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

On January 28, members of the bipartisan Hawaiʻi Women's Legislative Caucus (WLC) led a panel discussion in collaboration with the YWCA of Oʻahu to present their 2026 legislative package as part of their continuous work to improve the lives of Hawaiʻi's women, children, and families. “This session, the Women’s Legislative Caucus worked closely with stakeholders and advocates to introduce legislation that directly addresses some of our most vulnerable communities,” said House Vice Speaker Linda Ichiyama . “From expanding protections for survivors of abuse, to ensuring access to health care, these priorities reflect what is top of mind for our Caucus as we enter the 2026 Legislative Session.”   The bill package includes five bills and one resolution: SB2843 / HB1959 : Relating to Domestic Violence Extends for five years certain provisions from Act 19, SLH 2020, and Act 238, SLH 2021, relating to abuse of family or household members, including establishing a petty misdemeanor offense of abuse of family or household members, clarifying penalties for violations, and allowing a deferred acceptance of guilty plea for misdemeanor and petty misdemeanor abuse of family or household members offenses. Effective 6/29/2026.   SB2841 / HB1960 :   Relating to Human Trafficking Requires the Department of the Attorney General to develop a Human Trafficking Awareness Training Program to educate and train workers in the transient accommodations sector. Requires transient accommodations employers to periodically provide the human trafficking awareness training to certain employees and contract workers; keep records of the training; post signage; and develop and implement a human trafficking prevention policy that includes procedures for the reporting of suspected human trafficking. Establishes penalties. Requires the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations to adopt rules.   SB2845 / HB1961 : Relating to Health Care Prohibits persons from interfering with another person's access to or from a health care facility or disrupting the normal functioning of a health care facility. Makes violations a petty misdemeanor. Establishes a private right of action for individuals and health care facilities harmed as a result of interference with a health care facility. Authorizes the Attorney General to bring an action for injunctive or other equitable relief.   SB2842 / HB1962  Relating to Family Establishes an exemption from mediation in parentage proceedings where there are allegations of domestic abuse. Clarifies the exemption from mediation in divorce proceedings as it relates to domestic abuse.   SB2844 / HB1963 : Relating to Image-Based Sexual Abuse Establishes the nonconsensual disclosure of intimate or private images as a criminal offense. Amends the criteria for an extended term of imprisonment to include an offender whose act of attempting to commit or committing the nonconsensual disclosure of intimate or private images against a minor or vulnerable adult resulted in the victim's death.   HR5 / HCR6 , SR7 / SCR7 : Affirming and supporting the requirement that hospitals provide life-saving emergency care to pregnant people, including reproductive and abortion services, when such care is medically necessary to stabilize a patient under the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act. "We partnered with the Sex Abuse Treatment Center to address a gap in current law on sextortion, to ensure that we can hold predators accountable and keep kids safe which is even more important in this digital world," said House Minority Leader Lauren Matsumoto . “The Women’s Legislative Caucus bill package reflects our deep commitment to protecting women, children, and families across Hawaiʻi,” said Senator Lynn DeCoite . “By working closely with advocates, service providers, and community partners, we are advancing legislation that supports survivors of abuse, prevents exploitation, and safeguards access to critical health care. These bills recognize the real challenges facing our communities and affirm that everyone deserves to live with safety, dignity, and compassion no matter where they live in our state.” This year, the WLC dedicated its bill package to Senate Vice President Michelle N. Kidani and YWCA Oʻahu for their leadership and commitment to empowering women, supporting families, and strengthening our communities statewide.   “I’m truly honored and humbled that the Women’s Legislative Caucus chose to dedicate this bill package to me," said Senate Vice President Michelle N. Kidani . "This year’s package reflects the values we share: equity, opportunity, safety, and progress, and serves as a reminder that our work goes beyond legislation. It’s a commitment to the people we serve. The legacy of Congresswoman Patsy T. Mink, the author of Title IX, inspired me to run for office, and her courage, vision, and relentless pursuit of equity continue to guide both why I serve and the priorities I advocate for as a legislator.” The WLC is a formal, bipartisan, and bicameral caucus dedicated to advancing legislation that improves the lives of women, children, and families. The 2026 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 9 women Senators among the 25 members.

