KAPOLEI, HI – Oʻahu will soon host The Wall That Heals , a traveling three-quarter scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., along with its mobile Education Center. The exhibit is scheduled for display at the University of Hawaiʻi–West Oʻahu in Kapolei in mid-January 2026. This will mark the first time the renowned Memorial replica is exhibited on Oʻahu, offering residents a unique opportunity to honor Vietnam veterans and reflect on the legacy of the war, right here at home. The Memorial will be open to the public 24 hours a day, free of charge , during its Oʻahu appearance, with an opening ceremony planned at the start of the display period and a closing ceremony at the end. Visitors pay respects at The Wall That Heals exhibit in Hilo on Jan. 27, 2024. The traveling memorial first visited Hawaiʻi in early 2024, with displays on Hawaiʻi Island and Maui that drew thousands of visitors. In its inaugural Hawaiʻi tour, The Wall That Heals arrived in Hilo (Hawaiʻi Island) in January 2024 and was on display 24/7 from January 24–28, then traveled to Maui for a display from February 9–13. The traveling exhibit honors the more than three million Americans who served in the U.S. Armed Forces during the Vietnam War, and it bears the names of the 58,281 men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in Vietnam. Hawaiʻi has 278 of its sons and daughters memorialized on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in D.C., representing local service members who never returned. By bringing this exhibition Oʻahu, organizers hope to provide veterans, families, students, and community members who may not be able to visit the Washington, D.C. memorial a meaningful chance to experience its healing impact. The Oʻahu visit of The Wall That Heals in 2026 is being organized by the TWTH Oʻahu Committee (under the nonprofit Friends of Kailua Elks Lodge) in partnership with UH West Oʻahu and PASHA Hawaii, with support from the City and County of Honolulu and the State of Hawaiʻi. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund (VVMF) – the organization that built the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. and manages The Wall That Heals – selected Oʻahu as a host site on its 2026 national tour, after a local application highlighted UH West Oʻahu’s Great Lawn as an ideal location. UH West Oʻahu will serve as the host venue, and thecampus is working closely with organizers to coordinate logistics, security, and volunteer support. Community volunteers (including veterans’ groups, students, and civic organizations) will be enlisted to assist with the exhibit setup, visitor support, and around-the-clock staffing, ensuring that the memorial’s solemn atmosphere is maintained throughout its stay. State Senator Mike Gabbard (District 21 – Kapolei, Makakilo, Kalaeloa), who has been a key supporter in bringing the memorial to West Oʻahu, lauded the upcoming event. “As a proud supporter of our veterans, I’m stoked that Oʻahu will finally host The Wall That Heals ,” said Sen. Gabbard. “This exhibit will give our community –especially younger generations – a chance right here at home to honor the hundreds of Hawaiʻi’s fallen heroes whose names are on The Wall and all those who served in the Vietnam War. It’s a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made for our country, and it will offer an opportunity for reflection, healing, and education for everyone in our community.” Legislators and the public from across Hawaiʻi are invited to attend the opening ceremony and other events during the week-long exhibit, alongside veterans and Gold Star families. Organizers aim to make the Oʻahu stop of The Wall That Heals one of the largest veteran commemorative events in the state. “By bringing The Wall That Heals to Oʻahu, we hope to shine a spotlight on UH West Oʻahu and our entire West Oʻahu community, and to show our gratitude to those who served,” said Eddie Freeman, co-chair of the TWTH Oʻahu 2026 Committee, in a statement. “This is a true partnership between the University, local veterans’ and community organizations, as well our government leaders to honor our Vietnam veterans and educate the public.”  Co-Chair Sue Bauer added, “Rarely do you find a community in Hawaiʻi that is untouched by the Vietnam war. We have this incredible opportunity to learn, remember and heal together, we want no one left behind.” The Wall That Heals exhibit includes a 375-foot-longreplica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, erected in a chevron shape like the original, and a mobile Education Center that displays photos of local fallen service members and veterans, along with historical displays. Since its debut in 1996, The Wall That Heals has visited nearly 800 communities , spreading the memorial’s healing legacy to towns and cities far from Washington, D.C. The upcoming Oʻahu exhibition will continue that mission. Visitors will be able to do name rubbings of inscriptions on The Wall, view displays of Hawaiʻi veterans’ photos, and receive support from volunteers onsite. Similar to its neighbor island stops, the Oʻahu exhibit is expected to be escorted in by a motorcade of veterans and first responders, and it will be open for viewing day and night, allowing people to visit at any hour for quiet reflection and remembrance. Tentative Schedule & Location: The Wall That Heals is slated to be open to the public at the UH West Oʻahu Great Lawn in mid- January 2026 . Once exact dates are finalized, exhibit dates and ceremony times will be announced to the public. Admission will be free and open to all ages. Schools, community groups, and veterans’ organizations will be especially encouraged to visit. Additional details, including volunteer opportunities and event schedules, will be shared in the coming months via the TWTH Oʻahu 2026 Committee and UH West Oʻahu. For more information or to get involved with The Wall That Heals Oʻahu 2026 event, interested parties can contact the TWTH Oʻahu organizing committee at twthoahu2026@gmail.com or Senator Mike Gabbard’s office at 808-586-6830 . The website is forthcoming with all information and volunteer sign up options. Organizers welcome support from fellow legislators, community leaders, and volunteers to help make this event a success. Together, Hawaiʻi will honor the sacrifice of our Vietnam veterans and ensure that The Wall ’s legacy of healing continues to touch lives across the islands.

