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  The funding will go toward replacing outdated cesspools, improving wastewater management, and supporting the long-term sustainability of Hilo’s infrastructure.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 – 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.

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

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.

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  – 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).

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  – Today, Hawaiʻi state legislators were joined by community advocates to present the 2025 Keiki Caucus Bill Package and priorities for the upcoming legislative session, dedicated to improving the lives of Hawaiʻi's children and families.     Legislators identified five top priority issues impacting Hawaiʻi's youth and families, including tax credits for household and dependent care services, funding for community schools, paid family leave, e-cigarette regulations, and universal free school breakfast and lunches.    "During the interim, we collaborated with community advocates to develop proposals that address top-of-mind issues such as the rising cost of childcare, which significantly impacts the cost of living for Hawaiʻi's keiki and families," said Keiki Caucus Co-Convenor and Representative Lisa Marten . "We also identified ways to support our youth in schools, ensuring they receive a quality education while feeling empowered and supported to succeed."    The 2025 Keiki Caucus Bill Package consists of the following measures:    HB753  – Relating to the Household and Dependent Care Services Tax Credit   Increases a taxpayer's applicable percentage of employment-related expenses that is used to calculate the household and dependent care services tax credit. Extends the sunset date of the temporary increase in maximum employment-related expenses that are used to calculate the household and dependent care services tax credit, established by Act 163, SLH 2023, to 6/30/2030. Sunsets 6/30/2030.    HB754  / SB821  – Relating to Community Schools   Appropriates funds to the Department of Education for community schools and a program manager position.    HB755  / SB852  – Relating to Paid Family Leave   By 1/1/2028, requires the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations to establish a family and medical leave insurance program and begin collecting payroll contributions to finance payment of benefits. By 1/1/2029, requires the Department to start receiving claims and paying benefits under the program. Specifies eligibility requirements and employee protections under the program.    HB756  / SB972  – Relating to Health (E-Liquids)   Prohibits the sale of flavored nicotine products and the mislabeling of e-liquids as nicotine-free. Establishes penalties for violations. Authorizes the Department of Health to appoint, commission, or contract for services of inspectors. Establishes two full-time equivalent program specialist positions and one full-time equivalent hearing officer position. Appropriates funds. Effective 1/1/2026.    HB757  – Relating to Education   Beginning with the 2025-2026 school year, requires the Department of Education to provide free breakfast and lunch to all students enrolled in department schools. Appropriates funds.    Community advocates rallied their support for the bills outlined in today's press conference. In attendance were Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, Ceeds of Peace, Hawaiʻi Afterschool Alliance, Hawaiʻi Appleseed, and Hawaiʻi Children's Action Network Speaks! (HCAN Speaks!).     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. Joy A. San Buenaventura (D-2, Puna ), Rep. Lisa Marten (D-51, Waimānalo, Keolu Hills, Lanikai, portion of Kailua ), and Rep. Ikaika Olds (D-23, Mō‘ili‘ili, McCully ).

HONOLULU –   For the 2025 Legislative Session, the Senate Committee on Commerce and Consumer Protection (CPN) will continue implementing its enhanced hearing procedures that were first introduced as a pilot in 2024.    "We undertook this pilot last year as an experiment to determine whether more notice would allow for better public engagement in hearings, and whether hearings could be conducted within the tight time constraints of the Legislature,” said Senator Jarrett Keohokalole, chair of the committee. “After much feedback from the 2024 session, we are continuing the pilot for a second year to work out the details."    The following revised hearing procedures will continue to be implemented this year:   CPN hearing notices will be publicly posted 96 hours (4 days) before each scheduled hearing,  Written testimony submitted up to 48 hours before the scheduled hearing start time will be considered timely, and  All timely submitted testimony will be posted on the Legislature's website prior to the hearing.    Please note that this is a pilot and these procedures may be altered subject to the rules and the committee chair's discretion.     As a reminder, the committee observes the legislative rules of decorum, and the expectation is that members of the Senate and the public abide by those established rules. [ 2024-2025 Rules of the Senate ]     For inquiries, please contact the office of the CPN Chair, Senator Keohokalole, at 808.587.7215.

