HONOLULU - The public is invited to participate in a virtual town hall on Friday, June 12, to discuss Hawaiʻi’s newly enacted Act 11 (SB 2471), a landmark campaign finance law that limits the political spending power of corporations and other artificial entities. The discussion will explore the legislation, its legal framework, implementation timeline, and its implications for elections and campaign finance in Hawaiʻi. “SB 2471 is a landmark change to our campaign finance system and is the first bill of its kind in the nation to directly challenge the notorious Citizens United ruling,” said Jarrett Keohokalole, Senate Commerce and Consumer Protection Committee Chair. "We encourage everyone to join the discussion, ask questions, and engage in a thoughtful conversation about the future of campaign finance and elections in our state." "Our democracy works best when the public has confidence that elections are driven by the voices of people, not the financial power of artificial entities," said Senate Judiciary Committee Chair Karl Rhoads, who was the lead introducer of the bill. "Act 11 represents a significant step in addressing the influence of corporate money in politics, and this town hall will give residents an opportunity to better understand the law, its legal foundations, and its potential impact on the future of elections in Hawaiʻi. An informed public is essential to preserving a fair, transparent, and accountable democratic process." WHO: Tom Moore, Center for American Progress Senator Jarrett Keohokalole, Chair of the Senate Commerce and Consumer Protection Committee Senator Karl Rhoads, Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee WHAT: Virtual Town Hall: Understanding Act 11 and Hawaiʻi’s New Approach to Corporate Political Spending WHEN: Friday, June 12, 2026 10:00-11:30 a.m. HST WHERE: Virtual Event. Registration is required. To register, click here. WHY: Act 11 reaffirms that corporations and other artificial entities possess only those powers granted by the State and specifies that those powers do not include spending money or contributing anything of value to influence elections or ballot measures. The town hall will provide an opportunity for community members to learn more about the law, hear from legislative leaders and policy experts, and ask questions about its potential impact on Hawaiʻi's democratic process and its role in addressing the outsized influence of corporate money in politics. ###

HILO, HAWAIʻI — Senator Lorraine R. Inouye (District 1 – Hilo, Paukaʻa, Papaikou, Pepeʻekeo) announced the release of $4 million in Capital Improvement Program (CIP) funding by Governor Josh Green for the design of T-Hangar and West Ramp improvements at Hilo International Airport. The funding will support planning and design work to improve airport infrastructure serving East Hawaiʻi, helping strengthen aviation operations and support future growth and modernization efforts at Hilo International Airport. “I’d like to mahalo Governor Green for recognizing the importance of investing in infrastructure that supports Hawaiʻi Island’s communities and economy,” said Senator Inouye. “Hilo International Airport serves as an important gateway for residents, visitors, local businesses, and our broader East Hawaiʻi community. These improvements will help modernize airport facilities and support future growth for our island.” The project provides funding for the design phase of planned improvements to the airport’s T-Hangars and West Ramp facilities at Hilo International Airport, which will help modernize airport infrastructure and support future operational needs at the airport. ###

HILO, HAWAIʻI - State Senator Lorraine R. Inouye (District 1 – Hilo, Paukaʻa, Papaikou, Pepeʻekeo) today announced that Governor Josh Green has released $500,000 in general obligation bond funds for a Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Grant-in-Aid (GIA) project supporting improvements to Goodwill Industries of Hawaiʻi’s Hilo campus. The funding will support construction and refurbishment efforts for Goodwill’s newly acquired Hilo campus to bring the facility up to code and expand its operational capacity to better serve the East Hawaiʻi community. Mahalo Governor Green for recognizing the importance of investing in organizations that directly support Hawaiʻi’s families and workforce,” said Senator Inouye. “Goodwill Industries of Hawaiʻi provides valuable job training, educational opportunities, and community services that help empower individuals across East Hawaiʻi. These improvements will strengthen their ability to expand programs and continue making a positive impact in our community.” The project qualifies as a grant pursuant to Chapter 42F, Hawaiʻi Revised Statutes, and reflects the state’s continued commitment to supporting nonprofit organizations that provide meaningful community services and resources throughout Hawaiʻi. ###