WAIPAHU, HAWAIʻI  – The Senate conducted a site visit today to inspect a bunker used to store confiscated illegal fireworks.    The site visit included a briefing on the ongoing work of the Department of Law Enforcement’s Illegal Fireworks Task Force, highlighting the enforcement efforts and challenges of addressing illegal fireworks statewide.    “Illegal fireworks pose serious risks to our neighborhoods, and the work of the Task Force is critical to protecting the public,” said Senator Brandon J.C. Elefante (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. “With the passage of Act 246, 243, 244, and 247 (Session Laws of Hawai‘i 2025), the State Legislature is committed to supporting the work of the Task Force in enforcing effective legislation to address the issue of illegal fireworks in our state.”    “The creation of the Task Force has allowed us to better align county, State, and Federal resources, and these results show the progress we can achieve when we work together,” said Director Mike Lambert , Department of Law Enforcement.    The Illegal Fireworks Task Force was established pursuant to Act 67 (Session Laws of Hawai‘i 2023) to coordinate enforcement and strengthen interagency collaboration. Since its formation, the Task Force has seized over 227,000 pounds of illegal fireworks, conducted more than 1,200 enforcement operations, and coordinated multi-agency interdictions that have disrupted major shipments statewide.  For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.

HONOLULU  –  Senator Sharon Y. Moriwaki (District 12 - Waikīkī, Ala Moana, Kaka‘ako, McCully)   announced $9,000,000 in capital improvement program funds to finance the design and construction for athletic complex improvements.    “I am very pleased to announce these significant funds for McKinley,” said Senator Moriwaki. “Thank you to Governor Green for recognizing the importance of athletic programs in our schools. With $7 million appropriated in 2023 and another $7 million in 2025, today’s release of $9 million will complete the athletic complex improvements, taking the project across the finish line to deliver modern, safe, and inspiring facilities that will serve McKinley students for generations to come.”

HILO – Today, Senator Lorraine R. Inouye (District 1 – Hilo, Pauka ʻa, Papaikou, Pepeʻekeo) announced the release of $2,367,305 to finance the construction of a new classroom building for Ernest Bowen DeSilva Elementary School in Hilo, Hawaiʻi.    “I’d like to extend my sincerest mahalo to Governor Green for releasing much needed funds for Ernest Bowen DeSilva Elementary,” said Senator Inouye. “These funds will ensure there is enough space for supporting students and faculty. This is a necessary investment to accommodate a growing student population and will contribute significantly to the enhancement of learning opportunities on campus. ”

