LĪHUʻE, HAWAIʻI  – The Senate Ways and Means (WAM) Committee visited Kauaʻi Island from Tuesday, August 12 to Wednesday, August 13, 2025, to meet with various government agencies and community leaders to discuss and receive updates on the development of Hawai‘i’s latest food and product innovations, healthcare systems, education and workforce development pathways, biosecurity efforts, and language access. August 2025 Kaua‘i Post-Trip Report   “Our site visits to Kaua‘i provided the Committee with a deeper understanding of the innovations taking place across that state to address some of Hawai‘i’s most pressing challenges,” said Senator Donovan M. Dela Cruz, Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means (D – 17, portion of Mililani, Mililani Mauka, portion of Waipiʻo Acres, Launani Valley, Wahiawā, Whitmore Village). “From tackling homelessness by creating a continuum of housing to advancing education, workforce readiness, and economic opportunity, we’ve seen firsthand how local partnerships are turning ideas into impact. Initiatives like the Food and Product Innovation Network demonstrate how investments in education and entrepreneurship can strengthen Hawai‘i’s economy and support homegrown industries. At the same time, the cultural preservation efforts at Ke Kula Niihau O Kekaha underscore the importance of protecting the voices and values that make our communities unique. These insights will be critical as we continue to shape policies and allocate resources that build a more resilient and equitable future for all of Hawai‘i.”   “It’s always meaningful when the Senate comes to Kaua‘i to see the incredible work our local communities, educators, and organizations are doing every day to tackle statewide challenges,” said Senate President Ronald D. Kouchi (D – 8, Kaua‘i and Niʻihau). “From efforts to increase affordable housing and address homelessness, to supporting workforce development and preserving Olelo Niihau, these initiatives reflect the deep commitment of our people to building a stronger Hawai‘i. I’m grateful to the Senate Ways and Means Committee for taking the time to engage directly with the people and projects that are making a real difference on the ground.”   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.

LĪHUʻE, HAWAIʻI  – On the leeward side of Kauaʻi, students of Ke Kula Niihau O Kekaha are immersed in Hawaiian culture and language – specifically Olelo Niihau . Last year, the students and staff authored an installation of books displayed at the Līhuʻe Public Library.    Today, the Senate Committee on Ways and Means received updates from the Hawaiʻi State Public Charter School Commission (HSPCSC) on the perpetuation of Olelo Niihau , also known as the Niihau dialect, at Ke Kula Niihau O Kekaha, a Pre-K-12 charter school in Kekaha. A similar installation showcasing the books authored by students and staff is currently on display at the Līhuʻe Public Library.    Olelo Niihau is a dialect of ‘Ōlelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian Language), spoken most in Kauaʻi and Niʻihau. It is estimated that about five hundred individuals speak the language. Through Act 164, Session Laws of Hawaii 2023, the Legislature appropriated $30,000 to the HSPCSC to support traditional speakers of Native Hawaiian.    “Ke Kula Niihau O Kekaha will be celebrating 25 years of strengthening and perpetuating the language and culture of Niihau this May. Our journey began with the vision and determination of five mana wahine, Anake Sana Pahulehua, Anake Lete Kaaumoana, Tutu Pine Kelley, Mama Ilei Beniamina and Mama Ane Kanahele, who knew that the future of Olelo Niihau needed to be prioritized through our youth and education to truly thrive.  Strengthening and perpetuating Olelo Niihau and our cultural practices has become our life’s work. Today, we celebrate our language with more than 400 books published in Olelo Niihau along with a priceless archive of recorded interviews with our manaleo - many of whom are no longer with us.  