Honolulu, Hawaiʻi  – On Wednesday, January 26, members of the Hawaiʻi State Legislature's Keiki Caucus and community advocates unveiled the 2026 Keiki Caucus Bill Package, comprised of five priority bills that address the health and welfare of Hawaiʻi's youth.   The proposed measures address a range of critical issues, including expanding access to free school meals in charter schools, strengthening responses to youth mental health challenges, prohibiting flavored nicotine products, establishing regulations for e-bikes, and improving family court processes for youth involved in the child welfare system.   “The Keiki Caucus allows legislators who care about keiki to act as champions for needs identified by the organizations in the community that work directly with and for keiki,” said Keiki Caucus Co-Convenor and Representative Lisa Marten. “Through these organizations, it also gives young people a chance to identify their own priority concerns, such as mental health support or counsel for foster youth. Our 2026 Keiki Caucus Bill Package is focused on building strong, supportive systems that give our youth the opportunity to thrive and grow into confident, healthy adults.”   “The 2026 Keiki Caucus Bill Package addresses five areas that are of critical importance to the youth of Hawaiʻi . These bills reflect the ongoing collaboration and dedication between the youth, community, youth-centered organizations, and legislators to improve the lives of Hawaiʻi's youth," said Keiki Caucus Co-Convenor and Senator Karl Rhoads.   The 2026 Keiki Caucus Bill Package consists of the following measures:   HB1561 — Free School Meals in Charter Schools Community advocate: Daniela Spoto from Hawaiʻi   Appleseed We know that our students can’t learn when they are hungry. Last year, the Legislature passed a bill requiring DOE schools to provide free meals to students whose family income is up to three hundred percent of the federal poverty level. Beginning with the 2026-2027 school year, those same benefits would be extended to public charter schools participating in the National School Lunch Program.   HB1562  – Mental Health Digital Platforms Community advocate: Judith Clark, Hawaiʻi   Youth Services Network Providing support for youth mental health is the top priority identified by youth themselves and this support provides youth across the State a place online with vetted, appropriate information. This Bill funds a one-year Digital Youth Mental Health Platform Pilot Project administered by the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Division of the Department of Health. They will develop and make publicly available a digital platform designed to help young people address and manage mental health challenges.   HB1564  – E-Bike Regulations Community advocate: Dr. Maya Maxym and Dr. Philip Verhoef, Hawaiʻi   Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics As mobility on e-bikes, scooters and other devices becomes widespread among youth and adults alike, so have concerns about safety of the riders and those around them. This comprehensive bill establishes safe riding behaviors, designates the locations where various high-speed electric devices cannot be used, and establishes labeling and signage requirements for electric bicycles.   HB1563  – Banning Flavored Nicotine Community advocate: Saya Shibata, Coalition for a Tobacco-Free Hawaiʻi   Youth Council Tobacco companies have successfully marketed flavored vape products to children, resulting in high levels of addiction to nicotine for a whole new generation. Our county governments have already taken a stand to protect keiki and have adopted ordinances that regulate the sale of flavored vape products should the State give them the power to do so. This Bill repeals existing law that preempts local ordinances or regulations that regulate the sale of cigarettes, tobacco products, and electronic smoking devices, and voids any existing local laws and regulations conflicting with the state law governing smoking. It allows counties to adopt ordinances that regulate the sale of cigarettes, tobacco products, and electronic smoking devices that do not conflict with and are more stringent than the state law that governs smoking.   HB1565  – Legal Counsel for Foster Youth Community advocate: Patty Chin, HI H.O.P.E.S. Initiative Youth who have aged out of our Foster system have sometimes felt they lacked a voice in court, representing their own wishes and access to accurate information about their case. This bill establishes a working group within the Judiciary to improve family court processes, including access to legal representation for youth in the child welfare system.   Community advocates present at today's rally included Coalition for a Tobacco-Free Hawai‘i Youth Council, Hawai‘i Appleseed, Hawai‘i Bicycle League, Hawaiʻi Children’s Action Network Speaks! , Hawaiʻi Early Childhood Advocacy Alliance,  Hale Kipa, Hawai‘i Public Health Institute, Hawai‘i Youth Services Network, HI H.O.P.E.S. Initiative, and ‘Ohana Leadership Council.   The Keiki Caucus, established in 1994, is a collaboration between Hawaiʻi state legislators, community leaders, and youth-centered organizations who come together to propose, draft, support, and implement policy changes that will improve the lives of Hawaiʻi’s young people. The Keiki Caucus is co-convened by Sen. Karl Rhoads (D-13, Dowsett Highlands, Pu‘unui, Nu‘uanu, Pacific Heights, Pauoa, Punchbowl, Pālama, Liliha, Iwilei, Chinatown, and Downtown), Rep. Lisa Marten (D-51, Waimānalo, Kailua ), and Rep. Ikaika Olds (D-23, Mō‘ili‘ili, McCully ).   ###   View photos from the 1/28/2026 Press Conference ​ here ​ .

