HILO, HAWAII – The Senate Committee on Ways and Means received a comprehensive update from the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations (DLIR) on the implementation of the Hele Imua program. Hele Imua is a 12-week paid internship program, aimed to address vacancies in state government positions by facilitating transitions from internship into full employment and fostering a local talent pipeline for government service. Jade Butay, Director of DLIR, along with members from the Workforce Development Division (WDD) and the Workforce Development Council (WDC) gathered at the WDD offices in Hilo for a briefing on the execution of Act 251, Session Laws of Hawaii 2025, which codified into law the public sector State Internship and Workforce Development Program and private sector On-the-Job Training Work Experience Program. Discussions focused on potential collaboration with the Department of Human Resources Development (DHRD) to address vacancies across state government jobs, the launch of the pilot program for the private sector expansion to support Hawaii’s agriculture industry , and enhancements to workforce development programs statewide. The site visit concluded with a presentation of Senate certificates for the Ka Liko Lawelawe Award, which celebrates an emerging professional from each county who exemplified exceptional promise and professionalism during their public sector internship, and the Hookele Award, which recognizes a host agency that has utilized Hele Imua to facilitate the recruitment for hard-to-fill and vacant positions. The Senate recognizes Hilo Benioff Medical Center, who was awarded the Hookele Award for Outstanding Host Agency and congratulates all Ka Liko Lawelawe Awardees: Kiani Aburamen          Hawaii County Justin Silva                  Maui County Angela Lindberg          City and County of Honolulu Juliet Madrid                Kauai County “Hele Imua provides meaningful workforce development opportunities statewide, which is especially important for communities in small and remote towns,” said Senator Lorraine R. Inouye  (District 1 – Hilo, Pauka‘a, Papaikou, Pepe‘ekeo), Chair of the Senate Committee on Water and Land. "I want to personally congratulate the Hilo Benioff Medical Center on their excellence in guiding and mentoring emerging professionals on their journey into public service in Hawaii." Members present Senate certificate recognizing and celebrating the Hilo Benioff Medical Center for receiving the Hookele Award for Outstanding Host Agency with the Hele Imua Program. Since becoming a host agency, the Hilo Benioff Medical Center has hosted four interns and has hired three of those interns into State positions. L-R: Senator Sharon Y. Moriwaki, Senator Samantha DeCorte, Senator Donovan M. Dela Cruz, Chief HR Officer Cecilia Trujillo, Kiani Aburamen, Senator Lorraine R. Inouye, Senator Kurt Fevella, Senator Michelle N. Kidani, Senator Lynn DeCoite, Assistant Director of HR Jordan Fickess, HR Specialist Nicole Ignacio, Senator Joy A. San Buenaventura. “I am proud honor Puna's very own, Kiani Aburamen, for being selected for the inaugural Ka Loko Lawelawe Award,” said Senator Joy A. San Buenaventura  (District 2 – Puna), Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services. "Her dedication, collaborative spirit, and unwavering work ethic make her an exemplary employee and a valued member of our community."    Members present Senate certificate recognizing and celebrating Kiani Aburamen for receiving the Ka Liko Lawelawe Award for Outstanding Intern with the Hele Imua Program. Kiani Aburamen completed her Hele Imua internship program under the supervision of Nicole Ignacio at the Hilo Benioff Medical Center. Kiani Aburamen is currently employed as an Administrative Assistant to the Chief Human Resources Officer at Hilo Benioff Medical Center L-R: WDC Executive Director Bennette Misalucha, Senator Donovan M. Dela Cruz, Parents of Kiani Aburamen, Kiani Aburamen, Senator Lorraine R. Inouye, Senator Joy A. San Buenaventura, WDD Adminstrator Maricar Pilotin-Freitas, DLIR Director Jade Butay “The Legislature recognizes that Hele Imua is more than just an internship program — it’s a bridge to careers and vehicle for regional economic development,” said Senator Donovan M. Dela Cruz (District 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. "We look forward to working with the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations to increase access to high-paying local jobs and reverse the brain-drain."   The Legislature first appropriated over $5 million in 2022 for Hele Imua pursuant to Act 248 when federal funds were no longer available for the program. Support from the Legislature continued, adding an additional $200K pursuant to Act 230 in 2024. In 2025, Act 251 appropriated an additional $1.8 million to support private sector expansion of Hele Imua.   “We are deeply thankful to the Legislature for recognizing Hele Imua’s value and stepping in to provide State funding support. With sustained backing, we can help address workforce needs across the State,” said Director Jade Butay , DLIR.   CLICK HERE for link to photo and video coverage .   For more information on Hele Imua, including an online application to express your interest in becoming an intern, visit https://labor.hawaii.gov/wdd/intern/hele-imua/ .

