HONOLULU – In a significant step forward for food equity and student well-being, Governor Josh Green today signed Senate Bill 1300  into law at Washington Place. Authored by Senate Vice President Michelle Kidani  (District 18 – Mililani Town, Waipiʻo Gentry, Crestview, Waikele, portion of Waipahu, Village Park, Royal Kunia), the law expands access to free meals for Hawaiʻi public school students, especially for individuals from ALICE (Asset-Limited, Income-Constrained, Employed) households who often do not qualify for traditional assistance programs.  SB 1300 takes effect on July 1, 2025. Highlights of the bill include:  ·                     Beginning this 2025–2026 school year, students who currently qualify for reduced-price lunches will receive free meals.  ·                     $565,000 per year will be allocated for the next two school years, benefiting about 34,000 students statewide.  ·                     Beginning the 2026–2027 school year, an additional $2.8 million will expand eligibility to families earning up to 300% of the federal poverty level.  “Access to nutritious meals is fundamental to student success. Throughout my time as Chair of the Senate Committee on Education, I have witnessed how hunger often goes unnoticed in classrooms, with teachers quietly stepping in to fill the gaps,” said Senate Vice President Kidani.   “This bill, which expands free school meals to students who previously qualified only for reduced-price lunches, directly tackles this critical issue by ensuring our keiki receive the nourishment they need to thrive academically and in life. When students are well-fed, they can focus better, engage fully, and reach their potential. I am honored to have authored this legislation and extend my gratitude to Governor Green for signing it into law.”   The signing of SB 1300 marks a critical investment in Hawaiʻi’s children and families and reinforces the state’s commitment to supporting student learning and health.  “I also want to express my deepest appreciation to the many advocates – especially First Lady Jaime Green – and the dedicated staff whose efforts were instrumental in bringing this legislation to fruition,” the Education Chair added.  For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE. For high-res photos from the event, CLICK HERE.

HONOLULU – The Hawaiʻi State Senate Committee on Judiciary passed Senate Bill 313  in a hearing this morning, which would implement a wealth asset tax for assets valued over $20 million.   "SB 313 is a significant step towards creating a fairer, more equitable economy,” said Judiciary Committee Chair Karl Rhoads, who introduced the bill. “This legislation pushes for those with the greatest resources to contribute their fair share to the prosperity of our state. By moving this bill forward, we are tackling inequality head-on and working to build an economy that benefits all, especially those who have been left behind for far too long."   If the bill becomes law, individuals with assets worth more than $20 million would pay a state tax on the value of their assets above that amount. For example, if someone has $25 million in assets, they would pay the tax on the $5 million that exceeds the $20 million threshold. The tax rate would be 1%. The Committee adopted Chair Rhoads’ recommendation to assess the tax every three years.   SB 313 would include assets like real estate, stocks, bonds, cash, art and collectibles, in the calculation. Those subject to the wealth asset tax would report their assets to the Department of Taxation and pay the tax at the same time they file their regular state income taxes. If passed, the bill as amended would be applied to taxes due after December 31, 2029.   Senator Rhoads has introduced similar legislation in the past – SB 925 in 2023, and SB 2389 in 2022.   Massachusetts has already implemented a similar state wealth tax, with the money collected aimed at funding transportation and education programs, and other states are considering similar legislation. For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.

