Transcript Highlights:

• Seeing none, Vice Chair, for the vote. Okay, voting on HB 531 with amendments.
• vote voting on HB 194 with amendments vote voting on HB 194 with amendments are<00:25:19.520> there
• Seeing none, Vice Chair, for the vote. Okay, voting on HB 957 with amendments.
• ><00:26:50.720> 554<00:26:51.720> with vote okay voting on HB 554 with vote okay voting
• <00:52:06.200> on the vote so with an HD Yes HD voting on the vote so with an HD Yes HD voting

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The committee heard several measures related to cultural recognition and arts policy. HB 531 would authorize special license plates recognizing the University of Hawaiʻi Cancer Center, and HB 458 would designate Brother Joseph Dutton Day; both received support testimony, including from the Department of Accounting and General Services and the Joseph Dutton Guild, and both were advanced. HB 345 would establish ʻōpae ula as the state shrimp to help protect alkaline pool systems, with support from DLNR and multiple community and environmental groups, and it was also advanced. HB 194, relating to Maritime Day, received limited testimony and was moved forward with amendments to align the observance with National Maritime Day on May 22. The committee also heard HB 554, which originally would have established Lunar New Year as a state holiday. Testimony in support emphasized cultural recognition and community benefits, but the chair explained that creating a new state holiday would cost about $9 million, so the bill was amended to make Lunar New Year a day of recognition rather than a state holiday. The committee noted several supporters, including youth testimony, and advanced the measure with amendments. HB 957, relating to Lāʻau Day, similarly drew broad written support; the committee amended it to designate the first Friday of May rather than May 1 and advanced it. In each case, the committee adopted the chair’s recommendations without opposition or reservations. The hearing concluded with HB 925, a short-form bill that would allow the state to levy a 1% tax on concert ticket sales to support arts access statewide; the committee recommended passing the bill with amendments and recommitting it for future public hearings, and that recommendation was adopted.

Transcript Highlights:

• Uh, I reside in Kaneo, Hawaii.
• testimony<00:05:06.240> in Hawaii.
• I'm submitting testimony in Hawaii.
• <00:05:17.039> I throughout the state of Hawaii. I throughout the state of Hawaii.
• I believe we can take um a vote present.

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The House Committee on Public Safety met on April 17, 2025, to hear STR20, which urges the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation to re-evaluate policies on in-person contact visitation at correctional facilities statewide so incarcerated people can stay connected with loved ones who support rehabilitation. Director Tommy Johnson testified that the department supports the intent of the measure and would review its policies and procedures to see whether contact visits could be restarted at all facilities, noting that some facilities already allow them. The committee also acknowledged 11 written testimonies in support, and one Zoom testifier, Panda Valdono, spoke in favor, arguing that in-person visitation supports rehabilitation, mental health, family connection, and successful reentry, and that visitation is not a major source of contraband. After testimony, the committee initially lacked quorum and recessed until 3:40 p.m. When the meeting reopened with six members present, the chair recommended passing STR20 as is. The committee voted to adopt the chair’s recommendation, with members Morikawa, Puo, Witson, and Shimizu voting aye and several members excused. The measure was approved and the meeting adjourned.

Transcript Highlights:

• Hawaii has always been different.
• here at the University of Hawaii. here at the University of Hawaii.
• University of Hawaii from 1983 to 1985. University of Hawaii from 1983 to 1985.
• era of Hawaii football. era of Hawaii football.
• By show of the vote, please. >> Thank you, Chair. Okay, members, we are voting on HB 2384.

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The House Committee on Higher Education met at the University of Hawaii at Manoa to hear testimony on House Bill 2384, which relates to student athlete compensation and NIL. Chair Garrett opened by explaining the hearing was intentionally held on campus so lawmakers could hear directly from those affected. UH President Wendy Hensel and Athletics Director Matt Elliott both testified in support, saying the bill would help the university respond to the changing college athletics landscape, protect student athletes, improve transparency and education around NIL, and support UH’s ability to remain competitive. Elliott also said UH was seeking $5 million in NIL-related funding to support the program. Several UH coaches and student athletes testified in favor, emphasizing the importance of UH athletics to the state, the community, and the student experience. Women’s basketball coach Laura Beeman described UH athletics as a source of pride and hope for the state, while players Jovi, Latoria Tamilo, and others said the program felt like home and that NIL support could help them grow, represent Hawaii, and give back. Women’s volleyball coach Robyn Ah Mow said UH athletics changed her life and that the school must adapt to remain competitive; her players Victoria Leyva, Shealy Reed, and Talia Akase similarly said NIL opportunities could help UH attract talent, expand exposure, and strengthen community ties. Football coach Timmy Chang said the bill was important for recruiting, retaining, and building culture around Hawaiian values, and player Dean Briskie said UH’s developmental approach and team culture mattered more than money, though NIL has made retention harder. Quarterback Micah Alihada said the program’s culture and support from coaches and leadership made it easier to stay, but that the changing landscape made HB 2384 important. Baseball players Elijah Eikez and Ben Zukerman Ball also supported the bill, saying UH athletics carries responsibility to the community and helps student athletes become leaders and role models. No vote or final committee action was described in the transcript.

