“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.

HONOLULU - The annual Education Week hosted by the Hawaiʻi State Legislature returns this year, to honor exceptional individuals in education. Co-sponsored by Senate Vice President Michelle N. Kidani (District 18 – Mililani Town, Waipiʻo Gentry, Crestview, Waikele, portion of Waipahu, Village Park, Royal Kunia) and Representative Justin H. Woodson (District 9 – Kahului, Puʻunēnē, portion of Wailuku), the event will be held at the Hawaiʻi State Capitol from March 17 to 21, 2025.    “Education Week at the State Capitol is a time to celebrate the incredible work of educators and students across our state,” said Senate Vice President Kidani, who chairs the Senate Committee on Education. “It’s an opportunity to reflect on the progress we've made in strengthening our public education system and renew our commitment to making sure every student in Hawaiʻi has access to the resources they need to thrive.”    “Each year, the Legislature proudly recognizes exceptional leaders who positively impact our students' lives and demonstrate a strong commitment to quality education, leadership, and supporting student success,” stated Representative Woodson, chair of the House Committee on Education.    AWARD PRESENTATIONS DURING FLOOR SESSIONS   Awardees will be recognized daily during Floor Session in the Senate and House Chambers, respectively.  Senate Floor Session – 11:30 a.m.  House Floor Session – 12:00 p.m.    Monday, March 17:  ·                     State Teacher of the Year  ·                     Milken Teachers of the Year    Tuesday, March 18:  ·                     Senate Youth Delegates  ·                     Prudential Emerging Visionary  ·                     National Blue Ribbon Schools    Wednesday, March 19:   ·                     Hawaiʻi Association of Secondary School Administrators’ Principal & Assistant Principal of the Year  ·                     National Association of Elementary Schools’ Principal & Assistant Principal of the Year  ·                     Hawaiʻi State Principal & Assistant Principal of the Year  ·                     Masayuki Tokioka  Excellence in School Leadership   ·                     Hawaiʻi State Counselor of the Year    Thursday, March 20:   ·                     Charter School Teacher of the Year  ·                     Complex Area Teachers of the Year    Friday, March 21:   ·                     Hawaiʻi LifeSmarts State Winners      CLICK HERE for the full list of awardees who will be recognized during Education Week 2025.     EDUCATION WEEK EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES AT THE CAPITOL   There will also be various events open to the public during this week.  ·                     Monday, March 17: Friends of the Library Book Fair, Conference Room 224, 8:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.  ·                     Wednesday, March 19: HSTA: Shaping ED Policy Informational Booth, 4th Floor Lanai, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.   ·                     Thursday, March 20: HI Public Education Student Showcase, 4th Floor Lanai, 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.   For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.

HONOLULU – Senator Carol Fukunaga (Senate District 11 – Mānoa, Makiki/Punchbowl, Tantalus, and Papakōlea) is sponsoring a community forum alongside fellow area legislators Representative Della Au Belatti (House District 26 – Makiki, Punchbowl) and Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos-Tam (City Council District 6 – portions of Kakaʻako, Downtown Honolulu, Chinatown, Punchbowl, Papakōlea, Pauoa Valley, Nuʻuanu, Iwilei, Liliha, ʻĀlewa Heights, Kalihi, and Kalihi Valley) to discuss the potential impact of federal funding cuts on local services and resources, along with critical topics such as condo insurance, little fire ants, fireworks, schools, and public safety.     MAKIKI-PUNCHBOWL-PAPAKŌLEA COMMUNITY FORUM   Tuesday, March 18, 2025   6:00-7:30 p.m.   Stevenson Middle School Cafeteria   1202 Prospect Street, Honolulu, HI 96822     "As we face potential federal funding cuts, the reality is that essential local programs and services that our communities rely on every day could be severely impacted," said Senator Fukunaga.     Representative Belatti pointed out that cancellation of the Local Food for Schools program would compound Hawaiʻi’s food insecurity issues and stated, “this is especially true in Title I schools where school meals for low-income students might be their only reliable source of nutrition each day.”     Councilmember Dos Santos agreed and stated that, “this forum will be an opportunity to hear from residents, understand their concerns, and work together to find ways to protect the resources that support our families and neighborhoods."      Members of the public are encouraged to ask questions and engage in meaningful dialogue with the legislators. They will also receive updates on pending legislation in the Hawaiʻi State Legislature and at the Honolulu City Council.      For more information, please contact 808.586.6460.    For a PDF version of the event flyer, CLICK HERE. CLICK HERE for a PDF version of this news release.

