Transcript Highlights:

• I love the University of Hawaii.
• I love the University of Hawaii.
• </c> legalizes drug paraphernalia in Hawaii. legalizes drug paraphernalia in Hawaii.
• </c> it's systemic problems here in Hawaii. it's systemic problems here in Hawaii.
• </c> to the people of Hawaii. to the people of Hawaii.

Keywords: 910, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• My name is Sher Pollock, and I’m representing 350 Hawaii.
• My name is Sher Pollock, and I'm speaking on behalf of 350 Hawaii.
• </c><00:18:48.240><c> we</c> I'm speaking on behalf of 350 Hawaii we I'm speaking on behalf of 350 Hawaii
• </c><00:41:10.079><c> energy</c> Commission hires uh Hawaii energy Commission hires uh Hawaii energy
• <00:41:33.480><c> electricity</c><00:41:34.079><c> reliable</c> Hawaii electricity reliable Hawaii electricity

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The committees heard testimony on several measures, with the main discussion centered on energy policy. SB 993 on geothermal exploration drew support from the State Energy Office and others, who described geothermal as a key low-cost, firm renewable resource and said the state should fund community outreach and resource research. However, the chairs deferred further action on SB 993 because a similar bill, SB 1068, had already passed the prior week. SB 202 on renewable energy also received broad support, including testimony that net energy metering benefits households and helps clean energy adoption, while Hawaiian Electric opposed the bill’s changes to the NEM forfeit feature as unfair to non-solar customers. SB 1588 on nuclear energy drew sharply divided testimony: supporters argued the bill would only study nuclear options and that the state should consider all tools, while opponents from 350 Hawaii and Greenpeace said nuclear is unsafe, costly, and inconsistent with Hawaii’s clean energy goals and constitution. The committee also heard SB 73 on county permits, SB 100 on intoxicating liquor, SB 1234 on government efficiency, and SB 1336 on a greenhouse gas sequestration task force. SB 100 was described as helping a Maui nonprofit recruit board members by addressing liquor commission-related fingerprinting or background-check issues, and the Attorney General’s technical amendments were accepted. SB 1234 was framed as improving coordination among state, federal, and local agencies, though HGEA opposed it as an opening to privatize government services. SB 1336, which would establish a task force to study greenhouse gas sequestration and related mitigation topics, drew some questions about its scope but was supported as a way to study climate mitigation and green infrastructure. In the later portion of the meeting, the committee took votes and adopted recommendations on several bills. SB 73 was passed with an amendment setting a defective date of May 13, 2040. SB 100 was passed with amendments, SB 202 was passed with amendments including technical changes and allowing the PUC to set the customer credit rate, SB 1234 was passed with amendments and a defective date of May 13, 2040, SB 1336 was passed as is, and SB 1588 was passed with amendments and a defective date of May 13, 2040. The committee also took up SB 161 on county permitting and inspection, agreeing to a package of amendments that would soften exemption language, remove some inspection and certificate-of-occupancy provisions, add flood-hazard language, require reporting and a working group, and set a defective date of May 13, 2040; the bill was then passed with those amendments. SB 635 on energy efficiency was passed with amendments assigning the State Energy Office to lead a survey and prioritizing first responder facilities, and SB 700 on renewable energy was introduced with proposed amendments, though the transcript cuts off before its final disposition.

Transcript Highlights:

• It says with the exception of Hawaii, California electricity rates are the highest in the country.
• You know, we're hearing on the one hand that the PUC is going to have some flexibility.
• What kind of flexibility are we allowing the PUC? And is that the right amount?
• Are people going to trust the PUC to get it right? Just generally, and I'll defer to my witness.
• This is fundamentally a fact-based exercise that really needs to happen at the PUC.

Summary: The committee first heard SB 868, the Plug and Play Solar Act, which would streamline approval for portable plug-in solar devices for homes and apartments. The author and supporters argued the bill would help renters and other Californians lower electric bills, expand access to solar, and create statewide safety standards through UL certification and the National Electrical Code. Opponents, including electrical workers, firefighters, utilities, and PG&E, raised concerns about shock, fire, backfeeding, older electrical systems, and the bill bypassing the California Electrical Code and Building Standards Commission process. After extended discussion and testimony from UL, the author agreed to add California Electrical Code language, and several opponents indicated they would move to neutral; the committee then passed the bill out as amended to the Senate Judiciary Committee on a roll call vote. The committee then took up SB 886, which would establish rules for large data centers to prevent electricity cost shifts to other ratepayers. The author and supporters said rapid data center growth could drive major grid costs and that the bill would require data centers to pay for their own infrastructure, participate in demand response, and secure new zero-carbon resources. Supporters included environmental and consumer groups, while opponents such as the Data Center Coalition, Silicon Valley Leadership Group, utilities, and business groups argued the bill was unnecessary, could duplicate CPUC proceedings, and might impose operationally risky mandates, especially around demand response and backup power. Committee staff described amendments narrowing the bill to large data centers, clarifying tariff and cost-allocation provisions, replacing behind-the-meter storage with a pre-funded long-term clean energy contract, and exempting certain public and critical facilities; the discussion continued with questions about cost responsibility, clean energy targets, and peak-load management.

