS, Fukunaga, Hashimoto, San Buenaventura, Wakai LBT/PSM, WAM
SB555
Workers' Compensation; Firefighters; Law Enforcement Officers; Heart Disease
RELATING TO WORKERS' COMPENSATION.
Creates a presumption for workers' compensation purposes that diseases of the heart in firefighters and law enforcement officers were proximately caused by and resulted from the nature of the person's employment if certain conditions are met. Exempts injuries caused by disease of the heart from certain time limitations applicable to workers' compensation claims. Establishes a process for regular physical examinations of firefighters and law enforcement officers to reduce heart disease risks.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to LBT/PSM, WAM. DECOITE, CHANG, GABBARD, HASHIMOTO, KIM, LEE, C., RHOADS, Fevella, McKelvey LBT/PSM, WAM
SB556
DOH; Rural Emergency Hospitals; Licensure; Medicaid
RELATING TO RURAL EMERGENCY HOSPITALS.
Creates a framework for the licensure of rural emergency hospitals by the Department of Health. Provides for the continuation of Medicaid policy protections for hospitals transitioning to a rural emergency hospital designation.
(S) 2/12/2025- The committee on HHS deferred the measure. DECOITE, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, INOUYE, KIDANI, MCKELVEY, Gabbard, San Buenaventura HHS, CPN/WAM  HB1179
SB557 SD1
Huli Au Ola; Physician and Dentist Retention; Molokai; Study; Grant; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO HEALTH.
Requires Huli Au Ola to conduct a study on physician and dentist recruitment and retention to serve the island of Molokai. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/31/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/11/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. DECOITE, CHANG, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, INOUYE, MCKELVEY, RHOADS, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Gabbard HRE, WAM
SB558 SD2 HD2
ADC; Economic Development; Food and Product Innovation Network; Food Security; Reports; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO VALUE-ADDED PRODUCTS.
Establishes a Food and Product Innovation Network within the Agribusiness Development Corporation. Appropriates funds for the development of Food and Product Innovation Network facilities. Requires annual reports to the Legislature. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(H) 3/21/2025- Report adopted; referred to the committee(s) on FIN as amended in HD 2 with none voting aye with reservations; Representative(s) Pierick voting no (1) and Representative(s) Cochran, Garrett, Kapela, Kitagawa, Ward excused (5). DECOITE, CHANG, FEVELLA, GABBARD, HASHIMOTO, INOUYE, KANUHA, MCKELVEY, MORIWAKI, San Buenaventura, Wakai AGR, ECD, FIN
SB559 SD1
Constitutional Amendment; Green Amendment; Environmental Protection (ConAm)
PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE I OF THE HAWAII STATE CONSTITUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND PROTECT THE INHERENT AND INALIENABLE RIGHT OF ALL PEOPLE TO CLEAN WATER AND AIR, A HEALTHFUL ENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATE, HEALTHY NATIVE ECOSYSTEMS, AND BEACHES.
Proposes a constitutional amendment to ensure that the inherent and inalienable right of the people, including future generations, to clean water and air, a healthful environment and climate, healthy native ecosystems, and beaches, shall be protected and shall not be infringed. (SD1)
(S) 2/5/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to JDC/WAM. RHOADS, GABBARD AEN, JDC/WAM  SB704
SB560
Marriage; Legal Age
RELATING TO MARRIAGE OF MINORS.
Raises the minimum age requirement to enter into marriage from sixteen to eighteen years of age. Removes the parental consent and written approval by the family court requirements for a minor to marry. Removes spousal cohabitation after the parties attain legal age as an exception for an annulment based on nonage. Makes conforming amendments.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to HHS, JDC. RHOADS, DECOITE, KIDANI, RICHARDS, Moriwaki HHS, JDC
SB561 SD1
DLNR; Equipment; Oahu Branch; Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO CONSERVATION ENFORCEMENT.
Appropriates funds for equipment for the Oahu Branch of the Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement of the Department of Land and Natural Resources. Effective 1/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/14/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. KEOHOKALOLE, CHANG, FEVELLA, GABBARD, INOUYE, RHOADS WTL, WAM  HB506
SB562 SD2 HD1
DOA; Invasive Species; Plant Nursery Registry Program; Pests; Taxa; Quarantine; Control and Eradication; Biosecurity
RELATING TO INVASIVE SPECIES.
Establishes a Plant Nursery Registry Program to regulate the sale of nursery stock. Requires certain plant nurseries to register with the Department of Agriculture. Establishes penalties. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(H) 3/18/2025- The committee(s) on JHA recommend(s) that the measure be deferred. KEOHOKALOLE, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, FUKUNAGA, GABBARD, KANUHA, MCKELVEY, RHOADS AGR, JHA, FIN
SB563 SD1
DOA; ADC; Counties; Agricultural Water Infrastructure; Study; Report; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO WATER INFRASTRUCTURE.
Directs the Department of Agriculture, in collaboration with the Agribusiness Development Corporation and the counties, to conduct a statewide agricultural water infrastructure study. Requires a report to the Legislature. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/10/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. RICHARDS, CHANG, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, San Buenaventura, Wakai AEN, WAM
SB564
Working Group; DOT; Harbors Division; HDOA; Study; Harbors; Report; Ports; Piers; Infrastructure; Agriculture; Transportation; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO INFRASTRUCTURE.
Establishes a working group within the Department of Transportation to conduct a comprehensive study to assess the State's port and harbor system and the potential viability of each location in that system to support current and future agricultural product transportation methods and needs. Requires a report. Appropriates moneys.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to TRS/AEN, WAM. RICHARDS, CHANG, FEVELLA, FUKUNAGA, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, MCKELVEY TRS/AEN, WAM
SB565 SD1
DLNR; DOFAW; Pololu Valley; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO POLOLU VALLEY MANAGEMENT EFFORTS ON HAWAII ISLAND.
Appropriates moneys for Pololu Valley management, including for the Division of Forestry and Wildlife of the Department of Land and Natural Resources to develop the trailhead; develop the infrastructure necessary to accommodate parking; install appropriate informational, historical, and educational signage; design and construct restroom facilities; and establish positions to manage the trail area. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/14/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. RICHARDS, AQUINO, CHANG, ELEFANTE, FEVELLA, KANUHA, MCKELVEY, Hashimoto, San Buenaventura WTL, WAM
SB566
Department of Budget and Finance; Spay and Neuter Special Fund; Spay and Neuter Special Fund Advisory Committee; Taxation; Income Tax Refund Designation; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO THE SPAYING AND NEUTERING OF ANIMALS.
Establishes a spay and neuter special fund. Establishes a spay and neuter special fund advisory committee to develop eligibility criteria for and manage the disbursement of the special fund. Authorizes, and requires the Director of Taxation to amend the individual state income tax form to facilitate, the designation of tax refund moneys to be paid to the spay and neuter special fund. Appropriates moneys into and out of the special fund.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to AEN, WAM. RICHARDS, CHANG, FEVELLA, FUKUNAGA, HASHIMOTO, MCKELVEY, RHOADS, Wakai AEN, WAM
SB567
Income Taxation; Individuals; Medical Travel; Tax Credit
RELATING TO TAXATION.
Establishes an income tax credit for medically-related travel expenses not covered by insurance.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to HHS, WAM. RICHARDS, CHANG, DECOITE, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, MCKELVEY, Fukunaga, Wakai HHS, WAM
SB568
DLNR; Trapping of Feral Goats, Sheep, and Pigs
RELATING TO FERAL ANIMALS.
Designates the Department of Land and Natural Resources as the primary agency for the trapping of feral goats, sheep, and pigs. Requires the Department to establish a program to humanely manage populations of feral goats, sheep, and pigs in the State by trapping.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA, WAM. RICHARDS, CHANG, FEVELLA, KANUHA, KIDANI, KIM, MCKELVEY, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Hashimoto, Moriwaki WLA, WAM
SB569
Emergency Medical Services; Advanced Life Support Ambulance; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO HEALTH.
Makes an appropriation for the operation of an additional ambulance for the island of Hawaii to be based in Makalei.
(S) 1/21/2025- Referred to HHS, WAM. RICHARDS, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, GABBARD, INOUYE, KANUHA, MCKELVEY, San Buenaventura HHS, WAM  HB784
SB570
Hunting; Goats; Bag Limits; Public Hunting Areas; Prohibition; Department of Land and Natural Resources
RELATING TO GOATS.
Prohibits the Department of Land and Natural Resources from establishing or implementing bag limits for goats in public hunting areas.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA, JDC. RICHARDS, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, GABBARD, INOUYE, KANUHA, SAN BUENAVENTURA WLA, JDC  HB347
SB571
Law Enforcement; Immigration; Access to Detained Individuals; Due Process
RELATING TO LAW ENFORCEMENT.
Requires state and local law enforcement agencies to notify an individual of their rights when in state or local law enforcement agency custody before any interview with the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement pertaining to certain matters regarding civil immigration violations. Designates all records relating to United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement access to detained individuals provided by a state or local law enforcement agency as public records under chapter 92F, HRS. Requires state and local law enforcement agencies that have provided the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement access to a detained individual within the previous year to hold two public forums per year.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to PSM, JDC/WAM. AQUINO (Introduced by request of another party) PSM, JDC/WAM
SB573
Condominiums; Associations; Health or Safety Violations; Common Elements; Duty to Repair
RELATING TO CONDOMINIUMS.
Requires condominium associations to repair defective conditions of common elements that constitute health or safety violations. Allows unit owners to make the repairs at the association's expense.
(S) 2/19/2025- The committee on CPN deferred the measure. HASHIMOTO, CHANG, FEVELLA, GABBARD, KIDANI, Fukunaga, Moriwaki, Richards CPN  HB336
SB574
EOEL; Public Prekindergarten; Public Preschool; Public School Teacher
RELATING TO THE PUBLIC PREKINDERGARTEN PROGRAM.
Allows children having a parent or guardian who is a public school teacher to have priority for enrollment in the Executive Office on Early Learning public prekindergarten program.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to EDU, WAM. HASHIMOTO, FEVELLA EDU, WAM
SB575
Historic Preservation Reviews; Third-party Consultants
RELATING TO HISTORIC PRESERVATION REVIEWS.
Requires the Department of Land and Natural Resources to contract its review of proposed state projects, projects on privately owned historic property, and projects affecting historic properties to third-party consultants if the Department is unable to complete its review within sixty days.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA/HWN, JDC. HASHIMOTO, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, GABBARD, KANUHA, KIDANI, MCKELVEY, RICHARDS, San Buenaventura WLA/HWN, JDC  HB830
SB577
Rental Housing Project Disaster Recovery Permits
RELATING TO RENTAL HOUSING PROJECT DISASTER RECOVERY PERMITS.
Authorizes departments to issue permits for the development of multi-family rental housing projects on state or county land that was used for a multi-family rental housing project before a state emergency.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to HOU/WLA, JDC. HASHIMOTO, AQUINO, CHANG, DECOITE, FEVELLA, KANUHA, Moriwaki HOU/WLA, JDC
SB578
Historic Property; Historic Preservation; Statehood Day; Hawaii Register of Historic Places
RELATING TO HISTORIC PROPERTY.
Amends the definition of "historic property" under the State's historic preservation program to include only property that predates Statehood Day and, with respect to buildings and structures, is registered on the Hawaii Register of Historic Places.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA, JDC. HASHIMOTO, CHANG, KIDANI, MORIWAKI, San Buenaventura, Wakai WLA, JDC  HB533
SB579
Distributed Energy Resources; Solar; Electricity; Utility
RELATING TO DISTRIBUTED ENERGY RESOURCES.
Requires utilities to pay distributed energy resources program customers for bill credits generated by the customer that are not used by the customer within 1 year.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to CPN. HASHIMOTO CPN
SB580
School Facilities Authority; School Facilities Authority Board; Public Schools; Sunshine Law
RELATING TO THE SCHOOL FACILITIES AUTHORITY.