HONOLULU – Senator Sharon Y. Moriwaki (Senate District 12 – Waikīkī, Ala Moana, Kaka‘ako, McCully) and Representative Adrian K. Tam (House District 24 – Waikīkī) issued a joint statement today addressing the recent shooting that happened in Waikīkī on Sunday night:    “We are deeply disturbed by the recent shooting in Waikīkī, which, while thankfully did not result in any loss of life, caused disruption to local businesses and the safety of both our residents and visitors alike. This act of violence is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.  We stand in solidarity with our local law enforcement and other community leaders to take action against such violence and to support the recovery of those affected. Our focus will be on protecting the safety of our neighborhoods and making sure that incidents like this do not undermine the sense of security and unity in our community.” For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.

HONOLULU – Senator Herbert M. “Tim” Richards, III (Senate District 4 – North Hilo, Hāmākua, Kohala, Waimea, Waikoloa, North Kona), fellow elected officials, the Big Island Invasive Species Committee (BIISC), and other state agencies will gather in a virtual community meeting to address the growing threat of the coconut rhinoceros beetle (CRB), an invasive species damaging coconut palms and other plants. The meeting aims to raise awareness of CRB detection and promote the importance of signing up for free backyard surveys.   Meeting Details:   Virtual Community Meeting on Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle (CRB)   Wednesday, April 2, 2025   6:00 p.m. HST   Zoom link (REGISTRATION REQUIRED): https://senate-capitol-hawaii-gov.zoom.us/meeting/register/azqsJhUfSquW65dK2JBBXQ   "The coconut rhinoceros beetle poses a serious risk to our environment and economy," said Senator Richards. "Our goal with this community meeting is to strengthen our response to protect our state's agriculture."   Senator Richards will be joined by the following legislators:   Senator Dru Mamo Kanuha (Senate District 3 – Kona, Ka‘ū, Volcano) Representative Kirstin Kahaloa (House District 6  Hōnaunau, Nāpō‘opo‘o, Captain Cook, Kealakekua, Keauhou, Hōlualoa, Kailua-Kona) Representative Nicole E. Lowen (House District 7 – Kailua-Kona, Honokōhau, Kalaoa, Pu‘uanahulu, Puakō, portion of Waikoloa) 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) Along with BIISC, representatives from the Hawai‘i Department of Transportation (DOT)/Biosecurity, Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR)/Invasive Species, the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources (CTAHR), and the Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture (HDOA) will also be in attendance. The public is invited to tune in to the discussion.   For more information on the virtual meeting, call 808.586.6760. For a PDF version of the flyer, CLICK HERE. CLICK HERE for a PDF version of this news release.

HONOLULU – Art at the Capitol is back, presenting an opportunity for the community to discover historical and contemporary artwork within the Hawaiʻi State Capitol. This free, public event is a collaboration between the Hawaiʻi State Legislature and the Hawaiʻi State Foundation on Culture and the Arts (SFCA)’s ‘Arts in Public Places’ program.    This year’s theme, ‘Kālena, the Talent of Hawai‘i,’ invites the community to explore the building’s halls and over 40 Capitol offices including the Offices of the Governor and Lieutenant Governor and the Public Access Room, each showcasing unique and inspiring local artwork. Art at the Capitol will also celebrate creativity with the return of the Legislative Talent Show, in which elected officials and legislative staff will take to the stage to showcase their talents. Attendees can enjoy delicious offerings from local food vendors throughout the event.    Event details:   16th Annual Art at the Capitol   Theme:  Kālena, the Talent of Hawai‘i   Friday, April 11, 2025  4:00 p.m.–7:30 p.m.   Hawaiʻi State Capitol  415 S. Beretania St., Honolulu, HI 96813    Schedule of Events (subject to change)  4:00 p.m. – Opening Remarks (Rotunda)   4:25 p.m. – Performances (Rotunda, Governor’s Office, Lieutenant Governor’s Office) 6:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. - Self-guided tours (various offices)    6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. - Legislative Talent Show (Auditorium - Chamber level)       “Art has the incredible ability to unite, inspire, and reflect the values of our community,” said Representative Jeanné Kapela (House District 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). “‘Art at the Capitol’ is a wonderful opportunity to showcase the diverse talents of local artists and provide visitors a chance to experience creativity within the heart of our government. It’s a reminder that art is not just confined to galleries – it’s part of our everyday lives, shaping the spaces where decisions are made.”    “As lawmakers, we often discuss policy and legislation, but art gives us a chance to connect with the people we represent on a deeper, more personal level,” stated Senator Chris Lee (Senate District 25 – Kailua, Waimānalo, Hawai‘i Kai). “‘Art at the Capitol’ celebrates the rich creativity of our state and offers a unique platform for local artists to share their work. This event highlights the importance of art in both public spaces and public dialogue.”    Capitol Security Measures   Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to allow extra time to go through security checkpoints and metal detection screening. There are three entry points: Two at street level (elevator Cores 1 and 3) which are located at the Diamond Head makai and ʻEwa mauka corners of the State Capitol Rotunda, and one at the main basement entrance. A photo ID is required to enter the building.      Transportation & Parking   Limited paid public parking is available at the Capitol, with the entrance via Miller Street off Punchbowl. Additional public parking is available at nearby lots including the Ali‘i Place building, Kalanimōkū Building, Kīna‘u Hale/Department of Health, Honolulu City Municipal Parking, and metered street parking in the area. Residents are also encouraged to carpool, use public transportation such as TheBus, or consider Biki Bikeshare as an eco-friendly alternative.    For a PDF version of the event flyer, CLICK HERE.   For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.