HONOLULU  – The Hawaiʻi Senate Majority today announced their legislative priorities in advance of the Hawaiʻi State Legislature's Opening Day on Wednesday, January 15.  “As we prepare for the 2025 Legislative Session, the Senate Majority is committed in its mission to collaborate with our Senate Minority and House of Representatives colleagues to forge a stronger, more resilient future for Hawaiʻi,” said Senate Majority Leader Dru Mamo Kanuha (District 3 - Kona, Kaʻū, and Volcano). “Our unwavering focus is on delivering impactful policies that uplift our communities, fortify our economy, and protect Hawaiʻi's rich agricultural innovations and unparalleled natural resources. This session is a call to action and we are committed to shaping a brighter, more prosperous future for every resident of our state.”  The Senate Majority has identified the following priorities as areas of focus for this year:  Education and Workforce Development  The Senate remains committed to expanding education and employment opportunities. The upcoming session will address issues such as improving public school infrastructure; advancing technology integration across campuses; aligning curriculum to workforce needs; supporting career and technical education (CTE); and boosting student test performance. The Senate will also focus on the agriculture, construction, and healthcare industries, with proposals to consider establishing a regional kitchen program; promoting apprenticeships through preferential consideration in public project development; and increasing funding for nursing programs and certifications. The Senate will also consider proposals to improve teacher and staff retention, focusing on creating pathways for academic and professional development; incentivizing the development of workforce housing—particularly for teachers and agricultural workers; reforming the state hiring process to fill critical job vacancies and enhance workforce capacity; and addressing longtime challenges at the University of Hawaiʻi, including student housing shortages, the need for revenue-generating programs, and improvements to the athletics department.  Housing, Homelessness, and Stabilizing Hawaiʻi's Property Insurance Market The Senate will continue to address the state's housing crisis by considering proposals that streamline housing approvals and provide funding for housing infrastructure across the islands; focusing on advancing affordable housing initiatives, including dedicated housing for kupuna, while addressing community concerns related to housing development projects; and improving state infrastructure through public-private partnerships and fast-tracking community-based projects. Efforts to address homelessness will focus on increasing support for mental health services; expanding the work of the "End Homelessness Group" (EHG); advancing key initiatives such as establishing a permanent Community Outreach Court; expanding access to detox programs; and securing continued funding for the "Return-to-Home" program to assist homeless individuals in returning to their home states.  A key focus of the Senate in 2025 is stabilizing Hawaiʻi’s property insurance market by providing homeowners with better access to hurricane and property insurance, and assisting condominium owners in exploring ways to address deferred maintenance and increasing costs of property insurance.  General Governance and Constitutional Rights The Senate remains committed to improving government processes by enhancing legislative efficiency, including revisiting laws governing legislative vacancies to streamline and strengthen the election process; encouraging coordination among nonprofits for grant distribution; addressing business losses due to theft; reforming state biosecurity programs to better protect Hawaiʻi’s unique ecosystems and agricultural industries from invasive species and pests; improving disaster preparedness—especially for wildfires; and enhancing planning efforts for vulnerable areas to increase resilience.  Additionally, the Senate remains committed to safeguarding reproductive rights and legal immigration rights for all residents of Hawaiʻi.  Environmental Sustainability and Infrastructure The Senate will continue to prioritize improving environmental sustainability through the increased use of recycled water and improvements in water infrastructure; improving the Commission on Water Resource Management (CWRM) for greater efficiency; addressing cesspool conversion and implementing transportation changes following legal settlements; supporting climate resilient projects; and promoting renewable energy transmission. Additionally, the Senate plans to continue evaluating measures that address the issue of illegal fireworks, focusing on enhanced enforcement and preventive strategies to safeguard public safety.  Agricultural Innovation and other Revenue Streams The Senate will continue to work on strengthening processes focused on agricultural innovation, along with exploring alternative revenue streams for the state. This includes the consideration of enhanced protections against theft and trespass on agricultural lands; improving the transportation of products (e.g., ports, cold storage, livestock facilities); streamlining aquaculture species permitting; promoting regenerative farming practices; increasing local food security; supporting value-added production; and boosting local products in local markets through streamlined facilities such as food hubs, co-operatives, and commercial kitchens. The Senate will also consider measures that aim to purchase agricultural land for development; and increase support for food innovation centers to enhance production capabilities. Furthermore, the Senate supports the responsible legalization of recreational marijuana, with a focus on addressing any impacts on Hawaiʻi’s communities.  Finally, the Senate remains committed to exploring innovative approaches to identify new revenue streams that will ensure the continuity and sustainability of essential state services. This proactive effort reflects the Senate’s dedication to meeting the needs of our communities while maintaining fiscal responsibility.  “The Senate Majority's legislative priorities for 2025 reflect the collective vision and concerns shared by the 22 members of our Majority Caucus during our convening in mid-November,” said Senate Majority Leader Kanuha. “Guided by these discussions, we are committed to addressing the critical challenges facing our state. Together, we aim to advance meaningful solutions and continue providing the support our communities need to thrive.”

HONOLULU  – Senator Jarrett Keohokalole (District 24 – Kāne‘ohe, Kailua) today commended Hawaiian Electric Industries’ (HEI) sale of American Savings Bank (ASB). On Tuesday morning, HEI announced an agreement to sell 90.1% of the company’s shares in ASB to independent investors. HEI is the parent company of Hawaiian Electric Company (HECO), which serves Oʻahu.     "The sale of ASB is a significant step by HEI to show that the company and their shareholders are taking responsibility for their financial situation in the wake of the Maui wildfires. This, combined with their stock sale in September 2024, demonstrates that HEI is taking the concerns of the Legislature and rate payers seriously," said Senator Keohokalole, who chairs the Senate Committee on Commerce and Consumer Protection.   Last year, state senators cited concerns about Hawaiian Electric asking for a surcharge on customers’ electricity bills and receiving liability protections to help protect the company. In the wake of the wildfires, HEI’s credit rating dropped to junk bond status, meaning it was seen as a risky investment. The senators were concerned that these actions could unfairly burden customers while helping a company that was struggling financially.   “Our concern last session was adding to the cost of ratepayers' electrical bills without assurances that Hawaiian Electric’s stockholders were doing their part to absorb the costs. Today's announcement appears to validate those concerns,” stated Keohokalole. "It is especially encouraging to hear that the sale is structured to keep local jobs and operations of a local bank in local hands."