Clarifies that the School Facilities Authority is responsible for certain development, planning, and construction projects for prekindergarten, preschool, and child care facilities, as well as workforce housing. Allows the School Facilities Authority to use the Department of Education for certain recruitment and hiring responsibilities. Allows the School Facilities Authority to partner with public and private development agencies to develop prekindergarten facilities. Exclude School Facilities Authority Board workgroups and subcommittees from the Sunshine Law, except as it relates to permitted interactions.
(S) 2/4/2025- Re-Referred to EDU/GVO, WAM/JDC. HASHIMOTO, AQUINO, CHANG, DECOITE, FEVELLA, GABBARD, MCKELVEY, Ihara EDU/GVO, WAM/JDC  HB329
SB581 SD1
DBEDT; Aerospace and Aeronautics Development Program; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT.
Establishes the Aerospace and Aeronautics Development Program within the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/10/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. WAKAI, CHANG, HASHIMOTO, MCKELVEY, MORIWAKI, RICHARDS, San Buenaventura EDT, WAM  HB451
SB582 SD1
SFCA; King Kamehameha Celebration Commission; DAGS; DBEDT; Comptroller; Works of Art Special Fund; Transfer; Performing Arts Grants Program; Capital Improvement Appropriations; Reports; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, AND TOURISM.
Transfers the State Foundation on Culture and the Arts and the King Kamehameha Celebration Commission from the Department of Accounting and General Services to the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism. Transfers the authority held by the Comptroller over the Works of Art Special Fund to the Director of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism. Establishes the Performing Arts Grants Program to support performing arts in the State. Clarifies the scope of the State Foundation on Culture and the Arts' responsibilities to include the coordination, planning, promotion, marketing, and execution of performing arts events. Amends the authority for funds from the works of art special fund to be used only for costs related to the acquisition of works of art and the planning, design, construction of works of art and related appurtenances. Requires reports to the legislature. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/14/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. WAKAI, CHANG, FEVELLA, KIM, LEE, C., RICHARDS TCA/EDT, WAM  HB450
SB584
Aquaculture; Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority
RELATING TO THE NATURAL ENERGY LABORATORY OF HAWAII AUTHORITY.
Clarifies that the Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority's duties include supporting aquaculture.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to EDT/AEN, WAM. WAKAI, CHANG, FEVELLA, GABBARD, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, MCKELVEY, RICHARDS, SAN BUENAVENTURA EDT/AEN, WAM
SB585 SD1
SPRB; Bana Pacific Inc.; Biogas Production Facility ($)
RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF SPECIAL PURPOSE REVENUE BONDS TO ASSIST BANA PACIFIC INC.
Authorizes the issuance of special purpose revenue bonds to assist Bana Pacific Inc. in constructing a biogas production facility. (SD1)
(S) 2/6/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. WAKAI, McKelvey, Richards EIG, WAM
SB586 SD1
Climate Change; Mass Transit; Counties; Zero Emissions
RELATING TO CLIMATE CHANGE.
Requires the counties to upgrade to zero emission buses by 2045. Requires the state agencies to prioritize zero emission buses in the procurement policy for purchasing or leasing motor vehicles. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/11/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to CPN/WAM. WAKAI, CHANG, GABBARD, KANUHA, LEE, C., MORIWAKI, RHOADS, Elefante, Richards TCA/AEN, CPN/WAM
SB587 SD1
PUC; Renewable Energy; Grid-Ready Homes Interconnection Process; Vehicle-to-Grid; Hawaii Electricity Reliability Administrator; Electricity Reliability Surcharge; Report
RELATING TO RENEWABLE ENERGY.
Requires the Public Utilities Commission to establish a streamlined grid-ready homes interconnection process, including vehicle-to-grid compliance requirements, by 1/1/2026. Authorizes the use of the Hawaii electricity reliability surcharge for cost recovery of certain expenses of the Hawaii Electricity Reliability Administrator associated with the grid-ready homes interconnection process. Requires a report to the PUC on the grid-ready homes interconnection process. Effective 1/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/7/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. WAKAI, AQUINO, CHANG, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Hashimoto, Moriwaki, Richards EIG/CPN, WAM  HB340
SB588 SD2
Solar Distributed Energy Resource Systems; Permitting Self-Certification; FEMA Flood Zone No-Rise/No Impact Declaration Requirements
RELATING TO RENEWABLE ENERGY.
Authorizes certain government entities to establish a self-certification process for behind-the-meter, customer-sited solar distributed energy resource systems and exempt the systems from the Federal Emergency Management Agency No-Rise/No-Impact declaration requirements under certain circumstances. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD2)
(H) 3/11/2025- The committee(s) on EEP recommend(s) that the measure be deferred. WAKAI, CHANG, FEVELLA, MCKELVEY, San Buenaventura EEP, CPC  HB352
SB590
DLNR; State Parks Special Fund; Division of State Parks; Environmental Protection
RELATING TO THE STATE PARKS SPECIAL FUND.
Allows the Department of Land and Natural Resources to expend the moneys from the State Parks Special Fund for programs aimed at environmental protection.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA, WAM. WAKAI, CHANG, FEVELLA, GABBARD, KIDANI, MCKELVEY, MORIWAKI, RHOADS, Elefante, Hashimoto, Kanuha WLA, WAM  HB317
SB591
Condominium Associations; Fines; Assessments; Common Expense Assessments; Appeals
RELATING TO CONDOMINIUMS.
Clarifies the authority of condominium associations to impose fines for violations of the declaration, bylaws, house rules, or regulations adopted by the condominium association. Establishes a process for the unit owner or tenant of the unit owner to appeal the imposition of a fine. Clarifies the responsibilities of unit owners to pay common expense assessments. Clarifies the rights and process for unit owners to appeal assessments other than common expense assessments.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to CPN, JDC. MORIWAKI CPN, JDC  HB106
SB592
Taxation; Real Estate Investment Trusts; Dividends Paid Deduction
RELATING TO TAXATION OF REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUSTS.
Disallows the dividends-paid deduction for real estate investment trusts. Applies to taxable years beginning after 12/31/2025.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to CPN/EDT, WAM. MORIWAKI CPN/EDT, WAM  HB1273
SB593 SD1
Animal Cruelty; Commercial Dog Breeders; Licensing; Regulations; Penalties; Counties
RELATING TO COMMERCIAL DOG BREEDERS.
Defines a "dog breeder" as any person who owns, possesses, controls, or otherwise has charge or custody of more than ten dogs over the age of twelve months with intact sexual organs, and who sells, barters, or otherwise transfers more than three litters and more than twenty-five dogs per calendar year. Requires dog breeders to meet minimum standards of care and not place certain types of dogs in the same enclosure to ensure the proper treatment and care of dogs and the dogs' offspring. Prohibits any person from owning or having custody of more than thirty dogs over one year with intact sexual organs. Requires dog breeders to maintain specific written records for each dog for a specified period. Authorizes each county to assess, implement, and enforce its own licensing system. Establishes civil and criminal penalties for violations. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/14/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to JDC/WAM. MORIWAKI, CHANG, GABBARD, WAKAI CPN, JDC/WAM
SB594
Offenses Against Seniors; Penal Code; Enhanced Penalties
RELATING TO CRIMES AGAINST SENIORS.
Removes the requirement that a perpetrator of certain crimes knows or reasonably should know that the victim is a person sixty years of age or older.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to HHS, JDC. MORIWAKI, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, RHOADS, Fukunaga, Wakai HHS, JDC  HB444
SB595
DHS; Adult Protective and Community Services Branch; Courts; Power of Attorney; Cognitive Deficit; Revocation; Change of Agent; Investigation; Remedies; Penalties
RELATING TO POWERS OF ATTORNEY.
Establishes additional requirements to revoke or make changes relating to agents under powers of attorney of principals diagnosed with cognitive deficits. Requires submittals to the Adult Protective and Community Service Branch of the Department of Human Services. Requires the Branch to issue a notice of receipt to the principal and any person initiating the change. Establishes a mandatory waiting period before any proposed change takes effect. Establishes an expedited process for a court order granting an emergency change to a power of attorney.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to HHS, JDC. MORIWAKI, CHANG, HASHIMOTO, McKelvey, San Buenaventura HHS, JDC
SB596
Electric Garbage Trucks; Income Tax Credit
RELATING TO TAXATION.
Establishes an income tax credit for the purchase of electric garbage trucks by qualified taxpayers. Applies to taxable years beginning after 12/31/2024.
(S) 2/11/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading and referred to WAM. MORIWAKI, CHANG, KIDANI, RHOADS TCA, WAM  HB105
SB598 SD1
Hawaii Hope Card Program; Protective Orders; Hawaii Hope Card Program Special Fund; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO PROTECTIVE ORDERS.
Establishes the Hawaii Hope Card Program within the Department of the Attorney General to issue hope cards upon request to those holding a long-term protective order, with specified relevant information about the protective orders and all covered parties. Establishes the Hawaii Hope Card Special Fund. Appropriates funds. Effective 4/23/2057. (SD1)
(S) 2/4/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. KIDANI, CHANG, RHOADS, Wakai JDC, WAM
SB599
Deceased Pet Animals; Public Roadways; Microchips; Notification; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO TRANSPORTATION.
Requires the Department of Transportation or appropriate county department when disposing of a deceased cat or dog from a public roadway to scan the animal for a microchip, record certain information, and report that information to the appropriate county animal services or animal service contractors. Appropriates funds.
(S) 2/11/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading and referred to WAM. KIDANI, CHANG, FEVELLA, RHOADS, Wakai TCA, WAM  HB667
SB600
Firearms; Assault Pistols; Assault Weapon Attachments; .50 Caliber Rifles; Magazine Capacity; Prohibition
RELATING TO FIREARMS.
Amends the prohibition on certain assault weapons to include .50 caliber rifles and assault weapon attachments. Modernizes the prohibition on assault pistols to include pistols with one or more prohibited feature. Prohibits firearms other than pistols with a detachable magazine with over a twenty-round capacity. Prohibits persons from bringing or causing to be brought into the State a .50 caliber rifle or assault weapon attachment. Prohibits the sale or transfer of a .50 caliber rifle or assault weapon attachment in the State, unless the .50 caliber rifle or assault weapon attachment is sold or transferred to an authorized individual. Creates exceptions for the acquisition and possession of prohibited firearms for members of law enforcement and the military.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to PSM/CPN, JDC. WAKAI, CHANG, LEE, C., MORIWAKI, RHOADS PSM/CPN, JDC
SB603 SD1
Veterans Rights and Benefits; Advisors; Compensation; Disclosures; Penalties
RELATING TO VETERANS.
Establishes provisions governing any person who receives compensation for advising, assisting, or consulting another person with veterans benefits. Effective 7/1/2077. (SD1)
(S) 2/7/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to CPN/JDC. WAKAI, AQUINO, CHANG, KIDANI, MORIWAKI, Gabbard PSM, CPN/JDC
SB604
DLIR; Tip Credit; Minimum Wage; Employment
RELATING TO THE TIP CREDIT.
Beginning 1/1/2026, increases the tip credit to be twenty per cent of the minimum wage and requires the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations to annually calculate an adjusted tip credit amount.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to LBT, WAM. WAKAI, Hashimoto LBT, WAM  HB479
SB605
DOE; BOE; Financial Literacy; K-12 Coursework; Professional Development
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
Beginning with the 2026-2027 school year, requires the Department of Education to include the teaching of financial literacy in kindergarten through grade twelve. Requires students in grades nine through twelve to complete a one-half credit in financial literacy before graduation. Requires the Board of Education to provide professional development to teachers who are teaching financial literacy courses.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to EDU, WAM. WAKAI, AQUINO, CHANG, ELEFANTE, FEVELLA, GABBARD, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, KIDANI, KIM, LEE, C., RHOADS, RICHARDS, San Buenaventura EDU, WAM  HB865
SB606
DCCA; Business Registration Data; Online
RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS.