Kauaʻi, Hawaiʻi - The Kauaʻi Legislative Delegation is celebrating the successful inclusion of major investments for the island in the state’s Executive Budget, HB1800, for Fiscal Year 2027 following the 2026 Legislative Session. The delegation, consisting of Senate President Ronald D. Kouchi, Speaker Nadine K. Nakamura, House Majority Floor Leader Dee Morikawa, and Representative Luke A. Evslin worked collaboratively throughout the session to secure funding to support critical infrastructure, strengthen public services, protect natural resources, and improve the quality of life for communities across Kauaʻi. “Your Kauaʻi Senate and House legislative delegation worked as a cohesive unit to appropriate funds necessary to address infrastructure needs, environmental issues, and community grants for all Garden Island residents.” said Senate President Ronald D. Kouchi (Senate District 8 – Kaua‘i, Ni‘ihau). House Speaker Nadine K. Nakamura (House District 15 – Hā‘ena, Wainiha, Hanalei, Princeville, Kīlauea, Anahola, Keālia, Kapa‘a, portion of Wailua, Kawaihau) said, “This funding reflects the Kauaʻi Delegation’s continued commitment to building a more resilient and sustainable future for the island through targeted capital improvement projects, environmental initiatives, and community-based grants." Notable highlights include: Capital Improvement Projects: $16,600,000 for Samuel Mahelona Memorial Hospital $3,000,000 for Lima Ola and Kaumualiʻi Highway $1,000,000 for Kapaʻa High School Track and Field Department of Health $4,100,000 for Līhuʻe Health Center, Laboratory Improvements Department of Land and Natural Resources $350,000 for Kīlauea Radio Repeater $8,000,000 for West Kaua‘i Baseyard $1,000,000 for West Kaua‘i DLNR Resources Offices $3,000,000 for Nounou mountain, Wailua Hawaiʻi Health Systems Corporation Kauaʻi Region $12,500,000 for design, construction, and equipment for the Kauaʻi region of the HHSC for improvements and renovations including new facilities, renovations, expansion, and/or replacement of facilities; ground and site improvements; equipment and appurtenances Kaumuali'i Highway - Lihu'e to West of Maluhia Rd $5,400,000 (Revenue Bond Funds) and $21,600,000 (Federal Funds) for land acquisition, design, and construction for widening of Kaumualiʻi Highway from two to four lanes. This project is deemed necessary to qualify for federal aid financing and/or reimbursement. Lihu'e Airport Improvements $8,096,000 (Revenue Bond Funds) and $4,600000 (Federal Funds) for design and construction for improvements to terminals, systems, and facilities at the airport. This project is deemed necessary to qualify for federal aid financing and/or reimbursement. Kaua‘i Community College $10,000,000 for plans, design, and construction for student, faculty/staff, and workforce housing; equipment and appurtenances $3,000,000 for design and construction for Department of Hawaiian Home Lands lot development in Hanapēpē. Nawiliwili Harbor Improvements $4,000,000 (Federal Funds) and $4,000,000 (Private Contributions) for Harbor Improvements. Green Fee Projects: $10,886,000 for Water Systems Safety and Preparedness for West Kaua‘i. $250,000 for Kaua‘i flood notification. $500,000 for Kaua‘i coral restoration program. $353,653 for threatened and endangered seabird colony management and recovery on Kauai. $500,000 for Mobility Hub: Kaua‘i Wailua. $250,000 for Kuia and Honopū Trail. $700,000 for state parks cesspool upgrade at Kokeʻe State Park and Waimea Canyon State Park. 2027 CIP Grants-in-Aid Funding: Anaina Hou Community Park, Kīlauea. $350,000 to construct code compliant on-site water storage tank for fire suppression and continued legal operation. Hawai‘i VA Foundation $100,000 in operational funding expands Our Kūpuna's local volunteer network on Kaua‘i to support kupuna while strengthening Hawai‘i's community health workforce. Homestead Community Development Corporation, Kekaha $150,000 to purchase and install a photovoltaic solar energy system at the HCDC-owned and operated West Kaua‘i Enterprise Center. I Ola Wailuanui $80,000 to support capital improvements and restoration work at the heiau to preserve, rehabilitate, and enhance the site for cultural, educational, and community use. Kaua‘i Economic Development Board, Hanapēpē $300,000 for re-roofing of Zenshuji Hall located in West Kauaʻi. Kaua‘i Planning and Action Alliance $150,000 to support two Kauai youth and family resilience events providing workshops on financial literacy, homeownership, career pathways, wellness, food sustainability, and trade education through partnerships with local nonprofits and schools. Keala Foundation $250,000 to provide services that improve youth physical and mental health programs. Kūkulu Kumuhana O Anahola $200,000 to improve the mental health and food security of residents and underserved communities. Language of Kaua‘i Inc, Puhi $100,000 to design and construct covered outdoor pavilion at Kawaikini New Century Public Charter School. ‘Ohana Pacific Foundation $160,000 to support operational costs for Kauaʻi’s only adult day health program, providing social activities, meals, personal care, and caregiver respite services for kupuna regardless of ability to pay. Project Vision Hawai‘i $150,000 to expand free and low-cost dental healthcare services for underserved Hawaiʻi residents through school-based screenings, mobile outreach, restorative care programs for vulnerable women, and clinic-based dental treatment for low-income patients. The Waipā Foundation $130,000 to strengthen local food production networks. YMCA Kauai, Hanalei $65,000 in Operating Funds. $250,000 for YMCA Camp Naue infrastructure renovations and upgrades House Majority Floor Leader Dee Morikawa (House District 17– Ni‘ihau, portion of ‘Ōma‘o, Kōloa, Po‘ipū, Lāwa‘i, Kalāheo, Ele‘ele, Hanapēpē, Kaawanui Village, Pākalā Village, Waimea, Kekaha) emphasized, “We are grateful to secure funding that will make meaningful investments in Kauaʻi’s communities and support the long-term well-being of our island home.” Representative Luke A. Evslin (D-16, Wailua, Hanamā‘ulu, Kapaia, Līhu‘e, Puhi, portion of ‘Ōma‘o) said, "This budget reflects our delegation’s commitment to protecting Kaua’i’s natural resources and investing in the health of our communities." The state budget bill has been sent to the Governor for his consideration to be signed into law. ###