Transcript Highlights:

• In support, Hawaii Women's Lawyers. In support, Hawaii Women's Lawyers.
• Hawaii State Hospital. Hawaii State Hospital.
• in Hawaii. in Hawaii.
• for the Hawaii State Bar Hawaii director for the Hawaii State Bar Association.<01:13:33.160> I've
• representative for Hawaii. representative for Hawaii.

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The Judiciary Committee held a hearing on the confirmation of Kursha Kauahi Kani Mililani Durrant to the District Court of the First Circuit, but announced it would not vote until April 2. The chair also noted a backup plan if Zoom failed. Testimony was limited to two minutes per speaker. The hearing focused on Durrant’s qualifications, judicial temperament, and readiness for the bench, with no opposition presented. Support came from the Office of the Public Defender, Native Hawaiian Legal Corporation, Native Hawaiian Bar Association, Hawaii State Bar Association, Hawaii Women’s Lawyers, and numerous individuals. Witnesses described Durrant as highly experienced in both criminal and civil practice, including district, family, circuit, appellate, ICA, and Supreme Court work. Several speakers emphasized her legal reasoning, mentorship, civility, cultural grounding, and ability to listen and treat litigants with dignity. Personal supporters also highlighted her public service, hula background, and character. Committee members questioned Durrant about how she would approach district court cases involving repeat offenders, mental illness, substance abuse, houselessness, and diversion. Durrant said she would follow the law, consider the full range of sentencing factors, and use available probation, diversion, and treatment options where appropriate. She said she would be committed to using legislative tools such as Act 26 and other diversion powers, and to looking beyond advocacy toward practical justice and reducing recidivism. She also said her clerkship with Judge Marsha Waldorf, including exposure to drug court and mental health court, shaped her approach to problem-solving on the bench.

Transcript Highlights:

• Island Inc. in support; Hawaii Regional Council of Carpenters in opposition; Hawaii Community Lending
• Island Inc., Hawaii Regional Council of Carpenters, Hawaii Community Lending, and an individual, with
• or no votes?
• <00:21:33.919> on<00:21:34.039> House vote thank you chair voting on House vote thank
• I'll be voting with votes chair I'll be voting with reservation<00:21:48.919> thank<00:21:49.080

Keywords: 910, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Seeing none, chair for the vote. All right, we are voting on HR 27 HCR 28.
• The are voting on HR 27 HCR 28.
• Chair and vice chair vote I. amended. Chair and vice chair vote I.
• Seeing none, chair for the vote. Right. We are voting on HR 143, HCR 149.
• We're voting<00:28:19.440> on<00:28:19.880> HR191 voting on HR191 voting on HR191 HCR19

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The Committee on Energy and Environmental Protection met on April 1, 2025, to hear three resolutions. The first, HR 27/HCR 28, sought to reconvene a working group on contamination remediation tied to the Pu‘uloa/Puoa Ranch Range training facility. Testimony was strongly supportive, with speakers from the Sierra Club of Hawai‘i and the community describing concerns about lead contamination, health risks to children and pregnant women, and the need for continued testing and coordination. The committee later recommended and adopted the resolution unamended by vote, with Rep. Quinnland excused. The second measure, HR 143/HCR 149, asked the Department of Land and Natural Resources to convene a working group to assess steps toward transitioning Volcano, Hawai‘i, into a biosphere area aligned with the Hawaiian Islands Biosphere Reserve. Support came from community and environmental interests, including testimony from the Sierra Club and others, and DLNR offered comments. The committee recommended passage with amendments limiting the working group participants to the district representative and the Volcano Community Association, and that recommendation was adopted. The final measure, HR 191/HCR 199, urged DLNR’s Division of Forestry and Wildlife to prioritize restoration and protection of additional wetlands and an Ankuline pools. DLNR supported the intent but suggested technical clarifications, while community testimony emphasized wetlands’ role in flood control, sediment capture, and long-term environmental protection in South Maui. The committee recommended several amendments, including removing reference to the Division of Forestry and Wildlife, revising agency references, changing “state waters” to “waters of the state,” and assigning the County of Maui as the responsible party for certain wetland protections. The amended resolution was then adopted, and the hearing adjourned.