Transcript Highlights:

• Your citizens in Hawaii elect you.
• Your citizens in Hawaii elect you.
• I'm Mark White from Wailuku, Hawaii.
• </c><00:16:45.240><c> and</c> proud resident of Hawaii and proud resident of Hawaii and conventional<
• Leo Assin, Chair of the PUC.

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The committee heard testimony on House Bill 1295 HD2, relating to clean energy, and then on Senate Concurrent Resolution 140 and Senate Resolution 158, which seek an Article V Convention of States application. HB 1295 drew brief supportive testimony from listed supporters and one witness who said the bill would help future generations and address pollution, runoff, watershed planning, and cleaner energy alternatives. No committee action or vote was taken on the clean energy bill during the portion provided. Most of the hearing focused on SCR 140 and SR 158. Supporters argued the resolutions would let states, including Hawaii, propose constitutional amendments to address federal overreach, fiscal responsibility, deficit spending, term limits, and the balance of power between Washington and the states. Several supporters said state legislators are closer to the people and that Article V gives states a legitimate role in proposing amendments; some also cited debt, executive orders, and the need for long-term reforms. One witness from Convention of States Action said the movement is active nationwide and that the convention process would still require ratification by 38 states. Opponents, including representatives of Hawaii Children’s Action Network, Common Cause, Americans for Democratic Action Hawaii, and individual testifiers, warned there are no real guardrails on a convention and that it could open the door to broader constitutional changes. They said the effort is unnecessary, risky, and potentially harmful to environmental protections, social safety net programs, and civil rights, and argued that federal action is sometimes needed during recessions and emergencies. Committee members asked questions about whether the proposal was merely procedural and whether the states should act without Congress; the discussion ended with continued questioning, and no vote or final committee action is shown in the excerpt.

Transcript Highlights:

• It says with the exception of Hawaii, California electricity rates are the highest in the country.
• You know, we're hearing on the one hand that the PUC is going to have some flexibility.
• What kind of flexibility are we allowing the PUC? And is that the right amount?
• Are people going to trust the PUC to get it right? Just generally, and I'll defer to my witness.
• This is fundamentally a fact-based exercise that really needs to happen at the PUC.

Keywords: 987, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• This language allowed for the department to loan employees and other support to the PUC.
• This language allowed for the department to loan employees and other support to the PUC.
• It does not other support to the PUC.
• , California, Hawaii, Utah, and Wyoming.
• </c> could end up having to go into the PUC could end up having to go into the PUC hearing<00:19:34.080

Keywords: 1191, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Nathan Lee for ACLU Hawaii.
• So Hawaii is unique uh as the about 15%.
• Nathan Lee is Hawaii. Thank you. please. Nathan Lee is Hawaii. Thank you.
• </c> states with Hawaii inmates in Sigaro. states with Hawaii inmates in Sigaro.
• </c><00:43:55.520><c> Emergency</c> SR184 requesting the Hawaii Emergency SR184 requesting the Hawaii