HILO, HAWAIʻI - Senator Lorraine R. Inouye (District 1 – Hilo, Paukaʻa, Papaikou, Pepeʻekeo) announced the release of $200,000 in general obligation bond funds from Governor Josh Green for a Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Grant-in-Aid (GIA) project supporting the restoration of the East Hawaiʻi Cultural Center. The funding will support plans and construction for restoration improvements to the East Hawaiʻi Cultural Center, a longstanding community space dedicated to arts, culture, education, and public programming in Hilo. “I want to thank Governor Green and his administration for recognizing the importance of investing in community and cultural spaces that serve East Hawaiʻi,” said Senator Inouye. “The East Hawaiʻi Cultural Center has played a meaningful role in supporting local artists, preserving culture, and bringing our community together for generations. These funds will help ensure the center can continue serving residents and visitors for years to come.” The project qualifies as a grant pursuant to Chapter 42F, Hawaiʻi Revised Statutes, and reflects the state’s continued investment in preserving community resources and strengthening Hawaiʻi’s cultural infrastructure.

HONOLULU - Governor Josh Green today signed Senate Bill 2471 SD2 HD2 CD2 now Act 011 into law, establishing new restrictions on political spending activities by corporations and other “artificial persons” organized under Hawai’i law by redefining and limiting the powers granted to those entities. Act 011 clarifies that artificial entities created under state law possess only those powers necessary or convenient to carry out their lawful business or organizational purposes. The law specifies that those powers do not include spending money or contributing anything of value to influence elections or ballot measures. “The foundation of our democracy is that political power belongs to the people,” said Senator Jarrett Keohokalole (District 24 – Kāneʻohe, Kailua), Chair of the Senate Commerce and Consumer Protection Committee. “Corporations and other artificial entities exist because the State grants them legal privileges, including limited liability and lucrative tax benefits that individuals cannot claim. Act 011 clarifies that those privileges do not include the power to spend corporate money to influence our elections.” Political action committees will remain governed by existing campaign finance laws within the state, but they will not be able to spend any money received from corporations as a result of this Act. This new law is intended to strengthen transparency, reduce the influence of corporate money in elections, and help restore public trust in Hawaiʻi’s democratic process. Act 011 applies to a range of entities organized or authorized to do business under Hawaiʻi law, including corporations, nonprofit corporations, limited liability companies, limited partnerships, limited liability partnerships, and certain associations. It also authorizes the Attorney General and the Director of Commerce and Consumer Affairs to impose penalties or bring enforcement actions for violations. “This bill does not regulate the rights of natural persons to speak, petition, or associate,” Keohokalole added. “It simply defines the powers that the State grants to artificial entities and makes clear that participation in election activity and ballot-issue activity is not among them.” Act 011 takes effect July 1, 2027. ###