Transcript Highlights:

• If not, Vice Chair for the vote. Chair votes aye. Members voting on SB 1163.
• Um, anyone voting with reservations? Anyone voting no? All members vote aye.
• If not, Vice Chair for the vote. Chair votes aye. Members voting on SB 1163.
• Um, anyone voting with reservations? Anyone voting no? All members vote aye.
• Anyone voting voting with reservations? Anyone voting no?

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The Senate Labor and Technology Committee heard testimony on several measures. SB 2245 would tighten revolving-door restrictions for state employees by barring new employees from acting on matters they worked on before state service and imposing a 12-month post-employment restriction for certain former Governor and Lieutenant Governor staff; the Ethics Commission and League of Women Voters supported it, and the committee later passed it as is. SB 99 would allow certain retirees to return to work as school resource officers or investigators without losing retirement benefits; the Attorney General supported the investigator portion, ERS and other agencies offered comments and suggested amendments, and the committee passed the bill with amendments, including changes from the Attorney General, ERS, and the Department of Law Enforcement, plus a far-future effective date. SB 2304, which would expand identity theft law to cover AI/deepfake or materially deceptive media impersonation, drew opposition from the Attorney General and Honolulu Prosecutor over prosecution burdens and First Amendment concerns, while some prosecutors and others supported it; the committee deferred the bill. SB 2115, dealing with collective bargaining impasse procedures for repricing public employee classes, drew opposition from human resources officials who said arbitrators lack the technical expertise needed, while unions and HGA supported the measure; the committee deferred decision-making to a later hearing. The committee also heard SB 1036, a net neutrality bill that would bar broadband providers from blocking, prioritizing, or zero-rating traffic. Supporters argued Hawaii needs stronger consumer protections, while the Hawaii Broadband Office said it saw no current problem in Hawaii and warned the bill could affect federal BEAD funding unless exempted; the committee deferred the measure. SB 1163 would prohibit the sale of geolocation and browser data and data collected through microphone-based background apps; Consumer Protection supported the intent but urged a broader privacy framework, and the Honolulu Prosecutor sought an exemption for lawful law-enforcement investigations, which the committee later accepted along with Hawaiian Telecom’s proposed amendments before passing the bill with amendments. SB 2076 would update publicity-rights law to address AI/deepfake uses of a person’s likeness; testimony supported the goal and amendments from the Recording Industry Association of America, and the committee passed the bill with amendments, including replacing references to AI/deepfake with “digital replica.” After hearing testimony, the committee recessed briefly to obtain quorum and then reconvened for decision-making. It adopted the chair’s recommendation to pass SB 2245 as is, passed SB 99 with amendments, deferred SB 2304, deferred SB 2115 to a later hearing, deferred SB 1036, passed SB 1163 with amendments, and passed SB 2076 with amendments. The meeting then adjourned.

Transcript Highlights:

• >> Evan Oie, Executive Director of Hawaii >> Evan Oie, Executive Director of Hawaii
• the courts and the bar and the Hawaii the courts and the bar and the Hawaii State<00:09:09.400><
• It was a registered nonprofit subject to the laws of Hawaii, a nonprofit act of Hawaii, which is more
• If you, um, had to vote on it, would you have, um, voted to...? Well, let me ask...
• , sure, I would have voted.

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The Judiciary Committee first took up decision-making on two judicial nominations heard the previous day. Governor’s Message 796, naming Annalisa En Bernard Lee as Circuit Court Judge for the Second Circuit (Maui County), and Governor’s Message 797, naming Michael K. Soong as Circuit Court Judge for the Fifth Circuit (Kauai), were both recommended for consent and adopted by unanimous roll-call votes. The committee then heard testimony on Governor’s Message 801, the nomination of Vladimir P. Devens as Chief Justice of the Hawaii State Supreme Court. Support came from the Governor’s office, Honolulu Prosecutor Steve Alm, Honolulu Managing Director Michael Formby, the Hawaii Association for Justice, United Public Workers, HGEA/AFL-CIO, the Hawaii Filipino Lawyers Association, labor and trade unions, retired Chief Justice Mark Recktenwald, retired judges, bar and court officials, and many other individuals and organizations. Supporters emphasized Devens’ legal experience, work ethic, labor-law background, community ties, mentorship, and ability to manage the judiciary and address the appellate backlog. A few speakers opposed the nomination, including Chuck Freedman, who raised concerns about union influence and potential conflicts, and others who submitted opposition testimony. Devens also testified, describing his Honolulu upbringing, education at UC Berkeley, six years with the police department, and more than 30 years in private practice before joining the Supreme Court. He said the chief justice role is primarily an administrative one, highlighted his experience with bar and judicial administration committees, and identified reducing the appellate backlog as a major priority. No vote was taken on GM 801 during this portion of the hearing.

