HILO, HAWAIʻI -- Senator Lorraine R. Inouye (District 1 – Hilo, Paukaʻa, Papaʻikou, Pepeʻekeo) announced that Governor Josh Green has released $290,000 in Capital Improvement Program (CIP) funding to finance the design of a northbound acceleration lane on Volcano Road in the vicinity of Mamaki Street on the island of Hawaiʻi. The project is intended to improve traffic flow and enhance roadway safety in a heavily traveled area serving East Hawaiʻi residents and commuters. “I would like to thank Governor Green for financing the design of this important infrastructure improvement,” said Senator Inouye. “This project will help address traffic concerns and support safer, more efficient travel for our community.” Investments in public infrastructure like this help meet the everyday needs of our communities, improving safety and mobility for kūpuna, keiki, and families across Hawaiʻi who rely on these roads each day. ###

HONOLULU, HAWAIʻI -- Senate Commerce and Consumer Protection Chair Jarrett Keohokalole (District 24 – Kāneʻohe, Kailua) announced today that Senate Bill 3000 passed out of the Senate Commerce and Consumer Protection following the postponement of Monday’s hearing. The measure addresses insurance market stability in the face of climate-related impacts and establishes consumer protections in Hawaiʻi. SB3000 addresses this growing instability of Hawaiʻi’s property and casualty insurance market driven by increasingly severe climate disasters like the 2023 Lahaina Wildfires. It recognizes the sharp rise in insurance nonrenewals and premiums statewide and aims to hold corporations that knowingly contributed to climate change accountable for the increasing costs to consumers. The bill authorizes the Attorney General, as well as certain state-backed and private insurers, to bring civil actions against responsible parties to recover costs and losses attributable to climate-related harm. The intent is to protect insurance market stability, preserve access to affordable coverage, and ensure that the financial burden of climate disasters is not borne solely by residents, policyholders, or taxpayers. “Without a doubt, the increasing incidence of really devastating natural disaster events is what’s driving the insurance crisis. Whose fault is that? We know.” Keohokalole said. “Residents shouldn’t have to pay for the risk mitigation of private entities, full stop. It’s time for a comeuppance.” Chair Keohokalole emphasized the importance of thoughtful policymaking in areas that directly affect consumers and the broader public interest, noting that the measure reflects the Legislature’s responsibility to respond to evolving industries while prioritizing the well-being of Hawaiʻi’s communities.

HONOLULU, HAWAIʻI -- Senate Energy and Intergovernmental Affairs Chair Glenn Wakai (District 15 – Kalihi, Māpunapuna, Airport, Salt Lake, Āliamanu, Foster Village, Hickam, Pearl Harbor, and portions of ‘Aiea and Pearl City) announced the Senate’s passage of Senate Bill 3326 , legislation establishing a state policy framework to restructure Hawaiʻi’s electric industry by separating electric generation from transmission and distribution (T&D). The measure advances amid continued power outages, increasing wildfire risk, aging infrastructure, and Hawaiʻi’s persistently high electricity costs — the highest in the nation. The Legislature identified the affordability of electric service as a paramount public interest concern. Volatile and elevated energy costs continue to burden households, small businesses, hospitals, schools, and critical services, contributing to cost-of-living pressures and economic strain statewide. SB3326 sets a structural policy direction requiring electric generation to be separately owned and controlled from transmission and distribution services. Transmission and distribution would remain regulated monopoly services under Hawaiian Electric and subject to oversight by the Public Utilities Commission (PUC), while generation would operate under independent ownership and open competition. “We pay more than two times the national average for electricity in Hawaii. That is hampering business growth and pushing people to leave our state,” said Chair Wakai. “Affordability of electric service is a paramount public interest. This bill creates clarity and focus — allowing the utility to concentrate on keeping the grid safe, reliable, and resilient, while competition drives efficiency and innovation in electricity generation. Doing nothing is not an option.” Legislative findings conclude that constraints in transmission and distribution capacity — along with procurement delays — have slowed renewable deployment, limited rooftop solar and storage interconnections, and contributed to outages and public safety concerns. Hawaiʻi also continues to rely on aging generation facilities, increasing long-term cost pressures on ratepayers. Under SB3326: Transmission and distribution remain fully regulated to ensure reliability, consumer protection, and reasonable rates. The Public Utilities Commission is directed to oversee an orderly, transparent rulemaking process to implement the transition. Generation must be separately owned and operated, opening the sector to transparent competition. Existing power purchase agreements and financing protections are preserved. Workforce continuity, ratepayer protections, wildfire mitigation, and system reliability must be addressed through implementation. Electric cooperatives, including Kauaʻi Island Utility Cooperative (KIUC), are excluded. The bill does not immediately restructure the utility. Instead, it directs the PUC to conduct a comprehensive public rulemaking to design an orderly, phased transition that maintains reliability and financial stability. “We are modernizing aging infrastructure, addressing wildfire risk, and integrating more renewable energy — all while customers are paying too much,” Wakai added. “Public safety and reliability live on the grid, and that is where this bill puts the focus. By separating generation from transmission and distribution, we can strengthen oversight, improve accountability, accelerate clean energy, and modernize Hawaiʻi’s electric system for the long term.” SB3326 passed second reading and has been referred to the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. ###

