263 BILLS SIGNED INTO LAW BY GOVERNOR JOSH GREEN, M.D.

Office of the Governor Press Release, Jul 12, 2023

HONOLULU, HI – Governor Josh Green, M.D., has enacted 263 of the 274 bills passed during the 2023 legislative session.

As of July 12, Governor Green hosted 18  bill signing ceremonies covering topics from good governance, affordable housing, destination management at state parks, to protections for victims of domestic violence, traffic safety, and cost of living.

Governor Green also signed more than 100 additional bills, separate from the ceremonial signings in his public office.

Governor Green issued 11 vetoes on July 7, due to serious legal and programmatic concerns.

He thanks legislative leaders and key stakeholders for helping pass important legislation for our state’s priorities. “While this past session was chaotic toward the end, the Hawaiʻi State Legislature still managed to support major areas for our residents. Critical funding was passed to shore up our statewide health care system, address housing and homelessness, take on climate initiatives, and lower the cost of living for residents. “We’ve balanced the budget and I look forward to executing on the successes of last session,” said Governor Green.

Today, five bills became law without Governor Green’s signature. While Governor Green may not fully support this legislation, these bills will become law without his signature because on balance, they are more beneficial than objectionable, and reflect strong stakeholder support for these measures.

These bills, with summaries, are as follows:

SB45 SD1 HD2, Relating to Minors, which will be enacted as Act 259

Description: Allows minors 16 years of age or older and emancipated minors to petition for domestic abuse protective orders.

HB161 HD1 SD1 CD1, Relating to Collective Bargaining, which will be enacted as Act 260

Description: Establishes that the representative of labor on the Hawaiʻi Labor Relations Board shall be a person selected by a majority of the exclusive representatives of the collective bargaining units.

HB717 HD1 SD2 CD1, Relating to Nepotism, which will be enacted as Act 261

Description: Prohibits, under certain circumstances, state employees from appointing, hiring, promoting, or retaining relatives and household members and from making or participating in certain other employment-related decisions and from awarding a contract to or otherwise taking official action on a contract with a business if the employee’s relative or household member is an executive officer of or holds a substantial ownership interest in that business.

HB923 HD1 SD1 CD1, Relating to Bonds, which will be enacted as Act 262

Description: Requires (1) counties with a private activity bond issuance program to exhaust their allotment before applying to the state for the state allocation and (2) the state, if it receives a county allocation, to award that same amount to project or projects in that county.

HB1359 HD2 SD2 CD1, Relating to Hemp, which will be enacted as Act 263

Description: Repeals redundant regulations on hemp production; recognizes the unique constraints of Hawaiʻi farmers; permits the licensure of hemp producers to sell hemp biomass; establishes of the Hawaiʻi Hemp Task Force.

In total, Governor Green, in his term to date, has enacted the following laws for the people of Hawaiʻi:

Affirming reproductive rights

Good Government Grouping Part 1 (7 bills)
Firearms Bills (2 bills)
Vaping Bill
Hāʻena State Park Bill
Domestic Violence/Sex Assault (8 bills)
Child Welfare Bills (7 bills)
Affordable Housing and Homelessness (10 bills)
Health Care Access (13 bills)
Good Governance Part 2 (19 bills)
Tax Credit Bill and the State Budget
Education and Early Education Bills (11 bills)
Agriculture Bills (11 Bills)
Clean Energy and Climate Bills (6 bills)
Beaches and Shoreline Bills (11 bills)
Traffic Safety Bills (7 bills)
Kūpuna and Disability Access Bills (13 bills)

Bills enacted into law by Governor Josh Green, M.D., may be found on the Hawaiʻi State Legislature website.

Office of the Governor news releases relating to bill signings and other matters of statewide public interest may be found here. Click here to subscribe to Governor Green’s monthly newsletter.

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GOVERNOR GREEN SIGNED 35 BILLS INTO LAW

News Release from Office of the Governor, August 8, 2023

HONOLULU, HI  ̶  On July 3, 2023, Governor Josh Green, M.D., signed the following 35 bills into law:

Click the hyperlinks to see the full details of the Acts.