Transcript Highlights:

• Vice Chair, for the vote? Right. Members voting on House Bill 918.
• Vice Chair, for the vote? Okay. Members voting on House Bill 1482.
• Okay, Vice Chair, for the vote. Right, members voting on House Bill 981.
• Vice Chair, for the vote. Members voting on House Bill 699.
• Are there any members who wish to vote no? No vote for Representative Purick.

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The committee on Consumer Protection and Commerce met on February 5, 2025, and heard testimony on several bills. HB 918, relating to labeling, drew support from the Department of Health, INDA (the nonwoven fabrics industry), and Hawaii Realtors. INDA said the bill aligns with do-not-flush labeling laws in other states but raised a concern about the six-month compliance deadline tied to FIFRA approval. In response to committee questions, witnesses explained that the bill is aimed mainly at disinfecting wipes, that most products are already labeled nationally, and that the proposed timing issue could be addressed by using Oregon’s approach. No vote was taken on the measure during the portion shown. The committee also heard HB 1482, relating to controlled substances. HPD supported the bill, and Aloha Green Holdings and the Department of Health both said they supported the intent but recommended technical amendments. Their testimony focused on clarifying the treatment of Delta-8 THC, distinguishing synthetic or artificially derived cannabinoids from naturally occurring forms, and avoiding confusion in the hemp law. Members asked whether Delta-8 would show up on drug tests; witnesses said it would test positive for THC and would not be distinguished from Delta-9. The bill was then set aside as the committee moved on. HB 981, relating to attorney’s fees, drew opposition from a law firm representing homeowners and associations, which argued the bill would limit access to legal services, favor developers and contractors, and make settlement harder. The witness suggested instead using existing consumer-protection fee-shifting concepts, and committee members explored whether a capped fee award or a broader attorney-fee rule would be more appropriate. The committee then took up HB 807 and HB 336, both relating to condominiums. HB 807 received support from the Green Infrastructure Authority and the Hawaii Bankers Association, while one testifier urged deferral over unresolved questions about commercial PACE financing; the bank association asked for more time to work with HGIA, and the chair indicated decision-making could be deferred to allow that discussion. On HB 336, the Community Associations Institute opposed the bill as removing checks and balances, while the Hawaii Workers Center and others supported it as a step toward clearer enforcement of health and safety issues in condominiums and rental housing.

Transcript Highlights:

• state AFL CIO Pride at from AF Hawaii state AFL CIO Pride at work<00:50:15.960> Hawaii<00:50:
• thank you chair Vice chair for the vote thank you chair voting<01:23:58.760> on<01:23:58.920>
• <01:27:14.040> on<01:27:14.159> House vote thank you chair voting on House vote thank
• <01:31:58.960> on<01:31:59.080> House vote thank you chair voting on House vote thank
• <01:37:18.000> on<01:37:18.119> House vote thank you chair voting on House vote thank

Keywords: 910, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Chair, vote? Any members voting no? Any members voting with reservations? None.
• Any members voting no? Any members voting with reservations? Hearing none, all five members voting.
• Chair, vote? Any members voting no? Any members voting with reservations? None.
• Chair, vote? Any members voting no? Any members voting with reservations? None.
• Chair, vote? Any members voting no? Any members voting with reservations? None.

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• chair, for the vote, please. Okay. chair, for the vote, please. Okay.
• I vote I. Vice Chair Noi is excused. I vote I.
• recommendation and chair votes yes. recommendation and chair votes yes.
• Uh, Chair votes aye. Vice Chair Noi is excused. Um, I vote aye. Senator Kuha, aye.
• two resolutions for voting first. two resolutions for voting first.