HONOLULU. HAWAI'I -- Senate Commerce and Consumer Protection Chair Jarrett Keohokalole (District 24 – Kāneʻohe, Kailua) announced today that Senate Bill 3001 passed out of the Senate Commerce and Consumer Protection and Labor and Technology Joint Committee. The measure addresses safety standards for conversational artificial intelligence services operating in Hawaiʻi. SB3001, relating to artificial intelligence, was heard by the Senate Commerce and Consumer Protection and Labor and Technology (CPN/LBT) Joint Committee on Tuesday at 9:28 a.m. Known as the Artificial Intelligence Disclosure and Safety Act, the measure establishes consumer protections and safety standards for conversational artificial intelligence services operating in Hawaiʻi. The bill requires that sites provide clear disclosure when users are interacting with artificial intelligence rather than humans, with heightened safeguards for minors. SB3001 also mandates protocols addressing suicidal ideation and self-harm, prohibits deceptive representations of AI as human or as a provider of professional mental or behavioral health care, and requires annual reporting to the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs. Enforcement authority is granted to the Attorney General while clarifying liability boundaries to support responsible innovation. “Artificial intelligence is advancing rapidly, and our laws must keep pace. SB3001 establishes clear expectations for transparency, safety, and accountability—especially when interacting with minors or addressing sensitive mental health issues,” Keohokalole explained. “People deserve to know when they are interacting with artificial intelligence, particularly our keiki. This bill puts basic guardrails in place to protect users, promote transparency, and ensure these technologies are used responsibly as they become more common in everyday life.” ###

HONOLULU, HAWAI'I -- Senate Commerce and Consumer Protection Chair Jarrett Keohokalole (District 24 – Kāneʻohe, Kailua) announced today that Senate Bill 2471 and Senate Bill 2829 have passed out of the Senate Commerce and Consumer Protection Committee. The measures clarify the scope of powers granted to corporations and other artificial entities under state law, particularly with respect to political spending in elections and ballot measures. SB 2471 reaffirms that political power in Hawaiʻi belongs to the people, not to corporations or other artificial entities created by the state. While individuals retain full constitutional rights to free speech, association, and political participation, corporations exist solely by authority granted by the state. As such, the Legislature retains the authority to define and limit the powers conferred upon these entities. “Corporations are not people, and do not enjoy the inherent right to influence our elections” said Senator Jarrett Keohokalole, Chair of the Senate Commerce and Consumer Protection Committee. “This measure draws a clear line between the constitutional rights of individuals and the privileges granted to corporations.” Current state law broadly authorizes corporations to exercise “the same powers as an individual to do all things necessary or convenient to carry out its business and affairs.” SB 2471 clarifies that these grants of authority were never intended to include the power to spend money or contribute anything of value to influence elections or ballot measures. The bill explicitly limits corporate powers to conducting lawful business and organizational activities, while preserving the full political rights of natural persons. “While corporations are a useful way to limit investor risk and drive the economy, the State is under no legal obligation to allow for their creation,” said Senate Judiciary Chair Karl Rhoads. “We have every right to limit the vast amounts of corporate money that pour into our political system. “ Senate Bill 2829 builds upon these principles by further reaffirming that corporations and other artificial entities possess only those powers necessary or convenient to carry out lawful business, charitable, or organizational purposes under state law. The measure clarifies that political spending authority was never intended to be among those powers and reinforces the Legislature’s ability to redefine and limit corporate authority in the interest of public welfare. Together, SB 2471 and SB 2829 reinforce the distinction between the constitutional rights of individuals and the privileges granted to state-created entities, ensuring that Hawaiʻi’s democratic processes remain centered on the voices of its people. “Ensuring public confidence in our elections requires clear distinctions between the rights of individuals and the powers granted to state-created entities, and these measures reinforce those boundaries in state law,” Keohokalole added. The Senate Commerce and Consumer Protection Committee held public hearings on both measures on Tuesday, February 10. The bills passed with amendments and now advance to the Senate Judiciary Committee. ###