HONOLULU – State Senator Angus L.K. McKelvey (District 6 – West Maui, Mā‘alaea, Waikapū, South Maui) has announced that Governor Green has released $3.2 million in Capital Improvement Project (CIP) funds to design and construct fencing in South Maui. This project seeks to address the growing environmental and safety concerns caused by the overpopulation of Axis deer on Maui, which has been identified as a major cause of the conditions leading to previous flooding like that of just last month.   “This decision is not just an administrative act—it is a powerful demonstration of responsiveness and a commitment to safeguarding our land, our people, and our future,” McKelvey said. “This moment sends a strong message to the people of South Maui that the Governor and his administration understands the urgency and are committed to expediting the resources needed to tackle the flooding crisis from Mauka to Makai.”   According to McKelvey, the funding, which was secured through the combined efforts of legislators Representative Terez Amato, Representative Kyle Yamashita, Senator Lynn DeCoite and Senator Donovan M. Dela Cruz, will be used to mitigate the destructive impact of the Axis deer population on agriculture, infrastructure, and the general safety of our community.   McKelvey expressed his gratitude for the swift action taken by the administration, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.   “The unchecked spread of Axis deer has led to severe agricultural losses and increased the risk of flooding due to overgrazing, which weakens soil stability,” McKelvey said. “The Governor’s commitment to funding this project reflects a proactive approach to preventing further environmental degradation and ensuring the well-being of residents.”   The South and West Maui lawmaker explained that the fencing initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance conservation efforts and long-term sustainability in the region. Leaders and stakeholders emphasize that the project will serve as a foundation for future flood mitigation and environmental preservation efforts.   “The funding release marks a significant step forward in addressing one of South Maui’s most pressing ecological challenges,” McKelvey said, adding that, “community members, conservation advocates, and policymakers will continue working together to ensure the successful implementation of the project and explore additional strategies for sustainable land management.”   “The fences we build today are not just barriers—they are bridges to a safer, stronger, and more resilient Maui,” McKelvey said. For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.

Legislation supports safe access to reproductive health care, minors' protection, and gender equity HONOLULU – On January 22, members of the bipartisan Hawaiʻi Women's Legislative Caucus (WLC) led a panel discussion in collaboration with the YWCA of Oʻahu to present their 2025 legislative package as part of their continuous work to improve the lives of Hawaiʻi's women, children, and families. "Every session, the Women's Legislative Caucus continues its efforts to support Hawaiʻi's women, children, and families," said   House Vice Speaker Linda Ichiyama . "This year, our package includes bills to improve access to health care and protect minors, to advance gender equity in our K-12 public schools, and to assist women who are justice-involved." The package includes the following five bills: SB526 / HB727 :   Relating to the Women's Court  - Establishes a temporary three-year women's court pilot program within the second, third, and fifth circuits. Establishes temporary positions. Requires a report. Appropriates funds. Sunsets 6/30/2028. SB297 / HB728 : Proposing a Constitutional Amendment to the Constitution of the State of Hawaiʻi to Protect the Right to Reproductive Freedom -  Amends the Hawaiʻi State Constitution to prohibit the State from denying or interfering with an individual's reproductive freedom, including the right to choose to obtain an abortion and to obtain or use contraceptives. SB528 / HB729 : Relating to Marriage of Minors -  Raises the minimum age to enter into marriage from sixteen to eighteen years of age. Repeals the authority of parents and the family court to consent to a minor's marriage. Repeals spousal cohabitation after the parties attain legal age as an exception for an annulment based on nonage. Makes conforming amendments. SB527 / HB730 : Relating to Education  - Establishes, and appropriates funds for, five full-time equivalent (5.0 FTE) positions within the Civil Rights Compliance Branch of the Department of Education for Title IX compliance and gender equity in athletics. SB296 / HB731 : Relating to Minors  Authorizes a physician, upon consultation with a minor patient who indicates that the minor was the