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The joint Committee on Energy and Intergovernmental Affairs and Committee on Transportation, Culture, and the Arts heard several resolutions, with most public testimony focused on Senate Concurrent Resolution 159 and Senate Resolution 129, which urge continued U.S. support for the Ukrainian military. Testimony on those measures was largely opposed, with witnesses arguing Hawaii should prioritize local needs such as homelessness, infrastructure, and cost of living over additional aid to Ukraine; one support testimony was noted from the Democratic Party of Hawaii. Despite the opposition, both committees recommended passage with technical, nonsubstantive amendments, and the recommendations were adopted. The committees also considered transportation-related resolutions. Senate Concurrent Resolution 182 and Senate Resolution 152 would initiate a summer streets pilot program, and Senate Concurrent Resolution 200 and Senate Resolution 180 would ask AMPO to coordinate a transportation management training program. Testimony on the summer streets proposal included support and opposition, with one witness saying community input should be gathered through existing district and community meetings rather than creating a pilot. The training-program measure drew opposition from a witness who argued it would add unnecessary bureaucracy. Both pairs were recommended for passage, with the summer streets resolutions passed unamended and the training-program resolutions passed with technical amendments. In the Energy and Intergovernmental Affairs committee, Senate Concurrent Resolution 18 and Senate Resolution 14, concerning relocation of the Pearl City post office to Navy property, were recommended for passage with technical amendments. The committee also heard extensive testimony on Senate Concurrent Resolution 136 and Senate Resolution 150, which call for a geothermal energy working group. Supporters included the State Energy Office, PUC, consumer advocate, and others, though the energy office asked to move the report deadline to 2027. Opponents raised concerns about cost, health impacts, environmental risks, and Native Hawaiian representation. The chair proposed amendments to add a Native Hawaiian member, the consumer advocate, and the House and Senate energy committee chairs, clarify participation by utility, geothermal, and nonprofit representatives, and extend the report deadline to 2027. The resolutions were then recommended for passage with amendments, and all recommendations were adopted before adjournment.

Transcript Highlights:

• Anyone voting with reservations? Anyone voting no? All other members vote I.
• Anyone voting with reservations? Anyone voting no? All other members vote I.
• vote okay voting on Vice chair for the vote okay voting on SB<01:41:27.280> 739<01:41:28.119>
• Anyone voting with reservations? Anyone voting no?
• Anyone voting with reservations? Anyone voting no?

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The hearing opened with committee procedures and then took up SB 1, relating to vegetation management near utility lines. DLNR opposed the bill, saying it would shift rights, responsibilities, and liability onto the state and private landowners. Hawaiian Electric supported the measure with amendments, describing it as a first step to address wildfire risk and improve public safety and system reliability. The Hawaii Farm Bureau and Command Schools both raised concerns that the bill could impose significant costs, liability, and access burdens on farmers, ranchers, and other landowners, especially where easements are old or unclear. Life of the Land argued the issue belongs before the Public Utilities Commission, and PUC staff explained that the commission is already reviewing Hawaiian Electric’s wildfire mitigation plan and vegetation management in a docket, with a decision expected by September and public meetings scheduled for April 23 and 24. Committee members questioned the need for legislation versus negotiated solutions, and witnesses said private parties could potentially renegotiate easements without statute. The committee then heard HB 1296, relating to disaster recovery. DLNR and OPSD supported the bill, saying it would ease regulatory burdens in post-disaster rebuilding and help speed permit review. Testimony and member questions focused on the bill’s five-year rebuilding timeline, the role of the coastal zone/SMA process, and how long permit reviews typically take; OPSD said SMA major/use permits generally take about six months, while minor permits are faster. Members also discussed whether the bill would apply to existing structures damaged in disasters and whether the amendments from the Attorney General’s office and OPSD were acceptable; no objections were raised. Finally, the committee heard SB 1170, relating to the expeditious redevelopment and development of affordable rental housing. HHFDC supported the bill, and testimony from a Maui affordable housing project said the measure is needed to rebuild the Weinberg Court Apartments, a 63-unit affordable project in Lahaina, using insurance funds rather than government money. Members asked whether the bill would help existing affordable rental projects damaged before the enactment of related coastal rules, and the response was that the bill is aimed at existing structures damaged during events and intended to speed rebuilding of affordable housing.

Transcript Highlights:

• Hawaii is not a place for it. Maybe in Vegas, but not in Hawaii. This is a paradise.
• Hawaii is not a place for it. Maybe in Vegas, but not in Hawaii. This is a paradise.
• Seeing none, uh, vice chair for the vote. Chair votes aye on HCR 77. Chair votes aye. Okay.
• Chair votes eye on HCR eye.
• Chair votes aye. Vice Chair is excused. Senator I vote aye. Senator W is excused.

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The Committee on Hawaiian Affairs briefly met and adjourned after noting that GM 574, a nomination on its agenda, had been withdrawn, leaving the committee with no business to consider. A separate joint hearing of the Senate Committees on Economic Development and Hawaiian Affairs then took up HCR 192, a resolution to convene a tourism and gaming working group. Testimony was sharply divided. Supporters, including representatives from the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement, Nation of Hawaii, and CARES, said the measure would allow Hawaiians to have a seat at the table, learn from Native nations with gaming experience, and make informed decisions about whether and how gaming should be approached. Some supporters emphasized that the working group was about research and self-determination, not immediate legalization, and suggested the state should focus on broader economic development options as well. Opponents, including the Honolulu prosecuting attorney and several community members and faith leaders, warned that gambling would increase addiction, crime, family breakdown, debt, and exploitation of low-income and vulnerable residents. They argued that online sports betting and other forms of gaming would be especially harmful, with some citing examples from other states and concerns about problem gambling, domestic violence, and illegal activity. Committee members questioned witnesses about the purpose of the working group and whether it could provide enough data to make an informed decision, while supporters and opponents alike acknowledged the need for Hawaiians to be involved in any future discussion. No vote or final action on HCR 192 was taken in the portion provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• Chair votes I. Vice Chair votes I. Senator Decoy votes I. Senator Rhodes votes I.
• I Vice chair votes I Senator decoy votes I Vice chair votes I Senator decoy I<00:24:44.159> Senator
• Chair votes I. Senate Bill 1022 passing with amendments. Chair votes I. Vice Chair votes I.
• Chair votes I. Vice Chair votes I. Senate Bill 763 passing Amendment. Chair votes I.
• Chair votes I. Senate Bill 1022 passing with amendments. Chair votes I. Vice Chair votes I.