HONOLULU – Monday morning, 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) and the Hawaiʻi State Senate Committee on Agriculture and Environment , chaired by Senator  Mike Gabbard (Senate District 21 – Kapolei, Makakilo, Kalaeloa, Honokai Hale, portions of Fernandez Village, ‘Ewa, and Ko ʻOlina) held an informational briefing to hear from Hawaiʻi Climate Change Mitigation & Adaptation Commission Coordinator Leah Laramee  and Retired Associate Justice Michael D. Wilson (Hawaiʻi Supreme Court 2014-2024).   Presentation Slides     This briefing focused on the impact of recent federal policy changes and funding cuts and delays on Hawaiʻi’s residents and the State’s climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts.  It also discussed the legality of those federal actions.   Laramee began the presentation linking the effects of climate change with residents’ health, safety, and affordability. She warned that a multitude of actions by the current federal administration threaten progress in clean energy and, in turn, residents’ right to health, safety, and affordability. The passage of the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” (Public Law No. 119-21) in July 2025 has put around $651 million of outstanding clean energy projects in the State at risk due to the loss of federal support and programs. Several environmental and conservation focused programs face repeal of unobligated balances, including the $27 billion Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund (GGRF) program, most USDA agricultural conservation programs, ecosystem restoration programs, national parks, among others detailed in the presentation.   Laramee also noted that the State Attorney General has had to bring or join numerous climate-related legal challenges - 41 since the beginning of the year - to protect the State's clean energy, climate and environmental laws and policies.   Wilson’s presentation, titled “The Rule of Law, Civilization’s Greatest Tool to Achieve Justice, Is Under Attack in Hawaiʻi” applauded the State of Hawaiʻi for being the “bleeding front line of climate change, and the foremost champion among all states of climate rights for the future generations of our country.” He addressed the growing wave of climate-related litigation, pointing out that as of December 2022, there have been 2,180 lawsuits filed around the world relating to climate.     Hawaii’s right to bring such litigation, he noted, has been threatened by the federal government's attempts to block such litigation. Wilson emphasized the Hawaiʻi Judiciary’s role in addressing climate change, stating “We rejected the idea that the courts don’t have a duty to protect future generations, our population, from this existential threat.” Other measures taken by the State, including the state constitutional right of every person to a “clean and healthful environment” (Article XI, Section 9) and the adoption of the goals of the Paris climate agreement, provide support when the State needs to respond to inappropriate federal action.   Wilson also discussed the potential economic impacts and legal ramifications of climate change in Hawaiʻi. He noted that the loss of Waikiki Beach could result in an annual loss of $2 billion in visitor expenditures by mid-century, illustrating the profound economic risks of inaction.   Both presenters offered recommendations to strengthen Hawaiʻi’s preparedness for emerging climate threats and federal actions. Suggestions included bolstering the State’s energy programs, supporting the Department of the Attorney General in climate-related litigation efforts, and developing comprehensive plans to address not only the effects but also the root causes of climate change. Laramee emphasized the importance of embedding climate considerations in all areas of policy and budgeting, stating “The key thing is to put a climate lens on everything… the more money that we can invest in adaptation, mitigation, resilience programs, the more money we’re going to save in the long term.”   “The briefing today was a sobering reminder that climate change is not a distant or abstract issue. It directly impacts the health, safety, and economic future of Hawaiʻi residents,” said Senator Rhoads. “Our responsibility as lawmakers is to take proactive measures to protect our communities and uphold the rights of future generations to a safe and sustainable environment.  This includes challenging federal actions that are likely unlawful or infringe on matters controlled by the State.”     “Hawaiʻi remains at the front lines of climate leadership,” said Senator Gabbard. “The loss of federal funding for clean energy projects threatens much needed years of progress toward a more sustainable future. Now is the time to double down on our commitment to renewable energy, local food security, and climate adaptation to safeguard our islands.”       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. Information about past and upcoming briefings can be accessed on the Senate Judiciary Committee webpage HERE .