HONOLULU, HAWAI'I - The Hawaiʻi State Senate today passed Senate Bill 2471, CD2, a measure that clarifies the powers granted to corporations and other artificial legal entities under state law, particularly with respect to political spending in elections and ballot measures. SB2471 CD2 reaffirms that artificial persons created under state law possess only those powers necessary or convenient to carry out their lawful business or organizational purposes. The measure makes clear that those powers do not include the ability to spend money or contribute anything of value to influence elections or ballot measures. “The foundation of our democracy is that political power belongs to the people,” said Senator Jarrett Keohokalole (District 24 – Kāneʻohe, Kailua), Chair of the Senate Commerce and Consumer Protection Committee. “Corporations and other artificial entities exist because the State grants them legal privileges, including limited liability and lucrative tax benefits that individuals cannot claim. SB2471 clarifies that those privileges do not include the power to spend corporate money to influence our elections.” The measure applies to a range of entities organized or authorized to do business under Hawaiʻi law, including corporations, nonprofit corporations, limited liability companies, limited partnerships, limited liability partnerships, and certain associations. It also authorizes the Attorney General and the Director of Commerce and Consumer Affairs to impose penalties or bring enforcement actions for violations. “This bill does not regulate the rights of natural persons to speak, petition, or associate,” Keohokalole added. “It simply defines the powers that the State grants to artificial entities and makes clear that participation in election activity and ballot-issue activity is not among them.” SB2471 CD2 will now be transmitted to the Governor for consideration.

HONOLULU, HAWAI'I - The Hawaiʻi State Legislature today gave final approval to Senate Bill 3001, CD1, the Artificial Intelligence Disclosure and Safety Act, landmark legislation establishing some of the nation’s first consumer protections and transparency requirements for conversational artificial intelligence services, particularly for minors and individuals seeking mental health or crisis support. SB3001 CD1 requires operators of conversational artificial intelligence platforms to clearly disclose when users are interacting with artificial intelligence rather than a human. Additional safeguards are established for minors, including protections against manipulative engagement techniques and sexually explicit content. Operators must also provide tools for parents and guardians to manage screen time and account settings. The bill also requires operators to implement protocols that respond appropriately to users expressing suicidal ideation or self-harm by directing them toward crisis intervention resources such as suicide hotlines and crisis text lines. “This legislation is about ensuring that as artificial intelligence becomes more integrated into everyday life, basic protections remain in place for the people using these systems—especially our young people,” said Senator Jarrett Keohokalole, Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce and Consumer Protection. “AI technology is evolving rapidly, and Hawaiʻi has an opportunity to lead with thoughtful, balanced policy that prioritizes transparency, accountability, and public safety while still allowing innovation to move forward.” “What sets Hawaiʻi’s bill apart is that, unlike laws passed in some other states, it does not create broad carveouts for certain AI products or platforms. In many cases, some of the AI tools most widely used by children are exempted from oversight before protections even begin,” said Representative Trish La Chica, Vice Chair of the House Committee on Education. “This bill represents an important first step toward applying meaningful safeguards to AI systems designed to build ongoing relationships with users. Hawaiʻi is joining a growing national movement that sends a clear message: innovation should not come at the expense of the safety and well-being of our children.” Beginning January 1, 2028, operators will also be required to submit annual reports to the Department of Health outlining crisis intervention referral activity and protocols used to address suicidal ideation and harmful interactions. Violations of the measure will be treated as unfair or deceptive acts or practices under state law and may be enforced by the Department of the Attorney General and the Office of Consumer Protection. SB3001 CD1 now advances to the Governor for consideration.

