In response to the August 2023 Wildfires, Senator Angus McKelvey (District 6, West Maui, Māʻalaea, Waikapū, South Maui) introduced Senate Concurrent Resolution 223 , urging the United States Congress to pass legislation that would allow COFA migrants to benefit from federal emergency aid.  On Saturday, March 9, President Biden signed the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024, into law, which in part, restores federal benefits to Compact of Free Association (COFA) migrants. One specific result of the restoration of federal benefits is that COFA migrants will also have access to federal emergency aid. In light of this monumental bill being signed, Senator McKelvey issued the following statement:   “Survivors of the Lahaina wildfire include COFA migrants, and the lack of access to federal emergency aid has limited the ways these survivors recover from tragedy. It's good to see the federal government set up and live up to their responsibilities to COFA migrants. I am confident and encouraged that this action by Congress and President Biden will hasten and broaden the recovery of our community as a whole. Funding aid for COFA residents since the tragedy has been a burden to our State and this action will help free up these funds to further assist our local residents.”

State Senator Angus McKelvey (District 6, West Maui, Māʻalaea, Waikapū, South Maui) announced the release of $1,020,000 in funding for vital improvements at Lokelani Intermediate School in Maui. This capital improvement project will address crucial infrastructure needs including parking lot resurfacing, upgrades to gutters and drainage systems, air conditioning enhancements, and general repairs. "These funds are more necessary than ever," Senator McKelvey remarked. "They will help to address the overlong need of the parking lot, air conditioning, and other infrastructure which is being placed under more stress now due to the influx of new residents from Lahaina." The funding will also facilitate improvements to storm drains and other water management systems, which are critical in mitigating locally generated runoff that affects the school and surrounding areas. "Even though the focus has rightly been on fire, flooding is still one of South Maui's biggest challenges," added McKelvey. "Efforts like these show that every bit that can be done to address runoff and storm water will collectively help us address this issue." "I am thankful to Governor Green for advancing the funds needed to make these improvements possible," McKelvey said. “Now it is important to ensure that permitting and procurement can be done as expeditiously as possible so we can get this project done sooner than later.” This initiative not only addresses immediate infrastructure needs but also contributes to a safer and more sustainable environment for the kupuna, keiki, and all residents of Hawaiʻi. For more information on the improvements at Lokelani Intermediate School and other community projects, please contact Senator McKelvey's office at 808-586-6070 or senmckelvey@capitol.hawaii.gov .

The Hawaiʻi State Legislature will host the Annual Education Week, a longstanding celebration at the Hawaiʻi State Capitol, from March 18 – 22, 2024. Co-sponsored by Senate Vice President Michelle N. Kidani (Senate District 18, Mililani Town, Waipiʻo Gentry, Crestview, Waikele, Portion of Waipahu, Village Park, Royal Kunia) and Representative Justin H. Woodson (House District 9, Kahului, Puʻunēnē, Portion of Wailuku), Education Week will honor Hawaiʻi’s educators, students, counselors, principals, and staff.   “Each year, we designate a week to invite educators and students to our State Capitol to be recognized for their contributions to education,” said Senate Vice President Kidani. “It is our honor to celebrate administration, teachers, students, and staff for making a difference in the classroom. We are thrilled to welcome our special honorees to the Capitol to celebrate their achievements in educational excellence.”   “It is with great honor to be a part of Education Week, a tradition that was implemented to celebrate our students, teachers, faculty, and staff for their outstanding contributions to Hawaiʻi schools and our community at large. The distinguished individuals and schools we will recognize go beyond, dedicating their creativity, outstanding skill, and countless hours to inspire and invoke change. On behalf of the Hawaiʻi House of Representatives, mahalo nui loa to all of you for joining us this week to honor these exemplary individuals,” said Representative Woodson.   “I'm excited to celebrate the amazing achievements of our students, teachers, faculty, and employees during Education Week,” said Superintendent Keith Hayashi. “As we work to ensure that all of our graduates are globally competitive and locally committed, I'm looking forward to continuing to partner with our lawmakers to build on the positive academic trajectory our students are on coming out of the pandemic. Mahalo to our legislators for their continued support and investment in our public schools.” Each day of Education Week will feature various activities, including a student showcase and career pathway expo. Awardees will be recognized during Senate and House floor sessions throughout the week.   WHAT: Education Week at the Hawaiʻi State Capitol   WHO: Senate Vice President Michelle N. Kidani, Senate Committee on Education Chair Representative Justin H. Woodson, House Committee on Education Chair Members of the Hawaiʻi State Legislature   WHERE: Hawaiʻi State Capitol 415 S. Beretania St. Honolulu, HI 96813   WHEN: Monday, March 18 – Friday, March 22, 2024 Senate Floor Session – 11:30 a.m. House Floor Session – 12:00 p.m. Awardees will be recognized daily on the floor respectively by Senate and House.   Education Week Events taking place at the Hawaiʻi State Capitol:   MONDAY, March 18 Friends of the Library Book Fair Conference Room 224 8:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.   TUESDAY, March 19 Department of Education Student Showcase State Capitol 4th Floor Lanai 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.   WEDNESDAY, March 20 Student Career Pathway Expo State Capitol 4th Floor Lanai 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m.   THURSDAY, March 21 Department of Education Leadership Institute Presentation State Capitol Auditorium 12:30 p.m.-1:30 p.m.   FRIDAY, March 22 Early Learning Day State Capitol Rotunda 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.   From March 12 – March 28 Art Exhibit: Not All Backpacks Carry the Same Weight Chamber Hallway   The 2024 Awardees include the following:   Award Award Category Awardee HI DOE – 2024 Hawaiʻi State Teacher of the Year Teacher of the Year Jackie Freitas HI DOE – Charter Schools Teacher of the Year Teacher of the Year John “Parker” Sawyer District Teacher of the Year - Honolulu District's Kaimukī-McKinley-Roosevelt Complex Area Teacher of the Year Laurie Chang District Teacher of the Year - Hawaiʻi District's Hilo-Waiākea Complex Area Teacher of the Year Christopher Pike District Teacher of the Year - Honolulu District's Farrington-Kaiser-Kalani Complex Area Teacher of the Year Norman R ay Sales District Teacher of the Year - Maui District's Hāna-Lahainaluna-Lāna‘i-Moloka‘i Complex Area Teacher of the Year David "Kawika" Gonzales District Teacher of the Year - Leeward District's Campbell-Kapolei Complex Area Teacher of the Year A riel Villanueva District Teacher of the Year - Kauaʻi District's Kapaʻa-Kauaʻi-Waimea Complex Area Teacher of the Year K ara Kitamura District Teacher of the Year - Leeward District's Nānākuli-Wai‘anae Complex Area Teacher of the Year D onna Soriano District Teacher of the Year - Windward District's Kailua-Kalāheo Complex Area Teacher of the Year Gregory  Kent District Teacher of the Year - West Hawai‘i District's Honoka‘a-Kealakehe-Kohala-Konawaena Complex Area Teacher of the Year Jennifer Ilaban District Teacher of the Year - Maui District's Baldwin-Kekaulike-Kūlanihākoʻi-Maui Complex Area Teacher of the Year Melanie Teraoka District Teacher of the Year - Windward District's Castle-Kahuku Complex Area Teacher of the Year Laura Cummings District Teacher of the Year - Central District's ‘Aiea-Moanalua-Radford Complex Area Teacher of the Year Marina Higa District Teacher of the Year - Leeward District's Pearl City-Waipahu Complex Area Teacher of the Year Jessica Peterson District Teacher of the Year - Hawai‘i District's Ka‘ū-Kea‘au-Pāhoa Complex Area Teacher of the Year Pinky Grace Francisco 2023 Milken Teacher of Promise Faculty R itela “Shiela” Sproule 2023 National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) Hawaiʻi National Distinguished Principal Faculty Glen Miyasato 2023 American School Counselor Association’s Hawai‘i School Counselor of the Year Faculty Brittnie Caraulia 2023 NAESP National Outstanding Assistant Principal and the 2023 Hawaiʻi Association of Secondary School Administrators (HASSA) Assistant Principal of the Year Faculty Bebi Davis 2023 HASSA Hawaiʻi State Principal of the Year and 2023 Masayuki Tokioka Excellence in School Leadership Award Faculty