HONOLULU, HAWAIʻI -- The Hawaiʻi State Legislature will reopen on Tuesday, February 10, following the closure of state offices on Monday due to forecasted weather conditions.    Regular operations will resume in both the Hawaiʻi Senate and the Hawaiʻi House of Representatives for Session Day #12, with committee hearings and floor sessions proceeding as scheduled.    For information on updated committee hearing notices, please visit www.capitol.hawaii.gov .    Senate and House leadership thank the public for their patience and encourage residents and visitors to stay informed by monitoring weather updates through official sources, including the Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency ( HIEMA ), and to sign up for alerts from their respective county emergency management agencies .

HONOLULU, HAWAIʻI -- –  The Hawaiʻi State Legislature will be closed on Monday, February 9, following Governor Josh Green’s announcement regarding the closure of state offices due to potentially severe weather conditions. All Senate and House committee hearings scheduled for February 9 will be postponed, and floor sessions in both chambers for Session Day #12 will not be convened. Legislative leadership urges the public to stay safe and remain alert as weather conditions develop. State emergency preparedness officials encourage residents and visitors to monitor official sources for updates and instructions. The Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency (HIEMA) provides guidance on preparing for severe weather and disasters at ready.hawaii.gov . Under the state Department of Defense, HIEMA also offers links for residents to sign up for alerts from their respective county emergency management agencies at dod.hawaii.gov/hiema/get-ready/ .

HONOLULU, HAWAI'I -- Senate Judiciary Committee Chair Karl Rhoads (District 13 -- Dowsett Highlands, Pu‘unui, Nu‘uanu, Pacific Heights, Pauoa, Punchbowl, Pālama, Liliha, Iwilei, Chinatown, and Downtown) announced today that Senate Bill 2055 passed out of the Judiciary Committee. The measure will establish a statewide civil rights helpline to accept reports of hate crimes and civil rights violations including harms related to federal, state, or local immigration enforcement operations in the State of Hawaiʻi. SB 2055 requires the Hawaiʻi Civil Rights Commission to create and maintain a 24-hour, toll-free helpline to assist individuals who have been harmed, whose immediate or extended family members have been harmed, or who have witnessed harm related to hate crimes and civil rights violations. The helpline will provide referrals to state and county assistance programs, legal and social services, crisis intervention resources, and student support services, while also allowing callers to submit anonymous reports of misconduct or harm. The Civil Rights Commission will investigate reports that fall under its jurisdiction. Recent national incidents have heightened public concern following fatal encounters and allegations of misconduct involving federal immigration enforcement and other federal law enforcement agents across the country. These incidents have prompted renewed calls for transparency, accountability, and reliable data on the impacts of federal deployments on local communities. “SB 2055 creates a clear and accessible pathway for people in Hawaiʻi to report civil rights concerns,” said Senator Karl Rhoads, Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee. “This measure strengthens accountability and transparency, while ensuring individuals and families know where to turn for help and resources.” Under the bill, the helpline will include voicemail and online reporting capabilities, translation services, and disability access. All personally identifiable information will remain confidential, as required by law. The measure also requires the Civil Rights Commission to compile an annual public report using aggregated data from the helpline and to hold at least one public hearing each year to present findings. The report will identify patterns or trends, including misconduct, excessive use of force, or racial profiling, and provide recommendations for policy and training improvements. Senator Jarrett Keohokalole (D-24 Kāne‘ohe, Kailua), the lead introducer of the bill, added, “The helpline will allow individuals, families, and the community to ensure that their experiences are being documented and their rights protected.” The Senate Judiciary Committee held a public hearing on SB 2055 on Friday, January 30. The bill passed from the committee with amendments and now heads to the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. Reinforcing this effort, Senate Bill 2203 passed out of the Senate Judiciary Committee today, February 5. The measure will help to strengthen transparency and accountability in law enforcement, by prohibiting the use of facial coverings by law enforcement officers when interacting with the public, except under limited circumstances such as undercover assignments or safety-related conditions. Together, SB 2055 and SB 2203 reflect the Legislature’s broader commitment to addressing civil rights concerns and ensuring public trust in law enforcement activities in Hawaiʻi. ###