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The joint committees heard three resolutions first. STR 32/SR 18 asked the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation to work with the Department of Transportation to use inmate work furlough programs for state roadway and highway maintenance. Testimony was generally supportive of the intent, but the Correctional System Oversight Commission raised concerns about using work furlough for maintenance and emphasized that participants should be paid at least minimum wage, be able to meet restitution and support obligations, and not have their release timing affected. The measures were later recommended and adopted by both committees with no amendments in the joint portion. STR 199/SR 179 concerned increased caution regarding foreign infrastructure. There was no public testimony. In decision-making, the committees split the measures: STR 199 was deferred because of a similar measure, while SR 179 was passed with amendments. The amendments were described as clarifying Hawaii’s goals of self-sufficiency, local self-reliance, and self-determination, and encouraging scrutiny by departments and agencies to reduce dependence on imports. STR 231/SR 207, which would direct DOT to install electronic equipment at state airports and harbors to scan for illegal fireworks, drew mixed testimony, including support from the Oahu Filipino Community Council and comments from Matson Navigation. DOT said it supported the intent. The committees adopted amendments to address Matson’s concerns by moving inspections to a place outside the immediate loading and unloading area, and both committees passed the measures as amended. The Public Safety and Military Affairs committee then took up additional resolutions. STR 113/SR 94, designating Hawaii as a Purple Heart state on August 7, 2025, received no testimony and was not discussed further. STR 204/SR 164, asking the Department of Law Enforcement for information on disposal, detonation, and destruction of explosive fireworks and similar hazardous materials, also drew no testimony in the excerpt. STR 107/SR 88, urging military branches in Hawaii to provide hurricane-resistant shelters for active and retired personnel and families, likewise received no testimony. STR 148/SR 119, supporting construction of a floating dry dock at Pearl Harbor, drew broad support from industry, military, and state economic development representatives. STR 149/SR 120, creating a vegetation management working group to address wildfire risk, received extensive testimony in support and comments, with speakers from DCCA, PUC, Hawaiian Electric, IBW 1260, Hawaiʻi Telecom, and Kamehameha Schools discussing wildfire hazards, responsibility for vegetation near utility infrastructure, and the need to include workers and landowners in the process. STR 126/SR 105, calling for an incremental reduction in the number of inmates housed in private out-of-state facilities, prompted a lengthy discussion with DCR. The director said Hawaii’s out-of-state incarceration is driven by overcrowding and security needs, not a quota, described the per-person-per-day cost of CoreCivic housing, noted that Hawaii pays about $96 per inmate per day out of state versus about $37 in-state, and said the department is working on a master plan and future facility needs. The committee also discussed the need for a new prison and possibly a new jail. The excerpt ends with the committee still in discussion, without showing a final vote on STR 126/SR 105.

Transcript Highlights:

• Hawaii Yi in support.
• Hawaii Yi in support. Johnny &gt;&gt; Thank you. Hawaii Yi in support.
• Hawaii Association of Realtors. Thank you. Hawaii Bicycling League. Thank you.
• If not, um, PUC...
• Hawaii Hawaii for<01:22:25.840><c> the</c><01:22:26.080><c> jobs.

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The committees first took up SB 3322 relating to law enforcement. Chairs recommended adopting amendments from the Department of Law Enforcement that would exempt plainclothes officers from identification requirements, limit conspicuous agency markings to vehicles used in immigration enforcement operations, and allow a plainclothes officer to wear a mask when within eyesight of an unmasked officer from the same agency while performing official duties. Although there was an initial quorum issue, both committees ultimately voted to adopt the chair’s recommendation and advance the bill as amended. The next major item was SB 3333 relating to property tax treatment for certain housing. Testimony was strongly supportive, including from a Maui County real property tax board member and a representative of Nali Maui, who described homeowners in affordable housing being taxed at much higher rates when exemptions were missed or when resale restrictions kept values below market. The committees recommended passing the bill with amendments, including a deferred effective date of April 19, 2042, and the recommendation was adopted. The committees also heard SB 2422 on a pro housing score program for counties, SB 2981 on eliminating minimum off-street parking requirements in urban districts, SB 2007 on county land use boundary amendments, SB 3028 on restructuring the conveyance tax to a marginal rate system, SB 3033 on public petitions for review of beach structures, and SB 2434 on electric vehicle infrastructure. SB 2422 drew support with a request for flexibility and an appeals process for counties facing extraordinary circumstances; the chair’s recommendation was to pass it with amendments and note a $200,000 implementation study request, which was adopted. SB 2981 received strong support from housing and transportation advocates and was advanced unamended, while SB 2007 drew opposition from the Sierra Club and discussion about the Land Use Commission’s limited enforcement tools and the number of approved but unbuilt units. SB 3028 received mixed testimony, with support for the marginal-rate change but concerns about earmarking and blanks in the bill, and SB 3033 was supported as an early-warning mechanism for erosion-threatened coastal structures, though OPSD said it should not be the regulatory decision-maker. SB 2434 prompted concern about whether utility capacity can support EV infrastructure goals, with the chair citing a recent report suggesting transmission and distribution constraints.