Sharon Beck 2023 HASL Outstanding Library Service Award Library G rant Tokooya 2023 Hawaiʻi Association of School Librarians (HASL) Golden Key Award Library N icole Goff 2023 HASL Golden Key Award Library J enny Yamamoto 2024 United States Senate Youth Program Delegate Student Ahryanna McGuirk 2024 United States Senate Youth Program Delegate Student Lehua Norris 2023 Prudential Emerging Visionary Student Kylee Hamamoto 2023 U.S. Presidential Scholar Student Vaeanui Peck 2024 Hawaiʻi LifeSmarts State Competition 1st place Student Kalani High School (Brandon Tran, Andy Chen, Michelle He, Kyla Iglesia, and Mason Vuong) 2024 Hawaiʻi LifeSmarts State Competition 2nd place Student Maryknoll School (Kaya Pettit, Cassandra Barut, Aaron Broderick, Kevin Ng and Tyler Takahashi) 2024 Hawaiʻi LifeSmarts State Competition 3rd place Student Waipahu High School (Reagan Chinen, Ross Angel Bagaoisan, Stephanie Menor, Jordan Nguyen and Joybel Parinas) U.S. Department of Education- 2023 National Blue Ribbon School Blue Ribbon Kaʻelepulu Elementary School U.S. Department of Education- 2023 National Blue Ribbon School Blue Ribbon Maunawili Elementary School

A coffee labeling bill to protect local farmers and preserve the authenticity of Hawaiʻi -grown products has passed the 2024 Legislative Session and is expected to become law upon the governor's signature.   House Bill 2298 CD1 , introduced by Representative Nicole E. Lowen, mandates that beginning July 1, 2027, any coffee labeled or advertised with a Hawaiʻi geographic origin must consist of at least fifty-one percent coffee by weight from that geographic region. The current requirement, set at ten percent, means that coffee products can be labeled as a specialty product from a specific region when in fact ninety percent of what is being sold is not from that region. This measure aims to protect Hawaiʻi's origin products, combat deceptive labeling, and ensure that products that bear regional names contain at least a majority of product from that region.   "This initiative is about protecting Kona's world-renowned coffee and ensuring that local farmers receive the prices they deserve for their products, and that dollars stay in Hawaiʻi's economy," said Representative Nicole E. Lowen ( D-7 Kailua-Kona, North Kona, South Kohala ). "The percentage of Kona Coffee required for it to be labeled Kona should be 100 percent, but given that this is the first progress made on this in more than thirty years, it’s a huge win."   For over three decades, the debate over the required percentage of coffee originating from the geographic area to qualify as Hawaiian coffee has persisted, with existing regulations set at a minimum of ten percent. In 2022, the Legislature passed Act 222, which requested that the HDOA conduct a study on the impact of coffee labeling laws on coffee farmers and to determine the economically ideal proportion of Kona beans in products marketed as Kona coffee.   "By gradually implementing an increase in minimum standards, this bill protects the integrity of all regional coffee brands in Hawaiʻi, like Kona and Kaʻū, and supports our local farmers," said Representative Kirstin Kahaloa  (D-6 Hōnaunau, Nāpō‘opo‘o, Captain Cook, Kealakekua, Keauhou, Hōlualoa, Kailua-Kona ).   On January 18, 2024, the HDOA submitted the Final Report on the Economic Study on Changes in Coffee Labeling Law . The  report highlights that increasing the minimum amount of Kona coffee from 10 percent to either fifty-one percent or one hundred percent would be advantageous for local farmers, with a higher increase providing the most benefit. Additionally, the report anticipates that proposed labeling changes could result in a price increase for Kona coffee while seeing minimal impact on quantities grown or sold.   “For too long, we have allowed products that are not Kona coffee to use the Kona coffee name and reputation for profit at the expense of farmers. This law is a step forward in doing the right thing for Hawaiʻi's farmers and supporting their economic growth,” said Representative Jeanne Kapela  (D-5 Portions of Kea‘au and Kurtistown, Mountain View, Glenwood, Fern Forest, Volcano, Pāhala, Punalu‘u, Nā‘ālehu, Wai‘ōhinu, Hawaiian Ocean View, Ho‘okena ).   "HB2298 CD1 is a pivotal advancement in our ongoing commitment to safeguarding the integrity of Hawaiʻi’s cherished agricultural industries. By requiring a majority percentage of coffee from the specified geographic region in labeled products, we’re not only protecting our farmers’ livelihoods but also ensuring that consumers receive authentic, high-quality coffee synonymous with our beloved regions like Kona and Kaʻū. This legislation reflects our dedication to fostering a sustainable and transparent agricultural sector, one that honors our traditions while promoting economic prosperity for generations to come.  