HONOLULU – The Hawai‘i State Senate on Tuesday passed Senate Bill 350 , which proposes an amendment to the state’s Constitution that protects individuals' rights to access contraceptives and make decisions about their reproductive health. The bill secures that no law or state action can interfere with their ability to obtain birth control, including methods like IUDs and emergency contraceptives.    “The right to contraception is essential for the well-being of our communities, and is crucial for maintaining public health in Hawai‘i,” said Senator Karl Rhoads (District 13 – Dowsett Highlands, Pu‘unui, Nu‘uanu, Pacific Heights, Pauoa, Punchbowl, Pālama, Liliha, Iwilei, Chinatown, and Downtown), chair of the Judiciary Committee and the primary introducer of the bill. “This constitutional amendment would reinforce that our state remains a leader in protecting reproductive rights and access to contraception.”    Written testimony in strong support of the bill from the American Association of University Women (AAUW) of Hawai‘i noted the importance of this amendment in light of recent U.S. Supreme Court rulings. AAUW pointed out that while the right to contraception was upheld in Griswold v. Connecticut (1965) and Eisenstadt v. Baird (1972), the decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization  (2022) raises concerns that this right could be challenged. AAUW’s testimony also emphasized support from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, who stated that access to contraception is a medical necessity that is vital for the health and economic security of individuals.     SB 350 SD1 with the proposed constitutional amendment now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.

HONOLULU – The Senate Committee on Public Safety and Military Affairs (PSM) chaired by Senator Brandon Elefante (Senate District 16 - ‘Aiea, ‘Aiea Heights, Hālawa, Pearlridge, Newtown, Royal Summit, Waimalu, Waiau, Momilani, Pacific Palisades, and Pearl City) has been pushing forward key bills to tackle the ongoing issue of illegal fireworks in Hawai‘i. Through these legislative efforts, lawmakers aim to reduce the dangers posed by illegal fireworks and hold accountable those responsible for illegal activity.     SB 222 SD1 - RELATING TO FIREWORKS  provides funding for the current Illegal Fireworks Task Force and extends its operation period which was scheduled to end on June 30, 2025, for another five years through June 30, 2030. It passed through the Senate last week and is now with the House.     SB 227 SD1 - RELATING TO FIREWORKS establishes and provides funding for the Illegal Fireworks Enforcement Division within the Department of Law Enforcement, which would work in tandem with the existing Illegal Fireworks Task Force. It passed Third Reading on the Senate Floor today.      SB 1324 SD2 - RELATING TO FIREWORKS , a bill that is part of the Governor’s package with strong support from the Department of the Attorney General, aims to strengthen fireworks safety laws. It includes tougher penalties for fireworks offenses, especially if someone is injured or killed as a result. The bill introduces new criminal offenses related to illegal fireworks use, including sending or receiving fireworks by air, distributing them to people without permits, and other safety violations. It also establishes a system to handle fireworks-related infractions and allocates funding for enforcement. This bill also passed Third Reading today.    “These measures are vital steps in enhancing the safety and security of our communities,” stated Senator Elefante. “By strengthening enforcement and increasing penalties for illegal fireworks, we are taking proactive action to prevent harm and protect our residents. The extension of the Illegal Fireworks Task Force and the proposed Enforcement Division will ensure that our laws are being upheld, and that those who break them face the consequences they deserve. We must continue to prioritize the safety of our people, and these bills are a key part of that commitment.”    “These bills will ensure that the State and County law enforcement agencies have the resources and laws necessary to tackle this very important issue,” said Department of Law Enforcement (DLE) Director Mike Lambert. “Fireworks enforcement is critical in ensuring community safety.”