victim of a sexual offense, with the consent of the minor patient, to perform customary and necessary examinations to obtain evidence of the sexual offense and may prescribe for and treat the patient for any immediate condition caused by the sexual offense. Provides that the consent of the parent, parents, or legal guardian of a minor offender who has been committed to the Hawaiʻi youth correctional facilities is not necessary in order to authorize hospital, medical, mental health, dental, emergency health, or emergency surgical care. "A few years ago, the WLC helped to create a pilot program for the first women's court in Hawaiʻi, to recognize the different pathways that women enter the criminal justice system," said   House Minority Leader Lauren Matsumoto . "We are proud to include a bill in our package to support the expansion of this successful program, Mohala Wahine, to the neighbor islands."    “Our Women's Legislative Caucus is crucial for elevating the voices of women in policymaking, along with protecting and advocating for the most underserved communities,” said   Senate Vice President Michelle Kidani . “When women lead, we bring viewpoints that prioritize equity, social justice, and the well-being of those who have historically been marginalized. By working together, we ensure that our laws reflect the diverse needs of our communities.”   “The 2025 Women’s Legislative Caucus is critical in advocating for the women in our state,” stated   Senator Lynn DeCoite . “As women legislators, we bring diverse perspectives, unwavering determination, and a deep commitment to shaping laws that reflect the needs and aspirations of all people. Our voices are not just heard—they are the catalysts for change that move us closer to a more just and inclusive society. I am honored to serve as co-convener for the 2025 Women’s Legislative Caucus and am looking forward to working with my fellow women legislators during this session." This year, the WLC honors former Senator Maile Shimabukuro by dedicating its legislative package to her. Senator Shimabukuro served in the Hawaiʻi State Legislature for over twenty years, tirelessly advocating for women’s rights as a steadfast supporter of the WLC.   The WLC is a formal, bipartisan, and bicameral caucus dedicated to advancing legislation that improves the lives of women, children, and families. The 2025 WLC Co-Conveners are Senators Michelle N. Kidani (D-18, Mililani Town, portion of Waipi‘o Gentry, Crestview, Waikele, portion of Waipahu, Village Park, Royal Kunia) and Lynn DeCoite (D-7, Hāna, East and Upcountry Maui, Moloka‘i, Lāna‘i, Kaho‘olawe and Molokini), and Representatives Linda Ichiyama (D-31, Salt Lake, Āliamanu, Makalapa, Pearl Harbor) and Lauren Matsumoto (D-38, Portions of Mililani and Waipio Acres, Mililani Mauka). In the Hawaiʻi State Legislature, there are 23 women Representatives among the 51 members and 8 women Senators among the 25 members.   See the entire 2025 Women's Legislative Caucus Package   here . ### B-ROLL : Access photos and video of the event  here . Video : 0:00 – 0:13: Entrance to YWCA 0:14 – 0:24: Attendees at breakfast line 0:25 – 0:32: Rep. Perruso engages in discussions with students 0:33 – 0:45: State Legislators at WLC Breakfast 0:46 – 0:50: Women's Legislative Caucus unveils 2025 Package 0:51 – 1:08: Legislators deliver remarks 1:08 – 1:10: Group Photo

HONOLULU – 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 $150,000 in Capital Improvement Program (CIP) funding for the lighting improvements project at Kanoelani Elementary School. The funds will be used for the design and construction of 10 new lighting poles with floodlights, enhancing safety and visibility for the school community.    “Mahalo to Governor Josh Green and the Senate Committee on Ways and Means (WAM) for releasing $150,000 for the lighting improvement project I’ve advocated for Kanoelani Elementary School,” said Senator Kidani. “As a campus that hosts numerous school and community events in the evening, this is a critical investment in the safety and well-being of our students and faculty. By enhancing and upgrading visibility on campus, we are upholding our commitment to fostering a sense of security, ensuring that our schools are a safe gathering space for our most vulnerable students. This project represents our ongoing commitment to providing the best possible learning environment for our keiki to thrive!”    The new lighting improvements will provide increased security for the school grounds, ensuring better visibility during evening hours for students, staff, and visitors. Senator Kidani emphasized that projects like this play an essential role in enhancing public infrastructure and supporting Hawai’i’s long-term growth and sustainability.  For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.

