HONOLULU  –  Senator Sharon Y. Moriwaki (District 12 - Waikīkī, Ala Moana, Kaka‘ako, McCully)   announced $9,000,000 in capital improvement program funds to finance the design and construction for athletic complex improvements.    “I am very pleased to announce these significant funds for McKinley,” said Senator Moriwaki. “Thank you to Governor Green for recognizing the importance of athletic programs in our schools. With $7 million appropriated in 2023 and another $7 million in 2025, today’s release of $9 million will complete the athletic complex improvements, taking the project across the finish line to deliver modern, safe, and inspiring facilities that will serve McKinley students for generations to come.”

HILO – Today, Senator Lorraine R. Inouye (District 1 – Hilo, Pauka ʻa, Papaikou, Pepeʻekeo) announced the release of $2,367,305 to finance the construction of a new classroom building for Ernest Bowen DeSilva Elementary School in Hilo, Hawaiʻi.    “I’d like to extend my sincerest mahalo to Governor Green for releasing much needed funds for Ernest Bowen DeSilva Elementary,” said Senator Inouye. “These funds will ensure there is enough space for supporting students and faculty. This is a necessary investment to accommodate a growing student population and will contribute significantly to the enhancement of learning opportunities on campus. ”

HONOLULU  – The National Foundation for Women Legislators (NFWL) has selected Senator Donna Mercado Kim (Senate District 14 – Kapālama, ‘Ālewa, Kalihi, Kalihi Valley, Ft. Shafter, Moanalua Gardens & Valley, Red Hill) and Representative Shirley Ann Templo (House District 30 – Kalihi, Kalihi Kai, Ke‘ehi Lagoon, Hickam Village) as recipients of its 2025 Backpack Program. The NFWL Backpack Program provides elected women leaders with backpacks filled with essential school supplies to distribute to students in their communities. The initiative aims to address critical educational needs while fostering meaningful community engagement. As part of the program, Senator Kim will be distributing backpacks to students at Kapālama Elementary and Kalihi Elementary later this month, supporting families and ensuring keiki have the tools they need to succeed in school. Representative Templo will be meeting with student government leaders at Kalākaua Middle School and Farrington High School to provide backpacks filled with resources that introduce and inform them about government. Thanks to the generous support of Walmart, NFWL will distribute hundreds of backpacks nationwide in 2025, helping to bridge gaps in educational resources and strengthen connections between elected women and their constituents. This recognition highlights Senator Kim and Representative Templo’s ongoing commitment to supporting local families and promoting educational equity in Hawai‘i. For more information about the Backpack Program and other NFWL initiatives, visit www.womenlegislators.org . About NFWL The National Foundation for Women Legislators (NFWL) is the nation’s oldest nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering elected women at the state and local levels of government. NFWL offers resources, programming, and events that help women leaders address challenges and drive policy solutions in their communities.

HONOLULU – Senator Henry J.C. Aquino  (District  19 - Pearl City, Waipahu, West Loch Estates, Hono‘uli‘uli, Ho‘opili ) released the following statement today announcing his retirement from the Hawaiʻi State Senate, effective Sunday, November 30, 2025:   “It has been an honor to represent residents, neighbors, supporters, friends and family in the Hawaiʻi State Senate.  I’ve also had the opportunity to serve with amazing colleagues, past and present, who have worked hard to address the needs of our great State—an absolute privilege to have served with you all.  I’m grateful for the Senate and House staff along with the individuals who have worked in my office during my time in public service.   My decision to retire from the Hawaiʻi State Senate was made with deep and thoughtful consideration after discussions with family members and close friends.  This decision was not made lightly, and it is my belief that this best serves the needs and interests of the people of Senate District 19.   During my legislative career, I’ve consistently made decisions based on the best information available and the importance of how and who will be impacted.  This is consistent with my personal life as well.  I’ve always thought of those around me and what I can do to make their lives better. While serving in the State Senate and previously in the State House has been one of the honors of my life, I have shifted focus on prioritizing my values for time with my family while continuing to serve our communities.  After my retirement from the State Senate on November 30, 2025, I will be joining Hawaiʻi Public Policy Advocates LLC, a locally based consulting firm that emphasizes non-profit organizations and association management as Vice President of Community Affairs.  I will also continue my role as Executive Director for the Waipahu Community Association—a non-profit organization. These opportunities will allow me to continue to grow and serve for the betterment of our local communities.    It has been a privilege to serve and I would like to thank everyone who made my 17 years in public service one I will never forget.”    Senator Aquino has served a combined 17 years in the Hawaiʻi State Legislature, first as a Representative for District 38, chairing the Committee on Transportation.   As Assistant Majority Whip, Chair of the Senate Committee on Labor and Technology, and Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services, Senator Aquino has played crucial roles in passing significant legislation. For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.