HONOLULU – The Senate Committee on Ways and Means (WAM) chaired by Senator Donovan M. Dela Cruz (District 17 - Portion of Mililani, Mililani Mauka, portion of Waipi‘o Acres, Launani Valley, Wahiawā, Whitmore Village) voted today to move forward Senate Bill 933 , a short form bill that would set aside one-time, non-recurring grants within the state budget to support essential services across the nonprofit sector. This bill was created to address potential negative impacts of the federal funding freeze imposed by the United States Office of Management and Budget on Hawai‘i’s federally qualified health centers, along with programs offering childcare, social services, subsidized housing, and homelessness assistance.    “We understand the vital role that nonprofits play in providing essential services to our residents, and we cannot afford to allow those who depend on these services to fall through the cracks,” said Senator Dela Cruz. "SB 933 provides an option to make sure that these fundamental programs continue to operate without disruption."    “This important legislation comes at a time when Hawai‘i’s nonprofits face an unprecedented financial crisis from the threat of federal funding freezes on crucial programs that support our communities and neighbors,” said Melissa Miyashiro, President & CEO of Hawai‘i Alliance of Nonprofit Organizations (HANO). “This bill helps ensure that these organizations can remain operational in this turbulent moment and continue to deliver critical services that safeguard the health, well-being, and stability of Hawai‘i residents.”    “The ongoing federal funding uncertainty is placing enormous pressure on our nonprofits, threatening their ability to deliver essential services that countless individuals and families depend on,” stated Aloha United Way’s President & CEO Michelle Bartell. “This bill is a lifeline – providing critical funding for health, housing and human services, to ensure nonprofits can continue serving our most vulnerable populations while we work toward long-term solutions.”    The one-time non-recurring grants proposed in SB 933 are designed to provide assistance to those organizations that may otherwise struggle to maintain their services in the face of federal funding challenges. The bill aims to allocate resources to support organizations that provide essential services for Hawai‘i’s people.

HONOLULU – The Senate Committee on Ways and Means (WAM) chaired by Senator Donovan Dela Cruz (District 17 - Portion of Mililani, Mililani Mauka, portion of Waipi‘o Acres, Launani Valley, Wahiawā, Whitmore Village) passed several bills this week aimed at addressing housing shortages, supporting local businesses, and promoting sustainability.    “We’re continuing to take proactive steps in addressing some of Hawai ‘i’s most urgent needs during this legislative session,” said Senator Dela Cruz. “Through these measures, we are investing in Hawai‘i’s future by building a more resilient, self-sustaining economy and a higher quality of life for our residents.”    The following bills were passed out of the WAM committee this week:     SB 65 SD2: RELATING TO HOUSING  – This bill addresses the repair and maintenance needs for Hawai‘i’s public housing units used by some of the state’s most vulnerable populations. As the Senate continues to prioritize the availability of housing, bringing existing housing inventory back online is critical to addressing the housing shortage.    SB 125 SD1: RELATING TO STATE ENTERPRISE ZONES  – Enterprise zones create tax incentives that can be used to provide local small businesses with incentives to develop and scale their operations. This bill helps local farmers and businesses that process local farm products stay competitive in both local and global markets.    SB 448 SD1: RELATING TO AGRICULTURE  – Maintaining O‘ahu’s agricultural lands in production is vital for food resilience and security, especially in Central O‘ahu’s remaining agricultural heartland. This measure enables the Agribusiness Development Corporation (ADC) to preserve these lands by ensuring they remain productive through a negotiated conservation easement.    SB 1269 SD1: GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES  – This bill allocates funds to the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism (DBEDT) to explore geothermal energy in counties with less than 300,000 residents. The goal is to use this clean, reliable, and cost-effective energy source to help the state reach net-zero carbon emissions, while still providing affordable power for homes and businesses.

HILO, HI  – Senator Lorraine R. Inouye (District 1 – Hilo, Paukaʻa, Papaikou, Pepeʻekeo) is very pleased to announce that Governor Josh Green has released $10 million in funding to the School Facilities Authority (SFA) for preschool expansion. Four classrooms will be created at the ʻImiloa Campus at the University of Hawaiʻi in Hilo to build out pre-kindergarten programs.    “I want to thank Governor Green and his administration for recognizing how important it is to help working families and individuals continue and advance their education with access to childcare," said Senator Inouye.    This funding is a significant step forward in expanding educational opportunities for young children in Hawaiʻi. It will support families in the community by providing vital early education resources to prepare future generations for success.

KAPOLEI, HI  – Senator Mike Gabbard (District 21 – Kapolei, Makakilo, Kalaeloa, portions of Fernandez Village, and ʻEwa) announced today that Governor Josh Green has released over $430,000 to the School Facilities Authority (SFA) for preschool expansion at Barbers Point Elementary School.    “I extend my heartfelt thanks to Governor Green for his continued commitment to our keiki and their education,” said Senator Gabbard. “This funding will provide much needed early learning opportunities and make sure that our children have the foundation they need to succeed. I look forward to seeing the positive impacts this expansion will have on our families in Kapolei, Makakilo, Kalaeloa, and beyond.”     These funds reflect a strong investment in early childhood education, expanding access to childcare and educational opportunities during the critical formative years of a child’s development.