Requires the Director of Commerce and Consumer Affairs to make all business registration applications available online. Requires all applications to contain certain contact information.
(S) 2/4/2025- The committee on CPN deferred the measure. WAKAI, AQUINO, CHANG, ELEFANTE, FEVELLA, GABBARD, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, LEE, C., MORIWAKI, McKelvey, Richards, San Buenaventura CPN, WAM  HB453
SB607
Vehicle Weight Tax; Annual Vehicle Registration Fee; Disabled Veterans; Exemption
RELATING TO DISABLED VETERANS.
Exempts disabled veterans from the State's vehicle weight tax and repeals the exemption for disabled veterans from the State's annual vehicle registration fee.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to TRS/PSM, WAM. WAKAI, CHANG, GABBARD, RICHARDS, Fevella, San Buenaventura TRS/PSM, WAM  HB657
SB608 SD1
Veterans Rights and Benefits; Advising; Regulation
RELATING TO VETERANS RIGHTS AND BENEFITS.
Regulates persons receiving compensation for providing advice or assistance regarding veterans benefits. Effective 7/1/2077. (SD1)
(S) 2/7/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to CPN/JDC. WAKAI, AQUINO, CHANG, KIDANI, Gabbard, Hashimoto, Richards PSM, CPN/JDC  HB652
SB609 SD1
Office of Veterans' Services; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO THE OFFICE OF VETERANS' SERVICES.
Appropriates moneys to the Office of Veterans' Services to perform its statutory duties, including maintaining a center that provides information, counsel, aid, and assistance to veterans, their families, and their dependents; and cooperating with federal agencies responsible for the administration of rights and benefits granted to veterans, their families, and their dependents. Effective 7/1/2077. (SD1)
(S) 2/7/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. WAKAI, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, GABBARD, MCKELVEY, MORIWAKI, RHOADS, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Hashimoto, Richards PSM, WAM  HB656
SB610
Electric Utilities; County Boards of Water Supply; DOE; Teachers; Compensation; Round Up; Special Fund; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
Establishes the rounding up for teachers' salaries special fund, to be administered by the Department of Education. Requires electric utilities and county boards of water supply to provide an option for customers to voluntarily round up their bill to the nearest dollar or provide a specific contribution amount. Deposits the proceeds into the rounding up for teachers' salaries special fund. Appropriates moneys.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to EDU, WAM/CPN. FEVELLA, CHANG, Hashimoto EDU, WAM/CPN
SB611
Fireworks; General Prohibition; Consumer Fireworks Exempted
RELATING TO FIREWORKS.
Prohibits the sale, importation, personal use, and commercial use of all fireworks, except consumer fireworks. Removes permitting requirements for consumer fireworks.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to PSM/EIG, CPN/JDC. FEVELLA, FUKUNAGA, GABBARD, KIDANI, Hashimoto, Wakai PSM/EIG, CPN/JDC
SB612 SD1
HHFDC; Rent-to-Build Equity; Study; Report
RELATING TO RENT TO BUILD EQUITY.
Requires the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation to conduct a study on rent-to-build equity for existing and future state-financed housing. Requires a report to the Legislature. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/13/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to CPN/WAM. FEVELLA HOU, CPN/WAM
SB613
Hawaiian Language; DOE; Graduation Requirement; Pilot Program; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO THE HAWAIIAN LANGUAGE.
Requires that each Department of Education public school student earn 2 credits in Hawaiian language for a high school diploma. Establishes a 2-year pilot program for Hawaiian language instruction at Noelani Elementary School and Nanakuli High and Intermediate School. Appropriates moneys.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to EDU/HWN, WAM. FEVELLA, Fukunaga, Richards EDU/HWN, WAM
SB614 SD1 HD1
La Kuokoa; Hawaiian Independence Day; State Holiday
RELATING TO HAWAIIAN INDEPENDENCE DAY.
Establishes the twenty-eighth day of November of each year as "La Kuokoa", Hawaiian Independence Day, as a state holiday, rather than a day of observance. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(H) 3/13/2025- Passed Second Reading as amended in HD 1 and referred to the committee(s) on JHA with none voting aye with reservations; none voting no (0) and Representative(s) Cochran, Holt, Ward, Woodson excused (4). FEVELLA, CHANG, FUKUNAGA CAA, JHA, FIN
SB615
Procurement; Change Order; Cost Increases; Scope of Work
RELATING TO PROCUREMENT.
Requires that any procurement change order that increases the contract cost by more than fifty per cent or substantially increases the scope of work be considered a new contract for procurement purposes.
(S) 2/4/2025- The committee on GVO deferred the measure. FEVELLA, Hashimoto GVO, WAM/JDC
SB616
Department of Transportation; Counties; Motor Vehicles; Towing; Illegal Parking; Registration; Certificate of Title
RELATING TO MOTOR VEHICLES.
Requires the immediate towing of any parked motor vehicle that is not properly registered, does not display a valid safety inspection sticker, or is parked in violation of any state traffic law.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to TRS, JDC. FEVELLA TRS, JDC
SB617 SD1
Proposed Actions; Environmental Impact Statements; Hearings; Notice
RELATING TO THE ENVIRONMENT.
Requires, for each draft environmental impact statement, a public hearing in the community directly affected by the underlying proposed action. (SD1)
(S) 2/14/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to JDC/WAM. FEVELLA, KIDANI, Gabbard AEN/GVO, JDC/WAM
SB618
Motion Picture, Digital Media, and Film Production Income Tax Credit; DBEDT; Qualified Production
RELATING TO TAXATION.
Amends the motion picture, digital media, and film production income tax credit by requiring the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to publish on its website the names of the qualified productions and the amount of the tax credits certified per qualified production per filing year.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to EDT, WAM. FEVELLA, Hashimoto, Richards, Wakai EDT, WAM
SB619
Ulehawa Stream; Contamination; DOH; UH; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO STREAM WATER QUALITY.
Implements a 4-phase plan for the Department of Health to address contamination of Ulehawa Stream. Requires the University of Hawaii to provide assistance. Appropriates moneys.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to HHS/AEN, WAM. FEVELLA, CHANG, KIDANI, Gabbard HHS/AEN, WAM
SB620
Hemp; Permittees; Processing; Manufacturing; Label; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO HEMP.
Requires the Department of Health to construct, operate, and maintain a hemp manufacturing facility. Requires permitted hemp processors to provide certain updated information to the Department of Health no later than 60 days after a relevant event. Explicitly prohibits any person from selling to consumers any hemp biomass, regardless of whether the biomass consists of hemp leaves or hemp floral material, or both. Imposes requirements relating to the form of certain orally consumable manufactured hemp products. Imposes certain labeling requirements. Appropriates moneys.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to HHS/AEN/CPN, WAM. FEVELLA HHS/AEN/CPN, WAM
SB621
Public Lands; Negotiation; Public Auction
RELATING TO PUBLIC LANDS.
Requires that all lease extensions for public lands be subject to public auction.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA, JDC/WAM. FEVELLA WLA, JDC/WAM
SB622
Landfill; Dust Monitoring; Department of Health
RELATING TO DUST MONITORING.
Requires landfills to have dust monitoring stations.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to AEN/HHS, JDC. FEVELLA, CHANG, GABBARD AEN/HHS, JDC
SB623
State Council on Mental Health; Native Hawaiian Health Practices
RELATING TO THE STATE COUNCIL ON MENTAL HEALTH.
Requires the State Council on Mental Health to include an unspecified number of members with demonstrated knowledge of or work experience involving native Hawaiian health practices. Requires council members to receive annual training on topics related to native Hawaiian healing and health.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to HHS/HWN, JDC. FEVELLA, AQUINO, GABBARD, San Buenaventura HHS/HWN, JDC
SB624 SD1
Department of Hawaiian Home Lands; Hawaiian Home Lands; Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalanianaole; Portrait; Mass Transit
RELATING TO PRINCE JONAH KUHIO KALANIANAOLE.
Requires certain public buildings near mass transit projects and on Hawaiian home lands to display a portrait of Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalanianaole. (SD1)
(S) 2/11/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. FEVELLA, AQUINO HWN, WAM
SB625
Hawaiian Homes Commission; Elected Members; DHHL; Director
RELATING TO HAWAIIAN HOME LANDS.
Authorizes the election of the members of the Hawaiian Homes Commission. Establishes the elected office of Director of Hawaiian Home Lands, the holder of which shall have administrative oversight over the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. Subject to congressional approval.
(S) 1/28/2025- The committee on HWN deferred the measure. FEVELLA HWN, JDC/WAM
SB626
HIEMA; Disaster Preparedness; Evacuation Routes; Large Trees; Removal; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO DISASTER PREPAREDNESS.
Prohibits the planting of large trees along evacuation routes. Requires the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency to identify large trees along evacuation routes and trim, spray, or remove large trees having the potential to obstruct an evacuation route. Defines evacuation route. Appropriates moneys.
(S) 2/10/2025- The committee on PSM deferred the measure. FEVELLA, AQUINO, Wakai PSM, WAM
SB627
HHFDC; Current and Returning Resident Down Payment Program; Special Fund; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO DOWN PAYMENTS.
Establishes within the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation a current and returning resident down payment program to provide matching funds for the down payment on a primary residence. Appropriates moneys and establishes positions.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to HOU, WAM. FEVELLA, AQUINO HOU, WAM
SB628
General Excise Tax; DOE; Teacher Salaries; Teacher Salary Special Fund; School Facilities Special Fund
RELATING TO TAXATION.
Increases the general excise tax by 1%. Establishes the teacher salary special fund within the Department of Education. Requires that increased general excise tax revenues be deposited into the teacher salary special fund and the school facilities special fund.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to EDU, WAM. FEVELLA EDU, WAM
SB629
DHHL; Hawaiian Home Lands; Beneficiaries; Monthly Reports
RELATING TO THE HAWAIIAN HOMES COMMISSION ACT.
Requires the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to mail beneficiaries of the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act, 1920, monthly accountability reports that contain certain information on leases and fiscal matters.
(S) 1/27/2025- The committee(s) on HWN deleted the measure from the public hearing scheduled on 01-28-25 1:00PM; CR 224 & Videoconference. FEVELLA, AQUINO HWN, WAM
SB630
Counties; Directors of Finance; Abandoned Vehicles; Charges; Fees; Fines; Waiver
RELATING TO ABANDONED VEHICLES.
Authorizes each county director of finance to waive, for up to one year, certain abandoned vehicle tow, storage, and other charges, fees, and fines owed to the county.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to EIG, WAM. FEVELLA, CHANG, San Buenaventura EIG, WAM
SB631
DHRD; Executive Branch; Departments; Hiring; Recruitment; Employment; Applicant Pool
RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT.
Requires the Department of Human Resources Development to allow other executive branch departments to select applicants for civil service positions from the applicant pool for initial screening.
(S) 2/5/2025- The committee on LBT deferred the measure. FEVELLA, AQUINO, CHANG LBT, WAM
SB632
State Building Code; State Building Code Council; Green Building Standards Code
RELATING TO THE STATE BUILDING CODE.
Requires the State Building Code Council to develop and adopt a green building standards code.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to PSM, WAM. RHOADS, CHANG PSM, WAM
SB633
Environmental Response, Energy, and Food Security Tax; Carbon Emissions; Tax Credit; Agricultural Development and Food Security Special Fund; Carbon Emissions Tax and Dividend Special Fund; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO TAXATION.