KAUA‘I, HAWAI‘I  – Kaua‘i legislators today expressed their appreciation for the collaborative efforts in the 2025 Legislative Session, which led to the inclusion of critical funding for priority projects in the Executive Budget, HB 300 CD1  for Fiscal Years 2025–2026 and 2026–2027.    The proposed budget reflects the Kaua‘i Delegation's commitment to addressing the unique needs of communities across the Garden Isle through targeted investments that strengthen infrastructure, enhance public services, and build long-term resilience.     Notable highlights include:  ·                     Acquisition of agricultural lands from Grove Farm – $39,000,000 for FY 2026  ·                     Acquisition of agricultural lands on Waimea, Kaua‘i – $1,300,000 for FY 2026  ·                     New Kapa‘a Library plans and design – $2,000,000 for FY 2026  ·                     HPHA Ka Lei Momi Development, Kapa‘a Homes plans and design – $4,000,000 for FY 2026  ·                     Ho‘ola Lahui Hawai‘i, a medical and dental outpatient clinic for a federally qualified health center and Native Hawaiian health care system site plans and design – $1,500,000 for FY 2026  ·                     Samuel Mahelona Memorial Hospital plans and design, including connector road planning – $500,000 for FY 2026  ·                     Plans and design for breach of lower Kapahi Reservoir to comply with dam safety regulations – $500,000 for FY 2026  ·                     Mana Dragstrip Improvements – track and facility maintenance, repair and upgrades to stadium, track lighting, spectator lighting, equipment acquisition - $700,000 for FY 2026  ·                     Hanapēpē Stadium improvements – $3,500,000 for FY 2026  ·                     Hanapēpē Stadium improvements – $3,500,000 for FY 2026 (matching county funds)  ·                     Kūhiō Highway (Hardy to Oxford St.) water main replacement – $1,500,000 for FY 2026  ·                     Kūhiō Highway (Hardy to Oxford St.) water main replacement – $1,500,000 for FY 2026 (matching county funds)  ·                     Vidinha Stadium improvements – $8,000,000 for FY 2026  ·                     Vidinha Stadium improvements – $8,000,000 for FY 2026 (matching county funds)  ·                     Līhuʻe Airport improvements – $1,000 for FY 2026/$4,600,000 for FY 2027 (matching federal funds)   ·                     Līhuʻe Airport improvements – $9,225,000 for FY 2026/$5,140,000 for FY 2027 (revenue bond funds)   ·                     Nawiliwili Harbor improvements – $9,992,000 for FY 2026/$4,992,000 for FY 2027 (special funds)   ·                     Nawiliwili Harbor improvements – $4,000 for FY 2026/$4,000 for FY 2027 (matching federal funds)  ·                     Nawiliwili Harbor improvements – $4,000 for FY 2026/$4,000 for FY 2027 (private contributions)  ·                     Kaumuali‘i Highway improvements – $4,000,000 for FY 2026/$20,800,000 for FY 2027 (matching federal funds)  ·                     Kaumuali‘i Highway improvements – $1,000,000 for FY 2026/$5,200,000 for FY 2027 (revenue bond funds)  ·                     Kaua‘i Community College student/workforce housing – $5,000,000 for FY 2026/$10,000,000 for FY 2027  ·                     Hawai‘i Health Systems Corporation Kaua‘i Region - plans, designs, and equipment for new facilities, renovation, expansion, equipment - $20,000,000 for FY 2026/$12,500,000 for FY 2027  ·                     Wilcox Elementary School Tennis Courts plans, design, and construction for reconstruction of Līhuʻe Public Tennis Courts - $950,000 for FY 2026  ·                     UH Community College Systems – AI Based Center Pathways Program - $1,000,000 for FY 2026/$1,000,000 for FY 2027    Fiscal Year 2026 Operating Budget:   ·                     Ho‘okipa Kaua‘i – $75,000  ·                     Kaua‘i Foodbank – $75,000  ·                     The Waipā Foundation – $80,000  ·                     Rescue Tube Foundation – $200,000  ·                     Kumano I Ke Ala O Makaweli – $185,000    Fiscal Year 2026 CIP:  ·                     Hale Opio Kaua‘i – $168,000  ·                     Kaua‘i Economic Opportunity – $600,000  ·                     Kaua‘i Foodbank – $116,000  ·                     Mālama Kaua‘i – $350,000  ·                     Namahana Education