KĀʻANAPALI, MAUI, HI  – Senator Angus L.K. McKelvey (District 6 – West Maui,   Mā‘alaea, Waikapū, South Maui) issued the following statement today in light of an explosion that happened at The Whaler on Kāʻanapali Beach yesterday evening:     "First and foremost, my heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with the individuals who were injured and their families during this difficult time. It is important that we allow officials to conduct a thorough and careful investigation before drawing any conclusions or speculating on the causes.      It is in times of disaster that community is so important. I want to thank not only the first responders but members of the general public as well, who rushed to the aid of the injured immediately after the incident.”

HILO, HI  – Senator Lorraine R. Inouye (District 1 – Hilo, Paukaʻa, Papaikou, Pepeʻekeo) is proud to announce that Governor Josh Green has released $1 million for the Hilo International Airport in Hilo, Hawaiʻi. This funding will be dedicated to the design of T-Hangars and West Ramp improvements.  “I thank Governor Green and his administration for supporting this project, which will benefit both infrastructure and the economy,” said Senator Inouye. “These improvements will enhance operational efficiency and pave the way for future growth at the airport.”  This funding marks an important step in strengthening Hilo International Airport, ensuring its continued role as a key transportation hub for Hawaiʻi Island and supporting local aviation and economic development.

HILO, HI  – Senator Lorraine R. Inouye (District 1 – Hilo, Paukaʻa, Papaikou, Pepeʻekeo) is proud to announce that Governor Josh Green has released $593,500 to finance the replacement of cesspools with individual wastewater systems at Hilo International Airport.  “I want to thank Governor Green and his administration for recognizing the importance of this infrastructure to help protect our fragile ecosystem,” said Senator Inouye. “This project will help prevent water contamination and reduce environmental pollution.”  The funding will go toward replacing outdated cesspools, improving wastewater management, and supporting the long-term sustainability of Hilo’s infrastructure. Senator Inouye remains committed to working with local and state agencies to ensure continued investment in environmentally responsible projects that benefit the community and preserve Hawaiʻi’s natural resources for future generations.

HONOLULU – The Senate Committee on Ways and Means (WAM) chaired by Senator Donovan Dela Cruz (District 17 - Portion of Mililani, Mililani Mauka, portion of Waipi‘o Acres, Launani Valley, Wahiawā, Whitmore Village) advanced several bills today aimed at addressing some of Hawaiʻi’s most pressing needs. These bills include curbing illegal fireworks, increasing workforce development opportunities for residents, enhancing the health and safety of e-bike users, and stabilizing the condominium insurance market.    “As Hawaiʻi faces rising costs and evolving challenges, we have to act now to safeguard our communities, create more job options for our residents, and build a more resilient future for the state," said Senator Dela Cruz. “Moving these bills forward aligns with our Senate priorities of improving the quality of life for all our residents.”    The following bills were passed out of the WAM committee:   SB 222: RELATING TO FIREWORKS  – This bill extends the timeline for the illegal fireworks task force that was established by Senator Dela Cruz in 2021. The group focuses on intercepting illegal fireworks and addressing the growing problem of homemade explosives in the community, helping to improve public safety and reduce related risks.  SB 327 SD1: RELATING TO INTERNSHIPS  – This bill expands the existing Hele Imua  internship program that allows residents to take part in paid internships with private businesses in the state. Funded by the Legislature in 2022, Hele Imua provides opportunities for people to gain valuable work-based experience and support themselves and their families. Workforce development programs like Hele Imua are critical to reversing the brain drain and keeping residents employed in Hawaiʻi.     SB 1117 SD1: RELATING TO TRANSPORTATION   – This measure clarifies regulations around electric bikes (e-bikes) by adding helmet requirements, setting age limits for certain types of e-bikes, and introducing insurance requirements for electric motorcycles. The goal is to promote the responsible use of e-bikes, which can help reduce people’s reliance on traditional vehicles. The bill also expands an existing rebate program to encourage more people to use e-bikes in a safe and sustainable way.     SB 1044 SD1: RELATING TO THE STABILIZATION OF PROPERTY INSURANCE  – This measure aims to solve the rapidly rising insurance costs for condominiums by expanding the Hawaiʻi Property Insurance Association (HPIA) and the Hawaiʻi Hurricane Relief Fund (HHRF) to offer coverage for properties that are unable to get insurance through private companies. Additionally, the bill was amended to include a loan program that helps condominiums address maintenance issues, which have led to higher insurance premiums or made it difficult to get insurance from private companies.    These bills will now move to the full Senate for a final vote before crossing over to the House.