HONOLULU  – The National Foundation for Women Legislators (NFWL) has selected Senator Donna Mercado Kim (Senate District 14 – Kapālama, ‘Ālewa, Kalihi, Kalihi Valley, Ft. Shafter, Moanalua Gardens & Valley, Red Hill) and Representative Shirley Ann Templo (House District 30 – Kalihi, Kalihi Kai, Ke‘ehi Lagoon, Hickam Village) as recipients of its 2025 Backpack Program. The NFWL Backpack Program provides elected women leaders with backpacks filled with essential school supplies to distribute to students in their communities. The initiative aims to address critical educational needs while fostering meaningful community engagement. As part of the program, Senator Kim will be distributing backpacks to students at Kapālama Elementary and Kalihi Elementary later this month, supporting families and ensuring keiki have the tools they need to succeed in school. Representative Templo will be meeting with student government leaders at Kalākaua Middle School and Farrington High School to provide backpacks filled with resources that introduce and inform them about government. Thanks to the generous support of Walmart, NFWL will distribute hundreds of backpacks nationwide in 2025, helping to bridge gaps in educational resources and strengthen connections between elected women and their constituents. This recognition highlights Senator Kim and Representative Templo’s ongoing commitment to supporting local families and promoting educational equity in Hawai‘i. For more information about the Backpack Program and other NFWL initiatives, visit www.womenlegislators.org . About NFWL The National Foundation for Women Legislators (NFWL) is the nation’s oldest nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering elected women at the state and local levels of government. NFWL offers resources, programming, and events that help women leaders address challenges and drive policy solutions in their communities.

HONOLULU – Senator Henry J.C. Aquino  (District  19 - Pearl City, Waipahu, West Loch Estates, Hono‘uli‘uli, Ho‘opili ) released the following statement today announcing his retirement from the Hawaiʻi State Senate, effective Sunday, November 30, 2025:   “It has been an honor to represent residents, neighbors, supporters, friends and family in the Hawaiʻi State Senate.  I’ve also had the opportunity to serve with amazing colleagues, past and present, who have worked hard to address the needs of our great State—an absolute privilege to have served with you all.  I’m grateful for the Senate and House staff along with the individuals who have worked in my office during my time in public service.   My decision to retire from the Hawaiʻi State Senate was made with deep and thoughtful consideration after discussions with family members and close friends.  This decision was not made lightly, and it is my belief that this best serves the needs and interests of the people of Senate District 19.   During my legislative career, I’ve consistently made decisions based on the best information available and the importance of how and who will be impacted.  This is consistent with my personal life as well.  I’ve always thought of those around me and what I can do to make their lives better. While serving in the State Senate and previously in the State House has been one of the honors of my life, I have shifted focus on prioritizing my values for time with my family while continuing to serve our communities.  After my retirement from the State Senate on November 30, 2025, I will be joining Hawaiʻi Public Policy Advocates LLC, a locally based consulting firm that emphasizes non-profit organizations and association management as Vice President of Community Affairs.  I will also continue my role as Executive Director for the Waipahu Community Association—a non-profit organization. These opportunities will allow me to continue to grow and serve for the betterment of our local communities.    It has been a privilege to serve and I would like to thank everyone who made my 17 years in public service one I will never forget.”    Senator Aquino has served a combined 17 years in the Hawaiʻi State Legislature, first as a Representative for District 38, chairing the Committee on Transportation.   As Assistant Majority Whip, Chair of the Senate Committee on Labor and Technology, and Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services, Senator Aquino has played crucial roles in passing significant legislation. For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.

