HONOLULU – Senator Mike Gabbard (District 21 – Kapolei, Makakilo, Kalaeloa, portions of Fernandez Village, and ‘Ewa) today announced the successful passage of two major food system bills by the Hawai‘i State Legislature – a milestone moment in the state’s efforts to strengthen local agriculture and food security.    “These initiatives are the result of years of hard work and collaboration,” said Senator Gabbard, who championed the bills. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see them move forward, and I’m thankful to my fellow lawmakers and the many advocates who helped bring these ideas to life.”    The two measures represent a significant step toward building a more self-reliant and sustainable food system in Hawai‘i:    ·     SB1186   establishes a Statewide Interagency Food Systems Coordination Team and Working Group under the Agribusiness Development Corporation, creating a unified strategy to enhance Hawai‘i’s food resilience. Senator Gabbard has spent the last three years working on this bill to get it passed.   ·     SB693  continues funding for the Food Hub Pilot Program, which supports local farmers and food producers by improving distribution and access to fresh, local food to meet local demand.    “Increasing our support for local agriculture is essential – especially as more families face food insecurity and the need for homegrown food grows,” Gabbard said. “These bills are a direct investment in our communities and in Hawai‘i’s future.”    Senator Gabbard expressed optimism that the Governor will sign both measures into law, and reaffirmed his dedication to advancing legislation that supports local communities and long-term sustainability.  For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.

The newly confirmed judges posed for a photo with members of the Hawaiʻi State Senate today. Confirmed judges (front row, with lei) from left to right: Karin L. Holma, Maria F. Penn, Taryn R.Tomasa Gifford, Karen T. Nakasone, Rochelle I. Vidinha Cusumano, Wilson A. Unga HONOLULU – Senator Karl Rhoads (District 13 - Dowsett Highlands, Pu‘unui, Nu‘uanu, Pacific Heights, Pauoa, Punchbowl, Pālama, Liliha, Iwilei, Chinatown, and Downtown), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today praised the Hawai‘i State Senate’s confirmation of eight judges across the state — including Judge Karen T. Nakasone  as Chief Judge of the Intermediate Court of Appeals (ICA).    “This is a strong group of judicial confirmations that reflects the depth of legal talent in Hawai‘i,” said Senator Rhoads. “I’m especially pleased to see Judge Nakasone take on the role of Chief Judge. Her deep understanding of the law and long-standing service make her an outstanding choice to lead the ICA.”    The ICA, Hawai‘i’s second-highest court, hears most appeals from trial courts and state agencies. Its decisions — often involving complex legal questions — may be reviewed by the Hawai‘i Supreme Court.  Judge Nakasone has served on the ICA since 2020 as an Associate Judge and nine years prior as a circuit court judge.    In addition to Judge Nakasone, the Senate confirmed the following individuals: ·  Karin L. Holma  – Circuit Court Judge, First Circuit (Oʻahu)  ·  Taryn R. Tomasa Gifford  – Circuit Court Judge, First Circuit (Oʻahu)  ·   Kauanoe A. D. Jackson  – Circuit Court Judge, Third Circuit (Hawaiʻi Island)  ·   Maria F. Penn  – District Family Court Judge, First Circuit (Oʻahu)  ·   Wilson A. Unga  – District Family Court Judge, First Circuit (Oʻahu)  ·   Sonya H. Toma  – District Family Court Judge, Second Circuit (Maui)  ·   Rochelle I. Vidinha Cusumano  – District Court Judge, First Circuit (Oʻahu)    Judges Jackson and Toma were confirmed on April 22; the remaining confirmations were approved by the Senate on April 30.    “These judges bring diverse experience, a shared commitment to fairness, and deep knowledge of Hawai‘i’s communities,” Rhoads added. “The Judiciary is in strong hands.”    Court Overview:   ·   Circuit Courts  hear major criminal and civil cases, including felonies, probate, and civil matters over $40,000. They also preside over jury trials.  ·   Family Courts  address cases involving children and families — from adoption and divorce to guardianships and domestic violence.  ·   District Courts  handle traffic infractions, misdemeanors, small claims, landlord-tenant disputes, and restraining orders.    These appointments were made earlier this month, reinforcing Hawai‘i’s ongoing commitment to a fair, independent judiciary that reflects the people it serves.  Per the Hawaiʻi Constitution, Governor Josh Green made the appointments to the ICA and circuit courts and Chief Justice Mark Recktenwald made the appointments to the district and district family courts.     FOR PHOTOS AND HEADSHOTS OF SOME OF THE NEWLY-CONFIRMED JUDGES, CLICK HERE.   CLICK HERE for a PDF version of this news release.