HONOLULU – The Senate Committee on Public Safety and Military Affairs (PSM), chaired by Senator Brandon Elefante (Senate District 16 - ‘Aiea, ‘Aiea Heights, Hālawa, Pearlridge, Newtown, Royal Summit, Waimalu, Waiau, Momilani, Pacific Palisades, and Pearl City), completed a series of significant hearings today addressing legislation aimed at combatting illegal fireworks in communities across Hawai‘i. Three separate hearings held at the Hawai‘i State Capitol went over several key bills that focus on strengthening enforcement measures and penalties related to illegal fireworks use. A priority for the Senate, these bills aim to enhance public safety and respond to the increasing concerns about the dangerous and disruptive use of fireworks. The following bills were heard today: SB 999 : this bill would ban the use and sale of consumer fireworks, set fines for breaking the law, and create a fund to support safety education programs using money from the fines and seized property; the committees who heard the bill (PSM/CPN) deferred it to Monday, February 10 for decision-making. SB 1226 : this bill aims to create a program to inspect shipping containers, require the Department of Law Enforcement to report on the program’s effectiveness, and provide money to support the program. The TCA/PSM committees passed the bill with amendments. SB 302 : this piece of legislation would limit the use of consumer fireworks to only approved cultural events with a permit, ban selling them without a permit, and add a fee for those permits. The TCA/PSM committees passed the bill with amendments. SB 1324 : this bill would increase penalties for fireworks-related injuries or deaths, create new criminal offenses for illegal fireworks actions, and set up a system to handle fireworks violations. The PSM/TCA committees passed the bill with amendments. SB 227 : would create a new division to enforce laws against illegal fireworks. It was passed unamended. SB 476 : would raise the fines for certain fireworks violations, starting on July 1, 2025. The bill was deferred. SB 222 : this bill provides more funding for the illegal fireworks task force for the next few years until June 30, 2030. It was passed unamended. Senator Elefante emphasized the critical nature of these discussions, noting that illegal fireworks not only pose safety hazards but also disturb residents, pets, and local wildlife. “Today’s hearings represent a major step forward in ensuring the safety and well-being of our communities,” said Senator Elefante. “By strengthening enforcement and increasing penalties, we are sending a clear message that the unlawful use of fireworks will not be tolerated.” The bills are part of ongoing efforts to address the rising concerns over fireworks-related incidents, including fires, injuries, and public disturbances, especially in light of the tragedies that happened in the state at the beginning of this year. Senate Committee acronyms, for reference: PSM: Public Safety and Military Affairs CPN: Commerce and Consumer Protection TCA: Transportation and Culture and the Arts For a PDF version of this news release, CLICK HERE.

HONOLULU  – On Monday, January 27, 2025, the U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB) released a memo requiring all federal agencies to review their financial assistance programs to see how they might be affected by President Trump’s orders. According to the memo, federal agencies must temporarily stop all activities related to giving out federal funds, including but not limited to assistance for foreign aid, nonprofits, diversity programs, gender policies, and environmental initiatives tied to the Green New Deal. The memo also directs a pause on the distribution of federal funds starting at 5:00 p.m. on January 28, 2025.    The Hawai‘i State Legislature’s leadership issued the following statements responding to the president’s recent order that jeopardizes vital federal financial assistance programs across the nation:    “This latest directive from the federal level comes at a time when many communities are already facing hardships, and it threatens to disrupt the distribution of critical resources to individuals, businesses, and organizations that rely on federal financial assistance,” said Senate President   Ronald D. Kouchi  (Senate District 8 – Kaua‘i, Ni‘ihau). “These programs – spanning healthcare, education, infrastructure, housing, and more – are lifelines for our Hawai‘i residents as well as millions of Americans, and the temporary suspension of these funds will only exacerbate challenges that are already straining our communities.”    "We are closely monitoring the situation by the hour and appreciate Governor Josh Green, M.D., and Attorney General Anne Lopez's immediate action to challenge the federal administration’s decision. This freeze is deeply concerning as it could jeopardize critical services that Hawai‘i’s communities depend on, including education, healthcare, social services, wildfire recovery, and essential federally funded programs. Furthermore, it undermines the progress we have made in ensuring representation and support for our Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities. The Hawai‘i House of Representatives stands committed to working with our federal counterparts to evaluate the full impacts and ensure continued support for the people of Hawai‘i," said Speaker of the House Nadine Nakamura  (House District 15 – Hā‘ena, Wainiha, Hanalei, Princeville, Kīlauea, Anahola, Keālia, Kapa‘a, portion of Wailua, Kawaihau).