Transcript Highlights:

• Hawaii is supporting year-round use of devices, ah, for students and extending the hours of free public
• You're former PUC commissioner. I'm always Shelly. Yeah, yeah, yeah, OK, thanks.
• Often PUC staff can take more informal action.
• And PUCs have gone in different directions about how to to to take up that task.
• Yeah, I'm not aware of any state statute or PUC rule that specifically addresses those beyond sort of

Transcript Highlights:

• </c><00:40:57.119><c> with</c> thousands of people in Hawaii with thousands of people in Hawaii with
• </c><01:36:53.679><c> the</c> of Health the University of Hawaii the of Health the University of Hawaii
• </c> of which are not even located in Hawaii of which are not even located in Hawaii and<01:46:12.560
• Association of Health Plans, five providers appointed by the Hawaii Healthcare Association, the Hawaii
• </c><01:58:58.560><c> Medical</c> opportunity so from the Hawaii Medical opportunity so from the Hawaii

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The committees heard testimony on several transportation and consumer-related bills. HB 496, relating to mamaki tea labeling, drew support from the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Weights and Measures, and the Hawaii Farm Bureau, which said the bill would help protect a culturally important crop and the Hawaii brand. Members questioned Agriculture about staffing and whether the bill was being used to reopen a package-labeling inspection branch; the department said it currently has no Oahu inspectors for that function but has a place for an additional inspector. No opposition was registered on the measure. HB 978, relating to electric utilities, and HB 1316, relating to DLNR/park reservations, were also heard. HB 1316 received support from State Parks, and members discussed where reservation fees would go and whether the statewide reservation system for three parks would cover its costs; the committee indicated a change would be made so fees go to the special fund. HB 914, relating to water carriers, drew support or comments from the PUC, Department of Agriculture, Department of Transportation, Young Brothers, and the Hawaii Harbor Users Group. The main discussion focused on the proposed automatic rate-adjustment mechanism tied to the GDP price index, with members asking for alternative index ideas and questioning whether the PUC already had authority to adopt such a mechanism. Young Brothers said the measure would provide clarity and help recover inflationary costs, while the chair raised concerns about repeated rate increases and asked for further testimony on possible alternative indices. HB 1161, relating to transportation and road usage charges, received support from the Insurance Division, DOT, and the State Energy Office, with comments from the Tax Foundation of Hawaii and the Hawaii Food Industry Association. Members asked whether counties need state authorization to adopt mileage-based charges and why the bill included funding for implementation; DOT said it is helping counties build the data collection and billing system and that Honolulu is handling much of the collection work. A question was also raised about whether plug-in hybrids would be covered, and DOT said vehicles under the federal electric-vehicle definition would be included. HB 1301, relating to transportation network companies, drew opposition from the Hawaii Association for Justice, Lyft, and Uber, all arguing that classifying TNCs as common carriers and changing liability rules would raise costs, reduce access, and disrupt the current statewide framework. No votes or final committee actions were taken in the portion of the meeting provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• We also have Debet in support, the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency in support, Hawaii Tourism Authority
• </c> Management agency in support Hawaii Management agency in support Hawaii tourism<00:12:05.079><c>
• Tom Yamachika, Tax Foundation of Hawaii. Tom Yamachika, Tax Foundation of Hawaii.
• /c><01:35:30.040><c> Bureau</c><01:35:31.040><c> next</c> Hawaii um from Hawaii Farm Bureau next Hawaii
• Chamber</c><01:35:46.679><c> of</c> of Hawaii Hawaii Island CH Chamber of of Hawaii Hawaii Island CH

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The committee heard testimony on House Bill 1077, a governor’s administration bill to increase transient accommodations tax revenue and split it between two new special funds: a climate mitigation and resiliency special fund and an economic development and revitalization special fund for tourism/resort areas. Supporters, including the Governor’s Office, recovery and resilience staff, climate and conservation groups, and several state agencies, said the bill would create a dedicated, more reliable funding stream for wildfire mitigation, coastal resilience, land clearing, infrastructure, and community-led projects. Some supporters also urged changes to the bill, including moving the fund to DLNR, adding DHHL and OHA representation, clarifying community grants, and ensuring the fund can support both state-led and community-led resilience work. The Attorney General’s office flagged a drafting issue, noting that the bill references fees deposited into the new fund even though the new chapter does not authorize fee collection, and recommended deleting that language or adding fee authority. The Climate Advisory Team representative also suggested adding DHHL to the decision-making body and requiring at-large members to have climate, resilience, conservation, or infrastructure expertise. The Tax Foundation of Hawaii and the Kohala Coast Resort Association opposed the measure, arguing that the special fund structure does not meet statutory criteria, that the bill functions as a tax increase, and that the transient accommodations tax is not being collected equitably across all lodging types before any increase is imposed. Other opponents, including tourism and lodging interests, warned that hotels and timeshares already bear most of the tax burden and that raising the TAT could hurt an already struggling visitor industry and drive tourists away. Supporters countered that current funding is far short of what is needed and that a dedicated revenue stream is necessary to address climate impacts now. Committee members questioned why the Legislature should cede spending decisions to a separate executive-branch process, and the administration responded that the bill is intended to create a transparent, recurring mechanism for funding priorities that can be adjusted over time. No vote or final action was taken in the portion of the hearing provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• Uh, Hawaii<00:45:29.920><c> Tourism</c><00:45:30.480><c> Authority</c> Hawaii Tourism Authority Hawaii
• Uh, go Tourists Hawaii. on comments. Uh, go Tourists Hawaii.
• Hawaii Tour Consultants. Eric Pulk, Show You Hawaii LLC.
• Uh, Hawaii Pilots in support. Uh, Hawaii Pilots Association. Association. Association.
• Eduard Hernandez, Hawaii Bicycling League, in support. Hawaii Public Health Institute.