HILO, HAWAIʻI  – Senator Lorraine R. Inouye (District 1 – Hilo, Paukaʻa, Papaikou, Pepeʻekeo) is pleased to announce that $15,000,000 in Capital Improvement Program (CIP) funds has been released by Governor Josh Green to finance the design and construction of facility improvements at the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo.   The project, titled “Hilo, Renew, Improve, and Modernize, Hawaiʻi,” will support upgrades to university facilities to better serve students, faculty, and the wider Hawaiʻi Island community.   “I’m grateful to the Governor Green for releasing these funds to support much-needed improvements at the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo,” said Senator Lorraine R. Inouye. “Investments like this strengthen our educational infrastructure and ensure our students have access to a modern, high-quality learning environment.

Honolulu, Hawaiʻi  – Senator Sharon Y. Moriwaki and Representative Adrian K. Tam invite residents to a community town hall on Monday, November 3, to discuss key neighborhood issues including condo insurance, noise cameras, public safety, and emergency preparedness. Residents are encouraged to submit questions online in advance here .   WHO:     Senator Sharon Y. Moriwaki (D-12, Waikīkī, Ala Moana, Kaka‘ako, McCully) Representative Adrian K. Tam (D-24, Waikīkī) Hawai‘i Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Insurance Division Hawai‘i Department of Transportation Hawai‘i Department of Law Enforcement Hawai‘i Red Cross   WHAT:     Community Town Hall   WHEN:    Monday, November 3, 2025 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m   WHERE:  Jefferson Elementary School - Library 324 Kāpahulu Avenue Honolulu, HI 96815

HONOLULU  – The Hawaiʻi State Senate Committee on Judiciary (JDC) and the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Environment (AEN) are holding an informational briefing to hear from State Climate Change Coordinator Leah Laramee  and Retired Associate Justice Michael D. Wilson  on the impacts of recent federal policy changes, tariffs, and funding cuts on Hawaiʻi’s climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts.   View the Hearing Notice HERE      “The Judiciary Committee seeks a clear and informed understanding of how likely illegal federal funding cuts are impacting Hawaiʻi’s progress in addressing climate change,” said Senator Karl Rhoads  (District 13 – Dowsett Highlands, Puʻunui, Nuʻuanu, Pacific Heights, Pauoa, Punchbowl, Pālama, Liliha, Iwilei, Chinatown, and Downtown) ,  Chair of the Committee on Judiciary. “With continued uncertainty surrounding federal support every moment of inaction places the future of our homes and our vital ecosystems at greater risk.”   “This informational briefing aims to open the door to meaningful dialogue among local climate leaders and activists,” said Senator Mike Gabbard  (District 21 – Kapolei, Makakilo, Kalaeloa, Honokai Hale, portions of Fernandez Village, ‘Ewa, and Ko ʻOlina), Chair of the Committee on Agriculture and Environment. “As federal support grows increasingly uncertain, we must strengthen our advocacy for proactive policies that safeguard Hawaiʻi’s islands, natural resources, and future generations.”   AGENDA:   1.            Welcome and Introductions (10 mins)   2.            Leah Laramee, Climate Change Coordinator, Hawaiʻi Climate Change Mitigation & Adaptation Commission (15 mins) 3.            The Hon. Michael D. Wilson (Ret.), Associate Justice, Hawaiʻi Supreme Court (15 mins) 4.            Questions from the Committee (5 minutes per Member for questions and answers)   WHEN/WHERE:   10:00AM, Monday, November 3, 2025   Conference Room 016 & Videoconference    Hawaiʻi State Capitol   415 South Beretania Street   Honolulu, HI 96813     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