HONOLULU, HI – In a bold move aimed at holding President Donald Trump and his administration accountable for actions that have defied the United States Constitution, Senator Karl Rhoads (District 13 – Dowsett Highlands, Pu‘unui, Nu‘uanu, Pacific Heights, Pauoa, Punchbowl, Pālama, Liliha, Iwilei, Chinatown, and Downtown), chair of the Hawaiʻi State Senate Judiciary Committee, has introduced a resolution urging the President and all members of current and future administrations to abide by the laws of the United States, particularly by complying with orders issued by U.S. courts.    SCR 158, Proposed SD1  emphasizes that under Article II of the U.S. Constitution, the President is required to “take care that the laws be faithfully executed,” and that all citizens, including the President, must follow the nation’s laws. Senator Rhoads called attention to numerous instances when President Trump and his administration openly defied lawful court orders, including those involving the freezing of federal funds, the suspension of refugee admissions, and deportation actions contrary to judicial directives – actions that have adversely impacted Hawaiʻi’s communities.    “The President and his administration must respect the judiciary and abide by the law,” said Senator Rhoads. “Some seem to believe that burning down the federal government will make America a better place. There are plenty of examples of countries without functioning governments and people flee these countries and try to come to the United States.”    The resolution cites remarks from prominent Republican leaders, including U.S. Senators Josh Hawley (MO), Lisa Murkowski (AK), and Chuck Grassley (IA), who have also called for adherence to court decisions. Additionally, legal experts and members of the federal judiciary have stressed the importance of compliance with federal court orders, noting that failure to do so endangers the constitutional system of checks and balances.    The proposed resolution is in line with the efforts of Hawai‘i’s Attorney General Anne E. Lopez, who along with other attorneys general across the country have been actively involved in challenging the current administration’s unconstitutional actions through the courts, to uphold the separation of powers and the independence of the judiciary.    The resolution will be transmitted to the President of the United States, the President Pro Tempore of the U.S. Senate, the Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, and the Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.    CLICK HERE to read the resolution.   CLICK HERE for a PDF version of this news release.

HONOLULU  – Senate Vice President Michelle N. Kidani (District 18 – Mililani Town, Waipi‘o Gentry, Crestview, Waikele, portion of Waipahu, Village Park, Royal Kunia) today announced the release of $1.5 million in funding for telecommunications improvements at Mililani Uka Elementary School. This Capital Improvement Project (CIP) will support the design, construction, and renovation of essential telecom infrastructure, so the school remains equipped with modern technology. “I thank the Senate Committee on Ways and Means (WAM) and Governor Josh Green for the $1.5 million investment that will enhance the learning environment for students and staff,” said Senator Kidani, who chairs the Senate Committee on Education (EDU). “By improving school infrastructure, we are investing in the future of our keiki and building a stronger, more connected Hawai‘i.” This project is a part of Senator Kidani’s ongoing efforts to improve public schools and support communities. For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.