RELATING TO TIME SHARING PLANS:

HB11 HD2 SD1 CD1 enacted as Act 176, SLH 2023

RELATING TO HOME RENOVATIONS:

HB217 HD1 SD2 CD1 enacted as Act 177, SLH 2023

RELATING TO THE PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION:

HB369 HD1 SD1 CD1 enacted as Act 178, SLH 2023

RELATING TO MARRIAGE:

HB485 HD3 SD2 enacted as Act 179, SLH 2023

RELATING TO CHILDREN:

HB781 HD2 SD1 CD1 enacted as Act 180, SLH 2023

Relating to the Hawaii Institute for Marine Biology:

HB848 HD2 SD1 CD1 enacted as Act 181, SLH 2023

RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES:

HB953 HD1 SD1 CD1 enacted as Act 182, SLH 2023

RELATING TO MONEY TRANSMITTERS MODERNIZATION ACT:

HB1027 HD2 SD1 CD1 enacted as Act 183, SLH 2023

RELATING TO THE STATE BUILDING CODE COUNCIL:

HB1033 HD1 SD1 CD1 enacted as Act 184, SLH 2023

RELATING TO HOMELAND SECURITY:

HB1036 HD1 SD1 enacted as Act 185, SLH 2023

RELATING TO THE STATEWIDE INTEROPERABLE PUBLIC SAFETY COMMUNICATIONS:

HB1037 HD2 SD1 CD1 enacted as Act 186, SLH 2023

RELATING TO ADOPTION:

HB1058 HD1 SD1 enacted as Act 187, SLH 2023

RELATING TO PROCUREMENT:

HB1184 HD1 SD1 CD1 enacted as Act 188, SLH 2023

RELATING TO COMMON-INTEREST DEVELOPMENTS:

HB1509 HD2 SD1 CD1 enacted as Act 189, SLH 2023

RELATING TO LAW ENFORCEMENT REFORM:

SB151 SD2 HD2 CD1 enacted as Act 190, SLH 2023

RELATING TO PUBLIC TRANSIT:

SB214 SD1 HD1 CD1 enacted as Act 191, SLH 2023

RELATING TO FETAL ALCOHOL SPECTRUM DISORDERS:

SB318 SD2 HD1 CD1 enacted as Act 192, SLH 2023

RELATING TO EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES:

SB390 SD1 HD2 CD1 enacted as Act 193, SLH 2023

RELATING TO TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND CABLE INDUSTRY INFORMATION REPORTING:

SB478 SD2 HD1 CD1 enacted as Act 194, SLH 2023

RELATING TO WORKERS’ COMPENSATION:

SB696 SD1 HD1 CD1 enacted as Act 195, SLH 2023

RELATING TO DESECRATION:

SB739 HD1 enacted as Act 196, SLH 2023

RELATING TO TIME SHARING:

SB798 SD1 HD1 CD1 enacted as Act 197, SLH 2023

RELATING TO TIME SHARING PLANS:

SB799 SD1 HD2 CD1 enacted as Act 198, SLH 2023

RELATING TO CONDOMINIUM RESERVE REQUIREMENTS:

SB855 SD1 HD2 CD1 enacted as Act 199, SLH 2023

RELATING TO THE RESIDENTIAL LANDLORD-TENANT CODE:

SB930 SD1 HD2 CD1 enacted as Act 200, SLH 2023

RELATING TO DISPOSAL OF SOLID WASTE:

SB966 HD1 CD1 enacted as Act 201, SLH 2023

RELATING TO TRANSPORTATION:

SB968 SD2 HD1 CD1 enacted as Act 202, SLH 2023

RELATING TO EMPLOYMENT EARNINGS:

SB1057 SD2 HD2 CD1 enacted as Act 203, SLH 2023

RELATING TO CIVIL AIR PATROL:

SB1163 SD1 HD1 CD1 enacted as Act 204, SLH 2023

RELATING TO THE USE OF ELECTRONIC FILING BY THE PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION:

SB1327 SD1 HD1 CD1 enacted as Act 205, SLH 2023

RELATING TO LICENSES TO SOLEMNIZE MARRIAGES:

SB1370 SD1 HD1 CD1 enacted as Act 206, SLH 2023

RELATING TO THE REPEAL OF SECTION 328-106, HAWAII REVISED STATUTES:

SB1381 SD1 HD1 CD1 enacted as Act 207, SLH 2023

RELATING TO THE HAWAII EMPLOYMENT SECRITY LAW:

SB1383 SD1 HD1 CD1 enacted as Act 208, SLH 2023

RELATING TO RIGHT OF ENTRY FOR PROFESSIONAL SURVEYORS:

SB1468 SD2 HD2 CD1 enacted as Act 209, SLH 2023

RELATING TO TRANSPORTATION:

SB1502 SD2 HD2 CD1 enacted as Act 210, SLH 2023

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GOV. GREEN ENACTS LAWS SUPPORTING THE ELDERLY AND PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES, AND EXPANDING LANGUAGE ACCESS

Office of the Governor Press Releases, Jul 7, 2023

HONOLULU, HI  ̶  Governor Josh Green, M.D., has enacted laws that will strengthen protections for kūpuna and those living with disabilities; to support caregivers and provide funding for state departments and agencies that offer services and educational programs for elderly and disabled residents.

“In Hawaiʻi, about 29,000 residents who are 65 and older, are living with Alzheimer’s and I know from family experience that it can be extremely challenging,” said Governor Green. “Act 257 will fund a public health campaign by the Executive Office on Aging to increase awareness of Alzheimer’s and other dementias, and I want to thank legislators for acknowledging how important this information is going to be for our community.”

Governor Green also noted that just yesterday, (July 6), the FDA announced that it granted full approval to an Alzheimer’s drug for the first time in more than 20 years, “so we are making progress and we are grateful for everyone who is helping to fight the fight,” he said.

A range of bills was signed into law, noted Senator Henry Aquino, vice chair, Committee on Health and Human Services. “These measures covering important issues such as disability access to programs and services, language access for those involved in the court system and shoring up resources for our seniors are key to assuring a healthy and strong community,” said Senator Aquino (District 19 Pearl City, Waipahu, West Loch Estates, Hono‘uli‘uli, Ho‘opili). “I’m grateful and appreciative for the support of Governor Green and his administration, key legislative colleagues and community stakeholders who worked hard to make this a reality. We’re moving towards a much better place because of their efforts.”

“Four words define today’s bill signing: vision, being bold, having compassion, and loving our ʻohana,” said Representative John Mizuno, chair of the House Committee on Human Services. “Our efforts also show that we’re not going to be Oʻahu-centric when it comes to improving services for disabilities, we are taking care of all islands,” said Representative Mizuno, (District 29 Kamehameha Heights, Kalihi Valley, portion of Kalihi).

Background on bills being signed at ceremony:

HB870 HD2 SD1 CD2, (Act 253) Relating to Neighbor Islands Blind and Visually Impaired Service Pilot Program

Requires the department of human services to establish a neighbor islands blind and visually impaired service pilot program that supplements existing statewide services by providing training and other services to neighbor island residents who are blind or visually impaired. Requires the department of human services to establish a working group to develop a pilot program implementation plan and submit the plan to the legislature before the regular session of 2024. Requires a report to the legislature on the pilot program before the regular session of 2029. Appropriates funds. Sunsets 6/30/2029. (CD2)

HB388 HD1 SD2 CD1, (Act 254) Relating to Education

Braille school instruction materials

Adopts the National Instructional Materials Accessibility Standard. Requires the Department of Education to obtain instructional materials in accessible formats for eligible students. (CD1)

SB1378 SD1 HD1 CD1, (Act 255) Relating to Unlicensed Care Homes

Prohibits referral or transfer to unlicensed care home

Clarifies that any person, corporation, or entity is prohibited from knowingly referring or transferring patients to an uncertified or unlicensed care facility. Repeals the landlord exclusion. (CD1)

