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.

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 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.   “The Committee is looking to gain an informed historical context for patterns surrounding the current administration’s decisions,” said Senator Rhoads. “The Trump Administration is continuing to take actions of questionable legality which are negatively affecting Hawaiʻi residents.”   AGENDA 1.  Welcome and Introductions (7 minutes) 2.  Professor Moore's Presentation on the Erosion of Democratic Norms in the United States (30 minutes) 3.  Questions from the Committee – 5 minutes per Member for Questions and Answers   WHEN/WHERE 10:00AM Thursday, September 18, 2025 Conference Room 016 & Videoconference Hawaiʻi State Capitol 415 South Beretania Street Honolulu, HI 96813   View the Hearing Notice HERE   As is normal with informational briefings, 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.

KAHULUI – Today, the Senate Committee on Ways and Means met with the Department of Law Enforcement (DLE), the Department of Land and Natural Resources’ (DLNR) Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW), and the Office of the ­State Fire Marshal to receive updates on fire management in the state.   Ernest Robello, DLE Deputy Director of Administration, Dawn Chang, Chair of DLNR, and Dori Booth, Hawaiʻi’s newly-instated State Fire Marshal ( Act 302, 2025 ) presented recent efforts in fire mitigation, including a community fuels reduction project ( Act 303, 2025 ).   Members were walked through the DOFAW’s Kahului Baseyard, where DLNR is leading current fire management efforts.   “Hawaiʻi is facing urgent challenges when it comes to fire risk,” said Senator Brandon J.C. Elefante (D 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. “I am confident that with the reinstatement of our State Fire Marshal and team, along with the support of our departments, we are better positioned to respond effectively and protect our communities from the growing threats of wildfires.”   “The risk of wildfires is growing in Hawaiʻi, and we must always be prepared when it comes to responding to these threats,” 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. “Our continued investments in disaster preparedness and development of mitigation strategies, such as reestablishing the Office of the State Fire Marshal, demonstrate how state and county agencies can work together on wildfire prevention.”   “As someone who represents communities that have faced the real and growing threat of wildfires, I deeply appreciate the collaborative efforts being made to strengthen fire prevention and response across our state,” 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. “We must continue to prioritize these proactive, community-based strategies to ensure the safety and resilience of all our islands.”   “Today’s briefing in Kahului emphasized the importance of coordinated, on-the-ground fire management strategies for Hawai ʻ i's future,” said Senator Troy N. Hashimoto (D5 – Wailuku, Kahului, Waihe‘e, Waikapu Mauka, Wai‘ehu) , Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Housing. "From fuels reduction to erosion control, it’s encouraging to see state agencies continuously implementing and developing strategies that strengthen resilience in my district and across our state.”   “The DLE will continue to work with and support the Fire Marshal, DLNR, and our community partners to improve prevention, mitigation, and suppression of wildfires across Hawaiʻi,” said Ernest Robello, DLE Deputy Director of Administration .   “I want to extend my sincere gratitude to our legislators for their leadership in passing Act 302,” said State Fire Marshal Dori Booth . “This landmark legislation not only strengthens Hawaiʻi’s wildfire preparedness, but also elevates our entire approach to fire and life safety across the state. By investing in public education, enhancing code enforcement, improving fire investigations, and building a statewide data analysis hub for the fire service, we are laying the foundation to reduce risk on every front. Act 302 positions Hawaiʻi to be a national leader in fire prevention and community resilience, and I am proud of the collective commitment to safeguarding the people and places we cherish most. I look forward to continuing this strong partnership with our legislators on future projects and policies that will further strengthen our capacity to protect and serve Hawaiʻi’s communities.”   “Mahalo nui to WAM for joining us on Maui and for the opportunity to share how DLNR is building out a strong fire management program,” said DLNR Chair Dawn Chang . “The 2023 wildfires were a wake-up call for all of us, and we are deeply grateful to the legislature for the increased funding support you have provided. With this support, our DOFAW team has been able to expand its capacity statewide, with added positions and equipment in all districts. Our expanded capacity has already proved critical in our response to wildfires this dry season. We will continue to work alongside the DLE and our community partners to improve prevention, mitigation, and suppression of wildfires across Hawaiʻi.” (B-roll, Photos LINK ) For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.

HONOLULU, HI – Senator Herbert “Tim” Richards, III (Senate District 4 – North Hilo, Hāmākua, Kohala, Waimea, Waikoloa, North Kona), along with Representative David A. Tarnas, Councilmember James E. Hustace, and state partners including the Big Island Invasive Species Council (BIISC), will host a virtual community meeting next week to address the Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle (CRB) and its increasing threat to Hawaiʻi’s agriculture and quality of life. “The spread of the Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle poses a serious threat to Hawaiʻi’s agriculture and economy,” said Senator Richards. “This meeting will provide important updates on the beetle’s presence across the islands and highlight the coordinated efforts underway to combat its spread.” The community meeting will feature updates from experts, an overview of current response measures, and opportunities for participants to ask questions and share concerns. Meeting Details:      • Virtual Community Meeting on Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle (CRB)      • Wednesday, September 10, 2025      • 6:00 p.m. HST      • Zoom link (REGISTRATION REQUIRED): https://bit.ly/crbmeeting Members of the public, especially those in agricultural communities, are encouraged to attend and learn more about how CRB infestations are being managed and what actions can be taken to help prevent further spread. Senator Richards will be joined by the following legislators: • Representative David A. Tarnas (House District 8 – Hawi, Hala‘ula, Waimea, Makahalau, Waiki‘i, Waikoloa, Kawaihae, Mahukona) • Hawai‘i County Councilmember James E. Hustace (Hawai‘i County District 9 – Kohala, portions of Waimea) For a PDF version of the flyer, CLICK HERE .

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 )