Bills: HB1709, HB2195, HB2023, HB2031, HB2033, HB1937, HB2586, HB2575, HB2038, HB2030

Keywords: water carriers, transportation, public utility, Department of Transportation, liability, agricultural rates, certificates of convenience, cruise ship, passenger head fee, harbor, capital improvement, funding, environmental impact, active intelligent speed assistance, intelligent speed assistance, speed limiter, speed limiting device, speed governor, vehicle telematics, traffic safety

Summary: The joint committees on Transportation, Labor and Technology, and later Transportation and Economic Development and Tourism, heard several bills. SB 2573 would allow administrative driver’s license revocation hearings to be held by interactive conference technology such as Zoom and permit electronic exchange of evidence. The chief adjudicator for the ADLRO supported it as a non-mandatory option that has worked well since 2021, improving attendance and saving time and money; DOT also supported it. The committees voted to pass SB 2573 with technical, non-substantive amendments. SB 3215 would make permanent the requirement that securing mooring lines at commercial docks be performed by labor subject to collective bargaining by repealing the sunset date in existing harbor safety law. DOT did not submit testimony, and the chair noted support from longshore labor. The committees voted to pass SB 3215 unamended. The committees also heard SB 2693, which authorizes $15 million in general obligation bonds for planning, design, and construction of a 50,000-square-foot aerospace hangar and related facilities at Hilo International Airport. A Phoenix Space executive testified in support, saying Hawaii and Hilo have geographic advantages and that the project could support aerospace investment and jobs; several other organizations and individuals submitted supportive testimony. Committee members questioned whether federal matching funds or airport capacity existed, and DOT said it had no assurance of federal participation and would need to check on capacity and potential users. The hearing then moved to SB 2698, which would create a cruise ship special fund and impose a per-passenger head fee on cruise ships docking in state commercial harbors while repealing the existing cruise ship TAT framework effective January 1, 2026. DOT supported the bill but requested amendments to clarify that the new fee is in addition to existing passenger, port entry, and dockage fees and to raise the fee from $6.50 to $10; DOT said the higher amount would better fund harbor improvements such as shore power. Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings testified in support but said the added fee would significantly increase costs, while a local ship supply business supported the cruise industry and opposed the TAT approach, saying cruise activity benefits local farmers and jobs. No final vote on SB 2698 was taken in the excerpt provided.

Keywords: HI Senate YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-tKnr5jEGCc, 2026-07-02T01:22:43+00:00, 2.2.24, Data collected via generic collector engine, Meeting of the Special Committee Senate State of Hawaii COVID-19 Monday, April 13, 2020 You can view department plans, documents, committee reports, meeting agendas, links, resources, and agendas here at https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/specialcommittee.aspx?comm=scovid&year=2020 Agenda The special committee will convene to assess and advise the Senate regarding the State of Hawaii's COVID-19 plans and procedures to include, but not limited to: 1) Confirm the development of the state departmental plans and procedures; 2) Review and assess current state departmental plans and procedures; 3) Review and assess whether state departmental plans and procedures are properly and timely implemented to safeguard public health and safety; and 4) To communicate and disseminate information obtained therefrom. The special committee will be meeting with the following: 11:30 a.m. Office of the Governor Ms. Linda Chu Takayama, Chief of Staff 12:00 p.m. Office of Enterprise Technology Mr. Douglas Murdock, Chief Information Officer 12:45 p.m. Department of Taxation Ms. Rona Suzuki, Director 1:30 p.m. Department of Human Resources Development Mr. Ryker Wada, Director Please note that there may be committee members or invited speakers participating remotely via video or teleconference. The meeting will be available for live viewing on Olelo Channel 53 on Oahu and will go out live for pick up by neighbor island public access channels. No public testimony will be accepted. Meeting of the Special Committee Senate State of Hawaii COVID-19 Monday, April 13, 2020 If you require special assistance, please call 586-6800 or email your request to waysandmeans@capitol.hawaii.gov. -End of Agenda-, 912, senate, all, 2.2.42, 2.1.47