KAHULUI, HAWAIʻI – Tourism remains a cornerstone of Hawai‘i’s economy, with sports tourism playing an increasingly vital role to attract high-spending visitors and promote regenerative tourism. High-profile events like The Sentry bring up to 3,000 visitors into West Maui who fuel regional economic development by using hotels and vendors. The cancellation is projected to cost Maui roughly $50 million in lost annual economic impact if not replaced with another course in Maui.   “This is a real setback for Maui. Our small businesses, workers, and nonprofits depend on the spending and charitable support tied to this tournament,” said Senator Troy N. Hashimoto (D – 5, Wailuku, Kahului, Waihe‘e, Waikapu Mauka, Wai‘ehu), Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Housing. “Maui is still recovering from the devastating effects of the 2023 wildfires and losing The Sentry prolongs recovery for Maui residents and local small businesses.”   Today, Senators Donovan M. Dela Cruz and Troy N. Hashimoto sent a letter urging PGA Tour and Sentry officials to identify an alternative venue for the tournament either on Maui or elsewhere in Hawaii and are working to meet with officials to discuss future options. These events also support regenerative tourism by spreading benefits to local communities while protecting Hawai‘i’s natural and cultural resources.   “With visitor arrivals declining, hotel occupancy down, and our film industry stagnating, we cannot afford to let sports tourism trend in the same direction,” said Senator Donovan M. Dela Cruz (D – 17, Portion of Mililani, Mililani Mauka, portion of Waipi‘o Acres, Launani Valley, Wahiawā, Whitmore Village), Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. “High-spending visitors drawn to major sports events like The Sentry bring in revenue far beyond the event itself—hotels fill up, restaurants are busy, local vendors thrive.”   Read Official Letter to PGA Tour and Sentry Insurance Here For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.

HONOLULU – The Hawaiʻi State Senate Committee on Judiciary, chaired by Senator Karl Rhoads  (Senate District 13 – Dowsett Highlands, Puʻunui, Nuʻuanu, Pacific Heights, Pauoa, Punchbowl, Pālama, Liliha, Iwilei, Chinatown, and Downtown), will be holding a third informational briefing to discuss the rule of law around recent actions by the Trump Administration. U.S. Representative Ed Case will be a featured guest.   View the Hearing Notice HERE   The World Justice Project defines the rule of law as “a durable system of laws, institutions, norms, and community commitment that delivers four universal principles: accountability, just law, open government, and accessible and impartial justice.” Recent presidential executive orders and policies raise questions about whether the current Administration is following federal law. This informational briefing will examine that question and what effect federal government actions are having on Hawaiʻi residents.   “The Committee is hosting Ed Case to gain insights on how the actions of the Trump Administration are impacting our nation and our State,” said Senator Rhoads. “The Trump Administration’s latest decisions are increasingly concerning and are causing negative effects on Hawaiʻi residents.”   AGENDA 1. Welcome and Introductions (10 mins) 2. U.S. Representative Ed Case, Hawaiʻi's First Congressional District (20 mins) 3. Questions from the Committee – 5 minutes per member for questions and answers   WHEN/WHERE 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 24, 2025 Conference Room 016 & Videoconference   Hawaiʻi State Capitol 415 South Beretania Street Honolulu, HI 96813   As is normal with informational briefings, no public testimony will be accepted.   ACCESSIBILITY: For accommodations, please contact the committee clerk at (808) 587-7211 or email JDCCommittee@capitol.hawaii.gov . Requests made as early as possible have a greater likelihood of being fulfilled.   Photo ID is required for entry into the State Capitol building. Limited paid public parking is available at the Capitol; entrance is via Miller Street off Punchbowl. Additional public parking is available in Lot V (Vineyard Garage on Punchbowl); Lot G (Kalanimoku Building on Beretania & Punchbowl); and Lot L (Kinau Hale Building on Punchbowl).   This informational briefing is part of a series of informational briefings on the rule of law in relation to the recent actions of the Trump Administration and how its decisions are impacting Hawaiʻi.   Information about past and upcoming briefings can be accessed on the Senate Judiciary Committee webpage HERE