Amends the environmental response, energy, and food security tax to address carbon emissions. Incrementally increases the tax rate over time. Establishes a refundable tax credit to mitigate the effect of a carbon emissions tax on lower-income taxpayers. Establishes and appropriates moneys into the carbon emissions tax and dividend special fund. Reenacts the agricultural development and food security special fund. Requires reports to the Legislature.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to AEN/EIG, WAM. RHOADS, GABBARD, LEE, C., Richards AEN/EIG, WAM  HB760
SB634
DOT; Marine Passenger Fees; Cruise Ship Passenger Fee; Cruise Ship Passenger Fee Special Fund; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO MARINE PASSENGER FEES.
Establishes a cruise ship passenger fee to be collected beginning 1/1/2026 by the Department of Transportation to be used for infrastructure projects benefiting cruise ships with an emphasis on climate change mitigation and adaptation. Establishes the Cruise Ship Passenger Fee Special Fund. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to TRS/AEN, WAM. RHOADS TRS/AEN, WAM
SB635 SD1
HSEO; DAGS; State Agencies; Energy Efficiency; Lighting; First Responder Facilities; Report
RELATING TO ENERGY EFFICIENCY.
Requires each state agency to expeditiously use energy efficient lighting. Requires the Hawaii State Energy Office to provide technical assistance and survey state agencies for compliance, prioritizing first responder facilities. Requires the Department of Accounting and General Services to assist the Hawaii State Energy Office in conducting the survey. Requires a report of the survey to the Legislature. Effective 1/1/2491. (SD1)
(S) 2/13/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. RHOADS, GABBARD, Richards GVO/EIG, WAM
SB636 SD1
UH Hilo; Retention Coordinator; Internship Coordinator; Enrollment Management; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII AT HILO.
Appropriates funds for one retention coordinator position, one internship coordinator position, and student enrollment management initiatives at the University of Hawaii at Hilo. Effective 7/31/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/14/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. SAN BUENAVENTURA HRE, WAM  HB443
SB637 SD1
UH; Nursing; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII.
Appropriates funds to the University of Hawaii System for various nursing programs. Effective 7/31/2050. (SD1)
(H) 3/6/2025- Referred to HED, FIN, referral sheet 19 SAN BUENAVENTURA HED, FIN  HB442
SB638
Employment Practices; Paid Rest Periods
RELATING TO EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES.
Requires employers to provide employees with paid breaks.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to LBT, JDC/WAM. AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, FUKUNAGA, HASHIMOTO, KIDANI, RHOADS LBT, JDC/WAM  HB555
SB639 SD1 HD1
Department of Health; Water Quality; Underground Storage Tanks and Tank Systems; Confirmed Release; Environmental Restoration; Jet Fuel; Rules
RELATING TO UNDERGROUND STORAGE TANKS.
Requires an owner or operator of an underground storage tank or tank system with a confirmed release to meet certain standards for the restoration of the environment. Establishes a rebuttable presumption that any detection of these contaminants in the vicinity of an underground storage tank or a tank system after a confirmed release is a result of the confirmed release. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(H) 3/14/2025- Passed Second Reading as amended in HD 1 and referred to the committee(s) on WAL with none voting aye with reservations; none voting no (0) and Representative(s) Cochran, Holt, Iwamoto, Ward excused (4). KEOHOKALOLE, AQUINO, CHANG, ELEFANTE, FEVELLA, FUKUNAGA, MCKELVEY, MORIWAKI, WAKAI EEP, WAL, JHA  HB1230
SB640
Artificial Intelligence; Chatbots; Unfair or Deceptive Practices; Penalties
RELATING TO ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE.
Requires corporations, organizations, or individuals engaging to commercial transactions or trade practices to clearly and conspicuously notify consumers when the consumer is interacting with an artificial intelligence chatbot or other technology capable of mimicking human behaviors. Authorizes private rights of action. Establishes statutory penalties.
(S) 2/7/2025- The committee on CPN deferred the measure. KEOHOKALOLE, CHANG, FEVELLA, FUKUNAGA, HASHIMOTO, MORIWAKI, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Wakai CPN/LBT, JDC  HB639
SB641 SD1
Alcohol; Low Alcohol by Volume Spirits Beverage; Liquor Tax; Liquor Law; Definition
RELATING TO ALCOHOL.
Defines "low alcohol by volume spirits beverage". Establishes a tax on low alcohol by volume spirits beverages at a rate of $0.85 per wine gallon. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/14/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. KEOHOKALOLE, CHANG, FEVELLA, KIM CPN, WAM  HB939
SB642 SD2
Insurance; Mandatory Optional Coverage; Standard Fertility Preservation Services; Medically Necessary Treatment
RELATING TO INSURANCE.
Requires all health insurance policies, contracts, plans, and agreements issued or renewed after 12/31/2025, to provide optional coverage for standard fertility preservation services for persons undergoing medically necessary cancer-related treatments that may cause iatrogenic infertility. Effective 12/31/2050. (SD2)
(H) 3/7/2025- This measure has been deleted from the meeting scheduled on Wednesday 03-12-25 9:00AM in conference room 329 VIA VIDEOCONFERENCE. KEOHOKALOLE, CHANG, FEVELLA, Fukunaga, Hashimoto HLT, CPC, FIN  HB139
SB643
Energy-efficiency Portfolio Standards; Extension; Public Utilities Commission
RELATING TO ENERGY-EFFICIENCY PORTFOLIO STANDARDS.
Extends the State's energy-efficiency portfolio standards from 2030 to 2045 and updates the standards. Authorizes the public utilities commission to adjust the 2045 and interim standards.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to EIG, CPN. KEOHOKALOLE, CHANG, DECOITE, FEVELLA, Wakai EIG, CPN  HB785
SB644
Land Court; Bureau of Conveyances; Real Property; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO REAL PROPERTY.
Repeals the Land Court. Requires registered owners of an interest in property registered in land court to deregister their interest. Requires the land court to inform registered owners of the requirement to deregister. Appropriates moneys.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA, WAM/JDC. KEOHOKALOLE, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, MORIWAKI, Fukunaga WLA, WAM/JDC
SB645
Public Service; Vacancies; State Budget
RELATING TO VACANT STATE POSITIONS.
Requires that state public service positions vacant for longer than 2 years be removed from the state budget.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to LBT/GVO, WAM. FEVELLA LBT/GVO, WAM
SB646
DOE; Schools; Children; Resource Officers; Guards; Pilot Program; Report; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO SAFETY.
Requires the Department of Education to assign school resource officers or guards to serve at public elementary schools and state prekindergarten programs. Requires report to the Legislature. Requires the Department of Education to seek funding from federal grants. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to EDU/PSM, WAM. FEVELLA, AQUINO, Elefante, Moriwaki EDU/PSM, WAM
SB647
Transportation; Low-Speed Electric Bicycles; Regulations
RELATING TO ELECTRIC BICYCLES.
Amends various definitions of "moped" throughout the Hawaii Revised Statutes to exclude low-speed electric bicycles. Deletes an unused term from Chapter 286, Hawaii Revised Statutes. Establishes regulations for low-speed electric bicycles and clarifies the applicability of certain conflicting regulations that are applicable to all bicycles.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to TRS, JDC. FEVELLA, AQUINO, CHANG, MORIWAKI TRS, JDC
SB648
DOH; Developmental Disabilities Division; Home and CommunityBased Services Medicaid Waiver; Eligibility Criteria; Rulemaking; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH.
Requires the Developmental Disabilities Division of the Department of Health to amend its eligibility criteria for the home and community-based services Medicaid waiver to include individuals having an intellectual or a developmental disability and a comorbid mental illness. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to HHS, WAM. FEVELLA, AQUINO, CHANG HHS, WAM
SB649
DOT; Aircraft; Airports; Fireworks; Articles Pyrotechnic; Inspections; Disposal
RELATING TO TRANSPORTATION.
Requires the Department of Transportation to inspect personal aircraft that enter the State and land at state airports for the purpose of preventing the unauthorized transportation of fireworks and article pyrotechnic into the State. Requires the Department to coordinate with an appropriate law enforcement agency or county fire department to dispose of prohibited fireworks and articles pyrotechnic.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to TRS/PSM, JDC/WAM. FEVELLA, CHANG TRS/PSM, JDC/WAM
SB650
Penal Code; Caregivers; Financial Exploitation; Elder Abuse; Vulnerable Adults
RELATING TO HEALTH.
Makes financial exploitation of a vulnerable adult by a caregiver a Class A felony.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to HHS, JDC. FEVELLA, AQUINO, CHANG HHS, JDC
SB651
Tax Expenditure Accountability; Tax Expenditures; Disclosure
RELATING TO TAX EXPENDITURE ACCOUNTABILITY.
Requires laws that enact, modify, or extend the availability of a tax expenditure to contain specific information, revenue estimates, and analyses before becoming law. Allows the disclosure of certain tax credit information.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to WAM. FEVELLA, CHANG, FUKUNAGA WAM
SB652
DOH; Tires; Tire Retailers; Inventory; Database
RELATING TO MOTOR VEHICLE TIRES.
Requires tire retailers to collect and submit to the Department of Health certain information relating to tires sold by the retailer. Requires the Department of Health to establish and maintain a database containing this information.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to TRS/HHS, CPN. FEVELLA, AQUINO, CHANG, KIM TRS/HHS, CPN
SB653
Nuisance Abatement; Gambling Offenses; Mandatory Fine
RELATING TO NUISANCE ABATEMENT.
Requires the court to impose a mandatory fine per violation for nuisance abatement laws related to gambling offenses. Allows citizens who bring civil nuisance abatement suits against places used for illegal gambling the same rights and protections as those afforded to victims and witnesses in criminal proceedings.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to JDC, WAM. FEVELLA, AQUINO, CHANG, KIM, MORIWAKI, Fukunaga JDC, WAM  HB669
SB654
Prince Kuhio Plaza; DHHL; Lease; Revocation
RELATING TO LAND LEASES.
Requires the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to repeal, revoke, or buy out the remainder of the lease of the real property under the Prince Kuhio Plaza, in Hilo, Hawaii, and resell that lease at fair market value to a new entity that agrees to properly maintain the plaza.
(S) 1/27/2025- The committee(s) on HWN deleted the measure from the public hearing scheduled on 01-28-25 1:00PM; CR 224 & Videoconference. FEVELLA HWN, WAM
SB655
Richard "Buffalo" Keaulana Day
RELATING TO RICHARD "BUFFALO" KEAULANA DAY.
Designates September 2nd of each year as "Richard "Buffalo" Keaulana Day".
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA, WAM. FEVELLA, CHANG, Awa WLA, WAM
SB656
DLNR; Red Hill; Water; Contamination Plume; Monitoring; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO WATER.
Appropriates funds for the Department of Land and Natural Resources to install one hundred monitoring wells to collect data and map the migration of the Red Hill contamination plume.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA/AEN, WAM. GABBARD, CHANG, MCKELVEY, Wakai WLA/AEN, WAM
SB657 SD1 HD1
UH; SOEST; Center for Climate Resilient Development; Establishment; Climate Change; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO THE CENTER FOR CLIMATE RESILIENT DEVELOPMENT.
Appropriates funds for the School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology within the University of Hawaii at Manoa to establish and operate a Center for Climate Resilient Development. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(H) 4/23/2025- Conference Committee Meeting will reconvene on Friday 04-25-25 3:00PM in conference room 229. GABBARD, CHANG, MCKELVEY, MORIWAKI, RHOADS HED, WAL, FIN  HB1455
SB658 SD1
DOA; Little Fire Ants; Hawaii Ant Lab; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO THE HAWAII ANT LAB.
Appropriates funds to the Department of Agriculture to support the Hawaii Ant Lab in mitigating the effects of little fire ants in the State. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/13/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. GABBARD, CHANG, Elefante, Fukunaga, Wakai AEN, WAM
SB659 SD2 HD1
DOE; Procurement; Locally Sourced Products; Fresh Local Agricultural Products; Local Value-Added Processed, Agricultural, or Food Products; Exemption; Geographic Preference
RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION.