Keywords: HI Senate YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5aYEehoj9WA, 2026-07-02T01:22:43+00:00, 2.2.24, Data collected via generic collector engine, Today's meeting is also being broadcast with closed captioning on ‘Olelo Community Media's channel 55 and on the online stream: http://olelo.granicus.com/player/event/5588?view_id=13 Just press the CC button when you hover your mouse over the video screen. Meeting of the Special Committee Senate State of Hawaii COVID-19 Friday, March 27, 2020 Agenda The special committee will convene to assess and advise the Senate regarding the State of Hawaii's COVID-19 plans and procedures to include, but not limited to: 1) Confirm the development of the state departmental plans and procedures; 2) Review and assess current state departmental plans and procedures; 3) Review and assess whether state departmental plans and procedures are properly and timely implemented to safeguard public health and safety; and 4) To communicate and disseminate information obtained therefrom. The special committee will be meeting with the following: 11:00 a.m. Federal Stimulus Package Senator Brian Schatz, U.S. Senate 11:30 a.m. Office of the Governor Ms. Linda C. Takayama, Chief of Staff 12:00 p.m. Department of Transportation Deputy Director Derek Chow, Harbors Division Deputy Director Ross Higashi, Airports Division 12:45 p.m. Department of the Attorney General Attorney General Clare E. Connors Department of Public Safety Director Nolan Espinda 2:00 p.m. Healthcare Industry Dr. Jim Ireland, Medical Director for Department of Transportation Dr. Elizabeth E. Char, Medical Physician 2:30 p.m. Department of Health Dr. Bruce Anderson, Director Dr. Sarah Park Dr. Edward Desmond, State Laboratories Division Administrator 4:00 p.m. Hawaii Emergency Management Agency Adjutant General Kenneth Hara, Incident Commander, 912, senate, all, 2.2.42, 2.1.47

Transcript Highlights:

• Uh Hawaii Reef Ocean inventory.
• </c><00:18:11.760><c> Restaurant</c> And then we have Hawaii Restaurant And then we have Hawaii Restaurant
• First up to testify, we have the Hawaii Department of Taxation? No, Hawaii State Energy Office.
• Uh we have Foundation of Hawaii.
• </c> And then we have um University of Hawaii And then we have um University of Hawaii in<00:37:24.480

Bills: HB644, HB1802, HB1569, HB1619, HB1620, HB1730, HB1749

Keywords: PFAS, single-use plastics, environmental health, food ware, pollution reduction, HB1802, conservation banking, conservation bank, mitigation banking, compensatory mitigation, incidental take permit, incidental take license, habitat conservation plan, HCP, DLNR, BLNR, Board of Land and Natural Resources, endangered species recovery committee, threatened species, endangered species

Summary: The committee heard several environmental and energy bills, beginning with HB 644 on single-use plastics. DLNR and DOH supported the measure, and environmental advocates said it would reduce plastic waste in oceans and landfills. Testifiers urged the bill to avoid weakening existing county ordinances, and some supported delaying implementation to use up inventory, while Upstream opposed compostable-plastic exemptions and urged prompt passage. Committee members asked whether reusable and refillable foodware could be added to the PFAS prohibition, and Upstream said that would be consistent with the bill’s goals. The committee then took up HB 1802 on conservation mitigation banks, HB 1569 on microfiber filters for newly manufactured washing machines, and HB 1619 on electric vehicle infrastructure. HB 1802 drew mostly agency testimony from DLNR, with opposition testimony noted from environmental groups, and members discussed whether suggested amendments would address concerns. HB 1569 received limited testimony, with support from the Hawaii Reef and Ocean Coalition and opposition from the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers. HB 1619 was supported by the PUC, Hawaiian Electric, the Department of Transportation, and several advocacy groups; Earthjustice said the bill was needed to address a widening EV charging shortfall and described the funding increase as relatively small compared with the benefits. The committee also heard HB 1620, which would increase the barrel tax to fund the EV charging rebate program. The State Energy Office and PUC offered comments, while the Tax Foundation of Hawaii opposed the special-fund approach and said the bill should also address the non-petroleum fossil-fuel portion of the barrel tax. Earthjustice and youth transportation advocates supported the measure, and the chair asked for information on unused hydrogen fueling subaccount funds; PUC said no hydrogen program funds had been deployed and estimated the balance was likely around $2 million, with exact figures to be provided later. Finally, the committee heard HB 1730 on wastewater systems, which would create a wastewater technical advisory group and fund positions at DOH. DLNR, DOH, OPSD, UH, and several environmental groups supported the bill, emphasizing cesspool pollution, affordability, and the need for more staffing and technical assistance. Testifiers suggested amendments to create a separate cesspool conversion implementation working group and debated the size and composition of the advisory group, including whether to include outside engineers and whether SHIP should be on the panel. No votes were taken during the hearing segment provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• I'm Melissa Pavc from the Hawaii Auto Dealers Association.
• </c><01:07:17.960><c> Auto</c> Melissa pavc from the Hawaii Auto Melissa pavc from the Hawaii Auto Dealers
• </c><01:14:46.000><c> for</c> good Uber has been serving Hawaii for good Uber has been serving Hawaii
• Hawaii Association of Justice in opposition.
• 19:11.040><c> of</c><01:19:11.239><c> justice</c> support Hawaii Association of justice support Hawaii