We honor the foundation built by our tupuna by carrying their vision forward with deep gratitude and unwavering commitment,” said Tia Koerte, Poʻo Tumu Ke Kula Niihau O Kekaha.    Dr. Ed H. Noh, Executive Director of the Hawai‘i State Public Charter School Commission, introduced the principal researcher, Dr. Bradley McDonnell, Associate Professor from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, who presented a preliminary report and findings on the history of Olelo Niihau , featuring its use in contemporary society, the results of a sociolinguistic survey of native speakers, and the results of a comprehensive study of differences between Olelo Niihau  and the more commonly used ʻŌlelo  Hawaiʻi.     Ke Kula Niihau O Kekaha Charter School Celebrates Publishing 400+ Books     “This is an important and exciting research that not only uplifts and calls attention to Olelo Niihau, but the Hawaiian language as a whole. The Hawaiʻi State Public Charter School Commission is proud to have such a rich and diverse portfolio of schools that elevate language and culture such as Ke Kula Niihau O Kekaha,” said Dr. Noh.    “Ke Kula Niihau O Kekaha and the Hawaiʻi State Public Charter School Commission are leading the way in preserving Olelo Niihau, recognizing the importance of keeping this vital dialect accessible,” said Senate Vice President Michelle N. Kidani (D – 18, Mililani Town, Waipiʻo Gentry, Crestview, Waikele, portion of Waipahu, Village Park, Royal Kunia), Chair of the Senate Committee on Education.  “It is our kuleana to provide the resources needed to keep this important dialect alive for our keiki and future generations.”    “The remarkable achievement of Ke Kula Niihau O Kekaha in publishing over 400 books in  Olelo Niihau highlights the resilience and dedication of our community to preserve this unique dialect,” said Senator Donovan M. Dela Cruz, Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means (D – 17, portion of Mililani, Mililani Mauka, portion of Waipiʻo Acres, Launani Valley, Wahiawā, Whitmore Village). “The report produced by the University of Hawaiʻi can help pave the path to preserve the dialects spoken by traditional speakers of Native Hawaiian across the state.”    "The Hawaiian language, ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, is vital for preserving the Hawaiian culture, its identity, preserving history and strengthening the connection to the land," said Senate President Ronald D. Kouchi (D – 8, Kauaʻi, Niʻihau). "It acts as a bridge to the past, connecting people to their ancestors, traditional knowledge, and the land. Olelo Niihau remains a living language and a connection to our history. We must honor and protect this dialect, not only for the sake of tradition, but for our future.”    A note on Olelo Niihau and ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi: Olelo Niihau in written form is distinguishable from ‘Olelo Hawaiʻi as it does not traditionally use the diacritical marks ‘okina and kahakō.     This release is part of a series of updates on the current site visits of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. Further updates will be released soon.     (B-Roll, Photos LINK )

HILO, Hawai‘i – Senator Lorraine R. Inouye (District 1 – Hilo, Paukaʻa, Papaikou, Pepeʻekeo) is proud to announce the release of $525,000 in harbor special funds for a crucial Capital Improvement Program (CIP) project at Hilo Harbor.    The funding will finance the construction and installation of a new boat lift to service the 25-foot aluminum-hulled Security and Disaster Recovery Vessel stationed at Hilo Harbor.    “This is more than an equipment upgrade – it’s an investment that enhances our harbor’s operational capabilities and strengthens our disaster preparedness,” said Senator Lorraine R. Inouye. “The new lift will allow us to launch our vessel quickly and safely to protect our shores and support our community.”    The boat lift project will be managed by the Department of Transportation’s Harbors Division, with construction set to improve both safety and efficiency for harbor operations. For a PDF version of this press release, CLICK HERE.