HONOLULU - State lawmakers today reached agreement in conference committee on Senate Bill 2580, SD2, HD1, CD1, relating to the Motion Picture, Digital Media, and Film Production Income Tax Credit, a measure championed by Senate Economic Development and Tourism Committee Chair Lynn DeCoite. The measure strengthens and modernizes Hawaiʻi’s film tax credit program to support local jobs, attract major productions, and ensure the state remains competitive in a rapidly evolving global entertainment industry. “Film and television production today is not just a creative industry—it’s a globally competitive, mobile economic sector,” said Senator DeCoite (Senate District 7 – Hāna, East and Upcountry Maui, Moloka‘i, Lāna‘i, Kaho‘olawe and Molokini). “With over 90 countries and many states offering aggressive incentives, we are in an incentives and infrastructure arms race, and Hawaiʻi cannot afford to fall behind. This measure is a necessary recalibration to that reality.” The conference agreement includes a 5-percent incentive boost for productions that hire at least 80-percent local workers, increasing the credit to 27-percent on Oʻahu and 32-percent in neighbor island counties. The change is intended to drive local hiring, increase paychecks for Hawaiʻi residents, and strengthen the state’s workforce. The bill also introduces new accountability measures by requiring taxpayers claiming the credit to submit an independent third-party certification verifying qualified production costs, local hires, and other reporting requirements to the Hawaiʻi State Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. Additionally, the measure: Raises the per-production cap from $17 million to $20 million and increases the overall annual cap to $60 million, encouraging large-scale productions while maintaining fiscal responsibility; Provides a GET exemption for payroll through loan-out companies, making it easier to employ local crews; Expands eligibility to include certain streaming platform productions, reflecting modern industry trends; and Extends the sunset date of the tax credit program to January 1, 2038, providing long-term certainty for the industry. “This is a jobs bill for our local people,” Senator DeCoite added. “Incentives are the entry point—once productions choose Hawaiʻi, our infrastructure, workforce, and small businesses can grow alongside them.” During conference committee, Senator DeCoite expressed her appreciation to Governor Josh Green, House and Senate leadership, the conference committee members, the respective money committee chairs, House Majority Leader Rep. Sean Quinlan, and Director James Tokioka and the team at the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism for their collaboration and hard work in advancing the measure. Senate Bill 2580, SD2, HD1, CD1, now advances to final readings in both chambers before being sent to the Governor for his signature. ###

HONOLULU - The Hawaiʻi State Senate and House of Representatives today approved House Bill No. 1800 CD1, the state’s supplemental budget bill for fiscal biennium 2025-2027. The measure 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: $10.42 billion Fiscal Year 2027: $10.63 billion All Means of Financing Fiscal Year 2026: $19.77 billion Fiscal Year 2027: $20.31 billion “We are proud to pass a budget that puts Hawaiʻi’s working families front and center,” said Senator Donovan M. Dela Cruz, Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means (Senate District 17 - Portion of Mililani, Mililani Mauka, portion of Waipi‘o Acres, Launani Valley, Wahiawā, Whitmore Village). “This budget uses cost-saving measures to help keep our promise to address the high cost of living and deliver meaningful tax reform to Hawaii's citizens, especially our working- and middle-class families. At the same time, we are strengthening the State's resilience through responsible long-term investments that promote regional economic development and environmental stewardship. Mahalo to my legislative colleagues, Governor Green and his administration for working together to protect these tax cuts and ensure every community can move forward.” “The CIP budget reflects our commitment to protecting health and safety, preserving and modernizing state facilities, and investing in the critical infrastructure and public assets our communities rely on. These investments also support affordable housing, strengthen education, and advance economic development that will help sustain thriving communities across Hawai‘i,” stated Senator Sharon Y. Moriwaki, Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means (Senate District 12 - Waikīkī, Ala Moana, Kaka‘ako, McCully). “This budget reflects the House’s continued collaboration with the Administration and the Senate to take a balanced, responsible approach to preserving core government services and strengthening our safety net for Hawaiʻi’s residents—especially those who rely on these services as a lifeline,” said Representative Chris Todd, Chair of the House Committee on Finance (House District 3 – portions of Hilo, Keaukaha, Orchidlands Estate, Ainaloa, Hawaiian Acres, Fern Acres, and parts of Kurtistown and Kea‘au). “It prioritizes critical needs across housing, agriculture, natural resources, transportation, public safety, and economic development, setting a strong foundation as we respond to federal funding cuts that have impacted Hawaiʻi and required the state to urgently step up to support our residents.” Representative Lisa Kitagawa, Capital Improvements Projects Manager of the House Committee on Finance (House District 48 - Kāne‘ohe, ‘Āhuimanu, Kahalu‘u, Waiāhole, Ka‘a‘awa) stated, “The Legislature made significant investments in projects across the state, advancing priorities such as affordable housing, public safety, and education. By strengthening school facilities and funding education for preschool through college, we are supporting the next generation and ensuring Hawaiʻi is better prepared to withstand future challenges.” Click Here for HB 1800 CD1 Operating and CIP Highlights Click here to view photos from the Budget Conference Committee A PDF version of the news release can be found here.