Exempts from the electronic procurement system the Department of Education's purchase of fresh local agricultural products and local value-added processed, agricultural, or food products not exceeding a certain amount, subject to certain requirements. Requires the Department of Education to establish guidelines for determining a geographic preference for locally sourced products. Exempts the Department of Education from the requirement that certain agricultural products are subject to the Hawaii Public Procurement Code. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(H) 3/21/2025- Report adopted; referred to the committee(s) on FIN with none voting aye with reservations; none voting no (0) and Representative(s) Cochran, Garrett, Kapela, Kitagawa, Ward excused (5). GABBARD, CHANG, Wakai EDN, AGR, FIN
SB660
HSEO; Energy; Combustible Fuel Alternatives; Study; Report
RELATING TO ENERGY.
Requires the Hawaii State Energy Office to conduct a study to identify the most cost-effective investments for clean energy alternatives to combustible fuels. Requires a report to the Legislature.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to EIG, WAM. GABBARD, CHANG EIG, WAM
SB661 SD1
DOA; Programs; Plant-Based Building Materials; Biocements; Hemp; Bamboo; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO PLANT-BASED BUILDING MATERIALS.
Appropriates funds to the Department of Agriculture for the establishment and operation of programs relating to the development of biocements and hemp- and bamboo-based building materials. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/5/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. GABBARD, CHANG, Fukunaga AEN, WAM
SB663
UH; CTAHR; Agricultural Technicians; Community Coordinators; Positions; Established; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII COLLEGE OF TROPICAL AGRICULTURE AND HUMAN RESOURCES.
Appropriates funds for the University of Hawaii at Manoa College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources to establish eight full-time equivalent (8.0 FTE) agricultural technician positions and four full-time equivalent (4.0 FTE) community coordinator positions.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to EDU, WAM. GABBARD, CHANG, FUKUNAGA, Wakai EDU, WAM
SB664
DOH; Duties; Water Quality; Water Quality Testing; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO WATER QUALITY.
Expands the duties and powers of the Department of Health that relate to water quality and water quality testing to ensure the safety and health of Hawaii's residents. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/31/2025- The committee on AEN deferred the measure. GABBARD, CHANG, FUKUNAGA, HASHIMOTO, MORIWAKI HHS/AEN, WAM
SB665
HSEO; Energy; Combustible Fuel Alternatives; Study; Report
RELATING TO ENERGY.
Requires the Hawaii State Energy Office to conduct a study to identify the most cost-effective investments for clean energy alternatives to combustible fuels. Requires a report to the Legislature.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to EIG, WAM. GABBARD, CHANG, Fukunaga, Moriwaki EIG, WAM
SB666 SD1
UH; CTAHR; Positions; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII.
Converts two temporary Farm-to-School extension agent positions within the University of Hawaii at Manoa College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resilience into permanent positions. Establishes an Agriculture Education Coordinator position. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/31/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/12/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. GABBARD, CHANG, FUKUNAGA, HASHIMOTO HRE, WAM
SB667
EALs; Toxic Chemicals; Pollutants; Procedural Requirements; Public Notice
RELATED TO TOXIC CHEMICALS.
Requires state agencies that monitor environmental toxins and pollutants to establish environmental action levels (EALs) to ensure the preservation of a safe environment. Prohibits modifications to EALs unless certain procedural requirements are met. Establishes a process to allow any resident to petition for modifications to an established EAL.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to AEN/GVO, WAM. GABBARD, CHANG, RHOADS, Fevella AEN/GVO, WAM
SB668
Waste or Disposal Facilities; Significant Aquifers; Buffer Zones
RELATING TO WASTE OR DISPOSAL FACILITIES.
Prohibits the construction, modification, or expansion of any waste or disposal facility on land that is near or above a significant aquifer as determined by the Department of Health. Reduces the required buffer zone around waste or disposal facilities.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to HHS/WLA, WAM. GABBARD, FUKUNAGA, Moriwaki HHS/WLA, WAM  HB748
SB669
HSEO; Rooftop Solar Installation; Rooftop Photovoltaic Energy Generating Systems; New Residential Construction Requirement; Rules
RELATING TO PHOTOVOLTAIC ENERGY GENERATING SYSTEMS.
Beginning 1/1/2026, prohibits the issuance of building permits for new single-family dwellings that are part of a development of twenty or more dwellings and do not include a rooftop photovoltaic energy generating system, unless a variance is granted by the Hawaii State Energy Office. Authorizes the Hawaii State Energy Office to adopt administrative rules.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to EIG, JDC. GABBARD, RHOADS EIG, JDC
SB670
Lodging Establishments; Personal Care Products; Small Plastic Containers; Prohibition; Penalties
RELATING TO SINGLE-USE PLASTICS.
Prohibits lodging establishments in the State from providing personal care products packaged in small plastic containers in any sleeping room accommodations, space within sleeping room accommodations, and bathrooms used by the public or guests. Establishes civil penalties.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to EDT/AEN, CPN/JDC. GABBARD, FEVELLA, RHOADS EDT/AEN, CPN/JDC
SB671
Dangerous Pesticides; State Land; State Facilities; Regulation
RELATING TO PESTICIDES.
Prohibits the use of certain dangerous pesticides on state lands and at state facilities, except as needed to respond to emergencies.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to AEN/GVO/WLA, CPN/WAM. GABBARD, AQUINO, MCKELVEY, RHOADS AEN/GVO/WLA, CPN/WAM
SB672
UH; CIP; Waimanalo Research Station; GO Bonds ($)
RELATING TO CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS FOR THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII.
Authorizes the issuance of general obligation bonds and appropriates funds for a capital improvement project for the repair, maintenance, and demolition of buildings at the Waimanalo Research Station.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to EDU, WAM. GABBARD, CHANG EDU, WAM  HB779
SB673
DLNR; Environmental Stewardship Fee Program; Environmental Stewardship Fee Special Fund; Report; Appropriation
RELATING TO ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP FEES.
Effective 7/1/2027, establishes the Environmental Stewardship Fee Program within the Department of Land and Natural Resources, through which the Department will collect a fee from visitors for a license to visit a state park, forest, hiking trail, or other state natural area. Establishes the Environmental Stewardship Fee Special Fund effective 7/1/2025. Allocates a certain amount of transient accommodations tax revenues to the special fund. Requires report to the Legislature on strategic plan and timetable for objectives and implementation of the environmental stewardship fee program. Appropriates funds for the environmental stewardship fee strategic plan and positions for the Environmental Stewardship Fee Program.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA/EDT, WAM/JDC. GABBARD, CHANG, FUKUNAGA, RHOADS WLA/EDT, WAM/JDC  HB752
SB674 SD1
DOH; Packaging Waste; Needs Assessment; Advisory Council; Extended Producer Responsibility Program; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO THE ENVIRONMENT.
Requires the Department of Health to conduct a statewide needs assessment to determine what will be needed to reduce waste generation, increase reuse, improve recycling collection services, and expand local processing of materials through an extended producer responsibility program for packaging materials and paper products. Requires the Department of Health to complete and submit the needs assessment to the Legislature no later than 12/31/2028. Establishes an advisory council to review the draft needs assessment and propose recommendations throughout the assessment process. Appropriates funds. Effective 12/31/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/13/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. GABBARD, CHANG, RHOADS, Fukunaga HHS/AEN, WAM  HB750
SB675 SD1
DOH; Wastewater Branch; Cesspool Conversion Section; Positions; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO CESSPOOLS.
Establishes within the Department of Health's Wastewater Branch a Cesspool Conversion Section, which shall be responsible for facilitating the conversion of cesspools within the State. Establishes and appropriates funds for positions within the Cesspool Conversion Section. Effective 12/31/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/26/2025- The committee on WAM deferred the measure. GABBARD, CHANG, FUKUNAGA HHS/AEN, WAM  HB749
SB676
Solid Waste Reduction; Organic Waste Diversion; Benchmarks; Appropriation
RELATING TO ORGANIC WASTE.
Establishes statewide goals for solid waste reduction and organic waste diversion. Requires each county to incorporate into its next integrated solid waste management plan revision a plan to divert certain organic waste generated within the county in alignment with established state benchmarks. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to AEN/EIG, WAM. GABBARD, CHANG, FUKUNAGA AEN/EIG, WAM  HB751
SB677 SD1
Hawaii Climate Adaptation and Resilience Implementation Plan; Office of Planning and Sustainable Development; Report; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO A CLIMATE ADAPTATION AND RESILIENCE IMPLEMENTATION PLAN.
Requires the Office of Planning and Sustainable Development to develop and publish a Hawaii climate adaptation and resilience implementation plan. Requires a report to the Legislature. Appropriates funds. Effective 1/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/14/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. GABBARD, CHANG, RHOADS, Fukunaga, Moriwaki WTL/AEN, WAM  HB1366
SB678 SD1
Department of Agriculture; Agricultural Development and Food Security Special Fund; Environmental Response, Energy, and Food Security Tax
RELATING TO AGRICULTURE.
Establishes the Agricultural Development and Food Security Special Fund. Requires a portion of the Environmental Response, Energy, and Food Security Tax to be deposited into the Special Fund. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/10/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. GABBARD, CHANG, Fukunaga AEN, WAM  SB1155
SB679
Governor; DCCA; HIEMA; Hurricane Shelters; Strengthening; Development ($)
RELATING TO HURRICANE SHELTERS.
Appropriates funds for the Office of the Governor, in collaboration with the Insurance Division of the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs and Hawaii Emergency Management Agency, to strengthen existing hurricane shelters and develop new hurricane shelters to withstand category five hurricanes.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to PSM/CPN, WAM. GABBARD, CHANG, RHOADS PSM/CPN, WAM  HB357
SB680
Renewable Portfolio Standards; Definition; Biomass; Repeal
RELATING TO RENEWABLE ENERGY.
Repeals biomass from the renewable portfolio standard definition of "renewable energy".
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to EIG/AEN, CPN. GABBARD EIG/AEN, CPN
SB681
General Excise Tax; Exemption; Agricultural Businesses; Genetically Engineered Agricultural Products; Repeal
RELATING TO THE GENERAL EXCISE TAX.
Repeals the exemption to the general excise tax for agricultural businesses engaged in the production of genetically engineered agricultural products.
(S) 2/10/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading and referred to WAM. GABBARD, FEVELLA AEN, WAM
SB682
Department of Health; Safe Drinking Water; Safe Drinking Water Act; Chemical Additive; Requirements; Prohibition
RELATING TO SAFE DRINKING WATER.
Prohibits any state or county law, rule, ordinance, or regulation from requiring the addition of any substance, product, or chemical for preventative health care or medical purposes, that is unrelated to chemicals necessary for protection against contamination of drinking water, to any public water system. Establishes quality control and public safety requirements if the Safe Drinking Water Act is amended to authorize a federal regulation to allow every state to use the drinking water system to dispense chemicals or medication for treating the physical or mental function of a person's body.
(S) 1/31/2025- Re-Referred to HHS, JDC. GABBARD HHS, JDC
SB683 SD1
PFAS; Food Packaging; Food Service Ware; Cosmetics; Personal Care Products; Prohibition
RELATING TO ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION.
Beginning 1/1/2028, prohibits the manufacture, sale, offer for sale, distribution for sale, and distribution for use of any food packaging, food service ware, cosmetic, or personal care product that contains intentionally added perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, with certain exceptions. (SD1)
(S) 2/13/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to CPN. GABBARD AEN, CPN
SB684
BOE; DOE; Cell Phones; Prohibited; Rules
RELATING TO THE BOARD OF EDUCATION.
Requires the Board of Education to adopt administrative rules to ban the usage of cell phones at Department of Education schools.