HONOLULU, HAWAIʻI — The Hawaiʻi State Senate is experiencing delays in email communications due to a global Microsoft Exchange outage that began around 9 a.m. HST.   In addition to email delays, some features on the Hawaiʻi State Legislature’s website that rely on automated email notifications are affected. This includes hearing notice emails, account registrations, password reset emails, and other system-generated messages.  As a result, some users may not receive confirmation or notification emails during this time period.   Emails sent to and from Senate offices may be delayed. Constituents and members of the public seeking assistance from their senators during this period are encouraged to contact Senate offices by phone. A directory of Senate offices is available here.   The Hawaiʻi State Senate appreciates the public’s patience and understanding as these issues are resolved.  ### 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 .

HONOLULU,HAWAIʻI —State Senator Angus McKelvey (District 6 – West Maui, Mā’alaea, Waikapū, South Maui) announces the release of $8 million in Capital Improvement Program funds for the reconstruction of the Outer Marginal Wharf at the Lāhainā Small Boat Harbor. “I want to thank the Governor for his expedient release of these funds,” McKelvey said. "With supply chain interruptions, tariffs, and other systemic failures, this is an important step forward in this time of uncertainty." McKelvey acknowledged that it does come with controversy and that he is working with community groups to address concerns they may have. "This isn't just another boat harbor, but a community asset that belongs to all, and as such, I will be working hard to ensure that the cultural and community concerns surrounding the rebuild of the harbor are addressed and that we build the harbor back in a way the Lāhainā community expect and deserve." For more information on the improvements at Lahaina Small Boat Harbor and other community projects, please contact Senator McKelvey’s office at (808) 586-6070 or senmckelvey@capitol.hawaii.gov. ### 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 convenes on January 21, 2026. For the latest news and updates, follow the Senate Majority on Facebook, Instagram, or visit https://www.hawaiisenatemajority.com.

HILO, HAWAIʻI - Senator Lorraine R. Inouye (District 1 – Hilo, Paukaʻa, Papaʻikou, Pepeʻekeo) is proud to announce that $450,000 in Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Grant-in-Aid funds have been released by Governor Josh Green to support improvements at the Boys & Girls Club of the Big Island Youth Resource Center in Hilo.   The funding will support construction, improvements, and maintenance of the youth resource center, helping ensure a safe and supportive space for keiki and families in East Hawaiʻi.   “I thank Governor Green and his administration for releasing these funds to support our youth and strengthen an important community resource,” said Senator Inouye.   The project reflects the state’s continued commitment to investing in community infrastructure and building a stronger, more sustainable future for Hawaiʻi Island. ###

HONOLULU, HAWAIʻI – The Hawai’i Senate Majority today announced its 2026 legislative priorities in advance of the Hawai’i State Legislature’s Opening Day on Wednesday, January 21, 2026.   "As Hawai’i continues to face rising costs and economic uncertainty, the Hawai’i Senate Majority is advancing a legislative agenda centered on affordability, resilience, and equity,” said Senate Majority Leader Dru Mamo Kanuha (District 3 - Kona, Ka’u, and Volcano). “These priorities reflect our responsibility to protect essential services, support working families, and ensure a sustainable future for our State.”   The Hawai’i Senate Majority has identified the following priorities as areas of focus for this year:   Housing and Affordability Housing and affordability remain a key priority for the Senate. The Senate remains committed to addressing the state’s housing crisis by advancing proposals that expand the supply of affordable housing through streamlined development processes. These efforts include providing financial subsidies, tax credits, and general excise tax (GET) exemptions, as well as supporting workforce housing, the Department of Hawaiian Homelands (DHHL), and homeownership programs.   The Senate will pursue measures to make homeownership assistance programs more accessible and attractive to prospective buyers, while strengthening the authority and resources of the Hawai’i Housing Finance and Development Corporation (HHFDC) and the Hawai’i Public Housing Authority (HPHA), including support for staff recruitment and retention. These efforts will be complemented by initiatives to convert underutilized commercial properties into housing, modernize the landlord-tenant code, strengthen housing finance tools, and establish fast-revolving funds to accelerate housing production statewide.   