HONOLULU – Senator Brandon J.C. Elefante (District 16 – ʻAiea, ʻAiea Heights, Hālawa, Pearlridge, Newtown, Royal Summit, Waimalu, Waiau, Momilani, Pacific Palisades, and Pearl City) today announced significant funding secured in the state budget for critical Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) that will benefit schools and communities across the district.     “This funding represents a significant investment in the infrastructure and safety of our district,” said Senator Elefante. “I’m proud to have worked alongside my colleagues to ensure that these important projects receive the support they need. These projects address immediate needs and also lay the groundwork for long-term improvements in our community.”     Key allocations for the district include:   $1 million for an emergency egress/ingress route for Palisades, to improve emergency response times and provide residents with a safer evacuation route in case of an emergency $750,000 for planning and design work on the main office at Webling Elementary School, ensuring a more secure and functional environment for staff and students $400,000 for visitor bleachers at ‘Aiea High School, to enhance the school’s athletic facilities and improve the experience for students, families, and fans at sporting events   The funding is part of a broader effort by Senator Elefante to support local schools, enhance public safety, and upgrade the district’s infrastructure.   CLICK HERE for a PDF version of this news release.

HONOLULU  – The Hawaiʻi State Senate and House of Representatives today announced the passage of House Bill 427 , a major step forward in strengthening the state's biosecurity system to combat invasive species and protect the islands’ environment and agriculture.   “We’re in a state of crisis for biosecurity. Last year, we passed a landmark bill ( Act 231 ); this session we’re sending another bill to the Governor to continue our commitment to fighting invasives, whether it’s coconut rhinoceros beetles, little fire ants, coqui frogs, or whatever. We have to step up our game in keeping these critters and invasive plants out of our islands, so we can keep paradise, paradise,” said Senator Mike Gabbard  (Senate District 21 - Kapolei, Makakilo, Kalaeloa, portions of Fernandez Village, and ‘Ewa), who chairs the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Environment. “I’d like to mahalo Agriculture & Food Systems House Committee Chair, Kirstin Kahaloa, our WAM (Ways and Means) Chair Senator Donovan Dela Cruz, House FIN (Finance) Chair Kyle Yamashita, the Legislature, HDOA (Hawaiʻi Department of Agriculture), and all the stakeholders who collaborated on this important bill. Laulima – many hands – have led us to a compromise everyone can live with. By doing this, we took another important step forward in safeguarding Hawaiʻi’s environment, agriculture, and economy.”   Key provisions of HB 427 include: ·    Renaming the Department and Board of Agriculture to include "Biosecurity" ·    Establishing a Deputy Chairperson for Biosecurity to lead efforts in invasive species prevention ·   Creating a Biosecurity Emergency Response Program to quickly respond to biosecurity threats ·   Increasing penalties for biosecurity violations, improving inspection protocols, and strengthening pest management efforts   “HB 427 is a bold and necessary step to protect Hawai‘i’s environment, food security, and way of life. By renaming the Department of Agriculture as the Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity, we are centralizing our efforts and giving biosecurity the focused leadership it demands. This bill empowers rapid response, improves coordination, and provides the tools we need to keep invasive species out of our islands. With over $36 million in funding secured across the bill and the state biennium budget, Hawai‘i is sending a clear message: we are serious about biosecurity, and we are ready to lead the nation in protecting our natural and agricultural resources,” said Representative Kirstin Kahaloa (House District 6 - Hōnaunau, Nāpō‘opo‘o, Captain Cook, Kealakekua, Keauhou, Hōlualoa, Kailua-Kona).   “By bolstering the State’s biosecurity efforts, this bill is a reflection of our commitment to increase environmental and economic resilience,” said Senator Donovan M. Dela Cruz  (Senate District 17 - portion of Mililani, Mililani Mauka, portion of Waipi‘o Acres, Launani Valley, Wahiawā, Whitmore Village), chair of the Senate Ways and Means Committee. “Feeding our people starts with supporting our local farmers, protecting our native ecosystems, and enabling our local business to expand exports. I am proud to stand beside my colleagues and constituents who have helped advocate for this important legislation.”   House Finance Chair Kyle T. Yamashita  (House District 12 - portion of Keahua, Hali‘imaile, Pukalani, Makawao, Pulehu, Waiakoa, Kula, Keokea, and ‘Ulupalakua) stated, “By increasing resources for biosecurity through this bill, we are ensuring that Hawaiʻi can continue to thrive as a leading agricultural state while protecting our natural resources from the growing threat of invasive species.”   The bill now heads to the Governor for signing. For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.