(S) 2/5/2025- The committee on EDU deferred the measure. GABBARD EDU, JDC
SB685
Environmental Response, Energy, and Food Security Tax; Carbon Emissions; Tax Credit; Agricultural Development and Food Security Special Fund
RELATING TO TAXATION OF POLLUTION.
Amends the environmental response, energy, and food security tax to address carbon emissions. Incrementally increases the tax rate over time. Establishes a refundable tax credit to mitigate the effect of a carbon emissions tax on taxpayers. Reenacts the agricultural development and food security special fund. Requires reports to the Legislature.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to AEN/EIG, WAM. GABBARD, CHANG, RHOADS AEN/EIG, WAM  HB1375
SB686 SD1
UH; Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle Response Program; Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle; Prevention; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO THE COCONUT RHINOCEROS BEETLE PROGRAM.
Establishes short-term management initiatives for the Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle Response Program. Establishes standards for the usage of grants awarded pursuant to the Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle Response Program. Appropriates funds to the University of Hawaii for activities and positions related to coconut rhinoceros beetle infestation control. Effective 7/31/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/11/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. GABBARD, CHANG, RHOADS, Wakai HRE/AEN, WAM  HB643
SB687
Animal Fur; Fur Products; Sale, Offer, Possession, Display, Distribution, or Trade; Prohibition; Penalties
RELATING TO ANIMAL FUR PRODUCTS.
Prohibits the sale, offer, possession with intent to sell, display, distribution, or trade of fur products in the State, with certain exceptions. Establishes civil penalties for violations. Effective 6/30/2025.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to AEN, CPN/JDC. GABBARD, RHOADS, Wakai AEN, CPN/JDC  HB719
SB688 SD1
DOA; Grant Specialist Positions; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO AGRICULTURE.
Appropriates funds to establish grant specialist positions within the Department of Agriculture. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/4/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. GABBARD, CHANG AEN, WAM
SB689
DOA; Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program; Hawaii Healthy Food Incentive Program; DA BUX; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO FOOD SECURITY.
Appropriates funds to the Department of Agriculture for the continued administration of the Hawaii Healthy Food Incentive Program and to provide matching funds to beneficiaries who participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to AEN/HHS, WAM. GABBARD, CHANG, FUKUNAGA, HASHIMOTO AEN/HHS, WAM
SB690
Department of Agriculture; Agribusiness Development Corporation; CIP; Agricultural Infrastructure; GO Bonds; Food and Product Innovation Network; Waiahole Water System; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO AGRICULTURE.
Appropriates funds for capital improvement projects per the agricultural infrastructure of the State, a food and product innovation network, and outstanding debt on the Waiahole water system.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to EDT/AEN, WAM. GABBARD, CHANG EDT/AEN, WAM
SB692
DLE; Spray Paint Sales
RELATING TO SPRAY PAINT.
Regulates the retail and wholesale sales of spray paint. Designates the Department of Law Enforcement with jurisdiction.
(S) 2/10/2025- The committee on PSM deferred the measure. GABBARD, CHANG PSM, CPN/JDC
SB695
DOH; Ambulances; Equipment; Cameras; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO AMBULANCES.
Requires the Department of Health to require each ground ambulance to be equipped with front- and rear-facing cameras. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to HHS, WAM. GABBARD, CHANG HHS, WAM
SB696
Office of the Governor; DCCA; Disaster Preparedness; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT.
Appropriates funds for the Office of the Governor, in collaboration with the Insurance Division of the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, to: (1) plan and administer income tax credits relating to emergency management or disaster preparedness and grants for low-income taxpayers to fortify their residential real property; (2) oversee the development of emergency shelters; and (3) hire necessary personnel.
(S) 2/10/2025- The committee on CPN deferred the measure. GABBARD, CHANG, FUKUNAGA PSM/CPN, WAM  HB354
SB697 SD1
DOTAX; DCCA; Income Tax Credit; Wind Resistance Retrofit; Hurricane Preparedness; Insurance; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO AN INCOME TAX CREDIT.
Establishes a nonrefundable individual income tax credit for expenses paid to retrofit a residence with wind resistive devices. Requires the Department of Taxation to prepare forms. Requires the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs to pre-certify claims. Appropriates funds. Applies to taxable years beginning after 12/31/2025. Sunsets 1/1/2028. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/10/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. GABBARD, CHANG, RHOADS CPN, WAM  HB355
SB698
State Building Codes; Hurricane Protection
RELATING TO THE STATE BUILDING CODES.
Requires all newly constructed single-family residences and apartment buildings located within specified geographic areas to be built to withstand certain categories of hurricanes and to contain residential safe rooms with attached bathrooms. Effective 1/1/2026.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to PSM, WAM. GABBARD, CHANG, RHOADS PSM, WAM  HB356
SB699
Office of the Governor; DCCA; Hurricane Fortification Grants; Low-Income Residents; Condominium Associations; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO DISASTER PREPAREDNESS.
Appropriates funds for the Office of the Governor, in collaboration with the Insurance Division of the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, to oversee and administer grants to low-income residents, and condominium associations on behalf of low-income condominium owners, to fortify residential real property against hurricanes.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to PSM/CPN, WAM. GABBARD, CHANG, FUKUNAGA PSM/CPN, WAM  HB353
SB700 SD1
HSEO; Renewable Energy; State Facilities; Resilience Hubs; Feasibility; Report
RELATING TO RENEWABLE ENERGY.
Requires the Hawaii State Energy Office, in collaboration with state departments, to assess the potential and feasibility of developing resilience hubs that can provide emergency services and be open to the general public during times of emergency. Requires a report to the Legislature. Effective 1/1/2491. (SD1)
(S) 2/13/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. GABBARD, CHANG, RHOADS GVO/EIG, WAM
SB701
Solar Distributed Energy Resource Systems; Building Permits; Online Automated Permitting Platform; Self-Certification Process
RELATING TO RENEWABLE ENERGY.
Requires government entities in the State that issue building permits to implement SolarAPP+ or a functionally equivalent online automated permitting platform that verifies code compliance and issues permits to licensed contractors for solar distributed energy resource systems in real-time by 1/1/2026. Requires government entities in the State that issue building permits in areas served by an investor-owned electric utility to adopt a self-certification process for solar distributed energy resource systems that are not SolarAPP+ compatible.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to EIG/GVO, CPN/WAM. GABBARD, CHANG, RHOADS EIG/GVO, CPN/WAM
SB702
Constitutional Amendment; Green Amendment; Environmental Protection (ConAm)
PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE I OF THE HAWAII STATE CONSTITUTION TO RECOGNIZE AND PROTECT THE INHERENT AND INALIENABLE RIGHT OF ALL PEOPLE TO CLEAN WATER AND AIR, A HEALTHFUL ENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATE, HEALTHY NATIVE ECOSYSTEMS, AND BEACHES.
Proposes a constitutional amendment to ensure that the inherent and inalienable right of the people, including future generations, to clean water and air, a healthful environment and climate, healthy native ecosystems, and beaches, shall be protected and shall not be infringed.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to AEN, JDC/WAM. GABBARD, CHANG, FEVELLA AEN, JDC/WAM  SB559
SB703
HDOA; Loan Programs; Interest Rate Cap; Line of Credit; New Farmers; Farm-to-State Programs; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO AGRICULTURE.
Appropriates funds for the agricultural loan program to offer loans with an interest rate cap of four per cent; a line of credit program with a prevailing interest rate; and loans with an interest rate cap of three per cent for new farmers that commit to growing import replacement crops and farm-to-state programs.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to AEN, WAM. GABBARD, CHANG, HASHIMOTO AEN, WAM
SB704
Income Tax; Earned Income Tax Credit
RELATING TO THE EARNED INCOME TAX CREDIT.
Permanently increases the state earned income tax credit to fifty per cent of the federal earned income tax credit. Applies to taxable years beginning after 12/31/2024.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to WAM. SAN BUENAVENTURA, AQUINO, CHANG, HASHIMOTO, MCKELVEY, MORIWAKI, RHOADS, Kanuha WAM  HB182
SB705
Excited Delirium; Prohibition; Cause of Death; Incident Report; Law Enforcement Officers; Evidence
RELATING TO EXCITED DELIRIUM.
Prohibits excited delirium from being recognized as a valid medical diagnosis or cause of death in the State. Prohibits a local health officer or local agent of the Department of Health from stating on a certificate of death or in any report that the cause of death was excited delirium. Prohibits law enforcement officers from using the term excited delirium to describe an individual in an incident report. Establishes a new rule of evidence that deems evidence that a person experienced or suffered an excited delirium inadmissible in a civil action.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to HHS/PSM, JDC. SAN BUENAVENTURA, ELEFANTE, RHOADS HHS/PSM, JDC
SB706 SD1
Hawaii Property Insurance Association; Insurance; Plan of Operation; Commercial Properties
RELATING TO INSURANCE.
Requires the Hawaii Property Insurance Association to include in its plan of operation insurance coverage for commercial properties twice denied by private insurers. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/10/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. SAN BUENAVENTURA, CHANG, Kanuha, McKelvey CPN, WAM  HB21
SB707
Property Insurance; Lava Zones; Premiums; Lava Zone Insurance Fund; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO LAVA ZONE INSURANCE.
Establishes a Lava Zone Insurance Fund to subsidize the cost of insurance premiums for properties in lava zones 1 and 2. Defines lava zones 1 and 2. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to CPN, WAM. SAN BUENAVENTURA, CHANG, KANUHA CPN, WAM  HB20
SB708
Board of Psychology; Clinical Psychologists; Prescriptive Authority Privilege; Report; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO PRESCRIPTIVE AUTHORITY FOR CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGISTS.
Authorizes and appropriates moneys for the Board of Psychology to grant prescriptive authority to clinical psychologists who meet specific education, training, and registration requirements. Requires the Board of Psychology to accept applications for prescriptive authority privilege beginning 7/1/2026. Requires the Board of Psychology to report to the Legislature.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to HHS/CPN, WAM/JDC. SAN BUENAVENTURA, FEVELLA, FUKUNAGA, KIM, Kanuha HHS/CPN, WAM/JDC
SB709 SD1
DOH; Mental Health; Assisted Community Treatment; Emergency Examination and Hospitalization; Training and Education; Report; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO MENTAL HEALTH.
Requires the Department of Health (DOH) to track and publicly report certain data relating to crisis reports, emergency mental health transports, and court-ordered treatments. Requires the DOH to respond to reports about persons having severe mental illness who are in need of assistance, assess whether those persons fulfill criteria for assisted community treatment, and coordinate the process for an assisted community treatment order if indicated. Establishes that a court's denial of a petition for involuntary commitment shall serve as notification to the DOH that the subject of the petition should be evaluated for assisted community treatment. Appropriates funds. Effective 12/31/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/14/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. SAN BUENAVENTURA, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, MCKELVEY, MORIWAKI, RHOADS, Fukunaga HHS/JDC, WAM
SB710 SD1
DHS; Child Welfare Task Force; Child Welfare System; Malama Ohana Working Group; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO CHILD WELFARE.
Establishes the Child Welfare Task Force to develop strategies and policy changes to transform and improve the State's child welfare system. Requires support from the Department of Human Services. Requires a report to the Legislature. Appropriates funds. Effective 12/31/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/14/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. SAN BUENAVENTURA, CHANG, ELEFANTE, FEVELLA, FUKUNAGA, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, MCKELVEY, RHOADS HHS, WAM
SB711 SD1
Governor; Gubernatorial Appointments; Salaries; Senate Confirmation; Governor's Messages
RELATING TO GUBERNATORIAL APPOINTMENTS.