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The joint AEN-PSM hearing on February 7, 2025 focused primarily on three agriculture-related measures and one animal welfare bill, with additional discussion of pesticide drift monitoring, coffee labeling, and a gas-pump labeling bill. SB 762 would create an Agricultural Crimes Council and authorize agricultural crime investigators; testimony from the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Law Enforcement, the Attorney General’s office, Hawaii Farm Bureau, Hawaii Farmers Union, and several members of the public was generally supportive, with repeated calls for stronger enforcement, community involvement, and in some cases allowing investigators to be armed. Some testifiers also urged changes to the appointment process for council members, preferring neighborhood boards or local officials over gubernatorial appointments. The committee discussed combining related agricultural crime bills and noted concerns about investigator safety in remote areas. SB 763 would establish an agriculture enforcement program within the Department of Law Enforcement and a special fund. Testimony was strongly supportive from state agencies and farm groups, with speakers emphasizing the need for more effective response to agricultural theft, poaching, and related crimes. Several public testifiers linked the bill to broader community safety and asked for clearer funding, training, coordination, performance metrics, and technology use. The committee also heard SB 1022, which would prohibit leaving pets in dangerous conditions in vehicles and allow officers, firefighters, animal control, and in some cases private citizens to rescue animals; the Attorney General said existing cruelty statutes may already cover the conduct and suggested amendments, while HPD opposed the bill. Members asked about liability for rescuers and whether the proposal might affect property-crime enforcement. The committee also heard SB 1304 on pesticide drift monitoring funding, with the Department of Agriculture supporting the measure and explaining it was needed to complete a required project under an EPA-related agreement. A Hawaii Alliance for Progressive Action representative raised concerns about the methodology of prior studies, and a public testifier described a recent odor incident near a roadway and school. SB 1015, requiring labels on gas dispensing equipment warning about fossil fuel impacts, drew support from the Department of Agriculture and the Public Utilities Commission but opposition from the Hawaii Energy Marketers Association. SB 500 on coffee labeling and regional origin was also heard, with the Department of Agriculture in support. In decision-making, the committees adopted recommendations to pass SB 762 with amendments, SB 763 with amendments, SB 1022 with technical amendments, SB 1304 with technical amendments, and SB 1015 as is; SB 500 was not acted on in the portion provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• Any no votes?
• Any no votes? Any reservations? Any no votes?
• /c> votes no vote for Senator votes no vote for Senator AWA<00:10:08.720> 22<00:10:09.279>
• Any no votes? No vote for Senator Awa. Uh, Senator DeCorte, did you have a no vote on the GE?
• vote on the GE no she does not no vote vote on the GE no she does not no vote for<00:10:44.040><

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The Senate convened, called the roll, approved the previous day’s journal, and heard several introductions recognizing staff, visiting students from Do Middle School participating in Working Families Day, and advocates from organizations including H-CAN, Hawaii Workers Center, Aloha Care, the Hawaii State Coalition Against Domestic Violence, and the American Association of University Women Hawaii. The clerk then reported gubernatorial messages withdrawing several nominations to boards and commissions, transmitting one nomination to the State Council for Interstate Adult Offender Supervision, and House communications sending House bills to the Senate for first reading and committee referral. The chamber adopted multiple groups of standing committee reports, including reports requiring 48-hour notice and one-day notice, and then took up third reading of Senate bills. Several bills passed third reading by unanimous consent or near-unanimous votes, including measures relating to water pollution, spaying and neutering animals, condominiums, marine life conservation districts, mental health, geothermal resources, the University of Hawaiʻi, and aircraft. Senate Bill 841 SD1 and SB 1042 SD1 each passed 22-1, SB 1197 SD1 passed 21-2, and SB 319, relating to marijuana, failed on third reading with 11 ayes and 12 noes. The Senate also granted a waiver of referral for Senate Bill 1621 SD1 to the Committee on Ways and Means so it could meet the first taking deadline, and gave one day’s notice for third reading. The session concluded with a motion adopted to leave the journal open until 11:00 p.m. for additional committee reports and to recess until 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 4.