HONOLULU – The Hawaiʻi State Senate has advanced a major step towards addressing food insecurity among public school students with the passage of Senate Bill 1300 , authored by Senate Vice President Michelle Kidani  (District 18 – Mililani Town, Waipi‘o Gentry, Crestview, Waikele, portion of Waipahu, Village Park, Royal Kunia).    SB 1300  appropriates critical funding to expand access to free school meals and provide support for families classified as ALICE – Asset-Limited, Income-Constrained, Employed  – working families who may not qualify for existing assistance programs but still struggle to meet their children’s basic needs.    The bill includes:  ·    $565,000 in FY2025–2026  and $565,000 in FY2026–2027  to provide free meals to public school students based on economic need.  ·    $2.8 million in FY2026–2027  to subsidize meals for students from ALICE households.    The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025 .    “As the author of this bill and Chair of the Senate Committee on Education, I firmly believe that nourishing our children is fundamental to their success in school and in life. Students who are fed are better able to focus, to learn, and to grow,” said Senate Vice President Kidani. “As the Senator of District 18, I still remember classrooms in my district where teachers would keep snacks in their desks – for students who come to school hungry. As a mother and a grandmother, it is my firm belief that no child should have to worry about where their next meal will come from – especially not while trying to learn.”    Senate Vice President Kidani also extended her thanks to First Lady Jaime Green , who has been a strong and vocal supporter of SB 1300 from the beginning. “Her presence and advocacy at our conference hearing was a powerful reminder of what’s at stake for our keiki,” Kidani added.    SB 1300 now heads to the Governor’s desk for consideration.  For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.

HONOLULU – Senator Brandon J.C. Elefante (District 16 – ʻAiea, ʻAiea Heights, Hālawa, Pearlridge, Newtown, Royal Summit, Waimalu, Waiau, Momilani, Pacific Palisades, and Pearl City), chair of the Senate Committee on Public Safety and Military Affairs (PSM), today announced several significant bills that passed the committee this session.    “These bills address some of the most urgent challenges we're facing right now in our state,” said Senator Elefante. “We’ve made real progress by passing key legislation on public health, safety in correctional facilities, funding for law enforcement, cracking down on illegal fireworks, improving fire prevention, and supporting our Department of Defense.”    Key measures advanced by the PSM Committee include:  ·                     SB 222  extends funding of the Illegal Fireworks Task Force and the annual reporting requirements to the Legislature from 2025 to 2030.  ·                     SB 88   – expands medical, dental, and vision coverage to more Hawai‘i National Guard members to better support their health and readiness.  ·                     Act 26  – updates state law so the leader of the Hawai‘i Air National Guard can hold the federally authorized rank of Major General, and ensures fair pay aligned with U.S. Air Force standards.  ·                     SB 1377  – improves the way veterans’ cemeteries are managed and maintained, ensuring proper care and oversight.  ·                     SB 224  – requires the Department of Corrections and Rehabilition (DCR) to assist individuals exiting correctional facilities with obtaining proper identification to aid in successful reintegration into the community.  ·                     SB 104   – starting July 1, 2026, limits the use of solitary confinement in prisons, creates a working group to improve how it's used – especially for vulnerable people – and requires regular oversight, reporting, and policy changes to ensure more humane treatment for inmates.  ·                     SB 223   – supports fire prevention initiatives and enhances coordination between agencies to reduce fire risks across the state.  ·                     SB 601   – updates the rules around warrantless searches to balance law enforcement needs with protecting people’s rights.    “No one wants to return to a ransacked house and be confused about what transpired,” said Senator Glenn Wakai (District 15 - Kalihi, Māpunapuna, Airport, Salt Lake, Āliamanu, Foster Village, Hickam, Pearl Harbor, and portions of ‘Aiea and Pearl City), PSM Committee vice-chair, regarding SB 601. “This bill provides a measure of accountability for law enforcement, while giving property owners information on why their home was turned upside down.”  ·                     HB 1064  – establishes a permanent State Fire Marshal to lead fire safety efforts and coordinate enforcement across the islands.  ·                     HB 1002   – extends the operational timeline of the Hawaiʻi Correctional System Oversight Commission to continue promoting transparency and accountability in correctional facilities.    These legislative efforts highlight the Legislature’s broader mission to ensure that Hawai‘i’s public safety systems are effective, equitable, and prepared to meet evolving challenges.  For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.