Requires any appointment of a person by the Governor to serve in the Executive Branch in the position of an advisor to be subject to the advice and consent of the Senate if that person's salary is greater than $200,000, and is not paid from the Governor's budget. Requires the Governor to transmit Governor's Messages to the Senate President containing nominations for each gubernatorial appointee who was appointed to their advisor position before the effective date of this Act and whose salary is greater than $200,000, and is not paid from the Governor's budget. Effective 1/1/2491. (SD1)
(S) 2/12/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to JDC. SAN BUENAVENTURA, CHANG, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, MCKELVEY GVO, JDC
SB712
Preschool Open Doors Program; Eligibility
RELATING TO THE PRESCHOOL OPEN DOORS PROGRAM.
Expands the preschool open door program's eligibility criteria. Repeals the requirement that open door program providers be accredited.
(S) 2/10/2025- The committee on HHS deferred the measure. SAN BUENAVENTURA, CHANG, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, Fukunaga, McKelvey HHS, WAM  HB692
SB713
DHS; CHIP; Medicaid Coverage; Pregnant Persons; Children; Immigration Status; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO MEDICAID.
Appropriates funds to the Department of Human Services to provide health insurance through Medicaid's Children's Health Insurance Program to income-qualified children and pregnant persons regardless of their immigration status.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to HHS/CPN, WAM. AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, GABBARD, HASHIMOTO, RHOADS HHS/CPN, WAM
SB714
DHS; Medicaid; Children's Health Insurance Program; Pregnant Persons; Children; Immigration Status; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO MEDICAID.
Appropriates funds to the Department of Human Services to provide Medicaid coverage under the Children's Health Insurance Program for income-qualified pregnant persons and children who are otherwise ineligible due to their immigration status.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to HHS/CPN, WAM. AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, GABBARD, HASHIMOTO HHS/CPN, WAM
SB715
DHS; Medicaid; Long-Term Care Services; Home- and Community-Based Services; Reimbursement; Rates; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO MEDICAID.
Appropriates funds to the Department of Human Services to achieve full funding status, including estimated payment increases, of Medicaid home- and community-based services.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to HHS, WAM. AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, HASHIMOTO, KANUHA, KIDANI, MCKELVEY, MORIWAKI, RHOADS, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Gabbard HHS, WAM
SB716 SD2 HD1
DLIR; Hawaii Employment Security Law; Unemployment Benefits; Registration for Work; Electronic Notice; Waiver; Deregulation
RELATING TO HAWAII EMPLOYMENT SECURITY LAW.
Expands the circumstances where the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations may waive the requirements for individuals to register to work and report to an employment office to be eligible for unemployment benefits. Authorize the Department to allow individuals to report to a location other than an employment office or other location approved pursuant to its rules. Beginning 4/1/2027, requires notices of determinations and documentation relating to appeals to be sent electronically, unless the election for mail is made. Allows an individual to change an elected withholding status more than once during a benefit year. Amends the statutory definition of "registered for work" or "registration for work". Repeals the requirement for individuals to post their work availability online to be eligible for unemployment benefits. Repeals the statutory provision for joint experience rating. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(H) 3/18/2025- Passed Second Reading as amended in HD 1 and referred to the committee(s) on FIN with none voting aye with reservations; Representative(s) Muraoka voting no (1) and Representative(s) Cochran, Ward excused (2). AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, KIDANI, MCKELVEY, MORIWAKI, RHOADS, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Hashimoto, Richards LAB, FIN
SB717 SD1 HD1
Collective Bargaining; Grievance; Suspension; Discharge; Exempt Employees
RELATING TO COLLECTIVE BARGAINING.
Repeals the prohibition placed on certain employees exempt from Civil Service Law from grieving a suspension or discharge. Allows any employee who is a member of an appropriate bargaining unit to grieve a suspension or discharge. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(S) 4/25/2025- Conference committee meeting to reconvene on 04-25-25 4:30 PM; Conference Room 016. AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, FUKUNAGA, HASHIMOTO, KIDANI, MORIWAKI, RHOADS, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Gabbard, McKelvey, Richards LAB, FIN  HB161
SB718
Equity; Universal Changing Accommodations; Public Accommodation; Public Entity Construction
RELATING TO EQUITY.
Requires all places of public accommodation and public entity constructions constructed after 7/31/2026, to provide universal changing accommodations that are equally accessible regardless of gender.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to HHS/GVO, CPN/WAM. AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, FUKUNAGA, HASHIMOTO, KIDANI, RHOADS HHS/GVO, CPN/WAM
SB719
DOH; Auditor; Healthy Ohana Act; Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Fee Program; Exemptions; Healthy Ohana Special Fund; Healthy Ohana Trust Fund; Healthy Ohana Trust Fund Advisory Committee; Enforcement; Penalties; Reports; Rules; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO SUGAR-SWEETENED BEVERAGES.
Establishes a Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Fee Program to be administered by the Department of Health that, beginning 7/1/2026, imposes a fee on the distribution and sale of sugar-sweetened beverages in the State. Establishes the Healthy Ohana Special Fund into which revenues generated from the sugar-sweetened beverage fee are deposited. Establishes the Healthy Ohana Trust Fund in the private sector to receive revenues from the Healthy Ohana Special Fund to support prevention and control of obesity and chronic diseases. Allows the Department to contract with a third party to administer the program. Requires the Auditor to conduct a management and financial audit of the program and submit reports to the Legislature. Establishes the Healthy Ohana Trust Fund Advisory Committee to advise the Department on the administration of the trust fund. Requires the Department to adopt interim rules no later than 6/30/2026, and final rules no later than 12/31/2027. Establishes civil penalties. Requires annual reports to the Legislature. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to HHS, WAM/JDC. RHOADS, CHANG HHS, WAM/JDC
SB720
DLIR; Workers' Compensation; Independent Medical Examination; Permanent Impairment Rating Examination; Physician; Mutual Agreement
RELATING TO WORKERS' COMPENSATION.
Requires the independent medical examination and permanent impairment rating examination of an injured employee under the Workers' Compensation Law to be conducted by a qualified physician selected by the mutual agreement of the parties and paid for by the employer. In absence of a mutual agreement, requires the Director of Labor and Industrial Relations to appoint a duly qualified impartial physician to be paid by the employer.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to LBT, JDC/WAM. RHOADS LBT, JDC/WAM
SB721 SD1
Department of Taxation; Taxation; Estate Tax; Exclusion; Exemption; Nonresidents; Nonresidents Not Citizens
RELATING TO THE ESTATE TAX.
Amends the exclusion amount of Hawaii's estate tax. Repeals exemption for tax imposed on transfer of taxable estate located in Hawaii for nonresidents and nonresidents who are not citizens. Applicable to decedents dying or taxable transfers occurring after 12/31/2024. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(H) 3/4/2025- Referred to FIN, referral sheet 18 RHOADS FIN
SB722
Civil Asset Forfeiture; Property Forfeiture
RELATING TO PROPERTY FORFEITURE.
Restricts civil asset forfeiture to cases involving the commission of a felony offense where the property owner has been convicted of an underlying felony offense. Directs forfeiture proceeds to the general fund. Amends the allowable expenses for moneys in the Criminal Forfeiture Fund. Requires the Attorney General to adopt rules necessary to carry out the purpose of the Hawaii Omnibus Criminal Forfeiture Act. Amends the deadline for the Attorney General to report to the Legislature on the use of the Hawaii Omnibus Criminal Forfeiture Act. Limits the transfer of certain forfeiture property to federal agencies. Establishes records requirements.
(S) 2/4/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading and referred to WAM. RHOADS, AQUINO, CHANG, FEVELLA, GABBARD, INOUYE, KIDANI, MCKELVEY, SAN BUENAVENTURA, Wakai JDC, WAM
SB723
Shoreline Setbacks
RELATING TO SHORELINE SETBACKS.
Increases shoreline setback requirements.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA/EIG, WAM. RHOADS, GABBARD WLA/EIG, WAM
SB724
Deposit Beverage Container Program; Dealers of Deposit Beverage Containers; Redemption Centers; Exemptions; Repeal
RELATING TO DEPOSIT BEVERAGE CONTAINER REDEMPTION.
Repeals the exemptions for certain dealers of deposit beverage containers and related provisions. Requires all dealers of deposit beverage containers to operate as redemption centers. Effective 7/1/2026.
(S) 2/10/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading and referred to CPN. RHOADS, Fukunaga AEN, CPN
SB725
Judges; Bail; Findings
RELATING TO BAIL.
Requires judges to make certain findings regarding a defendant's ability to afford bail.
(S) 1/31/2025- The committee on JDC deferred the measure. RHOADS, CHANG, SAN BUENAVENTURA JDC  HB675
SB726
Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs; Motor Vehicle Insurance; Electronic Insurance Verification System; Insurance Commissioner; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO MOTOR VEHICLE INSURANCE.
Requires insurers to notify the Insurance Commissioner of all existing motor vehicle insurance policies and whenever the insurer issues, cancels, terminates, or does not renew a motor vehicle insurance policy. Requires the Insurance Commissioner to use the insurance policy information to create an electronic database to provide law enforcement and the courts with instant insurance verification. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to CPN/TRS, WAM. RHOADS CPN/TRS, WAM
SB727
DOH; Counties, Water Fluoridation; Water Suppliers; Public Water Systems; Training; Dental Care Insurance; Coverage; Proclamation; Reports; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO HEALTH.
Requires suppliers of water in the State to adjust the level of fluoride in its public water system in conformance with a standard published by the Board of Water Supply of each county until the issuance of a proclamation by the Governor declaring the date on which all residents of the State have either obtained or affirmatively rejected dental insurance coverage and provide a certified copy to the Revisor of Statutes. Requires the Department of Health to provide suppliers of water with technical assistance and training and submit annual status reports to the Legislature regarding the public water systems' status of compliance with the fluoride adjustment requirement. Allows the Department of Health to reimburse suppliers of water for necessary expenses incurred for compliance. Requires the Department of Health to monitor dental insurance coverage of the State's residents, submit annual status reports to the Legislature, and upon confirmation that all residents of the State have either obtained or affirmatively rejected dental insurance coverage, submit a written verification to the Governor. Requires the Governor to issue a proclamation. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/27/2025- Re-Referred to HHS, WAM/CPN. RHOADS, CHANG, FEVELLA, KIDANI HHS, WAM/CPN
SB728
Firearms Possession; Disqualification; Disposal; Statement; Seizure
RELATING TO FIREARMS POSSESSION.
Requires individuals denied a firearm permit or otherwise disqualified from possessing firearms and certain defendants to provide a sworn statement that the individual has disposed of any firearms and ammunition in the individual's possession. Requires the applicable chief of police to search firearm permit and registration records for those individuals before serving a protective order or restraining order involving firearms or ammunition, and to seize any firearms or ammunition that were not disposed of. Requires police to seize firearms and ammunition in domestic abuse cases that are in plain view of the officer or discovered by consensual search.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to PSM, JDC. RHOADS PSM, JDC
SB729
Enterprise Zones; Eligible Business Activities; Retail Sales; Value-added Agricultural Products; Health Care Services
RELATING TO ENTERPRISE ZONES.
Amends the definition of "eligible business activity" for enterprise zone program purposes to include retail sales of tangible personal property manufactured and sold in the enterprise zone that is to be used or consumed by the purchaser and not for resale, the processing of value-added agricultural products grown within an enterprise zone, and the provision of professional services by health care professionals in health care related sectors.
(S) 1/30/2025- The committee on EDT deferred the measure. DECOITE (Introduced by request of another party) EDT, WAM  HB436
SB730
DLE; Retirement for Public Officers and Employees; Allowances; Pension and Retirement Systems
RELATING TO ALLOWANCE ON SERVICE RETIREMENTS.
Adds definitions for certain Department of Law Enforcement employees. Establishes guidance for the computation of retirement benefits for the Director of Law Enforcement, Deputy Director of the Department of Law Enforcement, Sheriff Division Investigator, Sheriff, and Department of Law Enforcement Investigator.