HONOLULU - The Hawaiʻi State Senate today confirmed the appointment of Vladimir P. Devens as Chief Justice of the Hawaiʻi State Supreme Court for a term to expire in ten years. Justice Devens, who has served as an Associate Justice on the Hawaiʻi Supreme Court since January 12, 2024, brings more than three decades of legal experience to the role. Prior to his appointment to the high court, he spent over 30 years in private practice, focusing on civil litigation across a wide range of legal areas. The Senate Committee on Judiciary reviewed Justice Devens’ qualifications, experience, and testimony submitted in support and opposition to his nomination. The Committee received broad support from government agencies, labor organizations, legal associations, and community members. The Hawaiʻi State Bar Association also found Justice Devens to be qualified based on established criteria, including integrity, legal ability, and professional experience. In its report, the Committee noted Justice Devens’ extensive legal background, commitment to public service, and active involvement in judiciary-related initiatives, including access to justice efforts and emerging issues such as artificial intelligence in the courts. “Justice Devens has demonstrated the legal expertise, dedication, and temperament necessary to serve as Chief Justice,” said Senate Judiciary Vice-Chair Mike Gabbard. “His experience on the bench and throughout his legal career will help guide Hawaiʻi’s judiciary with fairness, stability and a commitment to the rule of law.” During his tenure as Associate Justice, Devens has contributed to numerous court opinions and has served on several key committees, including as Co-Chair of the Committee on Artificial Intelligence and the Courts. His prior service also includes leadership roles within the Hawaiʻi State Bar Association and extensive community involvement, including mentoring youth. Justice Devens’ appointment ensures continuity in leadership for the Hawaiʻi State Judiciary as the court continues its work serving the people of Hawaiʻi.

HONOLULU - The Hawaiʻi State Legislature reached an agreement on Senate Bill 3125, SD1, HD1, on Wednesday evening, April 28, 2026, ensuring that previously enacted income tax relief will remain in place for working families across the state. The final version of SB3125 SD1, HD1, CD 1 maintains the income tax cuts passed in 2024 for joint filers earning under $350,000, heads of household under $262,500, and single filers under $175,000, preserving critical financial relief for our working and middle-income households. The agreement also does not include the proposed additional 1% increase on the top three income tax brackets, helping protect many local small business owners who file as individuals and supporting Hawaiʻi’s broader economy. Federal funding cuts have created economic uncertainty, resulting in lower general fund tax revenues for the state. Lawmakers worked through conference committee negotiations to reconcile differences between the House and Senate versions of the measure. Throughout the process, the Senate remained committed to preserving income tax relief for 90% of our local families. From day one, Senate Ways and Means Committee Chair Donovan M. Dela Cruz emphasized the importance of preserving the full tax relief package. “Affordability for local families remains a top priority for the Senate. Despite federal funding cuts affecting our budget, we are standing by our commitment to the people by preserving and continuing the promised tax relief,” said Senator Donovan M. Dela Cruz, Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means (Senate District – 17, portion of Mililani, Mililani Mauka, portion of Waipiʻo Acres, Launani Valley, Wahiawā, Whitmore Village). “Preserving this tax relief means keeping our promise to Hawaiʻi’s working families. At a time when the cost of living continues to challenge so many households, maintaining these income tax cuts will help families keep more of what they earn and provide greater financial stability. I appreciate the collaboration that made this agreement possible while protecting essential services for our communities,” said Senator Sharon Y. Moriwaki, Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means (Senate District – 12, Waikīkī, Ala Moana, Kakaʻako, McCully). “Families in my district and across Hawaiʻi are feeling the pressure of higher everyday costs, from groceries to housing. Preserving this tax relief is the right decision because it puts money back into the pockets of local residents who need it most. This agreement reflects our commitment to supporting working families while maintaining a responsible path forward for the State,” said Senator Kurt Fevella (Senate District – 20, ʻEwa Beach, Ocean Pointe, ʻEwa by Gentry, Iroquois Point, portion of ʻEwa Villages). The agreement reached late this evening reflects a shared commitment to protecting local families from rising costs and ensuring the tax relief package delivers its original intent. The agreement provides the State with a strong financial base. HB1800, the State budget bill, will still need to be discussed to ensure that the State has the funding necessary to provide core services to our residents. ###