I look forward to continuing the work ahead to further strengthen and preserve the rich heritage of Hawaiʻi’s coffee industry for all," said Senate Majority Leader Dru Mamo Kanuha  (D- 3 Kona, Ka‘ū, Volcano).   "This session, the Legislature was able to pass out a bill that ultimately supports our coffee farmers and in reality, the whole coffee industry in the State of Hawai‘i. By increasing the required percentage of Hawai‘i regional coffee to fifty-one percent for the use of geographic monograms, we are raising standards, enhancing transparency in labeling, and will ultimately advance the coffee industry over time. Mahalo to the coffee processors and farmers who worked together to find middle ground," said Senator Tim Richards  (D-4 North Hilo, Hāmākua, Kohala, Waimea, Waikoloa, North Kona).

Today, the Legislature passed a bill to provide relief to the healthcare system in Hawaiʻi.   Senate Bill 1035 SD2 HD1 CD1 , introduced by Senator Lorraine R. Inouye (Senate District 1, Hilo, Paukaʻa, Papaikou, Pepeʻekeo), exempts hospitals, infirmaries, medical clinics, health care facilities, pharmacies, and medical and dental providers from General Excise Tax (GET) on goods or services that are reimbursed through Medicaid, Medicare, or TRICARE. If approved by the Governor, this law will go into effect on January 1, 2026.   Under current law, there is incongruity in the way medical services are treated with regard to GET. Only medical services rendered at a nonprofit hospital, infirmary, or sanitarium are exempt from GET, but services rendered by individual or group practices or clinics are fully taxable. Government health programs such as Medicare, Medicaid, and TRICARE, do not compensate for the tax differential, which requires some providers to cover added costs.   “At the behest of my constituents from Hilo who are local medical practitioners, I proudly introduced Senate Bill 1035 to address the issue of unsustainable taxation on healthcare services in Hawaiʻi, particularly impacting underserved populations covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and Tricare,” said Senator Inouye. “With a dwindling number of providers able to accept these essential insurances, the bill aims to relieve financial burdens and stimulate economic growth by exempting healthcare and dental services from the General Excise Tax. This measure especially benefits rural healthcare providers and patients, who often face challenges in accessing quality care due to limited resources and funding. Additionally, SB1035 promotes equity and access to healthcare, strengthens our healthcare infrastructure, and ensures compliance with federal regulations. With endorsement from over one-hundred and fifty-five healthcare professionals, I could not be more thrilled that SB1035 has passed the Legislature – this transformative bill will enact meaningful change in our healthcare system.”   The State already faces a shortage of nearly eight-hundred physicians, and a recent survey of physicians by the John A. Burns School of Medicine found that the elimination of GET on medical services could be an effective means of recruiting and maintaining more physicians.   “We have not passed a GE tax exemption bill ever since I have been in office and thus, the passage of SB1035 to benefit medical providers who care for our kūpuna and ALICE families, is a momentous occasion,” said Senate Committee on Health and Human Services Chair Senator Joy San Buenaventura (Senate District 2, Puna). “Ever since Senator Inouye brought this bill to my attention as Health and Human Services Chair , I have championed it.  Unlike store owners who are allowed to pass on General Excise Tax to consumers, the federal government makes it illegal for medical providers of Medicare, Medicaid, and Tricare services to pass on General Excise Tax to their patients. Thus, by requiring these medical providers to pay General Excise Tax, we are actually dismissing them by increasing their costs. With this bill's passage, we remove a major disincentive in servicing the underserved community and hope we can prevent the further loss of physicians, dentists and other medical providers, and save the health industry approximately $74 million per year.”   “For the medical community in Hawaiʻi, May 1, 2024 will be marked as an historic day. Today, we see the passing of SB1035, which brings crucial tax equity to Hawaiʻi’s independent medical providers,” said Hawaiʻi Medical Association president, Elizabeth Ann Ignacio, MD. “This legislation returns fairness to the taxation of medical practices, allowing more physicians to work in Hawaiʻi and increasing access to care for Hawaiʻi’s most vulnerable populations. The members of the Hawaiʻi Medical Association thank our government leaders for their foresight in passing this important legislation; this is a critical step in creating the medical infrastructure needed for a healthier Hawaiʻi.”   Senate Bill 1035  now advances to the Governor’s desk for consideration.

In a landmark move aimed at bolstering economic resilience and promoting local industries, the Hawaiʻi State Legislature has successfully passed HB2144 HD1 SD2 CD1 , a bill focused on expanding value-added production throughout the Aloha State.  The bill now goes to Governor Josh Green to sign into law.   The passage of HB2144 HD1 SD2 CD1 underscores the Hawaiʻi Legislature's commitment to fostering a vibrant and diverse economy that benefits all residents of the state and marks a significant milestone in Hawaiʻi's efforts to diversify its economy, improve access to locally sourced foods and support local entrepreneurs.  By prioritizing value-added production, the state aims to capitalize on its unique resources and expertise, fostering innovation and sustainability in key sectors such as agriculture and manufacturing.   HB2144 requires the State of Hawaiʻi Department of Health to amend the definition of "homemade food products" in its Hawaiʻi Administrative Rules, and to adopt certain rules regarding the sale and delivery of homemade food products, which pragmatically expands opportunities for cottage food producers and consumers without compromising food safety. By broadening the types of shelf-stable food that can be sold and where producers can sell them, the bill ensures that local entrepreneurs have the chance to thrive while maintaining high standards of food safety.  The provisions included in HB2144 underscores Hawaiʻi's commitment to supporting its cottage food industry while prioritizing consumer welfare.   Representative Kirstin Kahaloa (D-6 Hōnaunau, Nāpō‘opo‘o, Captain Cook, Kealakekua, Keauhou, Hōlualoa, Kailua-Kona ), the introducer of HB2144, expressed her enthusiasm for the positive impact it will have on Hawaiʻi's economy and communities. "Today's passage of HB2144 is a triumph for Hawaiʻi's economic diversification and local entrepreneurship. As a representative from the vibrant community of Kona, I've witnessed firsthand the ingenuity and dedication of our local producers. This bill is a testament to their hard work and vision. By expanding opportunities for value-added production and cottage food businesses, HB2144 will not only showcase the richness of our island's resources but also create avenues for economic growth and resilience. I commend my colleagues for their support of this vital legislation, which will undoubtedly benefit Hawaiʻi for generations to come."   "I am immensely proud of the passage of HB2144, especially considering its humble origins from local producers in South Kona," said Senate Majority Leader Dru Mamo Kanuha (D-3 Kona, Kaʻū, Volcano ), who introduced the companion measure in the Senate.  "This legislation represents a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to empower local entrepreneurs and bolster Hawai'i's economy. By supporting value-added production and cottage food businesses, we are not only harnessing the abundant resources of our islands but also providing much-needed opportunities for our communities to thrive. I am confident that HB2144 will pave the way for a brighter future for Hawaiʻi and its residents."   “HB2144 is a great step forward for our statewide cottage food industry,” says Ken Love, President of the Hawai‘i Master Food Preservers, who led community advocacy efforts for the measure throughout the legislative session. “It promises to help producers and growers be more sustainable while creating local food industry employment and alternatives to imported brands. Mahalo nui loa to Senators Kanuha and Gabbard and Representative Kahaloa.”   “This bill will provide more opportunities for fruit growers to sell raw produce for use in value-added products such as jams, jellies, syrups and sauces,” says Mark Suiso, president of Hawai‘i Tropical Fruit Growers. “Ultimately, it enables Hawai‘i to better feed our community.”   As Hawaiʻi continues to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century economy, today's legislative action stands as a testament to the State's vision to build a brighter future for generations to come.  Following today's votes, HB2144 was transmitted to Governor Josh Green for final consideration.  The Governor has until July 10, 2024, to act on the measure.