Transcript Highlights:

• Representative Kahaloa votes aye. Representative Peruso votes aye.
• concerns if not Vice chair for the votee concerns if not Vice chair for the votee voting<01:48:23.280
• vote voting on House Vice chair for the vote voting on House Bill<01:58:05.520> 1362<01:58:06.520
• vote voting on House Vice chair for the vote voting on House Bill Bill Bill 1457<01:59:39.199> with
• <01:59:50.800> Garcia vote no vote from representative Garcia vote no vote from representative

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The committee heard testimony on House Bill 410, the Office of Hawaiian Affairs’ biennium operating budget. OHA asked for a modest increase over its base budget, including $1.2 million to fund 13 new full-time positions for a strategy and implementation team tied to its long-term plan, with emphasis on housing, education, health, and economic resilience. OHA also described a broader effort to work directly with executive branch departments to improve outcomes for Native Hawaiians. Testimony was largely supportive, with several individuals speaking in favor and one testifier expressing strong frustration about Native Hawaiian rights and access to resources. The chair noted there were 38 additional written/supporting testimonies and three in opposition. Members asked about OHA’s funding sources and public land trust revenues; OHA said it is not receiving the full 20 percent share, described a public land trust working group and system issues, and said a related bill would seek funding to begin an inventory. No vote was taken in the portion provided. The committee then considered House Bill 304, which would make the Hawaiian version of a law binding when the law was originally drafted in Hawaiian and later translated into English. The Judiciary supported the bill, saying it reinforces Hawaiian as an official language and looks to the original language for legislative intent. The Attorney General supported the intent but recommended narrowing the bill with a proviso to avoid ambiguities, limiting it to laws originally drafted in Hawaiian that were not later amended, codified, recodified, or reenacted in English. Public testimony was generally supportive, though one speaker raised broader sovereignty concerns. Members questioned how many laws would be affected and whether the proposed amendment would undercut the bill; the Attorney General said the amendment was meant to address uncertainty in interpretation. No final action was reported. Finally, the committee heard House Bill 603, which would direct OHA to administer a Native Hawaiian business marketing program to promote Native Hawaiian-owned businesses through marketing and technical assistance. OHA supported the concept, saying a label or branding program could help consumers identify and support Native Hawaiian-owned businesses, but requested that funding be redirected to a working group to study program design, implementation, enforcement, and long-term viability. The chair noted four supportive testimonies had been received, and a member asked OHA to confirm that its programs serve all Hawaiians, not only those eligible for homelands; OHA said it serves all Hawaiians in the state. The transcript ends before any vote or further action on HB 603.

Transcript Highlights:

• Chair votes aye.
• Chair votes aye.
• votes on this agenda. votes on this agenda.
• Chair votes yes. pass with amendments. Chair votes yes.
• Chair<00:33:57.000> votes<00:33:57.200> aye. Chair votes aye. Chair votes aye.

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The Committee on Housing heard and acted on three measures related to the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation (HHFDC) and affordable housing policy. First, it considered GM 681, the nomination of Garth Yamanaka to the HHFDC Board of Directors. Yamanaka testified that he supports using all available tools to increase housing production, including open space and park dedication where feasible, more revenue-neutral and workforce housing, and a broad mix of housing types. Senators questioned him on priorities such as perpetual affordability, state- and county-owned projects, and whether HHFDC should focus more on revenue-neutral housing; he generally supported greater flexibility and more options, while emphasizing the need to consider feasibility and local market needs. The committee recommended GM 681 for advise and consent and adopted that recommendation unanimously, with Senator Fevella excused. The committee then heard GM 764, the nomination of Susan Coons to the HHFDC Board. Coons said she supports prioritizing state and government lands for affordable housing but stressed that the government cannot solve the housing shortage alone and should continue to engage private and nonprofit partners. In response to questions, she said HHFDC should give greater priority to perpetual affordability and could potentially devote more resources to revenue-neutral, income-blind housing, but she cautioned against blanket policies and said decisions should be guided by data, community needs, and project readiness. She also supported the idea of a 100,000-unit housing plan and said HHFDC should focus on more specific policies and projects. The committee recommended GM 764 for advise and consent and adopted the recommendation. Finally, the committee considered HCR 83, which supports using the dwelling unit revolving fund for pre-development costs through interim loans for government affordable housing projects. HHFDC testified in support and explained that it already has authority to make pre-development loans, but the resolution would provide policy support and comfort to the board. Members asked about loan security and default; HHFDC said such loans would typically be secured by land collateral and that it would not expect to forgive the loans. The committee agreed to pass the resolution with amendments, including adding committee report language about default and collateral and noting HHFDC’s existing authority. In a joint portion with the Committee on Energy and Intergovernmental Affairs, the committees also took up HCR 98 HD1 and recommended it pass with amendments to clarify that the countywide housing pattern book applies only to the City and County of Honolulu and involves collaboration between Honolulu housing and planning agencies. All recommendations were adopted, and the hearing adjourned.