KAHULUI – The Senate Committee on Ways and Means (WAM) finalized visits with government agencies and community leaders on Lānaʻi and Maui to receive significant updates on education, housing, agricultural innovations, healthcare, workforce development pathways, and wildfire management efforts.     September 2025 Lānaʻi & Maui Post-Trip Report   “Our visits to Lānaʻi and Maui gave the committee a solid understanding of the innovative ways our departments are utilizing resources to preserve, protect, and strengthen our state through workforce development, education, wildfire management, and more, ” said Senator Donovan M. Dela Cruz (D17–  portion of Mililani, Mililani Mauka, portion of Waipiʻo Acres, Launani Valley, Wahiawā, Whitmore Village), Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. “The local partnerships we saw in action are proving to be critical in developing clear pathways to sustainability. Pūlama Lānaʻi is creating viable housing options for residents, while DLNR is working alongside our State Fire Marshal to respond to the continuing threat of wildfires. DBEDT is successfully connecting with underrepresented demographics to ensure every economic opportunity is being recognized. The work of these entities will continue to be essential to informing policies and the allocation of resources to build an equitable future for Hawaiʻi.”   "As someone from Moloka‘i and as Chair of the Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism, I understand how vital it is to invest in rural communities like those on Lāna‘i and Maui,” said Senator Lynn DeCoite (D7 – Hāna, East and Upcountry Maui, Moloka‘i, Lāna ʻ i , Kaho‘olawe and Molokini) . “These visits showcased how collaboration between government agencies, local leaders, and private partners is creating innovative solutions to long standing challenges—from housing and agriculture to wildfire resilience and workforce development. The economic potential we’re seeing across these islands is rooted in community, culture, and resilience—values that continue to guide us as we work toward a more sustainable and inclusive Hawai‘i."   “Coming from Maui, I know firsthand how critical it is that state resources reach our communities effectively and equitably,” said Senator Troy N. Hashimoto (D5 – Wailuku, Kahului, Waihe‘e, Waikapu Mauka, Wai‘ehu) , Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Housing. “These site visits to Lāna‘i and Maui highlighted the progress being made in key areas  like housing, wildfire preparedness, and workforce development—while also showing where we still need to focus our efforts. It’s encouraging to see strong partnerships forming on the ground, and the insights we gained will help guide meaningful investments and ensure our policies are responsive to the real needs of our people.”   WAM holds neighbor island site visits every two years to utilize information from community stakeholders and government officials to guide our collective decision-making on legislation and budget appropriations to bolster regional/statewide planning and implementation efforts. For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.