HB218 HD2 SD2 CD1, (Act 256) Relating to Prescription Drugs

Rx labels for visually impaired

Requires certain pharmacies to provide accessible prescription drug label information to individuals who have difficulty seeing or reading standard printed labels on prescription drug containers and inform the public that prescription drug label information is available in alternate accessible formats for individuals who have difficulty seeing or reading prescription drug container labels. Requires the Board of Pharmacy to adopt certain rules by 12/31/2024. (CD1)

HB278 HD1 SD2 CD1, (Act 257) Relating to Health

Alzheimer’s disease education campaign

Appropriates funds for the executive office on aging to create and implement an Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias public health campaign. (CD1)

Background on all bills being signed:

Disability Access

HB794 HD1 SD1, (Act 245) Relating to Disability Awareness

Disability Awareness Month employment, enrichment, inclusion

Designates the month of October as “Disability Awareness Month: Employment, Enrichment, and Inclusion” in recognition of the employment challenges and successes of persons with disabilities in the State. (SD1)

HB834 HD1 SD1, (Act 246) Relating to American Sign Language

American Sign Language official recognition 

Recognizes American Sign Language as a fully developed, autonomous, natural language with its own grammar, syntax, vocabulary, and cultural heritage. (SD1)

HB933 HD2 SD1 CD2, (Act 247) Relating to Telecommunications Access for Individuals With Print Disabilities

Appropriates funds to the Public Utilities Commission to provide free telecommunications access to certain information for individuals with a print disability. (CD2)

Language Access

SB813 SD1 HD2 CD1, (Act 248) Relating to Court Interpreters

Court interpreter fee increases

Beginning in 2026 and every three years thereafter, requires the Judiciary to conduct a study on interpreter fees. Appropriates funds. (CD1)

Kūpuna

SB900 SD2 HD2 CD1, (Act 252) Relating to the Hawaiʻi State Health Insurance Assistance Program

Requires the Executive Office on Aging to submit to the Legislature annual progress reports on the Hawaiʻi State Health Insurance Assistance Program. Appropriates funds. (CD1)

SB1373 SD1 HD1 CD1, (Act 249) Relating to the Executive Office on Aging Administrative Claiming Special Fund

Clarifies the allowable revenues to be deposited into the Executive Office on Aging Administrative Claiming Special Fund and the purposes for which the fund may be used. (CD1)

SB1592 SD2 HD1 CD1, (Act 250) Relating to the Senior Medicare Patrol Program

Office on Aging staff

Appropriates funds for the establishment of three additional Program Specialist positions within the Executive Office on Aging for the State’s Senior Medicare Patrol Program. (CD1)

HB1081 HD1 SD1, (Act 251) Relating to Penalties for Unlicensed Care Homes

Clarifies administrative penalties for unlicensed care homes

Clarifies the penalty to be assessed on any person who intentionally operates a care facility without a certificate or license. (SD1)

Video and photos from today’s bill signing should be credited to Office of the Governor.

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GOV. GREEN ENACTS LAWS TO INCREASE SAFETY ON HAWAIʻI’S ROADWAYS

Office of the Governor Press Release, Jul 6, 2023

HONOLULU, HI  ̶  Governor Josh Green, M.D., signed seven bills into law at a signing ceremony in the hope of increasing safety on Hawaiʻi’s roadways.

“In just the first six months of 2023, we have already seen 43 traffic fatalities,” said Governor Green. “This is unacceptable and should not be occurring. We need these numbers to go down so our communities will be safer and we can prevent losing more lives to preventable tragedies.”

“The bills we have signed today strive to enhance not only road safety, but driver and passenger safety, pedestrian safety, and public safety,” Governor Green said. “However, enacting laws alone will not solve our issues. We need everyone to commit to making our roads safer by following the laws that are in place as well as the new laws being enacted. We can make Hawaiʻi’s communities safer if people just follow the law.”