HONOLULU, HAWAI‘I – Senator Michelle N. Kidani (District 18 — Mililani Town, Waipi‘o Gentry, Crestview, Waikele, portion of Waipahu, Village Park, Royal Kunia) released a statement today regarding a media inquiry on her ability to serve: “My health is a private matter, and speculation or reporting about it without my consent is deeply concerning. I remain capable of representing my district and continue to carry out my duties responsibly in consultation with my physician. My focus remains on serving my constituents. If the time comes that I determine I can no longer fully and faithfully serve, I will make that decision to resign my seat. I want to sincerely thank my colleagues, the various agencies, unions and mostly my constituents who have placed their trust and support in me throughout my years in office. It is truly an honor and privilege to represent you and to work on behalf of our community.” In a separate statement, State Department of Education Superintendent Keith Hayashi expressed his support for Senator Kidani and her longstanding commitment to public education: “I have had the privilege of working closely with Senator Kidani over many years, and I have always respected her as a thoughtful and steadfast advocate for Hawaiʻi’s public school students. She has consistently shown up for our schools, not only through her leadership at the Legislature, but also by being present in our communities, listening to educators, and engaging directly with students and families. Most recently, her support for expanding access to free school meals reflected her deep understanding of how policy decisions affect students’ ability to learn and succeed. Behind the scenes, she has been a trusted partner who asked hard questions, sought input, and kept students at the center of her work. Her commitment to public education and to the well-being of our keiki has made a lasting difference, and I look forward to continuing our work together in service of Hawaiʻi’s students and communities.” Senate Education Committee Chair Donna Mercado Kim underscored Senator Kidani’s leadership on education policy, noting: “Senator Michelle Kidani has continued to fulfill her responsibilities to her community and to the Legislature with dedication and professionalism. I have worked closely with her for more than seven years—she as Vice Chair of Higher Education and I as her Vice Chair on the Education Committee—and she has consistently demonstrated thoughtful, steady leadership. The alignment of the Education and Higher Education Committees was Senator Kidani’s recommendation, made in the best interest of sound education policy and continuity across our system. Her record of service speaks for itself, and I stand in support of her continued leadership.” Office of Hawaiian Affairs Maui Trustee Hulu Lindsey emphasized Senator Kidani’s continued presence, judgment, and service to the community, stating: “I have known Senator Michelle Kidani for fourteen years and have seen her lead with heart, humility, and deep commitment to the people she serves. Senator Kidani remains present, grounded, and thoughtful in her work. She knows her community, understands the issues before her, and continues to exercise sound and caring judgment. Senator Kidani’s service should be met with dignity, fairness, and appreciation for the wisdom she continues to bring to public life.” Senator Glenn Wakai (District 15- Kalihi, Māpunapuna, Airport, Salt Lake, Āliamanu, Foster Village, Hickam, Pearl Harbor, and portions of ‘Aiea and Pearl City) emphasized Senator Kidani’s long-standing support from her constituents and her continued leadership, saying: “Senator Kidani continues to be a respected political force. The people of Mililani and Waipahu have kept her in office for 18 years. She has done incredible work for her community, for women, and for our keiki. It’s not up to the media to determine when she leaves office. That is entirely her decision.” ###

Honolulu, Hawaiʻi - Today, Senator Dru Mamo Kanuha (SD3 - Kona, Kaʻū, and Volcano) and Representative Nicole E. Lowen (HD6 - Kailua-Kona, Honokōhau, Kalaoa, Pu‘uanahulu, Puakō, portion of Waikoloa) join the Kealakehe Elementary School community, families, and education partners in celebrating the groundbreaking of a new $16 million classroom building that will expand learning space and better serve students on Hawai‘i Island.   This two-story, 13,000 square-foot facility will create four modern classrooms, dedicated special education spaces, a covered outdoor learning area, faculty workroom and offices, and two safe pedestrian bridges connecting the school’s upper and lower campuses—a longstanding need for the sloped campus.  The project reflects an investment in keiki, educators, and school communities that will benefit generations of learners.   Senator Dru Mamo Kanuha said, “While we were unable to be at the groundbreaking in person due to the ongoing legislative session, our hearts were very much with Kealakehe Elementary School today. This project represents years of collaboration and advocacy to ensure our West Hawai’i students have safe and modern learning environments. I’m grateful to everyone who helped move this project forward.”   Representative Nicole E. Lowen said, “I’m thrilled to see construction begin on this new classroom building, which represents a meaningful investment in our keiki and the future of our community. Securing funding for this project was a priority for the legislature because students deserve learning spaces that support their success. I’m proud to have worked alongside my colleagues to help make this long-awaited project a reality.”   Superintendent Keith T. Hayashi said, “This building has been a bridge, literally and figuratively, connecting our school, our partners, and our students’ education.  We are grateful for the leadership and advocacy of Senator Kanuha and Representative Lowen in securing funding for this project.  Their work at the Legislature supports students statewide, with a direct impact here in West Hawai‘i.”   The building was designed by Urban Works, Inc., with construction managed by the Department of Accounting and General Services (DAGS) West Hawai‘i District Office and led by Nan Inc. Construction is expected to be completed in September 2027.   Together, this project underscores a shared commitment among state leaders, educators, and community partners to invest in safe, high-quality learning environments and to ensure that Hawai‘i’s public schools are equipped to serve students now and into the future. ### ABOUT THE HAWAIʻI STATE SENATE MAJORITY The Hawaiʻi State Senate consists of 25 members who serve staggered four-year terms. The Senate Majority consists of 22 Democrats for the 33rd Legislature, which convened on January 21, 2026. For the latest news and updates, follow the Senate Majority on Facebook, Instagram, or visit https://www.hawaiisenatemajority.com . ABOUT THE HAWAIʻI STATE HOUSE MAJORITY The Hawaiʻi State House of Representatives consists of 51 members who serve two-year terms. The House Majority consists of 42 Democrats for the 33rd Legislature. Follow the Hawaii House Democrats on Facebook , Instagram , or visit https://www.hawaiihousedemocrats.com . Media Contact: Sheryl Turbeville Director of Communications s.turbeville@capitol.hawaii.gov 808.586.6291