Additionally, the Senate will focus on providing financial relief to residents from rising property insurance and maintenance costs affecting high-rise condominium owners.  The Senate will also work to establish intergovernmental state-county coordination of housing incentives and reports regarding available housing for Hawai’i’s local workforce.   Workforce Development and Economic Diversification The Senate will prioritize investments in workforce development initiatives that strengthen education-to-career pathways and align training with current and emerging workforce needs. These efforts include supporting education and industry partnerships, expanding career and technical education (CTE) pathways, and advancing teacher recruitment and retention programs to ensure a strong and sustainable talent pipeline across sectors.   The Senate will also consider policies that support economic diversification, including Enterprise Zone expansion, advanced manufacturing, and technology-driven industries. The Senate will also prioritize regional economic development initiatives and small business procurement programs to foster local entrepreneurship, expand economic opportunities, and create jobs statewide.     Health Care and Public Safety The Senate will examine policies to safeguard health care and public safety services, including mitigating the impacts of federal funding reductions to programs such as Med-QUEST and emergency management funding through Federal Emergency Management Agency and Hawai’i Emergency Management Agency. The Senate will prioritize supporting provider recruitment and retention efforts, exploring a medical residency program on Maui, and expanding telemedicine services in rural areas. The Senate will also support the development of a health care technology enterprise program to attract research funding and innovation.   In addition, the Senate will address shortages in law enforcement and first responder personnel through recruitment, retention, and streamlined hiring processes, invest in public safety infrastructure and emergency response capabilities, and consider measures to address serious firearm-related offenses.     Education and Higher Education The Senate remains committed to increased funding for K–12 and higher education to improve academic achievement and provide continued support for early learning opportunities. The Senate will support policies to provide optimal learning environments, ensure access to nutritious school meals through expansion of the Hawai’i Farm to School Initiative, and maintain school facilities to reduce deferred maintenance and improve campus safety and functionality. The Senate will also work to mitigate the impacts of federal funding reductions affecting early education, K–12, higher education, and special education programs.   To enhance student engagement and workforce readiness, the Senate will support curriculum and partnerships with local businesses and community organizations that connect education to real-world career opportunities. The Senate will also advance initiatives to strengthen teacher pathways beginning in middle and high school, and support teacher recruitment, retention, and professional development. In higher education, the Senate will consider policies related to name, image, and likeness (NIL) opportunities for University of Hawai’i (UH) student-athletes, explore ways to improve student housing, and evaluate potential reforms to the structure and governance of the UH system.     Food Security, Agriculture and Environment  The Senate will prioritize strengthening food security by supporting farm-to-table programs, maintaining access to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and providing continued support for food banks statewide. The Senate will also advance measures to enhance biosecurity, improve agricultural infrastructure, and strengthen transportation systems that support local food production and distribution.   To support Hawai’i’s agricultural sector and increase local food production, the Senate will promote workforce recruitment initiatives for young farmers and support policies that strengthen agricultural viability and sustainability. The Senate will also support policies that advance circular economy practices and promote healthy soil initiatives.   In addition, the Senate will explore measures to promote climate resilience and adaptation, including sea-level rise mitigation and nature-based coastal solutions. It will also consider reforms to the functions and structure of the Commission on Water Resource Management (CWRM) and will incentivize increased redemption of the HI-5 program to strengthen recycling efforts and reduce waste.     Infrastructure, Transportation, and Community Support The Senate remains committed to improving the state’s transportation systems, including highways, airports, and airline connectivity, to support economic activity, mobility, and public safety. It will also prioritize increasing transportation support for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed (ALICE) households to improve access to jobs, education, and essential services.  