Foundation – $400,000  ·                     Hui Mālama O Kāneiolouma - $400,000    “I deeply appreciate the teamwork within our Kaua‘i delegation,” said Senate President Ronald D. Kouchi (Senate District 8 – Kaua‘i, Ni‘ihau). “These investments reflect our shared commitment to improving the lives of our residents, preserving our environment, and strengthening the island’s future. We’re proud of what we’ve accomplished together and remain committed to seeing these projects through for the people of Kaua‘i. We also want to thank the Ways and Means Committee Chair Donovan Dela Cruz and House Finance Chair Kyle T. Yamashita for their support of Kaua‘i.”    House Speaker Nadine K. Nakamura  (House District 15 – Hā‘ena, Wainiha, Hanalei, Princeville, Kīlauea, Anahola, Keālia, Kapa‘a, portion of Wailua, Kawaihau) said, “This budget reflects our shared vision for Kaua‘i – strengthening public safety, supporting education, and investing in our infrastructure. It highlights what we can achieve together through community input and collaboration.”    Representative Luke A. Evslin (House District 16 – Wailua, Hanamā‘ulu, Kapaia, Līhu‘e, Puhi, portion of ‘Ōma‘o) added, “I’m especially encouraged by the funding that supports long-term resilience and sustainability for our home. Strategic investments in housing, agricultural lands, and water infrastructure are essential to preserving the health of our communities and ensuring that future generations can continue to live and thrive on Kaua‘i.”    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, “It’s always our goal to ensure that rural and neighbor island communities like ours are not left behind. This budget includes meaningful support for the people of Kaua‘i, and I’m grateful for the collaborative process that made it possible.”    HB 300 CD1 will go through a final vote in the Senate and House before heading to the Governor for a decision.  For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.

HONOLULU – Senate Vice President Michelle N.Kidani (District 18 – Mililani Town, Waipi‘o Gentry, Crestview, Waikele, portion of Waipahu, Village Park, Royal Kunia) who chairs the Senate Committee on Education (EDU) today announced the Senate's passage of an important bill moving forward this legislative session. SB 529 SD1   RELATING TO EDUCATION  seeks to appropriate funds to expand the Hoʻākea Program, an educational initiative that integrates Hawaiian cultural practices with academic subjects to engage students and promote environmental stewardship. “Programs like Ho‘ākea create meaningful learning experiences for students that bridge culture, community, and education, fostering a deeper connection to their heritage and building a stronger sense of identity and responsibility,” said Senate Vice President Kidani. “By incorporating traditional knowledge with modern curriculum, this initiative empowers our keiki to become the next generation of leaders.” “The impact of Ho‘ākea has truly been profound for our students, our families and our communities,” stated Hawaiʻi State Department of Education (HIDOE) Superintendent Keith Hayashi. “ Through hands-on learning stations, the mission of Hoʻākea is to inspire students to embrace the ‘Navigator Mindset’ and become the leaders, stewards, and critical thinkers that can navigate us into a better future.” According to Nainoa Thompson, Pwo Navigator and CEO of Polynesian Voyaging Society, “education is everything, it will determine our future of what we teach our children. I’ve seen the impact when there’s a bridge that’s created between the power of communities and families, and Ho‘ākea is that bridge to teachers who are the bridge to our schools.” Amy Hānaialiʻi Gilliom, Hui O Wa‘a Kaulua President, vocalist and songwriter, shared her strong support, writing,“using foundational values and perspectives of waʻa and ʻāina, students learn about, explore, and troubleshoot issues they experience daily – like coastal erosion, water and food security, emergency preparedness, and community resilience. Connecting place, culture, and history to core subjects like math, science, and social studies engage their natural curiosity and excitement to learn.” The bill now moves to the House for consideration. CLICK HERE for a PDF version of this news release.