(S) 2/10/2025- The committee on LBT deferred the measure. DECOITE (Introduced by request of another party) PSM/LBT, WAM
SB731
DLE; AG; ERS; DHRD; Counties; Retirees; Benefits; Investigators; Reports
RELATING TO THE EMPLOYEES' RETIREMENT SYSTEM.
Allows a retirant employed as an investigator identified by the Department of Law Enforcement or Department of the Attorney General as a labor shortage or difficult-to-fill position to be rehired without reenrollment in the Employees' Retirement System and without a loss or interruption of retirement benefits, subject to certain conditions. Requires annual reports to the Legislature to include details on the employment of retirants as investigators.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to LBT, WAM/JDC. DECOITE (Introduced by request of another party) LBT, WAM/JDC
SB732 SD2 HD2
Counties; Permitting Fees; Entertainment Payroll Companies; Unions; General Excise Tax; Motion Picture, Digital Media, and Film Production Income Tax Credit; Broadcast and Streaming Platforms; Income Tax; Exemptions
RELATING TO THE FILM INDUSTRY.
Requires counties to waive permitting fees for certain film activity. Exempts entertainment payroll companies from the GET. Repeals an income tax exemption for persons engaged in the business of motion picture and television film production for taxable years beginning after 12/31/2023. Amends the Motion Picture, Digital Media, and Film Production Income Tax Credit by providing an additional credit to qualified productions with a workforce of at least eighty percent local hires; requiring productions to contact all local labor unions servicing Hawaii's film industry to qualify for the credit; requiring qualified production costs of a taxpayer that exceed $1,000,000 to be certified by a CPA, rather than via tax opinion; increasing the aggregate cap amount on credits allowed in any given year, ramped down by one-sixth over five years beginning on 1/1/2028; and including broadcast and streaming platform productions under the credit. Applies the GET rate for manufacturers to productions. Exempts from the GET amounts received by a motion picture project employer from a client equal to amounts that are disbursed by the motion picture project employer for employee wages, salaries, payroll taxes, insurance premiums, and employment benefits and payments to loan-out companies. Repeals certain tax exemptions and the Motion Picture, Digital Media, and Film Production Income Tax Credit on 1/1/2033. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(S) 4/25/2025- Conference committee meeting to reconvene on 04-25-25 5:46 PM; Conference Room 225. DECOITE (Introduced by request of another party) ECD, FIN
SB733
Continuous Legislative Session; Constitutional Amendment; Constitutional Repeal (ConAm)
PROPOSING AMENDMENTS TO THE HAWAII STATE CONSTITUTION TO ESTABLISH A CONTINUOUS LEGISLATIVE SESSION.
Establishes a continuous Legislature. Requires the Legislature to convene at least once each month. Repeals language regarding special sessions, adjournment, and recesses. Creates a 2-year deadline for a bill to be submitted for gubernatorial consideration. Standardizes the number of days that the Governor must approve or veto a bill submitted for consideration. Requires the passage of the legislative budget within 45 days before the end of each fiscal year. Prohibits members of the legislature from holding any position of employment in the private sector during their term. Authorizes members to serve in the United States military reserves, National Guard, or hold any lawful position of government employment, subject to certain current ethical limitations. Establishes salaries of the members of the Legislature pursuant to recommendations by the Commission on Salaries submitted during the 2028 regular session, unless those recommendations are amended by law.
(S) 1/31/2025- The committee on JDC deferred the measure. CHANG, GABBARD, MCKELVEY, Fevella JDC, WAM  HB770
SB734
Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation; Department of Human Services; Social Work; Training Program; Nonviolent Incarcerated Individuals; Reports; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO SOCIAL WORK.
Requires the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, in collaboration with the Department of Human Services, to develop and establish a social work training program to assist nonviolent incarcerated individuals in the area of social work. Requires progress reports on the program to the Legislature. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to PSM/HHS, WAM. CHANG PSM/HHS, WAM  HB251
SB735
DOH; Waste Combustion Facilities; Pollution; Air Contaminants; Public Health; Reports; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO HEALTH.
Requires waste combustion facility owners to implement continuous monitoring and sampling technologies for the purposes of collecting data regarding emissions. Establishes a publicly available website hosted by the Department of Health that will track and display data collected on emissions. Requires the DOH to adjust permit limits for air contaminants based on emissions data collected. Requires reports to the Legislature. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to HHS/AEN, WAM. GABBARD, RHOADS, Fukunaga, Richards HHS/AEN, WAM
SB736
DOE; Farm to School Meals; Recognition Program; Department High Schools; School Meals; Plant-Based Option
RELATING TO SCHOOL MEALS.
Authorizes the Department of Education to establish a recognition program to incentivize schools to submit to the Department a plan for the school to reach the local farm to school meal goal of thirty per cent of food served in the school to consist of locally sourced products by 2030. Requires public high schools under the Department of Education to provide plantbased meals as an option under the school meals program.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to EDU/AEN, WAM. GABBARD, Fukunaga EDU/AEN, WAM
SB737
Toxic Chemicals; Working Group; PFAS; Reports
RELATED TO TOXIC CHEMICALS.
Establishes a temporary working group in the Office of the Governor to investigate the existence and environmental dangers of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and related chemicals. Requires reports to the Legislature.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to AEN/HHS, CPN/WAM. GABBARD, RICHARDS AEN/HHS, CPN/WAM
SB738 SD1
DOH; Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances; PFAS; Wastewater Management; Testing; Rules; Permits; Prohibition
RELATING TO WASTEWATER MANAGEMENT.
Requires a wastewater treatment works to test sewage sludge and any other residual material for the presence of PFAS. Requires the Department of Health to adopt administrative rules for the safe disposal and sequestration of sewage sludge and other residual material that contain specific amounts of PFAS. Prohibits the issuance or renewal of permits if testing yields PFAS in sewage sludge or other residual material on land used for agronomic purposes, on land where drainage tiles have been installed, on land that drains into waters of the State, or land in a five hundred-year floodplain. Effective 12/31/2050. (SD1)
(S) 2/14/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. GABBARD, Richards, Wakai HHS/AEN, WAM
SB740
LUC; Special Permits; Agricultural District; Rural District; Compliance Monitoring; OPSD; HDOA; ADC
RELATING TO SPECIAL PERMITS.
Authorizes the Land Use Commission to designate another agency, including the Office of Planning and Sustainable Development, Department of Agriculture, or Agribusiness Development Corporation, to monitor compliance with any restrictions imposed in a special permit.
(S) 2/12/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading and referred to JDC. DELA CRUZ, AQUINO, CHANG, HASHIMOTO, KIDANI, KIM, LEE, C., MORIWAKI, San Buenaventura WTL, JDC  HB777
SB741
UH; BOR; Auditor; Governor; Chief Justice; External Audit Committee; Established; Reports
RELATING TO THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII.
Establishes an External Audit Committee within the University of Hawaii to audit the University of Hawaii System and the Board of Regents. Requires annual reports to the Legislature.
(H) 3/14/2025- The committee(s) on HED recommend(s) that the measure be deferred. DELA CRUZ, CHANG, ELEFANTE, HASHIMOTO, KIDANI, Richards HED, FIN
SB743
PUC; Renewable Energy; Preferential Rates; Prevailing Wages; Public Utilities Commission Special Fund; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO RENEWABLE ENERGY.
Grants the Public Utilities Commission the ability to authorize preferential rates for the purchase of renewable energy from facilities that meet certain prevailing wage requirements. Requires public utilities to forward certain requests for preferential rates to the PUC for approval. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to CPN/EIG/LBT, WAM. DELA CRUZ, CHANG, HASHIMOTO, KIDANI, MORIWAKI CPN/EIG/LBT, WAM  HB1182
SB744 SD1
DBEDT; Hawaii Green Infrastructure Authority; Condominium Associations; Condominium Loan Program; Condominium Loan Loss Reserves Program; Condominium Loan Revolving Fund; Reports; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO CONDOMINIUMS.
Establishes within the Hawaii Green Infrastructure Authority the Condominium Loan Program to provide qualified condominium associations with low-cost financing or refinancing on previously obtained loans for maintenance and essential repairs. Establishes the Condominium Loan Loss Reserves Program to incentivize lenders into providing loans at competitive rates and terms for the purpose of allowing condominium associations to make necessary maintenance or repairs. Requires annual reports to the Legislature. Appropriates funds into and out of the Condominium Loan Revolving Fund. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
(H) 3/4/2025- Referred to CPC, FIN, referral sheet 18 DELA CRUZ, CHANG, HASHIMOTO, KIDANI CPC, FIN
SB745
High-Speed Electric Bicycle; Motorcycle; Helmet; License; Safety; Traffic Code
RELATING TO ELECTRIC BICYCLES.
Requires all riders of a high-speed electric bicycle who are under 18 years of age or in a restraining seat or trailer towed by the bicycle to wear a safety helmet. Requires licensure of high-speed electric bicycle operators. Defines "high-speed electric bicycle."
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to TRS, JDC. DELA CRUZ, CHANG, HASHIMOTO, KIDANI, Wakai TRS, JDC
SB746 SD2 HD1
DLNR; Hawaii Invasive Species Council; Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle; Invasive Species; Pilot Program; Report; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO INVASIVE SPECIES.
Establishes a two-year coconut rhinoceros beetle eradication pilot program in certain areas under the Department of Land and Natural Resources that incentivizes community members to collect and submit the coconut rhinoceros beetle and its larvae for compensation. Requires a report to the Legislature. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
(H) 3/21/2025- Report adopted; referred to the committee(s) on FIN with none voting aye with reservations; none voting no (0) and Representative(s) Cochran, Garrett, Kapela, Kitagawa, Ward excused (5). DELA CRUZ, CHANG, ELEFANTE, HASHIMOTO, KIDANI, Wakai AGR, WAL, FIN
SB747 SD1 HD2
BOE; DOE; Audit Office; Established; Reports; Positions; Appropriation ($)
RELATING TO THE BOARD OF EDUCATION.
Establishes an Audit Office within the Board of Education to audit operations and expenditures of the Department of Education. Exempts positions within the Audit Office from civil service law. Requires annual reports to the Governor and Director of Finance. Authorizes the Legislature to request a copy of the annual reports. Establishes positions within the Audit Office. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
(H) 4/15/2025- Received notice of Senate conferees (Sen. Com. No. 789). DELA CRUZ, HASHIMOTO, KIDANI, Richards EDN, LAB, FIN
SB748
Energy; Water Heater System Requirements
RELATING TO ENERGY.
Expands the types of water heater systems that may satisfy the relevant requirement for the issuance of a building permit for new single-family dwellings to include ENERGY STAR certified heat pump water heaters.
(S) 1/23/2025- Referred to EDU, WAM. CHANG EDU, WAM  HB350
SB749
HHFDC; Rental Assistance Program; Reserve Percentage
RELATING TO HOUSING.
Requires rental housing projects to maintain, in perpetuity, fifty per cent of the project's units for certain low-income tenants to be eligible for assistance under the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation's rental assistance program.
(S) 2/10/2025- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading and referred to WAM. MCKELVEY, FEVELLA, FUKUNAGA, MORIWAKI HOU, WAM
SB750
DLNR; Board of Land and Natural Resources; Counties; Wharves; Launching Ramps; State Boating Facilities; Transfer; Appropriations ($)
RELATING TO GOVERNMENT PROPERTY.
Transfers from the Department of Land and Natural Resources certain state boating facilities on Maui to the County of Maui with the corresponding revenue from those harbors. Appropriates funds.
(S) 1/21/2026- Re-Referred to WLA, WAM. MCKELVEY, CHANG, FEVELLA WLA, WAM
SB751
DLNR; Historical Marina Restoration; Disaster; Wildfire; Maui
RELATING TO MARINA RESTORATION.
Establishes a procedure for the Board of Land and Natural Resources to lease fast lands and submerged lands that were destroyed by an event triggering