In an historic response to increased awareness and concern about the invasive species crisis in our state, and the need to eradicate the widespread damage they cause statewide, the Hawaiʻi State Legislature voted unanimously to pass House Bill 2619 HD1 SD1 CD1  in a final reading in both the Senate and House  last Wednesday.   The bill explicitly requires   the Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture (HDOA) to lead and coordinate the State's invasive pest control and biosecurity efforts. It also requires the HDOA to post on its website real-time updates on pest infestations, including date, location, actions performed, and names of staff and organizations involved, so that the public knows exactly who to contact at the HDOA, if the problem isn’t being addressed. The bill also provides funding to each county as a grant-in-aid, subject to a county match, for the implementation of feral chicken control programs.   The bill commits nearly $20 million to the HDOA to assist in  the administration and implementation of their Biosecurity Program, including forty-four new positions. The bill also adds twenty-two new Plant Quarantine Branch inspectors to oversee plant materials, which is critical in order to mitigate the transportation of these invasive pests.   In his eighth year as the Senate Agriculture and Environment Committee Chair, Senator Mike Gabbard , who introduced the companion bill ( SB2419 ) in the Senate, said, “I’m excited to see this biosecurity bill on its way to the Governor’s desk to be signed into law. I applaud WAM Chair, Senator Dela Cruz and his staff, and his counterpart, House FIN Chair Yamashita, the Legislature, HDOA, and all the farming/ranching/agriculture stakeholders who collaborated to craft this comprehensive Biosecurity package that reflects the extreme urgency of this critical issue. After many years of demanding our state do more to support agriculture and help the people of Hawai‘i regarding invasive species, we’re finally putting our money where our mouth is. In my humble opinion, this bill is a masterpiece… indeed, it’s been a long time coming.”   Under current law, Hawaiʻi Revised Statutes, the HDOA is required to implement a comprehensive biosecurity program to control and prevent increasing threats of pests and prohibited or restricted organisms without a permit from spreading throughout the State. While inspections are critical, increasing the State’s ability to prevent the entry of high-risk products would enhance its ability to mitigate and manage invasive pests. This is vitally important not only to protect the State’s fragile environment, but also to grow Hawaiʻi’s local agricultural industries and to increase levels of self-sufficiency and sustainability.     “This year, th e Legislature has made significant investments in biosecurity to protect our land and natural resources, which reinforces the urgency of safeguarding our environment against invasive pests that endanger Hawaiʻi's native species and communities. Designating a centralized agency to bolster the defense of our lands and shores will protect our natural habitat and preserve the well-being of our state,” said House Committee on Finance Chair Kyle T. Yamashita (D-12, Upcountry Maui).   “This bill honors the work of former State Representative Clift Tsuji, who fought tirelessly for biosecurity during his tenure as the House Agriculture Committee Chair,” said Representative Kirstin Kahaloa  (D-6, Hōnaunau, Nāpō‘opo‘o, Captain Cook, Kealakekua, Keauhou, Hōlualoa, Kailua-Kona). “It recommits Hawaiʻi to protecting its environment, food security, and way of life against invasive species by placing the leadership of all biosecurity efforts on the Department of Agriculture. It funds nearly $20 million in staffing and programming to manage and eradicate invasive species like coconut rhinoceros beetles, little fire ants, two-lined spittle bugs, and more. This legislation will let our keiki play free without the fear of being bitten by little fire ants. It will keep our picturesque Hawaiian scenes with coconut trees proudly displayed across Hawaiʻi.  This effort helps our state make biosecurity a priority.”   HB 2619 will advance to the Governor’s desk for consideration.