HONOLULU  – A measure to strengthen legal protections for survivors of domestic violence has cleared its final hurdle in the Hawai‘i State Legislature. Senate Bill 295 , championed by Senator Joy A. San Buenaventura (Senate District 2 – Puna), Representative Darius K. Kila (House District 44 – Honokai Hale, Nānākuli, Mā‘ili) and Representative Rachele F. Lamosao (House District 36 – Waipahu), was passed out of conference committee last week.    “This bill ensures that violations of protective orders are taken seriously and that survivors have stronger protections under the law,” said Senator San Buenaventura. “It closes legal gaps and sends a clear message that domestic abuse will not be tolerated.”    The bill increases penalties for individuals who violate temporary restraining orders (TROs) and orders for protection (OFPs), while ensuring that courts consider a defendant’s ability to pay when imposing fines. It also clarifies how repeat offenses are handled under the law.    “SB 295 strengthens the legal tools available to protect survivors and hold repeat offenders accountable,” said Representative Kila. “It reflects the community’s call for safer and more responsive laws. This legislation was worked on during the interim with our community partners and I am grateful that the Legislature recognized the urgency in passing it into law this session.”    Representative Lamosao stated, “Survivors deserve a system that supports and protects them and their families. This bill is an important step toward ensuring our laws are clear, compassionate, and effective. I want to thank House Vice Speaker Linda Ichiyama and Representative Darius K. Kila for championing this legislation, and the advocates who helped shape it, including Monique Ibarra from the Domestic Violence Action Center, Angelina Mercado from the Hawai‘i State Coalition Against Domestic Violence, and Lucita Ani-Nihoa, Theresa Cachuela’s mom — for their guidance and support.”    SB295 will be transmitted to the Governor for final consideration.  For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.

HONOLULU  – This afternoon, the Hawai‘i State Senate and House of Representatives approved HB 300 CD1 , the state’s biennium budget bill for fiscal years 2026 and 2027. The measure, which appropriates nearly $40 billion across all means of financing, was finalized in a joint conference committee after both chambers initially passed different versions. The bill will now be up for final reading in both chambers before heading to the Governor's desk for his signature.    The appropriations are as follows:    General Fund   Fiscal Year 2026: $10.59 billion  Fiscal Year 2027: $10.64 billion    All Means of Financing   Fiscal Year 2026: $19.94 billion  Fiscal Year 2027: $19.76 billion    “This budget shows what we can accomplish when we work together,” said Senate Committee on Ways and Means (WAM) Chair Donovan Dela Cruz (Senate District 17 - Portion of Mililani, Mililani Mauka, portion of Waipi‘o Acres, Launani Valley, Wahiawā, Whitmore Village). “Mahalo to House Finance Chair Yamashita and the Finance Committee for their collaboration in developing this conference draft. Of course, mahalo to Senate President Kouchi, our subject matter committee Chairs, and Vice Chair Moriwaki for their close collaboration throughout the entire session. From expanding core programs for vulnerable populations to supporting regional economic development that builds long-term resilience, we’ve worked hard to make sure our decisions today strengthen Hawaiʻi’s foundation for tomorrow. Whether it's food security, access to healthcare, or helping small businesses grow, this budget is about making sure every part of our state has the opportunity to thrive.”    “The CIP budget focuses on essentials – health and safety, compliance, infrastructure, maintenance and modernization of state assets; and on the state’s priorities to build affordable housing and infrastructure, support education and workforce development, economic development and diversification, including innovative agricultural production, and environmental sustainability,” stated WAM Vice Chair Sharon Y. Moriwaki (Senate District 12 - Waikīkī, Ala Moana, Kaka‘ako, McCully).    “The House and Senate have reached consensus on a responsible and forward-thinking budget – one that strengthens our safety net and core programs. This budget addresses the critical needs of our communities, including housing, agriculture, natural resources, transportation, public safety, and economic development. It sets a strong foundation as we move into the interim and continue to assess federal impacts on our state,” said House Finance Committee (FIN) Chair Kyle T. Yamashita ( House District 12 - Upcountry Maui).     House Finance Capital Improvement Projects Chair Lisa Kitagawa (House District 48 - Kāne‘ohe, ‘Āhuimanu, Kahalu‘u, Waiāhole, Ka‘a‘awa) stated, “We’re pleased to share that this biennial CIP budget reflects our commitment to uplifting our communities. It prioritizes the health and safety of our residents, expands access to affordable housing across the state, and invests in education to support the future of our keiki.”    REVISED CLICK HERE FOR HB 300 CD1 HIGHLIGHTS   CLICK HERE FOR CIP BUDGET HIGHLIGHTS   For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.

HONOLULU – Senate President Ronald D. Kouchi (District 8 – Kauaʻi, Niʻihau) today issued the following statement on the passing of former House Representative Gene Ward:     “Hawai ʻ i has lost a great public servant with the passing of Representative Gene Ward. In the words of Martin Luther King, Jr., ‘everyone can be great, because everyone can serve.’  Representative Ward dedicated his life to public service and in doing so displayed his greatness.  My thoughts and prayers go out to his ʻ ohana and close friends and hope they may find comfort and support in this difficult time.” For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.