KAHULUI, HAWAIʻI – Tourism remains a cornerstone of Hawai‘i’s economy, with sports tourism playing an increasingly vital role to attract high-spending visitors and promote regenerative tourism. High-profile events like The Sentry bring up to 3,000 visitors into West Maui who fuel regional economic development by using hotels and vendors. The cancellation is projected to cost Maui roughly $50 million in lost annual economic impact if not replaced with another course in Maui.   “This is a real setback for Maui. Our small businesses, workers, and nonprofits depend on the spending and charitable support tied to this tournament,” said Senator Troy N. Hashimoto (D – 5, Wailuku, Kahului, Waihe‘e, Waikapu Mauka, Wai‘ehu), Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Housing. “Maui is still recovering from the devastating effects of the 2023 wildfires and losing The Sentry prolongs recovery for Maui residents and local small businesses.”   Today, Senators Donovan M. Dela Cruz and Troy N. Hashimoto sent a letter urging PGA Tour and Sentry officials to identify an alternative venue for the tournament either on Maui or elsewhere in Hawaii and are working to meet with officials to discuss future options. These events also support regenerative tourism by spreading benefits to local communities while protecting Hawai‘i’s natural and cultural resources.   “With visitor arrivals declining, hotel occupancy down, and our film industry stagnating, we cannot afford to let sports tourism trend in the same direction,” said Senator Donovan M. Dela Cruz (D – 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. “High-spending visitors drawn to major sports events like The Sentry bring in revenue far beyond the event itself—hotels fill up, restaurants are busy, local vendors thrive.”   Read Official Letter to PGA Tour and Sentry Insurance Here For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.

HONOLULU – The Hawaiʻi State Senate Committee on Judiciary, chaired by Senator Karl Rhoads  (Senate District 13 – Dowsett Highlands, Puʻunui, Nuʻuanu, Pacific Heights, Pauoa, Punchbowl, Pālama, Liliha, Iwilei, Chinatown, and Downtown), will be holding a third informational briefing to discuss the rule of law around recent actions by the Trump Administration. U.S. Representative Ed Case will be a featured guest.   View the Hearing Notice HERE   The World Justice Project defines the rule of law as “a durable system of laws, institutions, norms, and community commitment that delivers four universal principles: accountability, just law, open government, and accessible and impartial justice.” Recent presidential executive orders and policies raise questions about whether the current Administration is following federal law. This informational briefing will examine that question and what effect federal government actions are having on Hawaiʻi residents.   “The Committee is hosting Ed Case to gain insights on how the actions of the Trump Administration are impacting our nation and our State,” said Senator Rhoads. “The Trump Administration’s latest decisions are increasingly concerning and are causing negative effects on Hawaiʻi residents.”   AGENDA 1. Welcome and Introductions (10 mins) 2. U.S. Representative Ed Case, Hawaiʻi's First Congressional District (20 mins) 3. Questions from the Committee – 5 minutes per member for questions and answers   WHEN/WHERE 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 24, 2025 Conference Room 016 & Videoconference   Hawaiʻi State Capitol 415 South Beretania Street Honolulu, HI 96813   As is normal with informational briefings, no public testimony will be accepted.   ACCESSIBILITY: For accommodations, please contact the committee clerk at (808) 587-7211 or email JDCCommittee@capitol.hawaii.gov . Requests made as early as possible have a greater likelihood of being fulfilled.   Photo ID is required for entry into the State Capitol building. Limited paid public parking is available at the Capitol; entrance is via Miller Street off Punchbowl. Additional public parking is available in Lot V (Vineyard Garage on Punchbowl); Lot G (Kalanimoku Building on Beretania & Punchbowl); and Lot L (Kinau Hale Building on Punchbowl).   This informational briefing is part of a series of informational briefings on the rule of law in relation to the recent actions of the Trump Administration and how its decisions are impacting Hawaiʻi.   Information about past and upcoming briefings can be accessed on the Senate Judiciary Committee webpage HERE