HONOLULU  – This morning, T he Hawaiʻi   State Senate Committee on Judiciary , chaired by Senator Karl Rhoads  (Senate District 13 – Dowsett Highlands, Puʻunui, Nuʻuanu, Pacific Heights, Pauoa, Punchbowl, Pālama, Liliha, Iwilei, Chinatown, and Downtown) held an informational briefing to hear from Professor Colin Moore (Ph.D. Department of Government, Harvard, 2009) about the erosion of democratic norms in the United States and how that trend is affecting and will affect the residents of the State of Hawaiʻi. All opinions expressed by Professor Moore are his own.   Professor Colin Moore’s Presentation   Moore listed authoritarian warning signs, such as rejection of democratic rules, denial of the legitimacy of opponents, and a willingness to curtail civil liberties and attack the press. He also described how the U.S. is considered by experts to be a “flawed democracy,” meaning that it h olds free and fair elections and basic civil liberties but is threatened by significant weaknesses in its system .   “We’ve gained a better understanding of how the Trump Administration is testing long-standing democratic norms with insufficient push back,” said Senator Rhoads. “Professor Moore brings up significant points on the strategy of the administration and how behaviors of authoritarianism are calling into question our identity and norms.”   The Trump Administration has demonstrated how the U.S.’s democratic norms are weaker than many assumed. Threats such as attempting to fire a member of the Federal Reserve Board of Governors, deploying the National Guard to Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., and pushing the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to remove broadcast licenses to NBC and ABC are just some of the many ways the administration has tested its limits.   “There is something breaking down in the constitutional system that’s supposed to regulate itself…That is not working the way it should anymore,” said Moore. “Polarization has broken down some of those norms.” Moore made a point to note Hawaiʻi’s unique relationship with the Federal government and how, historically, our state has hosted a variety of political opinions and ranks comparatively low in polarization.   For Hawaiʻi, federalism is a strength but also a vulnerability, argues Moore. “Federalism has often been thought of, and I think rightfully so, as one of the best defenses American democracy has. States can act as a check on federal overreach.”   “States do have some sovereign authority, but the federal government holds most of the cards,” said Moore.   Moore noted Hawaiʻi’s important relationship with the military, federal agencies like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and the tourism industry.   Moore suggested ways the legislature can prepare Hawaiʻi for looming threats, including establishing reserve funds to fill in losses in health and education and supporting nonprofits that depend on federal funding.   View the original Hearing Notice HERE Watch the video recording HERE   This informational briefing is part of a series of informational briefings on the rule of law in relation to the recent actions of the Trump Administration and how its decisions are impacting Hawaiʻi. For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.

HONOLULU  – Senator Stanley Chang  (D 9 – Hawai‘i Kai, Kuli‘ou‘ou, Niu, ‘Āina Haina, Wai‘alae-Kāhala, Diamond Head, Kaimukī, Kapahulu)   announced the signing of Senate Bill 30  into law as Act 222, which now requires moped drivers to wear a safety helmet and prohibits people under the age of 16 from driving a moped. The law became effective on June 25, 2025.    “In Hawaiʻi, we’ve seen far too many lives lost or forever changed by preventable moped accidents,” said Senator Chang. “That’s why I introduced Senate Bill 30—to take meaningful, evidence-based steps to protect our community. With this new law, we’re putting commonsense measures in place. These changes are proven to reduce serious injuries and fatalities. I deeply appreciate Governor Green’s leadership and the many advocates who made this possible.”    According to the Hawai‘i Department of Transportation, there have been over 1,000 deaths related to moped and motorcycle accidents over the last 10 years. This does not include accidents resulting in serious brain injuries. A large portion of these accidents involved drivers of mopeds who were not wearing helmets. Act 222 seeks to prevent the further loss of life and prevent serious brain injuries when accidents occur.     Moped drivers in violation of this law will be ticketed.  For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.