Transcript Highlights:

• Shimizu votes no and Garcia<00:30:45.399> votes Garcia votes Garcia votes no<00:30:47.279>
• Members have all votes been cast. Representative Garcia, Muraoka, and Reyes Oda vote no.
• Members have all votes been cast. Members have all votes been cast.
• , Shimizu, and Oda vote no.
• , Shimizu, and Oda vote no.

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The House convened with 47 members present, read the journal, and received Senate communications, including notice that House Bill 1440, HD1 had passed third reading in the Senate and that several Senate bills were transmitted and passed first reading by title. Members also made introductions recognizing guests for Working Families Day 2025, including advocates and organizers, and welcomed visitors from Khu Valley, as well as family members and community advocates in the gallery. The bulk of the meeting was devoted to the order of the day and adoption of numerous standing committee reports and accompanying bills, many of which were passed by voice vote or consent calendar. Several members registered reservations or opposition on specific measures, with comments focused on fertility coverage and the prepaid health care system, low-income tax policy, youth safe spaces and runaway youth, prenatal care for non-citizens, and fireworks regulation. In a few cases, members requested that their remarks be entered into the journal, and one member clarified a vote change on SCR 972 after the vote had been read. The House also took third-reading votes on additional bills listed on later pages, with the majority and minority caucuses announcing their votes and a few named no votes on particular measures. No resolutions were introduced for action. During announcements, members wished Representative Amato and staff members happy birthday. The House then voted to keep the journal open until midnight for further committee reports and transmitted bills, and finally recessed until 9:00 a.m. Tuesday, March 4th.

Transcript Highlights:

• Hearing none, Vice Chair, for the vote.
• votes or votes<00:25:50.320> or<00:25:50.480> reservations<00:25:51.159> hearing
• ><00:25:51.440> none<00:25:51.640> Madam votes or reservations hearing none Madam votes
• any no votes or votes at reservations any no votes or votes at reservations hearing<00:26:44.960
• any no votes or votes or reservations any no votes or votes or reservations hearing<00:29:30.000

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The Senate Committee on Water and Land met on March 21, 2025, and considered several resolutions related to water resources, coastal management, and energy planning. On SCR 42/SR 27, which urged DLNR’s Division of Forestry and Wildlife to prioritize restoration and protection of additional wetlands and anchialine ponds, DLNR supported the measure and suggested a technical correction changing a reference from the Division of Agriculture to the Division of Aquatic Resources. Testimony from Hā‘ena Reef and Ocean Coalition, Maui Ocean Center, and individuals was in support. The committee recommended passage with technical and non-substantive amendments. The committee also heard SCR 54/SR 36, which would create a desalination planning task force to study whether large-scale desalination for potable water is feasible. DLNR and CWRM said the proposal was a large undertaking and raised capacity concerns, noting the Board of Water Supply was already moving forward with its own desalination planning. BWS testified in support, saying its project was still in planning and design, with construction not expected until late 2027 or 2028, and that the project would produce about 1.7 million gallons per day to supplement Ewa’s water supply. Members discussed whether the task force might duplicate existing work and noted the measure focused on consumption rather than other desalination uses. The committee ultimately recommended passage with technical and non-substantive amendments. For SCR 59/SR 43, which asked DLNR, the Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation, and the Kaho‘olawe Island Reserve Commission to work together on maintaining the Kihei ramp, DLNR reported ongoing collaboration and listed prior improvements including paving, washdown work, dredging, and a retaining wall. The committee recommended passage with technical and non-substantive amendments. On SCR 106/SR 87, which requested a study of which energy sector could be most quickly and cost-effectively decarbonized through public investment in combustion-free alternatives, OPSD said the State Energy Office had already completed a decarbonization study under Act 238 (2022) and a follow-up alternative fuels analysis, and suggested the resolution duplicated existing work. Energy Justice Network testified in support, arguing the proposal would build on prior studies by focusing on non-combustion options such as wind, solar, and storage. Despite support from several organizations and individuals, the committee deferred the measure indefinitely. The committee also passed SR 18 as is, passed SC 51/SR 33 as is, deferred SC 47, and passed SC 76/SR 59 with amendments.