KAHULUI – The Senate Committee on Ways and Means (WAM) finalized visits with government agencies and community leaders on Lānaʻi and Maui to receive significant updates on education, housing, agricultural innovations, healthcare, workforce development pathways, and wildfire management efforts.     September 2025 Lānaʻi & Maui Post-Trip Report   “Our visits to Lānaʻi and Maui gave the committee a solid understanding of the innovative ways our departments are utilizing resources to preserve, protect, and strengthen our state through workforce development, education, wildfire management, and more, ” said Senator Donovan M. Dela Cruz (D17–  portion of Mililani, Mililani Mauka, portion of Waipiʻo Acres, Launani Valley, Wahiawā, Whitmore Village), Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. “The local partnerships we saw in action are proving to be critical in developing clear pathways to sustainability. Pūlama Lānaʻi is creating viable housing options for residents, while DLNR is working alongside our State Fire Marshal to respond to the continuing threat of wildfires. DBEDT is successfully connecting with underrepresented demographics to ensure every economic opportunity is being recognized. The work of these entities will continue to be essential to informing policies and the allocation of resources to build an equitable future for Hawaiʻi.”   "As someone from Moloka‘i and as Chair of the Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism, I understand how vital it is to invest in rural communities like those on Lāna‘i and Maui,” said Senator Lynn DeCoite (D7 – Hāna, East and Upcountry Maui, Moloka‘i, Lāna ʻ i , Kaho‘olawe and Molokini) . “These visits showcased how collaboration between government agencies, local leaders, and private partners is creating innovative solutions to long standing challenges—from housing and agriculture to wildfire resilience and workforce development. The economic potential we’re seeing across these islands is rooted in community, culture, and resilience—values that continue to guide us as we work toward a more sustainable and inclusive Hawai‘i."   “Coming from Maui, I know firsthand how critical it is that state resources reach our communities effectively and equitably,” said Senator Troy N. Hashimoto (D5 – Wailuku, Kahului, Waihe‘e, Waikapu Mauka, Wai‘ehu) , Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Housing. “These site visits to Lāna‘i and Maui highlighted the progress being made in key areas  like housing, wildfire preparedness, and workforce development—while also showing where we still need to focus our efforts. It’s encouraging to see strong partnerships forming on the ground, and the insights we gained will help guide meaningful investments and ensure our policies are responsive to the real needs of our people.”   WAM holds neighbor island site visits every two years to utilize information from community stakeholders and government officials to guide our collective decision-making on legislation and budget appropriations to bolster regional/statewide planning and implementation efforts. For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.

HONOLULU  – This morning, T he Hawaiʻi   State Senate Committee on Judiciary , chaired by Senator Karl Rhoads  (Senate District 13 – Dowsett Highlands, Puʻunui, Nuʻuanu, Pacific Heights, Pauoa, Punchbowl, Pālama, Liliha, Iwilei, Chinatown, and Downtown) held an informational briefing to hear from Professor Colin Moore (Ph.D. Department of Government, Harvard, 2009) about the erosion of democratic norms in the United States and how that trend is affecting and will affect the residents of the State of Hawaiʻi. All opinions expressed by Professor Moore are his own.   Professor Colin Moore’s Presentation   Moore listed authoritarian warning signs, such as rejection of democratic rules, denial of the legitimacy of opponents, and a willingness to curtail civil liberties and attack the press. He also described how the U.S. is considered by experts to be a “flawed democracy,” meaning that it h olds free and fair elections and basic civil liberties but is threatened by significant weaknesses in its system .   “We’ve gained a better understanding of how the Trump Administration is testing long-standing democratic norms with insufficient push back,” said Senator Rhoads. “Professor Moore brings up significant points on the strategy of the administration and how behaviors of authoritarianism are calling into question our identity and norms.”   The Trump Administration has demonstrated how the U.S.’s democratic norms are weaker than many assumed. Threats such as attempting to fire a member of the Federal Reserve Board of Governors, deploying the National Guard to Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., and pushing the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to remove broadcast licenses to NBC and ABC are just some of the many ways the administration has tested its limits.   “There is something breaking down in the constitutional system that’s supposed to regulate itself…That is not working the way it should anymore,” said Moore. “Polarization has broken down some of those norms.” Moore made a point to note Hawaiʻi’s unique relationship with the Federal government and how, historically, our state has hosted a variety of political opinions and ranks comparatively low in polarization.   For Hawaiʻi, federalism is a strength but also a vulnerability, argues Moore. “Federalism has often been thought of, and I think rightfully so, as one of the best defenses American democracy has. States can act as a check on federal overreach.”   “States do have some sovereign authority, but the federal government holds most of the cards,” said Moore.   Moore noted Hawaiʻi’s important relationship with the military, federal agencies like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and the tourism industry.   Moore suggested ways the legislature can prepare Hawaiʻi for looming threats, including establishing reserve funds to fill in losses in health and education and supporting nonprofits that depend on federal funding.   View the original Hearing Notice HERE Watch the video recording HERE   This informational briefing is part of a series of informational briefings on the rule of law in relation to the recent actions of the Trump Administration and how its decisions are impacting Hawaiʻi. For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.

