HB9 designates Hawaii as a “Purple Heart state” in statute. The bill’s findings section explains the history of the Purple Heart medal, notes that it is awarded to members of the U.S. armed forces who are killed or wounded in combat or related circumstances, and states that Hawaii has a strong tradition of supporting military members and veterans. The bill’s stated purpose is to formally recognize and honor Purple Heart recipients for their courage, service, and sacrifices.
To implement that designation, the bill amends Chapter 5 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes by adding a new section declaring that the State shall be known and designated as a Purple Heart state. The new statutory language is largely symbolic and honorary; it does not create a benefits program, regulatory scheme, or enforcement mechanism. The bill also includes an effective date of July 1, 3000, which appears to function as a placeholder or delayed effective date rather than an immediate policy change.
Impact
HB9 would add a new state designation to Chapter 5 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, formally identifying Hawaii as a Purple Heart state. The practical legal effect is limited to an honorary recognition of Purple Heart recipients and Hawaii’s military and veteran community, rather than changing eligibility for benefits, taxes, or services. It would primarily affect state symbolic law and public recognition, with no apparent direct obligations on agencies, local governments, or private parties.
Sentiment
The available context suggests generally positive sentiment toward the bill. The text is framed as a tribute to service members and veterans, emphasizing honor, sacrifice, and Hawaii’s support for the military community. There are no recorded votes or committee transcript excerpts showing opposition, and the bill’s language is celebratory rather than controversial.
Contention
No specific points of contention are reflected in the provided materials. Because there are no committee transcripts or votes, there is no documented debate over the symbolic designation, the scope of the Purple Heart recognition, or the unusual effective date of July 1, 3000. If any concerns arise in later proceedings, they would likely relate to whether the designation is purely ceremonial and whether the bill should include any substantive benefits or administrative implications.
A resolution to direct the Clerk of the House of Representatives to only present to the Governor enrolled House bills finally passed by both houses of the One Hundred Third Legislature.
Relating to nonsubstantive additions to, revisions of, and corrections in enacted codes, to the nonsubstantive codification or disposition of various laws omitted from enacted codes, and to conforming codifications enacted by the 88th Legislature to other Acts of that legislature.