Honolulu, Hawaiʻi –  On Thursday, October 30, 2025, the Act 310, Session Laws of Hawaiʻi (SLH) 2025 Nonprofit Grants Program evaluation committee will conduct an informational briefing on grant applications received.   The evaluation committee established under Act 310, Session Laws of Hawaiʻi 2025 (SB 933), is currently reviewing applications for $50 million in nonprofit grant funding. Act 310 appropriates funds to the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations’ Office of Community Services to distribute grants for fiscal year 2025–2026. Applications were accepted from October 13 – 24, 2025.   WHAT:            Informational Briefing on Act 310, SLH 2025, Grant Applications   WHO:             Senator Donovan M. Dela Cruz             Senator Dru Mamo Kanuha             Representative Daniel Holt             Representative Jenna Takenouchi   WHEN:           Thursday, October 30, 2025 9:00 a.m.   WHERE:          Hawaiʻi State Capitol  – Auditorium                        415 South Beretania Street             Additional Information Meeting Notice:   Act 310, SLH 2025 Grants Applications Information Briefing Livestream:   Watch a livestream of the 10/30/25 Info Briefing Application s : Review submitted applications from nonprofits FAQ:   Access additional information regarding Act 310 Nonprofit Grants

HONOLULU, Hawaiʻi – The Maui Delegation of Hawaii State Senate offers their sympathy and condolences to the family and friends of Councilmember Tasha Kama on the occasion of her passing. “My deepest condolences to the ‘ohana of Tasha Kama,” said Senator DeCoite (District 7 - Hāna, East and Upcountry Maui, Molokaʻi, Lānaʻi, Kahoʻolawe and Molokini) “Today, we remember a remarkable friend whose spirit touched us all. Her legacy of kindness and love will forever be a guiding light. Let us carry her memory forward in our hearts and in our actions." “It is with a heavy heart that I share my deepest condolences on the passing of my friend and colleague, Councilmember Tasha Kama. I first met Tasha years ago when she was serving as the Director of a local nonprofit, where she devoted herself to helping those most in need,” recounted Senator McKelvey (District 6 - West Maui, Māʻalaea, Waikapū, and South Maui). “Her compassion, humility, and steadfast advocacy for social services touched the lives of countless Maui residents. She led with love and a quiet strength that inspired everyone around her. May her memory be a blessing to her loved ones, and may the example of her kindness, her faith, and her dedication continue to inspire and comfort all whose lives she touched. Her passing leaves a profound void in our community, but her spirit of service and aloha will continue to guide us forward.” Senator Hashimoto (District 5 - Wailuku, Kahului, Waiheʻe, Waikapū Mauka, Waiʻehu) “Tasha was a truly dedicated public servant who led with compassion,being elected—and we are so fortunate for the time she served on the Council. Her unwavering commitment to our community and her joyful spirit will be deeply missed. I’m grateful for the time we shared and the wisdom she imparted.” The Senate Maui Delegation joins the people of Maui in mourning the loss of Councilmember Kama, whose legacy will continue to uplift the community she so deeply loved. We extend our heartfelt aloha to her family and loved ones during this difficult time.