LĀNAʻI CITY  – Today, the Senate Ways and Means Committee arrived on Lāna ʻ i to receive updates on economic development and sustainability efforts from the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism (DBEDT) and the Agribusiness Development Corporation (ADC).   Committee members were first guided through the work of Pūlama Lāna ʻ i, an organization creating solutions for a sustainable future through cultural preservation and building economic opportunities for Lāna ʻ i .   “Today’s visit to Lāna ʻ i shows our deep commitment to supporting sustainable growth in our rural communities,” said Senator Lynn DeCoite  (D7 - Hāna, East and Upcountry Maui, Moloka‘i, Lāna ʻ i , Kaho‘olawe and Molokini) , Chair of the Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism. “The presentations from DBEDT, ADC, and Pūlama Lānaʻi highlight the incredible work being done to preserve Lāna ʻ i’s heritage while creating economic opportunities for the future.”   “As a State, we must ensure that we are able to keep up with the changing needs of our communities,” said Senator Troy N. Hashimoto  (D 5 - Wailuku, Kahului, Waihe‘e, Waikapu Mauka, Wai‘ehu) , Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Housing. “Developing sustainable housing solutions must include building communities with access to economic opportunities and critical services to ensure that residents, on Lāna ʻ i and across our islands, can stay and live with greater security in the place we call home.”   “As we continue shaping policy and budgets, it’s critical we prioritize initiatives that create lasting opportunities for regional economic development," said Senator Donovan M. Dela Cruz (D 17 - Portion of Mililani, Mililani Mauka, portion of Waipi‘o Acres, Launani Valley, Wahiawā, Whitmore Village), Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means.   “Today’s visit demonstrates that food, housing, and workforce are the cornerstones of sustainability and economic opportunity,” said  ADC Board Chairperson Jayson Watts . “As ADC explores statewide expansion, we are committed to building the infrastructure and innovation needed for rural communities and families to succeed.”   “The work on Lāna ʻ i highlights how rural communities can thrive when economic opportunities and affordable housing are integrated rather than separated. DBEDT holds critical levers that can be used to support rural communities by connecting food, housing, tourism and workforce opportunities,” said DBEDT Deputy Director Dane Wicker . (Photos LINK ) For a PDF version of this press release, CLICK HERE.

HONOLULU  – T he Hawaiʻi   State Senate Committee on Judiciary , chaired by Senator Karl Rhoads  (Senate District 13 – Dowsett Highlands, Puʻunui, Nuʻuanu, Pacific Heights, Pauoa, Punchbowl, Pālama, Liliha, Iwilei, Chinatown, and Downtown) will be holding an informational briefing to hear from Professor Colin Moore (Ph.D. Department of Government, Harvard, 2009) about the erosion of democratic norms in the United States and how that trend is affecting and will affect the residents of the State of Hawaiʻi. All opinions expressed by Professor Moore are his own.   “The Committee is looking to gain an informed historical context for patterns surrounding the current administration’s decisions,” said Senator Rhoads. “The Trump Administration is continuing to take actions of questionable legality which are negatively affecting Hawaiʻi residents.”   AGENDA 1.  Welcome and Introductions (7 minutes) 2.  Professor Moore's Presentation on the Erosion of Democratic Norms in the United States (30 minutes) 3.  Questions from the Committee – 5 minutes per Member for Questions and Answers   WHEN/WHERE 10:00AM Thursday, September 18, 2025 Conference Room 016 & Videoconference Hawaiʻi State Capitol 415 South Beretania Street Honolulu, HI 96813   View the Hearing Notice HERE   As is normal with informational briefings, no public testimony will be accepted.   This informational briefing is part of a series of informational briefings on the rule of law in relation to the recent actions of the Trump Administration and how its decisions are impacting Hawaiʻi. For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.