LĪHUʻE, KAUAʻI  – Today, the Senate Committee on Ways and Means received a comprehensive update from the Agribusiness Development Corporation (ADC), administratively attached to the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT), on the development of Hawai‘i’s food and product innovation efforts to help scale up local farmers and entrepreneurs and increase economic resilience.    Dane Wicker, Deputy Director of DBEDT, along with other members from ADC, DBEDT, University of Hawaiʻi Community Design Center (UHCDC), and the Hawaiʻi State Department of Health (DOH) gathered near the historic Kaua‘i Plantation Railway in Līhuʻe for a site visit and briefing on the strategic plan guiding the Food and Product Innovation Network (FPIN) pursuant to Act 237,  Session Laws of Hawaiʻi 2025. Discussions focused on regional coordination, infrastructure development, and the launch of a pilot on Kauaʻi that integrates processing equipment, workforce training, and business support services.    “Continuing to invest in agricultural production is a clear step in the right direction,” said Senator Glenn Wakai (D – 15, Kalihi, Māpunpuna, Airport, Salt Lake, Āliamanu, Foster Village, Hickam, Pearl Harbor, and portions of ʻAiea and Pearl City), Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism. “A month ago, I secured a partnership with Amazon Air Cargo to take Hawaiʻi agricultural products to the mainland - cheaper and faster.”    “The Senate recognizes that agriculture is not just about farming — it’s about food security, economic opportunity, and sustaining our way of life,” said Senate President Ronald D. Kouchi (D – 8, Kaua‘i, Niʻihau). “We’ve supported a wide range of agricultural initiatives championed by our farmers, local business owners, and community leaders, and it is encouraging to see necessary steps being taken to expand our export capacity and provide more locally grown food on the tables for our schools and hospitals. These are the kinds of forward-thinking efforts that can transform Hawai‘i’s agricultural economy and create lasting benefits for our islands.”    The Hawai‘i FPIN initiative draws inspiration from New Zealand’s public-private innovation model and includes strategic investments across the islands. Recent legislative support includes the passage of Act 237, Session Laws of Hawai‘i 2025, establishing FPIN, Act 250, Session Laws of Hawai‘i 2025, appropriating $350,000 for program coordination, and Act 230, Session Laws of Hawai‘i 2024, dedicating $2 million for a new agricultural processing facility in Kekaha.    FPIN’s vision is to enable Hawaiʻi-based entrepreneurs to develop, scale and export products that strengthen our food system, reduce import reliance, and capitalize on Hawaiʻi’s global brand. The Kaua‘i facility is part of a larger ecosystem that includes complementary projects on Oʻahu and Maui, integrating food science, equipment access and training partnerships with UH and DOH.    “The Food and Product Innovation Network is a meaningful investment in Hawaii’s future—one that bridges education to export pathways by equipping our schools, colleges, and entrepreneurs with the skills and infrastructure they need to bring local innovations to the global marketplace,” said Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means, Senator Donovan M. Dela Cruz (D – 17, portion of Mililani, Mililani Mauka, portion of Waipiʻo Acres, Launani Valley, Wahiawā, Whitmore Village). “By strengthening the entire ecosystem—from classroom learning to commercial-scale production—we’re fostering regional economic development that benefits our communities statewide and elevates Hawai‘i-made products on the world stage.”    “The FPIN is critical to building a resilient and self-sustaining economy for Hawai‘i,” said DBEDT Deputy Director Dane Wicker. “By investing in the infrastructure, facilities, equipment, and wraparound services our local businesses need, we are not only creating new small and medium-sized enterprises—we’re supporting existing companies, expanding our Hawai‘i Made program, and strengthening initiatives like farm-to-school and farm-to-state. This is about more than just economic growth; it’s about food security, community resilience, and reducing our dependence on imported food and emergency provisions during natural disasters.”      Establishing a Food and Product Innovation Network in Hawai‘i Proof of Concept       This release is part of a series of updates on the current site visits of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. Further updates will be released soon.     (B-Roll, Photos LINK )    For a PDF version of this press release, CLICK HERE.