HONOLULU, Hawai‘i – Senate Vice President Michelle Kidani (District 18 – Mililani Town, Waipi‘o Gentry, Crestview, Waikele, portion of Waipahu, Village Park, Royal Kunia), Chair of Senate Committee on Education, announced the successful completion of a collaborative mural project along Kamehameha Highway, made possible through a partnership between the Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation (HDOT), the Hawaiʻi Department of Education (HIDOE), and students from Mililani, Waipahu, and Pearl City High Schools. The project, which took place on October 25 and 26, transformed nearly three-quarters of a mile of Kamehameha Highway between Waipahu Street and Waipiʻo Uka into a vibrant visual story celebrating the Waipiʻo Ahupuaʻa. Nearly 100 students participated through the HDOT Workforce Internship Program, gaining hands-on workforce experience while contributing to a highly visible community enhancement effort. This workforce development project employed students from Mililani, Waipahu, and Pearl City High Schools, helping to build confidence, encourage cooperation, and prepare students for real-world teamwork experiences. Guided by local artists Blythe Yoshikane, Jesse Velasquez, and Solomon Enos, students worked together to create a mural that reflects the cultural and historical significance of the surrounding area. Designed with a mauka-to-makai lens, the artwork follows the journey of water as it flows from mountain to sea, transforming the land and sustaining life along the way. Each high school contributed to this story by painting its own wall section: Mililani High School taking the mauka-most segment, Waipahu High School completing the center segment, and Pearl City High School painting the makai-most section. Together, their work forms a unified visual narrative. The completed mural features three dynamic and vibrant segments, each depicting elements of the skies, mountains, and ocean, to honor the interconnectedness of all living things throughout the ahupua‘a. “Bringing DOT and DOE together to collaborate with our students on this effort has been an exciting opportunity to beautify and uplift our community,” said Senator Kidani. “This project not only strengthens community pride and social well-being, but also creates valuable opportunities for our students to learn and grow. It has been wonderful to see students from Mililani, Waipahu, and Pearl City High Schools work side-by-side, building communication and teamwork skills, sharing their talents, and taking pride in a project of their own creation. Mahalo to DOT and DOE for their joint efforts to make this happen.”

HONOLULU  – Today, the evaluation committee established by Act 310, Session Laws of Hawaiʻi 2025, ( SB 933 ) announced the opening of the application process for $50 million in nonprofit grants. Act 310 appropriates funding to the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations’ Office of Community Services (OCS) to award grants for fiscal year 2025-2026. To support the administration and distribution of grant awards, OCS has contracted the services of Aloha United Way.    These grants will provide critical support to nonprofits, particularly during a time when many are facing unprecedented delays and reductions in federal funding. The cuts in federal funding have impacted areas such as healthcare, human services, education, homelessness, and food security.    “Nonprofits are the backbone of our communities,” said Senator Donovan M. Dela Cruz  (Senate District 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. “With federal funding becoming increasingly unreliable, Act 310 ensures that we are stepping up to preserve essential services and serve the people who depend on them.”    “Numerous nonprofit organizations in Hawai‘i provide essential health and human services. State-administered grants will play a critical role in addressing federal funding gaps, so that our community partners can continue delivering vital services that our families and residents rely on,” said Representative Daniel Holt (House District 28 - Sand Island, Iwilei, Chinatown).    The application portal opens today, Monday, October 13, at 10:00 a.m.  and is available at the following website: www.capitol.hawaii.gov . The deadline to apply is Friday, October 24, 2025, at 4:30 p.m.     To be eligible for a grant, applicants must be recipients or providers that have sustained a reduction or termination of their federal funding, or if the applicant is not a direct federal funding recipient or provider, the applicant must primarily serve populations that have been negatively affected by reductions or terminations in federal funding.    Additional Information   Aloha United Way will hold an Act 310 Nonprofit Grant Application Webinar on Tuesday, October 14, at 11:00 a.m. Those who are interested in learning more about the application process can register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_NbLNcFx_S9SU0I3zn8jGJQ .     For more information on Act 310, visit https://www.auw.org/Act-310/ .    Applicants with additional questions regarding the application process can contact the Office of Community Services at (808) 586-8681.