HONOLULU  – Senator Stanley Chang  (D 9 – Hawai‘i Kai, Kuli‘ou‘ou, Niu, ‘Āina Haina, Wai‘alae-Kāhala, Diamond Head, Kaimukī, Kapahulu)   announced the signing of Senate Bill 30  into law as Act 222, which now requires moped drivers to wear a safety helmet and prohibits people under the age of 16 from driving a moped. The law became effective on June 25, 2025.    “In Hawaiʻi, we’ve seen far too many lives lost or forever changed by preventable moped accidents,” said Senator Chang. “That’s why I introduced Senate Bill 30—to take meaningful, evidence-based steps to protect our community. With this new law, we’re putting commonsense measures in place. These changes are proven to reduce serious injuries and fatalities. I deeply appreciate Governor Green’s leadership and the many advocates who made this possible.”    According to the Hawai‘i Department of Transportation, there have been over 1,000 deaths related to moped and motorcycle accidents over the last 10 years. This does not include accidents resulting in serious brain injuries. A large portion of these accidents involved drivers of mopeds who were not wearing helmets. Act 222 seeks to prevent the further loss of life and prevent serious brain injuries when accidents occur.     Moped drivers in violation of this law will be ticketed.  For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.

LĀNAʻI CITY  – Today, the Senate Ways and Means Committee arrived on Lāna ʻ i to receive updates on economic development and sustainability efforts from the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism (DBEDT) and the Agribusiness Development Corporation (ADC).   Committee members were first guided through the work of Pūlama Lāna ʻ i, an organization creating solutions for a sustainable future through cultural preservation and building economic opportunities for Lāna ʻ i .   “Today’s visit to Lāna ʻ i shows our deep commitment to supporting sustainable growth in our rural communities,” said Senator Lynn DeCoite  (D7 - Hāna, East and Upcountry Maui, Moloka‘i, Lāna ʻ i , Kaho‘olawe and Molokini) , Chair of the Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism. “The presentations from DBEDT, ADC, and Pūlama Lānaʻi highlight the incredible work being done to preserve Lāna ʻ i’s heritage while creating economic opportunities for the future.”   “As a State, we must ensure that we are able to keep up with the changing needs of our communities,” said Senator Troy N. Hashimoto  (D 5 - Wailuku, Kahului, Waihe‘e, Waikapu Mauka, Wai‘ehu) , Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Housing. “Developing sustainable housing solutions must include building communities with access to economic opportunities and critical services to ensure that residents, on Lāna ʻ i and across our islands, can stay and live with greater security in the place we call home.”   “As we continue shaping policy and budgets, it’s critical we prioritize initiatives that create lasting opportunities for regional economic development," said Senator Donovan M. Dela Cruz (D 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.   “Today’s visit demonstrates that food, housing, and workforce are the cornerstones of sustainability and economic opportunity,” said  ADC Board Chairperson Jayson Watts . “As ADC explores statewide expansion, we are committed to building the infrastructure and innovation needed for rural communities and families to succeed.”   “The work on Lāna ʻ i highlights how rural communities can thrive when economic opportunities and affordable housing are integrated rather than separated. DBEDT holds critical levers that can be used to support rural communities by connecting food, housing, tourism and workforce opportunities,” said DBEDT Deputy Director Dane Wicker . (Photos LINK ) For a PDF version of this press release, CLICK HERE.