HONOLULU – On Thursday, August 7, 2025, Senator Mike Gabbard (D – 21, Kapolei, Makakilo, Kalaeloa, portions of Fernandez Village, and ʻEwa) presented a certificate on behalf of the Hawaiʻi State Senate to commemorate Governor Josh Green’s proclamation of Hawaiʻi as a Purple Heart State. Signifying sacrifice and valor, the Purple Heart is awarded to veterans who have been wounded or killed in action. It was originally given as the Badge of Military Merit by George Washington in 1782. Senator Gabbard introduced Senate Resolution 93 ( SR93, SD1 ) to request the City and County of Honolulu to light up City Hall with purple lights on August 7 on each year in honor of National Purple Heart Day. “It was an honor to stand with Governor Green, Representative Kong, and the Military Order of the Purple Heart Rainbow Chapter Number 483 to celebrate Hawai‘i becoming a Purple Heart State,” said Senator Gabbard. “We’re making sure our state sets aside time each year to remember and mahalo our Purple Heart recipients. These heroes, and their ‘ohana, have sacrificed so much for our country — we owe them our deepest aloha and gratitude.” For a PDF version of this press release, CLICK HERE.

HONOLULU  – Senate Vice President Michelle N. Kidani (D – 18, Mililani Town, Waipiʻo Gentry, Crestview, Waikele, portion of Waipahu, Village Park, Royal Kunia), Chair of the Committee on Education, is encouraging families to apply for Free and Reduced-Price Meal Benefits with the Hawai‘i State Department of Education (HIDOE).   Under   Act 139  ( Senate Bill 1300 ), students who qualify for reduced-price meals are eligible to receive one free breakfast and one free lunch each school day at no cost for qualifying students.   For the 2025-26 school year, HIDOE will introduce updates to school meal pricing, promoting food equity for more students through free and reduced-price options.   Approximately 11,000 students qualified for reduced-price meals last school year, who would be offered free meal options this year. As the author of Senate Bill 1300 , Senate Vice President Michelle N. Kidani said, “As a mother and grandmother, I have seen firsthand how hunger affects a child’s ability to focus and learn. I still remember visiting classrooms in my district where teachers kept granola bars or crackers in their desks, just in case a student came to school without breakfast. This bill is about more than food —it’s about dignity, equity, and ensuring every child has a fair chance to succeed. Well-nourished students learn better. I once again thank Governor Green for signing this bill into law, and I encourage families to take advantage of applying to the program.” The only price increases for the upcoming year apply to second meals for students and adult meals. Prices for all other items, including standard student meals and à la carte items, will remain unchanged. Students will still be categorized as “reduced-price eligible” under federal guidelines, but at the point of service, their meals will now be marked as “Reduced – No Charge.” Families are encouraged to apply at EZMealApp  for free or reduced-price meal benefits to determine eligibility and take advantage of this new benefit. Further program details are available on the HIDOE website . *Bolded items represent meal price changes. For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.

HILO, HAWAIʻI  – Senator Lorraine R. Inouye (District 1 – Hilo, Paukaʻa, Pāpaʻikou, Pepeʻekeo) is pleased to announce that $1,000,000 in General Obligation Bond Funds have been released by Governor Josh Green to support Capital Improvement Program (CIP) master planning for the redevelopment of the Waiākea Peninsula. The funding will support both a community development and infrastructure master plan, marking a key step toward reimagining the peninsula to better serve East Hawaiʻi residents and visitors, and to create a welcoming gathering place for future generations. “I’m grateful to the Governor for releasing these funds to begin planning this major project and to support the first phase of development at the Waiākea Peninsula,” said Senator Inouye. “With the continued support of our State and County partners, I look forward to seeing this vision take shape.” For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.