On Wednesday, May 1, 2024, the Hawaiʻi State Legislature unanimously passed   Senate Bill 2305 SD2 HD2 CD1  to establish a Silver Alert Program to help locate and safeguard missing persons who are particularly vulnerable, including community members who are elderly or are cognitively impaired or developmentally disabled.   “Establishing a Silver Alert program will provide many benefits to our community and especially for our kūpuna who go missing,” said Senator Brandon Elefante (Senate District 16, ‘Aiea, ‘Aiea Heights, Hālawa, Pearlridge, Newtown, Royal Summit, Waimalu, Waiau, Momilani, Pacific Palisades, and Pearl City), introducer of SB 2305. “I am grateful to collaborate with Representative Cory Chun who introduced the House companion bill and all the advocates who have supported this bill throughout the legislative process. With an aging population in Hawaiʻi, this is an important tool that can be used to locate our kūpuna.”   More than half of states nationwide have established Silver Alert programs modeled after the AMBER Alert program. There are many emergency situations where the use of these broadcast systems could save lives by helping to identify missing individuals with cognitive impairments, or developmental disabilities, or who are the elderly.  However, there is currently no statutory process that requires its use.   “The Silver Alert is a step forward in prioritizing safety for our kūpuna and vulnerable individuals.  Losing a loved one who wanders off can be the most terrifying situation for families and caregivers, but today we are not only giving them hope – but also the tools needed to locate their loved ones,” said Representative Cory Chun (House District 35, Portions of Pearl City and Waipahu, Crestview.) “I want to thank the Alzheimer's Association of Hawaiʻi for championing this measure along with the State Council on Developmental Disabilities, Executive Office on Aging, as well as many other community and governmental agencies who have supported this cause for years.”   SB 2305 now advances to the Governor’s desk for consideration.

Honolulu, Hawaiʻi  – Recent investigations and reports of sexual abuse, physical assault, and other forms of harassment committed against students at public and private preschools and K-12 campuses throughout the State have exposed a loophole allowing keiki to be harmed. Predatory school personnel involved in these offenses have been reported as switching schools to harm new children by taking advantage of the inability of educational institutions to share information with one another.   This year, to close this loophole and prevent these individuals from serving in any capacity that requires interaction with or close proximity to students, the Hawaiʻi Legislature unanimously passed  Senate Bill 2475 CD1 . SB2475 CD1 creates the Harm to Students registry for all preschools and K-12 educational institutions within the State. With the goal of preventing predatory individuals from subsequently gaining employment in any other public or private preschools and K-12 institutions in  Hawaiʻi , this registry will contain information on school employees, contractors, or volunteers for whom, as a result of an investigation, a final finding has been issued that the individual has inflicted harm on a student.   “The most important role of the Legislature is protecting our keiki. Our students have a right to pursue their education in safe, secure, and healthy learning environments statewide, and closing this loophole helps ensure that right,” said Senator Michelle N. Kidani, who serves as the Senate Vice President and Chair of Senate Committee on Education (District 18, Mililani Town, Waipiʻo Gentry, Crestview, Waikele, portion of Waipahu, Village Park, Royal Kunia). “Thanks to collaboration and support from our Department of Education and other educators and associations, SB2475 CD1 will make our schools a safer place.”   