The three bills signed on-site included:

SB1086 SD2 HD1 CD1, (Act 242) Relating to Transportation

State highway safety and modernization council

Renames the State Highway Safety Council to the State Highway Safety and Modernization Council. Amends the composition and duties of the State Highway Safety and Modernization Council. Effective July 1, 2023. (CD1)

SB1166 SD2 HD2 CD1, (Act 243) Relating to the Renewal of Driver’s Licenses

Driver license renewal by mail

Allows for the renewal of driver’s licenses online in addition to by mail. Effective 7/1/2025 (CD1)

HB600 HD1 SD2 CD2, (Act 244) Relating to Safe Routes to Schools 

Establishes the Safe Routes to School Advisory Committee. Requires the Safe Routes to School Advisory Committee to develop a comprehensive, statewide Safe Routes to School Plan. Amends the duties of the Department of Transportation’s Safe Routes to School Program. Deposits state highway funds into the Safe Routes to School Program special fund. Appropriates funds from the Safe Routes to School Program special fund. (CD2)

Senator Chris Lee, chair of the Senate Committee on Transportation and Culture and the Arts, noted the need to change our mindset from road designs that assume people will obey speed limits and not text and drive, to road designs that assume drivers are fallible and will protect the vulnerable, even when cars speed, drive drunk, or swerve into bike lanes and sidewalks.

“If Hawaiʻi is going to change the record of 117 fatalities and nearly 600 serious or paralyzing injuries on our streets that we experienced last year, then we have to change the way we design our roads, implementing best practices that successfully save lives elsewhere, by physically separating cars from pedestrians and people on bicycles, and building safer crosswalks where they intersect,” said Senator Lee, (District 25 Kailua, Waimānalo, Hawai‘i Kai.) “These bills double down on prioritizing safety first, and step up investment in protected transit infrastructure that will save our keiki and kūpuna when drivers speed, aren’t paying attention, and lose control,” he said.

“We have a lot of work to do to reimagine how we get from point A to point B here in the islands,” said Representative Chris Todd, chair of the House Committee on Transportation. “I am pleased that we made progress this year on some critical issues. These bills will help lay the foundation for a safer and more efficient transportation future,” said Representative Todd, (District 3, portion of Hilo, Keaukaha, Orchidland Estates, Ainaloa, Hawaiian Acres, Fern Acres, portions of Kurtistown and Kea‘au).

“Traffic safety has been a major concern in our school community for years, and this was highlighted most recently by the pedestrian fatality near our school,” said Cherilyn Inouye, prinicipal of Kaʻelepulu Elementary School in Kailua. “We appreciate the support of our Governor and legislators in prioritizing traffic safety and safe routes to school to not only help our Kaʻelepulu students and families, but to help students and community members across the state to be able to walk, bike, or drive more safely on our roads.”

Other bills also signed earlier, but not a part of the signing ceremony include:

SB497 SD1 HD1 CD1, (Act 238) Relating to Commercial Vehicles

Prohibits commercial vehicles using left lanes

Prohibits certain oversized commercial vehicles from driving in the far left lane on roadways with three or more lanes for traffic moving in the same direction, subject to certain exceptions. Effective January 1, 2024. (CD1)

HB118 SD2, (Act 244) Relating to Traffic Fines

Prohibits parked vehicles on highways

Clarifies that each county may, by ordinance, designate certain sections of county highways as areas in which stopping, standing, or parking vehicles is prohibited or restricted. Provides that any federal or state agency authorizing a road closure shall supersede a county ordinance. (SD2)

HB1104 HD1 SD1, (Act 240) Relating to Motor Vehicles Enforcement 

Clarifies enforcement powers for motor vehicle violations

Repeals exemption relating to the issuance of citations for violations of section 291-35, HRS, relating to vehicle gross weight, axle, and wheel loads. (SD1)

HB1108 HD1 SD1, (Act 241) Relating to Commercial Motor Vehicle Fines

Amends the law relating to vehicle weight violations by replacing the fine schedule and increasing the potential fines based on multitude and magnitude of vehicle weight violations. (SD1)

Video and photos of the bill signing should be credited to Office of the Governor.

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GOV. GREEN ENACTS LAWS TO PROTECT BEACHES, SHORELINES AND PUBLIC LAND

Office of the Governor Press Release, Jul 6, 2023

HONOLULU, HI  ̶  Today, Governor Josh Green, M.D., signed three bills into law at a signing ceremony at the Makapu‘u lookout in Waimānalo along with 14 bills signed earlier that support the protection of Hawaiʻi’s beaches, shorelines, and public lands.

