SENATE WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE RELEASES REPORT DETAILING SITE VISIT TO HAWAII ISLAND
- Hawaiʻi State Senate
- 12 minutes ago
- 2 min read
HAWAII ISLAND – The Senate Ways and Means (WAM) Committee visited Hawaii Island from Wednesday, November 5 to Friday, November 7, 2025, to meet with various government agencies and community leaders to discuss and receive updates on Hawaii’s film industry, renewable energy, economic and workforce development pathways, historic preservation programs, biosecurity efforts, and housing.
“During our visit to Hawaiʻi Island, the committee observed firsthand how local agencies and community partners are addressing some of the most pressing challenges facing the state,” said Senator Donovan M. Dela Cruz (District 17 - Portion of Mililani, Mililani Mauka, portion of Waipi‘o Acres, Launani Valley, Wahiawā, Whitmore Village), Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. “Whether it involved strengthening biosecurity measures, advancing environmental protection efforts, or expanding housing and workforce opportunities, the projects we visited demonstrated real progress and a strong commitment to collaboration. These on-the-ground perspectives are invaluable as we continue to shape policies and investments that support the long-term well-being of our communities.”
“Representing Hawaiʻi Island’s rural and agricultural communities, I know how important it is that the state continues investing in the places that sustain our islands,” said Senator Lorraine R. Inouye (District 1 – Hilo, Paukaʻa, Papaikou, Pepeʻekeo), Chair of the Senate Committee on Water and Land. “Our site visits showed how collaboration between agencies, local leaders, and community partners is advancing work in areas like biosecurity, environmental resilience, and infrastructure. These efforts reflect a strong commitment to protecting our resources and strengthening the long-term well-being of Hawaiʻi Island.”
“Communities across Hawaiʻi Island face unique challenges, and it is essential that state investments are both equitable and responsive,” said Senator Joy A. San Buenaventura (District 2 – Puna), Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services. “The visits provided valuable insight into the progress being made in housing, environmental protection, and workforce development, as well as where additional support is needed. These on-the-ground perspectives will help inform policies that better serve our families and communities.”
WAM holds neighbor island site visits every two years to utilize information from community stakeholders and government officials to guide collective decision-making on legislation and budget appropriations to bolster regional/statewide planning and implementation efforts.