HONOLULU – The Senate Committee on Ways and Means (WAM) today passed House Bill 300 Senate Draft 1 , which outlines the Executive Branch state budget for the upcoming fiscal years. The bill includes funding for both the State's operating and capital improvement budgets for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027.  Following the latest downward forecast from the Council on Revenues and amidst ongoing economic uncertainty, the WAM committee has adopted a budget that maintains essential services for the state’s most vulnerable populations and proactively expands the economy through strategic investments in emerging sectors. With potential cuts in federal funding and policy changes that could result in broader economic challenges, the Senate remains committed to fostering economic resilience and advancing meaningful solutions that Hawaiʻi’s communities need to thrive.  A summary of totals included in the approved budget are as follows: Operating Budget:   For Fiscal Year 2025-2026 , the operating budget totals almost $10.44 billion  in general funds and about $19.93 billion  across all financing sources.  For Fiscal Year 2026-2027 , the operating budget totals around $10.42 billion  in general funds and almost $19.74 billion  across all financing sources.  Capital Improvement Budget:   For Fiscal Year 2025-2026 , the capital improvement budget includes about $1.56 billion  in general obligation bond funds and around $3.72 billion  from all financing sources.  For Fiscal Year 2026-2027 , the capital improvement budget includes over $339.5 million  in general obligation bond funds and about $2.05 billion  from all financing sources.  “The Senate continues to prioritize investments that foster systems within our island home to sustain essential services, including access to food, healthcare, and housing,” said Senator Donovan M. Dela Cruz (Senate District 17 –  portion of Mililani, Mililani Mauka, portion of Waipiʻo Acres, Launani Valley, Wahiawā, Whitmore Village), WAM chair. “This budget makes strategic appropriations to invest into our local regional economies to drive economic growth statewide. This wholistic approach will help to diversify our economy, create high-paying local jobs, and reverse the brain drain. Together, we can make Hawaiʻi a place where locals can live, learn, work, and play.” “In these times of uncertainty, we focused on the essentials: health and safety, compliance, infrastructure, and maintaining and modernizing state assets,” stated Senator Sharon Y. Moriwaki (Senate District 12 – Waikīkī, Ala Moana, Kaka‘ako, McCully), vice-chair of WAM. “We’ve also focused on our Senate priorities of affordable housing, workforce development, environmental sustainability, and economic development and diversification including agricultural innovations.”  REVISED : CLICK HERE FOR HIGHLIGHTS FROM HOUSE BILL 300 SENATE DRAFT 1.