KAHULUI – Today, the Senate Committee on Ways and Means met with the Department of Law Enforcement (DLE), the Department of Land and Natural Resources’ (DLNR) Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW), and the Office of the ­State Fire Marshal to receive updates on fire management in the state.   Ernest Robello, DLE Deputy Director of Administration, Dawn Chang, Chair of DLNR, and Dori Booth, Hawaiʻi’s newly-instated State Fire Marshal ( Act 302, 2025 ) presented recent efforts in fire mitigation, including a community fuels reduction project ( Act 303, 2025 ).   Members were walked through the DOFAW’s Kahului Baseyard, where DLNR is leading current fire management efforts.   “Hawaiʻi is facing urgent challenges when it comes to fire risk,” said Senator Brandon J.C. Elefante (D 16 – ‘Aiea, ‘Aiea Heights, Hālawa, Pearlridge, Newtown, Royal Summit, Waimalu, Waiau, Momilani, Pacific Palisades, and Pearl City) ,   Chair of the Senate Committee on Public Safety and Military Affairs. “I am confident that with the reinstatement of our State Fire Marshal and team, along with the support of our departments, we are better positioned to respond effectively and protect our communities from the growing threats of wildfires.”   “The risk of wildfires is growing in Hawaiʻi, and we must always be prepared when it comes to responding to these threats,” said Senator Donovan M. Dela Cruz (D 17 – Portion of Mililani, Mililani Mauka, portion of Waipi‘o Acres, Launani Valley, Wahiawā, Whitmore Village), Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. “Our continued investments in disaster preparedness and development of mitigation strategies, such as reestablishing the Office of the State Fire Marshal, demonstrate how state and county agencies can work together on wildfire prevention.”   “As someone who represents communities that have faced the real and growing threat of wildfires, I deeply appreciate the collaborative efforts being made to strengthen fire prevention and response across our state,” said Senator Lynn DeCoite (D7 – Hāna, East and Upcountry Maui, Moloka‘i, Lāna ʻ i , Kaho‘olawe and Molokini) , Chair of the Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism. “We must continue to prioritize these proactive, community-based strategies to ensure the safety and resilience of all our islands.”   “Today’s briefing in Kahului emphasized the importance of coordinated, on-the-ground fire management strategies for Hawai ʻ i's future,” said Senator Troy N. Hashimoto (D5 – Wailuku, Kahului, Waihe‘e, Waikapu Mauka, Wai‘ehu) , Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Housing. "From fuels reduction to erosion control, it’s encouraging to see state agencies continuously implementing and developing strategies that strengthen resilience in my district and across our state.”   “The DLE will continue to work with and support the Fire Marshal, DLNR, and our community partners to improve prevention, mitigation, and suppression of wildfires across Hawaiʻi,” said Ernest Robello, DLE Deputy Director of Administration .   “I want to extend my sincere gratitude to our legislators for their leadership in passing Act 302,” said State Fire Marshal Dori Booth . “This landmark legislation not only strengthens Hawaiʻi’s wildfire preparedness, but also elevates our entire approach to fire and life safety across the state. By investing in public education, enhancing code enforcement, improving fire investigations, and building a statewide data analysis hub for the fire service, we are laying the foundation to reduce risk on every front. Act 302 positions Hawaiʻi to be a national leader in fire prevention and community resilience, and I am proud of the collective commitment to safeguarding the people and places we cherish most. I look forward to continuing this strong partnership with our legislators on future projects and policies that will further strengthen our capacity to protect and serve Hawaiʻi’s communities.”   “Mahalo nui to WAM for joining us on Maui and for the opportunity to share how DLNR is building out a strong fire management program,” said DLNR Chair Dawn Chang . “The 2023 wildfires were a wake-up call for all of us, and we are deeply grateful to the legislature for the increased funding support you have provided. With this support, our DOFAW team has been able to expand its capacity statewide, with added positions and equipment in all districts. Our expanded capacity has already proved critical in our response to wildfires this dry season. We will continue to work alongside the DLE and our community partners to improve prevention, mitigation, and suppression of wildfires across Hawaiʻi.” (B-roll, Photos LINK ) For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.