HONOLULU – 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) will be holding an informational briefing to receive an update from the Department of the Attorney General about litigation where the State of Hawaiʻi is the lead plaintiff or part of a coalition of plaintiffs that have filed a lawsuit against the President and his administration.   “The Committee wants to get a status update of the State of Hawaiʻi’s numerous lawsuits filed against the Trump Administration,” said Senator Rhoads. “The Trump Administration has taken many actions of questionable legality, many of which negatively affect Hawaiʻi residents.”   Lawsuits in a variety of areas are currently pending, ranging from challenges to funding cuts for keiki in our schools, to reductions in funding for medical research, to efforts to end birthright citizenship. In a majority of cases that have been ruled on to date, the courts have found in Hawaiʻi’s favor.    “Hawaiʻi and other states with Democratic attorneys general have made a successful effort in protecting federal funding and the rights of the people of Hawaiʻi by securing injunctions against arbitrary and illegal actions,” said Attorney General Anne Lopez. “The people of Hawaiʻi rightfully expect that the federal administration will act lawfully, and my department will work to protect the interests of Hawaiʻi residents.”    AGENDA 1. Welcome and Introductions (10 mins) 2. Attorney General Anne Lopez, Solicitor General Kalikoʻonālani Fernandes, and Special Assistant to the Attorney General Dave Day, Department of the Attorney General (30 mins) 3. Questions from the Committee – 5 minutes per member for questions and answers (25 min)   WHEN/WHERE Thursday, August 14, 2025 10:00 A.M. Conference Room 016 & Videoconference Hawaiʻi State Capitol 415 South Beretania Street Honolulu, HI 96813   View the Hearing Notice HERE   No public testimony will be accepted.   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 Jarrett Keohokalole (District 24 - Kāne‘ohe, Kailua) today celebrated the signing of Senate Bill 1044 , a major step forward in stabilizing Hawai‘i’s property insurance market amid growing risks from hurricanes and climate change. Now known as Act 296 after being signed by Governor Josh Green this morning, the legislation takes effect immediately and aims to improve access to affordable insurance coverage for homeowners and condominium associations statewide. “This bill provides a lifeline to families burdened by soaring insurance costs, offering them a clear path forward after being shut out by the market. This legislation is the result of two years of focused work by partners across sectors – banking, insurance, real estate, and regulators,” said Senator Keohokalole, who chairs the Senate Commerce and Consumer Protection (CPN) Committee.     “I thank the Governor for bringing these stakeholders together to find practical, responsible solutions for kamaʻāina. This legislation offers much-needed relief, particularly for seniors on fixed incomes who have faced the greatest challenges in today’s insurance market.”   CPN Vice-Chair Carol Fukunaga added, “I know that condo owners in urban Honolulu will be very appreciative for state assistance to help protect their homes.”   Key provisions of the new law include:   Reactivation of the Hawai‘i Hurricane Relief Fund (HHRF) to help stabilize hurricane-related insurance claims   Expanding the role of the Hawai‘i Property Insurance Association (HPIA) to collaborate with private insurers to offer broader and more competitive coverage Targeted support for condominium associations and unit owners, who have faced rising costs and limited options   A mandate for the Insurance Commissioner to lead a long-term study on sustainable solutions for the property insurance market   State funding to support the startup and operational needs of both HHRF and HPIA   Senator Keohokalole emphasized that implementation will be phased, and that building partnerships with private insurers will take time.   To learn more about the HHRF, including application materials, FAQs, and related resources, visit https://cca.hawaii.gov/ins/hhrf .   For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.

HONOLULU – Senate President Ronald D. Kouchi (District 8 – Kauaʻi, Niʻihau) today issued a statement regarding the convening of a special session for 2025:    “After reviewing the Governor’s veto list and the measures he ultimately signed into law, the Hawaiʻi State Senate determined that a special session to override the veto is not warranted at this time.” For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.

“I am devastated that Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark were murdered and State Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette were shot by a man posing as a law enforcement officer.  While we grieve with the Hortman family and pray for the Hoffman family, it is our duty to unconditionally denounce and quash these heinous, unspeakable acts and to prevent the normalization of these events.”   - Senate President Ronald D. Kouchi  (Senate District 8 - Kaua‘i, Ni‘ihau)    “We are heartbroken by the tragic events that unfolded this morning in Minnesota. Hawai‘i stands in solidarity in grieving the loss of Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark. We extend our deepest prayers and thoughts to their family, to Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, as they heal and recover from this horrific act of violence, and to the entire Minnesota Legislature during this unimaginable time. Our hearts are with the people of Minnesota, their leaders, and all those affected. As public servants, we remain committed to upholding democracy and faithfully representing the people. At this time, the safety and security of our lawmakers, staff, and communities remain a top priority.”   - House Speaker Nadine K. Nakamura (House District 15 - Hā‘ena, Wainiha, Hanalei, Princeville, Kīlauea, Anahola, Keālia, Kapa‘a, portion of Wailua, Kawaihau)  For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.