HONOLULU  – The Senate Committee on Judiciary (JDC) and the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Environment (AEN) are holding an informational briefing on the impacts of recent federal policy changes, tariffs, and funding cuts on Hawaiʻi’s agriculture industry and food production availability.   View the Hearing Notice HERE     “The Judiciary Committee is looking to hear from industry and department experts in agriculture and biosecurity for a clearer understanding of the local impacts from the administration’s recent policy changes,” said Senator Karl Rhoads  (District 13 – Dowsett Highlands, Puʻunui, Nuʻuanu, Pacific Heights, Pauoa, Punchbowl, Pālama, Liliha, Iwilei, Chinatown, and Downtown) Chair of the Committee on Judiciary. “Hawaiʻi’s agriculture and food industries are externally dependent and could see serious impacts from federal decisions.”     “Alongside the Judiciary Committee, our goal is to ensure that local farmers, ranchers, and the agricultural community have an opportunity to discuss on-the-ground effects of the changes we are continuing to see federally,” said Senator Mike Gabbard (District 21 – Kapolei, Makakilo, Kalaeloa, Honokai Hale, portions of Fernandez Village, ‘Ewa, and Ko ʻOlina ), Chair of the Committee on Agriculture and Environment. “From increased costs due to tariffs, to uncertainty around federal support, these impacts are immediate. We need to listen, understand, and advocate for policies that strengthen Hawai‘i’s food security and protect our agricultural future.”   AGENDA:   1. Welcome and Introductions (10 mins) 2. Overview from Brian Miyamoto, Executive Director, Hawaiʿi Farm Bureau (5 mins) 3. Presentations (approximately 40 minutes total):     a.     Sharon Hurd, Chairperson, Hawaiʿi Board of Agriculture & Biosecurity (BAB)     b.     Amanda Shaw, Director of Food Systems, Oʻahu Resource Conservation &  Development Council (Oʻahu RC&D)   c.     Suzanne Shriner, Administrator, Synergistic Hawaii Agriculture Council (SHAC)   d.     Hunter Heaivilin, Advocacy Director, Hawai’i Farmers Union United (HFUU)   e.     Amy Miller, President and Chief Executive Officer, Hawaiʻi Foodbank   4. Overall Themes from Brian Miyamoto, Executive Director, Hawaiʿi Farm Bureau (10 mins) 5. Questions from the Committee (5 minutes per member for questions and answers)   WHEN/WHERE:   10:00AM, Thursday, October 16, 2025 Conference Room 016 & Videoconference   Hawaiʻi State Capitol 415 South Beretania Street Honolulu, HI 96813   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

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

WAIPAHU, HAWAIʻI  – The Senate conducted a site visit today to inspect a bunker used to store confiscated illegal fireworks.    The site visit included a briefing on the ongoing work of the Department of Law Enforcement’s Illegal Fireworks Task Force, highlighting the enforcement efforts and challenges of addressing illegal fireworks statewide.    “Illegal fireworks pose serious risks to our neighborhoods, and the work of the Task Force is critical to protecting the public,” said Senator Brandon J.C. Elefante (District 16 - ‘Aiea, ‘Aiea Heights, Hālawa, Pearlridge, Newtown, Royal Summit, Waimalu, Waiau, Momilani, Pacific Palisades, and Pearl City), Chair of the Senate Committee on Public Safety and Military Affairs. “With the passage of Act 246, 243, 244, and 247 (Session Laws of Hawai‘i 2025), the State Legislature is committed to supporting the work of the Task Force in enforcing effective legislation to address the issue of illegal fireworks in our state.”    “The creation of the Task Force has allowed us to better align county, State, and Federal resources, and these results show the progress we can achieve when we work together,” said Director Mike Lambert , Department of Law Enforcement.    The Illegal Fireworks Task Force was established pursuant to Act 67 (Session Laws of Hawai‘i 2023) to coordinate enforcement and strengthen interagency collaboration. Since its formation, the Task Force has seized over 227,000 pounds of illegal fireworks, conducted more than 1,200 enforcement operations, and coordinated multi-agency interdictions that have disrupted major shipments statewide.  For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.