HONOLULU  – The Hawaiʻi State Legislature has passed Senate Bill 1511  to help preserve the safety and natural beauty of Hanalei Bay, located on the north shore of Kaua‘i. The bill limits the size of vessels allowed in the bay to protect its calm waters and ensure it remains a safe space for residents and visitors.    Senate President Ronald D. Kouchi  (Senate District 8 – Kaua‘i, Ni‘ihau) stated, “Hanalei Bay is a special place, not just for Kauaʻi, but for all of Hawaiʻi. This bill reflects our commitment to protecting it for future generations, as we prioritize the safety of families and visitors who enjoy its waters every day. I thank the committee chairs in both the Senate and House who were instrumental in pushing this legislation forward.”     “Our community has spoken loud and clear. Hanalei Bay is a treasure, and this bill is a critical step in preserving the natural beauty of this scenic bay, while protecting residents’ access to fishing, swimming, surfing, and traditional water activities,” said House Speaker Nadine K. Nakamura (House District 15 – Hā‘ena, Wainiha, Hanalei, Princeville, Kīlauea, Anahola, Keālia, Kapa‘a, portion of Wailua, Kawaihau).     Under the proposed law, no vessel longer than seventy-five feet will be allowed to enter Hanalei Bay, with exceptions made for vessels operated by federal, state, or county agencies. The Department of Land and Natural Resources will be tasked with defining the boundaries of Hanalei Bay and enforcing the new rule.    SB 1511 will now head to Governor Josh Green for consideration.  For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.

Maui Legislator Urges County to Follow Governor’s Lead in Supporting Dislocated Maui Workers HONOLULU, HI – In response to the abrupt layoffs of 131 Maui residents who were employed in wildfire recovery efforts, Senator Angus L.K. McKelvey (District 6 – West Maui, Mā‘alaea,Waikapū, South Maui) today condemned the federal government’s decision to cut funding, and commended Governor Josh Green’s swift action to integrate displaced workers into state programs. He urged county governments to follow suit in finding immediate solutions to keep these critical workers employed. “The sudden termination of these positions is not just a policy shift—it is a profound misstep that threatens our economic stability and the well-being of our community,” said Senator McKelvey. “Many of these individuals who have already endured the trauma of the August 2023 wildfires, were dedicating their time and energy to rebuilding Maui. Now, without warning, they have been left jobless, without a clear path forward.” The layoffs, a direct result of federal funding cuts to the National Dislocated Worker Grant (NDWG) program, have disrupted essential recovery efforts on the island. Organizations like the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement (CNHA) and Maui Economic Opportunity (MEO) have scrambled to seek alternative funding sources, but the loss of federal support has had immediate and devastating consequences, including the temporary closure of the Kako‘o Distribution Center, which serves wildfire survivors. Senator McKelvey praised Governor Green for signing an executive order to accelerate the hiring of displaced federal workers into state positions. “Governor Green has shown true leadership by ensuring that these skilled workers are not abandoned. By expediting their integration into state employment, he is providing stability not just for these individuals, but for our entire recovery effort,” McKelvey stated. McKelvey also emphasized the broader implications of the federal government’s decision, warning of increased unemployment and economic instability. “This is a short-sighted move that will ultimately cost more in the long run. Stripping away support mechanisms forces individuals to rely more heavily on government aid and charitable organizations, creating a cycle of dependency rather than empowerment. We should be investing in our workforce, not abandoning them.” As the affected workers seek new employment, MEO and the Maui County American Job Center are offering assistance, and a resource fair has been scheduled for this weekend. However, McKelvey stressed that temporary fixes are not enough. “We need a commitment from every level of government to ensure that these workers, who have given so much to their communities, are not left behind.”