HONOLULU  – The Hawaiʻi State Legislature has successfully advanced significant legislation to address illegal fireworks. At the conclusion of the 2025 Legislative Session,   SB 222 ,   HB 1483 , HB 806 , and HB 550   passed Final Reading in both the House and the Senate.    “I’d like to thank the Senate Ways and Means and House Finance Committees for releasing the funds to decrease the movement of illegal fireworks through our State,” said Senate Committee on Public Safety and Military Affairs (PSM) Chair Senator Brandon J.C. Elefante  (Senate District 16 – ʻAiea, ʻAiea Heights, Hālawa, Pearlridge, Newtown, Royal Summit, Waimalu, Waiau, Momilani, Pacific Palisades, and Pearl City). “This session, we as the Legislature successfully collaborated with the Office of the Attorney General and the Department of Law Enforcement to develop stronger enforcement and stricter penalties aimed at combating illegal fireworks.”     “The passage of all this legislation marks a critical step forward in protecting our communities from the dangers posed by illegal fireworks,” said Attorney General Anne E. Lopez . “With stronger enforcement tools and clearer penalties now in place, our office is better equipped to hold offenders accountable and support county prosecutors in deterring this reckless behavior. The bills passed send a clear message: illegal fireworks have no place in our neighborhoods.”    SB 222  extends funding of the Illegal Fireworks Task Force and the annual reporting requirements to the Legislature from 2025 to 2030.   HB1483  creates new crimes and punishments for misusing fireworks, especially if someone gets seriously hurt or killed. It also makes fireworks-related violations part of the same system used to handle traffic tickets and similar offenses.    “This bill establishes a clear adjudication process and strengthens penalties for violations,” said Representative Scot Z. Matayoshi (House District 49 - Kāne‘ohe, Maunawili), chair of the House Committee on Consumer Protection & Commerce. “Enhancing enforcement is critical – not just to prevent fire damage, but also to prevent tragedies, protect lives, and mitigate the long-term repercussions illegal fireworks have on our communities. This bill also simplifies fireworks definitions, making it easier to issue citations and to prosecute violators.”    HB 806 appropriates funds to the Department of Law Enforcement to conduct fireworks sting operations and establish an explosives and firearms laboratory.  On this bill, Representative Matayoshi stated, “It’s time we take a proactive approach to combating illegal fireworks, which remain a serious public safety threat. We must take strong action to hold offenders accountable. HB 806 gives the Department of Law Enforcement enhanced ability to strengthen enforcement of Oʻahu and deter future violations – we cannot risk another devastating tragedy.”    HB 550  allows the use of recordings made by law enforcement to establish probable cause for arrests under the Fireworks Control Law when operating an unmanned aerial vehicle that is above public property.    “Providing more tools for law enforcement to enforce our fireworks laws was a priority this session,” said House Committee on Consumer Protection & Commerce Vice Chair Representative Cory M. Chun (House District 35 – Portions of Pearl City and Waipahu, Crestview). “House Bill 550 was introduced to authorize law enforcement agencies to use modern drone surveillance technology while balancing privacy concerns.  It establishes clear guidelines on where drones can be used and ensures that law enforcement does not use these devices for unwarranted searches. I want to thank my colleagues in the House and Senate for taking meaningful steps this session to enforce and enhance our existing fireworks laws.”    The bills now await the Governor’s signature.  For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.