HONOLULU – The Hawaiʻi State Senate today confirmed Major General Stephen Logan as the Adjutant General for the State of Hawai‘i Department of Defense and Major Mike Lambert as the Director of the State of Hawai‘i Department of Law Enforcement.    Senator Brandon Elefante (Senate District 16 - ‘Aiea, ‘Aiea Heights, Hālawa, Pearlridge, Newtown, Royal Summit, Waimalu, Waiau, Momilani, Pacific Palisades, and Pearl City), chair of the Senate Committee on Public Safety and Military Affairs (PSM) praised the confirmations.    “I am pleased to support the confirmation of Major General Logan and Major Lambert, two highly skilled leaders who bring years of dedicated service to our state,” said Senator Elefante. “Major General Logan’s military expertise and Major Lambert’s long-standing dedication to law enforcement will be critical in advancing the safety and security of Hawaiʻi.”    Major General Logan brings over 40 years of military experience, including leadership positions such as Commander of the 103rd Troop Command and Assistant Adjutant General. His expertise in disaster management and logistics was key in his unanimous confirmation as Adjutant General.    “I am honored by the Senate’s confirmation,” stated Major General Logan. “As Adjutant General, my commitment is to serve Hawai‘i with integrity, dedication, and a focus on enhancing our state’s defense capabilities. I look forward to working alongside our military and community partners to ensure the safety and security of our state and its residents.”    Major Lambert has spent over 20 years in law enforcement and most recently served as a major with the Honolulu Police Department (HPD). His leadership and dedication to public safety have earned him widespread support from the community.    “I am deeply humbled by this confirmation and excited to take on the responsibility of leading the Department of Law Enforcement,” said Major Lambert. “My focus will be on fostering strong relationships within our communities, ensuring the safety of all residents, and upholding the highest standards of integrity and service in our law enforcement efforts.”    During Friday’s Floor Session, the Senate voted unanimously in favor of confirming both leaders to their new positions.   Major General Stephen Logan and his supporters join Senate members for a photo after his confirmation as Adjutant General on the Senate Floor today. Major Mike Lambert and his friends and family join Senate members for a photo after his confirmation as DLE Director on the Senate Floor today

HONOLULU – Senator Karl Rhoads (District 13 – Dowsett Highlands, Pu‘unui, Nu‘uanu, Pacific Heights, Pauoa, Punchbowl, Pālama, Liliha, Iwilei, Chinatown, and Downtown) today applauded the recent passage of Senate Bill 1648,  aimed at providing fair and timely compensation to customers affected by power outages. SB 1648 SD1 addresses the challenges faced by businesses and individuals after significant power interruptions, like those experienced by communities in downtown Honolulu and Chinatown in June 2024. During those outages, local businesses suffered extensive losses, including spoiled inventory, equipment damage, and revenue loss.     In response, the bill proposes a new framework to compensate customers for actual damages caused by power outages. The bill requires that when more than 1,000 customers experience a power interruption lasting four or more hours, the utility must compensate customers for their actual damages. It also allows utilities to seek a waiver from the PUC if the interruption was caused by uncontrollable factors, such as severe weather, customer tampering, or external disruptions.    Senator Rhoads, chair of the Judiciary Committee and the primary introducer of the bill, emphasized that the bill aims to create a balanced system for determining who bears the cost of power outage damages – whether it's independent business operators or utility shareholders. “The goal of this bill is to determine who should pay the losses for a power outage when no one is at fault or fault cannot be determined. I don’t believe this burden should default to the shoulders of small business owners,” said Rhoads.    SB 1648 SD1 will now be considered by the Hawai‘i State House of Representatives.

HONOLULU – The Hawai‘i State Senate on Tuesday passed Senate Bill 350 , which proposes an amendment to the state’s Constitution that protects individuals' rights to access contraceptives and make decisions about their reproductive health. The bill secures that no law or state action can interfere with their ability to obtain birth control, including methods like IUDs and emergency contraceptives.    “The right to contraception is essential for the well-being of our communities, and is crucial for maintaining public health in Hawai‘i,” said Senator Karl Rhoads (District 13 – Dowsett Highlands, Pu‘unui, Nu‘uanu, Pacific Heights, Pauoa, Punchbowl, Pālama, Liliha, Iwilei, Chinatown, and Downtown), chair of the Judiciary Committee and the primary introducer of the bill. “This constitutional amendment would reinforce that our state remains a leader in protecting reproductive rights and access to contraception.”    Written testimony in strong support of the bill from the American Association of University Women (AAUW) of Hawai‘i noted the importance of this amendment in light of recent U.S. Supreme Court rulings. AAUW pointed out that while the right to contraception was upheld in Griswold v. Connecticut (1965) and Eisenstadt v. Baird (1972), the decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization  (2022) raises concerns that this right could be challenged. AAUW’s testimony also emphasized support from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, who stated that access to contraception is a medical necessity that is vital for the health and economic security of individuals.     SB 350 SD1 with the proposed constitutional amendment now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.