“Hawaiʻi is known worldwide for its pristine coastline and beaches, clean air, and blue skies,” said Governor Green. “It’s our responsibility to take care of such valuable resources to preserve our natural environment so it will be available for future generations to experience and enjoy.”

“We also have two million acres of land zoned for conservation in Hawaiʻi that we must serve as excellent stewards of, by putting in place measures to help combat erosion, support climate change mitigation, and give our departments the tools they need to do their jobs in protecting the environment,” Governor Green said. “These bills are a good start in the right direction.”

The three bills signed on-site included:

SB1254 SD2 HD2 CD1, (Act 235) Relating to the Kaiwi Coast

Kaiwi Coast State Park

Requires the Department of Land and Natural Resources to petition the Board of Land and Natural Resources to designate certain lands as the “Kaiwi Coast State Park.” Establishes certain conditions for the Kaiwi Coast State Park. (CD1)

SB1391 SD1 HD2 CD2, (Act 236) Relating to Administrative Penalties on Public Lands

Administrative Penalties for encroachment on public lands (e.g., North Shore homes on shoreline)

Authorizes the Board of Land and Natural Resources to place a lien on property for noncompliance with certain administrative enforcement actions related to land use violations and certain unauthorized structures encroaching on public lands. (CD1)

HB1200 HD1 SD2 CD1, (Act 237) Relating to the Conservation and Resources Enforcement Program

Drones for DOCARE enforcement

Requires the Department of Land and Natural Resources to establish an unmanned* aircraft systems program. Authorizes Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement officers to use unmanned aircraft systems. Requires the Department of Land and Natural Resources to submit an annual report of the effectiveness of the unmanned aircraft systems program to the Legislature. Appropriates funds. (CD1)

*Editor’s note: While the bill language includes “unmanned,” use of the gender-neutral word “drone” is preferred.

Senator Brandon Elefante, vice chair of the Committee on Water and Land expressed gratitude to Governor Green for signing bills to preserve and protect shoreline areas and for the enhanced enforcement tools for state agencies. “This is a culmination of hard work, collaboration, and dedication from my Senate and House colleagues  ̶  especially from the Chair of Water and Land Committee, Senator Lorraine Inouye and committee members, as well as the key introducers of these bills, to promote and fortify the missions of our various agencies. With these new laws, we continue to position our state to be more efficient with enforcement and continue to protect our precious resources,” said Senator Elefante, (District 16 ‘Aiea, ‘Aiea Heights, Hālawa, Pearlridge, Newtown, Royal Summit, Waimalu, Waiau, Momilani, Pacific Palisades, and Pearl City).

“Gathering on the Kaiwi coast to celebrate conservation measures such as SB1254 is good for building community morale,” said Elizabeth Reilly of the Livable Hawaii Kai Hui and the Kaiwi Coalition. “It is also an opportunity to reaffirm our support for keeping Kaiwi, mauka to makai, in its wild and natural state which is essential for our daily health and for future generations.”

Representative Linda Ichiyama highlighted the bill designating the official state limu.

“I am so proud of the work we were able to accomplish together, with DLNR, and community advocates,” said Representative Ichiyama, chair of the House Committee on Water and Land. “We are committed to being good stewards of the land and taking care of the resources that have been entrusted to us. HB819 designates limu kala as the official state limu. It is used in Native Hawaiian traditions in healing and hoʻoponopono. Through this significant designation, we recognize the value of limu as a resource in Hawaiʻi and highlight its importance to our nearshore environment and the entire ecosystem,” Representative Ichiyama said.