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The joint hearing covered HB 1484 on transit-oriented development and HB 157 on transportation. For HB 1484, testimony included a request from the Hoi Community Development Authority to be removed from the measure while offering to assist if the transit-oriented development law is implemented, along with testimony in opposition and support from several individuals. The committees later recommended HB 1484 be passed with amendments, including an HD1, a defective date, deletion of a reference to section 225 on page 11, adoption of H-CDA’s proposed amendment, and related committee report changes. The vote was adopted in both committees, with Representatives Cochran and Lee excused and Representative Mora voting with reservations. HB 157 concerned the transfer and acceptance of roads in the Villages of Kapolei. HHFDC supported the bill’s intent and explained that the roads were originally self-permitted, the city had not accepted dedication, and HHFDC has been maintaining and upgrading the roads under an MOA that requires improvements to city standards before transfer. Testimony from the Villages of Kapolei Association and others described ongoing problems with non-emergency police services, illegal parking, abandoned vehicles, and the need for city enforcement on roads that are open to the public. Committee members asked about the current holdup, the possibility of transferring roads in segments, and whether a cash settlement could resolve the issue; HHFDC said it was working in segments and that the city had mentioned a $60 million figure. The committees then recommended HB 157 pass with amendments, noting they were awaiting an Attorney General opinion on authority to compel the transfer and that the matter would continue to the Committee on Water and Land. The Transportation Committee also heard several additional bills. HB 1083, concerning vessels in state commercial harbors, drew support from the Department of Transportation and some industry groups and opposition from charter operators; HB 1159, which would require compliance with harbor master evacuation orders and increase penalties, drew DOT support and opposition from multiple vessel operators, who argued the bill was too broad and should define emergencies more clearly and use tiered penalties. HB 58, limiting civil liability for firefighting at commercial harbors, received DOT and Maritime Group support. HB 1165, on county disposal of ocean-bordering property and state highway acquisition, received DOT support. HB 938, a broad motor vehicle franchise and EV-related bill, drew support from the Hawaii Automobile Dealers Association and the Motor Vehicle Industry Licensing Board, but strong opposition from the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, Tesla, Rivian, Scout Motors, and others; opponents argued it would restrict direct-to-consumer EV sales and innovation, while dealers said the bill was too broad and needed further stakeholder work. No final votes were taken on the Transportation Committee’s remaining measures in the portion provided, and the joint hearing was adjourned after decision-making on HB 1484 and HB 157.

Transcript Highlights:

• The PUC also agrees that laws protect CCA customers.
• It makes sense to have the PUC regulate the IOUs as outlined in this bill.
• The PUC also agrees that laws protect CCA customers.
• That's not different from what already happens with PUC oversight.
• I will say again, the PUC—this doesn't make them subject to PUC regulation per se.