HONOLULU – The Senate Committee on Public Safety and Military Affairs (PSM) chaired by Senator Brandon Elefante (Senate District 16 - ‘Aiea, ‘Aiea Heights, Hālawa, Pearlridge, Newtown, Royal Summit, Waimalu, Waiau, Momilani, Pacific Palisades, and Pearl City) has been pushing forward key bills to tackle the ongoing issue of illegal fireworks in Hawai‘i. Through these legislative efforts, lawmakers aim to reduce the dangers posed by illegal fireworks and hold accountable those responsible for illegal activity.     SB 222 SD1 - RELATING TO FIREWORKS  provides funding for the current Illegal Fireworks Task Force and extends its operation period which was scheduled to end on June 30, 2025, for another five years through June 30, 2030. It passed through the Senate last week and is now with the House.     SB 227 SD1 - RELATING TO FIREWORKS establishes and provides funding for the Illegal Fireworks Enforcement Division within the Department of Law Enforcement, which would work in tandem with the existing Illegal Fireworks Task Force. It passed Third Reading on the Senate Floor today.      SB 1324 SD2 - RELATING TO FIREWORKS , a bill that is part of the Governor’s package with strong support from the Department of the Attorney General, aims to strengthen fireworks safety laws. It includes tougher penalties for fireworks offenses, especially if someone is injured or killed as a result. The bill introduces new criminal offenses related to illegal fireworks use, including sending or receiving fireworks by air, distributing them to people without permits, and other safety violations. It also establishes a system to handle fireworks-related infractions and allocates funding for enforcement. This bill also passed Third Reading today.    “These measures are vital steps in enhancing the safety and security of our communities,” stated Senator Elefante. “By strengthening enforcement and increasing penalties for illegal fireworks, we are taking proactive action to prevent harm and protect our residents. The extension of the Illegal Fireworks Task Force and the proposed Enforcement Division will ensure that our laws are being upheld, and that those who break them face the consequences they deserve. We must continue to prioritize the safety of our people, and these bills are a key part of that commitment.”    “These bills will ensure that the State and County law enforcement agencies have the resources and laws necessary to tackle this very important issue,” said Department of Law Enforcement (DLE) Director Mike Lambert. “Fireworks enforcement is critical in ensuring community safety.”

HONOLULU – The Senate Committee on Ways and Means (WAM) chaired by Senator Donovan M. Dela Cruz (District 17 - Portion of Mililani, Mililani Mauka, portion of Waipi‘o Acres, Launani Valley, Wahiawā, Whitmore Village) voted today to move forward Senate Bill 933 , a short form bill that would set aside one-time, non-recurring grants within the state budget to support essential services across the nonprofit sector. This bill was created to address potential negative impacts of the federal funding freeze imposed by the United States Office of Management and Budget on Hawai‘i’s federally qualified health centers, along with programs offering childcare, social services, subsidized housing, and homelessness assistance.    “We understand the vital role that nonprofits play in providing essential services to our residents, and we cannot afford to allow those who depend on these services to fall through the cracks,” said Senator Dela Cruz. "SB 933 provides an option to make sure that these fundamental programs continue to operate without disruption."    “This important legislation comes at a time when Hawai‘i’s nonprofits face an unprecedented financial crisis from the threat of federal funding freezes on crucial programs that support our communities and neighbors,” said Melissa Miyashiro, President & CEO of Hawai‘i Alliance of Nonprofit Organizations (HANO). “This bill helps ensure that these organizations can remain operational in this turbulent moment and continue to deliver critical services that safeguard the health, well-being, and stability of Hawai‘i residents.”    “The ongoing federal funding uncertainty is placing enormous pressure on our nonprofits, threatening their ability to deliver essential services that countless individuals and families depend on,” stated Aloha United Way’s President & CEO Michelle Bartell. “This bill is a lifeline – providing critical funding for health, housing and human services, to ensure nonprofits can continue serving our most vulnerable populations while we work toward long-term solutions.”    The one-time non-recurring grants proposed in SB 933 are designed to provide assistance to those organizations that may otherwise struggle to maintain their services in the face of federal funding challenges. The bill aims to allocate resources to support organizations that provide essential services for Hawai‘i’s people.