HILO, HAWAI‘I – Senator Lorraine R. Inouye (District 1 – Hilo, Paukaʻa, Papaʻikou, Pepeʻekeo) has announced that $150,000 in Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Grantin-Aid funds has been released by Governor Josh Green to support the Big Island Resource Conservation and Development Council, Hawaiʻi. The funding will provide construction support to extend an existing concrete slab and construct a new metal building as part of a larger CIP project at the Alae Postharvest Facility in Hilo. This project qualifies as a grant pursuant to Chapter 42F, Hawaiʻi Revised Statutes, and is funded through general obligation bond funds. “Thank you to Governor Green and his administration for releasing these funds and for their continued investment in projects that strengthen local agriculture and community infrastructure,” said Senator Inouye. Investments in projects like the Alae Postharvest Facility are essential to maintaining strong agricultural infrastructure and supporting local producers. These improvements will help build a more resilient and self-sustaining Hawaiʻi. ### ABOUT THE HAWAIʻI STATE SENATE MAJORITY The Hawaiʻi State Senate consists of 25 members who serve staggered four-year terms. The Senate Majority consists of 22 Democrats for the 33rd Legislature, which convened on January 21, 2026. For the latest news and updates, follow the Senate Majority on Facebook, Instagram, or visit https://www.hawaiisenatemajority.com. Media Contact: Sheryl Turbeville Director of Communications Senate Majority s.turbeville@capitol.hawaii.gov 808.586.6291

HONOLULU, HAWAI‘I – Senate Vice President Michelle N. Kidani (District 18 – Mililani Town, Waipi‘o Gentry, Crestview, Waikele, portion of Waipahu, Village Park, Royal Kunia) has announced the release of $500,000 in Capital Improvement Program (CIP) funding to advance planning for a slaughterhouse project on Oʻahu. The funds will be used to conduct studies and assessments to ensure the land identified by Tax Map Key (TMK) 9-2-001-011 (0010) and 9-2-001-011 (0011) is suitable for development prior to a final acquisition decision. “Mahalo to Governor Josh Green and the Senate Committee on Ways and Means for releasing $500,000 for these funds supporting our local agriculture,” said Senator Kidani. “By strengthening Hawaiʻi’s food system through this facility, we can create healthier, more sustainable school meals for our keiki, while supporting local farmers and ranchers. This investment strengthens our local food system creating more locally sourced meals.” The funding reflects the state’s continued commitment to strategic infrastructure projects that strengthen Hawaiʻi’s agricultural sector and support community needs. By taking careful steps in planning and due diligence, the state ensures that development projects like this are sustainable and serve the community for years to come. ### ABOUT THE HAWAIʻI STATE SENATE MAJORITY The Hawaiʻi State Senate consists of 25 members who serve staggered four-year terms. The Senate Majority consists of 22 Democrats for the 33rd Legislature, which convened on January 21, 2026. For the latest news and updates, follow the Senate Majority on Facebook, Instagram, or visit https://www.hawaiisenatemajority.com. Media Contact: Sheryl Turbeville Director of Communications Senate Majority s.turbeville@capitol.hawaii.gov 808.586.6291