Summary: The committee hearing covered a long agenda of energy, utility, and data-center bills, with members hearing extensive testimony on affordability, ratepayer protections, wildfire liability, and grid planning. Several measures were presented by Assembly Member Irwin and others, including AB 2182 on industrial energy efficiency incentives, AB 2396 on allowing community choice aggregators to develop transmission projects, AB 2589 on returning federal tax savings to ratepayers, AB 2508 on shifting public purpose program costs off utility bills, AB 1577 on data center reporting, and AB 2383 on large energy-use facility rate design. The chair noted the hearing began without a quorum and later proceeded once quorum was established for the data-center and AB 2383 votes. AB 2182 and AB 2589 were discussed but not acted on during the portion shown, while AB 2396 drew substantial debate over wildfire liability, financing, and whether CCAs should be allowed to own transmission lines. AB 2508 generated the most divided policy discussion, with supporters arguing that public purpose programs and energy efficiency costs should not be borne by ratepayers and should instead be funded through the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund or other public sources. Opponents warned that moving those programs to GGRF would threaten funding stability, undermine cost-effective efficiency programs, and jeopardize important safety-net and wildfire-related spending; wildfire survivor advocates asked for amendments to ensure victims are paid first before any reallocation. Committee members raised concerns about whether GGRF is an appropriate and stable funding source, and several said they could not support the bill as drafted. AB 1577, requiring data centers to report energy, water, and noise information, passed on a 10-1 vote after supporters said the bill would help local and state planners manage rapid load growth, while opponents argued it was burdensome, duplicative, and could expose proprietary or security-sensitive information. AB 2383, which would direct the CPUC to create a new rate structure for large energy-use facilities and require long-term contracts to prevent cost shifts and stranded assets, also drew strong support and opposition. The Little Hoover Commission and NRDC backed the bill as a way to protect ratepayers from data-center-related costs, while CCAs, the Chamber of Commerce, manufacturers, and petroleum interests objected to the bill’s scope and to CPUC oversight, especially as it could affect CCAs and other large users beyond data centers. After discussion about preserving local authority and avoiding stranded costs, the committee approved AB 2383 on a 13-0 vote and left the roll open for absent members. The hearing then moved to AB 1774, a wildfire accountability bill by Assembly Member Berman, which was introduced with testimony from fire survivors and consumer advocates emphasizing the need to verify that utility wildfire mitigation spending is actually performed before ratepayers are charged.

Transcript Highlights:

• regardless of this bill uh from the puc regardless of the<00:20:40.600><c> ins</c><00:20:40.760><c>
• So are there any further questions for the PUC?
• The PUC rejected that argument, but I want to focus your attention on the reasoning there.
• You take out Alaska and Hawaii, who have their own unique electricity challenges.
• So then it's up to the PUC.

Keywords: 1189, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• It says, with the exception of Hawaii, California electricity rates are the highest in the country.
• You know, we're hearing on the one hand that the PUC is going to have some flexibility.
• What kind of flexibility are we allowing the PUC? And is that the right amount?
• Are people going to trust the PUC to get it right? Just generally, and I'll defer to my witness.
• This is fundamentally a fact-based exercise that really needs to happen at the PUC.

Summary: The committee heard extensive testimony on SB 868, the Plug and Play Solar Act, which would streamline approvals for portable plug-in solar devices while setting safety standards. The author and supporters argued the bill would help renters and homeowners with high electricity bills by allowing low-cost balcony solar systems to reduce monthly costs, and they emphasized that the devices would not feed power back to the grid. Supporters included environmental and consumer groups, solar advocates, and many members of the public. Opponents, including electrical workers, firefighters, utilities, and PG&E, raised concerns about shock, fire, overloading, and the need for California-specific building standards. After discussion, the author agreed to committee amendments and later to add compliance with the California Electrical Code in addition to the National Electrical Code; several opponents said that change would move them to neutral. The committee then voted to pass SB 868 out as amended to Senate Judiciary, with some members expressing support while reserving concerns about safety as the bill moves forward. The committee then took up SB 886, dealing with data center electricity use and ratepayer protections. The author said the bill is intended to prevent large data centers from shifting grid and infrastructure costs onto other customers, citing rapid growth in data center demand and examples from other states. Supporters, including TURN and climate groups, said the bill would require data centers to pay for their own grid impacts, pre-fund long-term clean energy resources, participate in demand response, and cover related costs. Opponents from the data center industry, tech and business groups, utilities, and some energy users argued the bill was unnecessary, could duplicate CPUC processes, and could create discriminatory rate treatment or operational problems, especially around mandatory demand response and limits on backup generation. Committee staff described amendments narrowing the bill to large data centers, clarifying tariff and cost-allocation provisions, replacing a storage requirement with a long-term zero-carbon procurement mechanism, and exempting certain public and utility facilities. Members discussed the balance between affordability, reliability, and clean energy, with the bill framed as a way to protect ratepayers while allowing data center growth.

Transcript Highlights:

• In Hawaii.
• </c> of Hawaii with comments on Zoom. of Hawaii with comments on Zoom.
• </c> information relevant to Hawaii. information relevant to Hawaii.
• Uh, Clean Fuel Hawaii. Uh, yeah, Cleanfield Hawaii Coalition in support. Okay.
• </c> the Hawaii Psychological Association. the Hawaii Psychological Association.

Keywords: 910, house, all