During the legislative session, drafts of SB2475 received support from a wide cross section of education professionals, including the Department of Education, the State Public Charter School Commission, the Hawaiʻi Teachers Standards Board, the Early Learning Board, the Executive Office on Early Learning, Kamehameha Schools, Punahou School, the Hawaiʻi Association of Independent Schools, and Hawaiʻi Council of Private Schools.   "The registry created under SB2475 would be an invaluable tool for both public and private schools, allowing us to share critical information and make informed employment decisions that prioritize the safety and protection of our children," said Superintendent Keith Hayashi. “We are very appreciative to the Education Committees and the Legislature for supporting this bill, as it would significantly enhance our ability to maintain healthy and secure learning environments."    SB2475 CD1 is currently being considered by Governor Green to be signed into law. If approved by the Governor, SB2475 CD1 would go into effect on July 1, 2024.   ###

Senator Lorraine R. Inouye (District 1 – Hilo, Paukaʻa, Papaikou, Pepeʻekeo) released the following statement thanking Governor Josh Green for releasing $150,000 for the construction, improvements, and maintenance of the main office building of the Hawaiʻi County Economic Opportunity Council (HCEOC).   “I am proud to secure these funds to support the HCEOC and would like to extend my gratitude to Governor Green for releasing them. These funds will be utilized to upgrade and maintain the infrastructure of HCEOC’s main office, ensuring it remains a central hub for delivering essential services to residents in Hawaiʻi County,” said Senator Inouye. “These improvements aim to provide a more conducive environment for staff and clients, ultimately enhancing the HCEOC’s capacity to serve the community effectively. This investment will strengthen our community’s infrastructure and empower HCEOC to continue its critical mission of fostering economic opportunity and supporting local families.”

Senator Lorraine R. Inouye (District 1 – Hilo, Paukaʻa, Papaikou, Pepeʻekeo) released the following statement thanking Governor Josh Green for releasing $3,600,000 to finance the construction costs for lighting and fire suppression improvements at Pier 4, Hilo Harbor.   “I am pleased and grateful to announce that Governor Green has released the funds for essential lighting and fire suppression improvements at Pier 4 in Hilo Harbor. Investing in our harbor infrastructure is paramount to maintaining the safety, efficiency, and economic vitality of our ports,” said Senator Inouye. “Hilo Harbor is a critical hub for commerce and transportation on the Big Island, and these enhancements will help safeguard its operations and support our long-term economic growth.”

Honolulu, Hawaiʻi  – Today, Governor Josh Green signed Senate Bill 2305  into law, establishing a Silver Alert Program within the Department of Law Enforcement. SB 2305 implements a Silver Alert Program to help locate and safeguard missing persons who are sixty-five years of age or older, cognitively impaired, or developmentally disabled. “Establishing a Silver Alert Program will provide many benefits to our community and especially for our kūpuna who go missing,” said Senator Brandon J.C. Elefante (Senate District 16, ʻAiea, ʻAiea Heights, Hālawa, Pearlridge, Newtown, Royal Summit, Waimalu, Waiau, Momilani, Pacific Palisades, and Pearl City). “I’d like to thank Governor Green as well as the community for all their hard work and support to get this important measure passed into law.”   More than half of states nationwide have established Silver Alert Programs modeled after the AMBER Alert Program to help identify missing individuals. T his law helps to provide immediate information to the public, facilitate a prompt response, and enhance the chances of locating a missing individual.   Representative Cory Chun (House District 35, Portions of Pearl City and Waipahu, Crestview) authored SB 2305’s companion bill, House Bill 1774 . “I want to thank Governor Green for signing SB 2305 into law today and prioritizing and protecting kūpuna and our most vulnerable community members,” said Representative Chun.