In addition, the Senate will support transit-oriented development initiatives aimed at reducing transportation costs and improving traffic safety.   The Senate will also continue to prioritize social services and community support by expanding outreach and housing assistance for vulnerable populations, including houseless individuals, kūpuna, and those living with mental illness.  These efforts will leverage federal resources, such as the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) surplus, and foster collaborative partnerships among government agencies, nonprofits, foundations, and ʻohana groups to develop neighborhood-level support systems for houseless residents, those near financial breakpoint, at risk from severe weather, or with limited mobility.   Government Reform and Operations The Senate will continue exploring ways to improve transparency and efficiency in government operations, including insurance regulation, state hiring, energy governance, and oversight of agricultural and aquaculture programs.  It will also review the roles and responsibilities of agencies involved in Mauna Kea stewardship and resource enforcement, seeking clarity and coordination in management.    Additionally, the Senate will consider policies related to naming rights for state facilities, evaluating approaches that balance public benefit, operational needs, and potential partnerships with private or nonprofit entities.   "The Hawai’i Senate Majority’s legislative priorities for 2026 reflect a collective vision grounded in affordability, opportunity, shared responsibility, and trust in our democratic process,” said Senate Majority Leader Kanuha. “We encourage people across Hawai’i to take part in the legislative process and help guide the work ahead.”

HONOLULU, HAWAIʻI - Senate President Ronald D. Kouchi (District 8 – Kauaʻi, Niʻihau) today issued the following statement regarding the petition relating to the alleged $35,000 campaign funds: “Based upon the January 7, 2026 press release issued by Attorney General Anne Lopez, who stated that the State of Hawaiʻi will not initiate any investigation regarding the alleged $35,000 campaign contribution while the matter is still within the jurisdiction of the U.S. Department of Justice and that “any parallel state investigation into this matter conducted by any state governmental entity does not serve the interests of justice until the federal investigation has concluded,” the Hawaiʻi State Senate will await notice from the Department of the Attorney General with regard to its review of the federal investigation and its pending course of action. Additionally, all current sitting Senators have been asked as to whether they received the alleged funds and/or if they know any legislator who received the alleged funds. All majority Senate members have stated that they did not receive the alleged funds and do not know any legislator who received the alleged funds. None of the minority members responded to my inquiry.” ###

HONOLULU  – The Hawaiʻi State Legislature today announced that the Grant-In-Aid (GIA) process for the 2026 Legislative Session is now open, and eligible organizations are asked to submit their applications to the Legislature.   "Local nonprofits provide critical safety net programs in our communities and the grants-in-aid process provides an opportunity to help meet the needs of our vulnerable populations," said Senate Committee on Ways and Means Chair Donovan M. Dela Cruz  (Senate District 17 – portion of Mililani, Mililani Mauka, portion of Waipiʻo Acres, Launani Valley, Wahiawā, Whitmore Village).   "Every year, the Grant-In-Aid process reflects the Legislature’s commitment to supporting our community partners who lead publicly funded programs for public benefit. These organizations provide services that Hawaiʻi’s families and residents rely on, and this critical funding helps them sustain and expand their impact," said House Committee on Finance Chair Chris Todd  (House District 3, Portion of Hilo, Keaukaha, Orchidlands Estate, ʻ Āinaloa, Hawaiian Acres, Fern Acres, portions of Kurtistown and Kea‘au).   The Legislature will continue to accept GIA applications until Friday, January 23, 2026, at 4:30 p.m.,  and final determinations will be made as Council on Revenue forecasts in January and March are published.   The Legislature makes appropriations for GIA in accordance with Chapter 42F of the Hawaiʻi Revised Statutes (HRS). The Eligibility Verification stage requires the submission of documentation to verify that the Grantee meets the standards for a grant award under HRS §42F-103. For additional details on the GIA application process, visit https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/GIA.aspx .