LĀHAINĀ, HAWAIʻI  – In a pivotal step toward community recovery and educator retention, State Senator Angus L.K. McKelvey (District 6 - West Maui, Mā‘alaea, Waikapū, South Maui) gathered with state and county officials, to celebrate the groundbreaking of a $20 million workforce housing project at Lahainaluna High School. Joined by students and community members, the project will provide urgently needed housing for teachers and school staff in the fire-affected West Maui area. The initiative, funded through a combination of Capital Improvement Project (CIP) funds and the Major Disaster Fund, will deliver 47 modular housing units in one- and two-bedroom configurations. The Maui-based Dowling Company has been selected to lead the development, with initial occupancy projected for July 2025 and full completion by spring 2026. “This project is a showcase of how State-County partnerships, along with the community and private sector, can create much-needed solutions for critical problems,” said Senator McKelvey, who represents West Maui. “It paves the way for community rebuilding and future growth centered around our keiki – the most valuable asset of any community, particularly Lāhainā.” The housing is intended to stabilize Lāhainā’s educational workforce, nearly one-third of whom were displaced by the August 2023 wildfires, which destroyed approximately 2,200 structures across West Maui. “By providing affordable and stable housing, we ensure that our teachers and staff can remain here, deeply rooted in the communities they serve,” said Hawai‘i State Department of Education (HIDOE) Superintendent Keith Hayashi. Lahainaluna High School Principal Richard Carosso echoed the urgency of the project’s mission. “We know that it’s hard to commute and we know that traffic is getting worse,” Carosso said. “Even rents in Central Maui have risen since the fire, so I don’t think it’s outlandish to say that this project kind of saved public education for the West Side schools.” McKelvey also recognized key figures who supported the effort behind the scenes. “I want to thank Principal Carosso and echo his praise for Caz Winky and the other DOE and County employees who worked countless hours to drive this project forward,” McKelvey said. He also acknowledged the role of his legislative colleagues and executive leadership. “I’m especially grateful to Senators Lynn DeCoite, Troy Hashimoto and Donovan Dela Cruz, along with my Maui House colleagues, for ensuring the funding remained intact during the past session,” McKelvey said. “I want to thank Governor Josh Green and Mayor Richard Bissen, along with their directors, for keeping this project on the front burner and securing the necessary allocations for infrastructure and water.” “This project can serve as a model for other communities across the neighbor islands,” he added. “It addresses a dire situation in a positive way that builds better communities.” For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE. For a high-res version of the photo, CLICK HERE.

PUNA, HAWAIʻI – Senator Joy A. San Buenaventura  (District 2 – Puna) today recognized the passage of three significant bills during the 2025 legislative session, aimed at strengthening protections and expanding support for vulnerable youth across the state. SB 292, SB 951, and HB 613 focus on accountability, safety, and access to essential services.    “These bills reflect our unwavering commitment to protecting Hawaiʻi’s most vulnerable keiki,” said Senator San Buenaventura, who chairs the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services (HHS). “This session, we made it a priority to make sure that young people in crisis are met with compassion, support, and real opportunities to heal and thrive.”    The three measures include:  ·                SB 292   – establishes safe harbor protections for survivors of sexual exploitation, shielding them from prosecution for related offenses when seeking medical or law enforcement help.  ·                SB 951   – strengthens child abuse reporting protocols by requiring the disclosure of military affiliation and coordination with appropriate military authorities.  ·                HB 613  – creates a Safe Spaces for Youth Program under the Office of Youth Services, providing shelters and support for unaccompanied homeless youth across all counties.    All three bills passed with strong legislative support and are seen as vital steps toward addressing youth homelessness, exploitation, and gaps in child welfare oversight. They now await the Governor’s signature.  For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.

HONOLULU – Senator Mike Gabbard  (District 21 – Kapolei, Makakilo, Kalaeloa, portions of Fernandez Village, and ‘Ewa) proudly announced that three of the bills he introduced during this legislative session focused on juvenile justice reform, have been passed by the Hawaiʻi State Legislature.    “These bills reflect collaboration and a deep commitment to protecting our youth,” said Senator Gabbard. “I’m incredibly grateful to my colleagues and to the community partners who helped get these important measures over the finish line.”   The following bills are focused on protecting children from harmful and outdated criminal justice practices: SB544  gives courts more flexibility to consider a person’s age and circumstances when they committed a crime as a minor, even if they're being sentenced as an adult, and lets judges reduce mandatory sentences when warranted.   SB691  sets the minimum age at 12 for a child to be brought into court for breaking or attempting to break the law. SB694  prohibits minors from being held in adult jails, lockups, or prisons, except in limited, temporary circumstances.   Gabbard added, “These reforms bring Hawaiʻi in line with national best practices and help ensure that no child is subjected to inhumane treatment within the criminal justice system.”    The bills now await the Governor’s signature. For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.