Other bills also signed earlier, but not a part of the signing ceremony include:

SB67 SD1 HD2 CD1, (Act 227) Relating to Commercial Activities on Beaches

Prohibited commercial activities on beaches

Prohibits commercial vendors from presetting commercial beach equipment on certain beaches under the jurisdiction of the Department of Land and Natural Resources, unless the customer is physically present. Requires commercial vendors to expeditiously remove commercial beach equipment after the customer has finished using it. Allows the Department of Land and Natural Resources to grant exemptions through rules. Establishes administrative fines for violations. (CD1)

HB364 SD1, (Act 228) Relating to Public lands Trespass 

Clarifies that when trespass involves public land, all state and county law enforcement officers may enforce trespass laws, without regard to whether the land is owned by the State or by a county. (SD1)

HB365 HD1 SD2, (Act 229) Relating to Special Management Areas

Redefines “development” under SMA permits to exclude low impact activities like some agricultural use, invasive species protection and fencing, bikeways, etc.)

Expands exclusions from the definition of “development” as it applies to special management areas to reduce the need for special management area permits for certain activities. (SD2)

HB819 HD2 SD1, (Act 230) Relating to Limu Kala

Official state limu 

Designates limu kala (Sargassum echinocarpum) as the official Hawaiʻi state limu. (SD1)

HB1091 HD2 SD2 CD1, (Act 231) Relating to Real Property Disclosures Within Shoreline Areas

Seller disclosures for shoreline homes and erosion

Requires disclosure of all existing permitted and unpermitted erosion control structures on the parcel in real estate transactions when residential real property lies adjacent to the shoreline. Effective 11/1/2023. (CD1)

HB1134 HD2 SD1 CD1, (Act 232) Relating to Kāne‘ohe Bay

Kāneʻohe Bay use regulations

Prohibits commercial ocean use activity in Kāneʻohe Bay waters without a permit. Prohibits any person from advertising any commercial ocean use activity or equipment for such activity in Kāneʻohe Bay waters for which the person does not have a permit. Establishes enforcement mechanisms for the prohibitions. (CD1)

HB1079 HD2 SD2 CD1, (Act 233) Relating to Water Pollution Control

Water pollution and water quality

Revises chapter 342D, Hawaiʻi Revised Statutes, to add definitions that are consistent with federal Clean Water Act regulations. Clarifies the Director of Health’s role as a certifying agency, including enforcement of water quality certifications, and increases certain statutory civil penalties. (CD1)

HB1101 HD1 SD1 CD1, (Act 234) Relating to Stormwater User Fees and Fines

Establishes a fee cap amount for county stormwater user fees that may be charged against or collected from the Department of Transportation of $1,500,000 in the aggregate per year. Prohibits any county from denying services to the Department of Transportation by reason of nonpayment of user fees. (CD1)

Video of the bill signing ceremony should be credited to DLNR.

Two of the attached maps also should be credited to DLNR.

The map file titled 07-06-23 Sen. Chris Lee – Kaiwi Coast Map, should be credited to Senator Chris Lee.

Photos should be credited to Office of the Governor.

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GOV. GREEN ENACTS LAWS SUPPORTING LOCAL AGRICULTURE

Office of the Governor Press Release, Jul 6, 2023

HONOLULU, HI  ̶  Governor Josh Green, M.D., has signed bills that support local agriculture in an effort to strengthen a crucial segment of Hawaiʻi’s economy. The measures also enhance local food production through the acquisition of the Wahiawā Irrigation System; by removing barriers to farming and enhancing present and future public health and safety by increasing penalties for pesticide violations.

“Hawaiʻi has more than 1.1 million acres of farmland, with people who do back-breaking work to feed all of us, while trying to earn a living,” said Governor Green. “Despite this work by generations of farm families, we import around 85 percent of the food we eat. I want to bring that percentage down, way down, to improve our food security. To do that, we have to support local agriculture and make farming easier and less costly for the whole industry.”

“The bills being signed today expand the role of agriculture across our islands, which also will enhance farmers’ resiliency and ability to fully use their agriculturally zoned lands to produce both food- and non-food commodities, without barriers resulting from expired restrictions,” Governor Green said.

“Very importantly, relating to agriculture, public health, the environment, and the safety of present and future generations, we’re signing a bill today that supports enforcement of our pesticide laws and increases monetary fines for violations,” he said.

Senator Mike Gabbard is encouraged by the impact the bills signed today will have, for agriculture now and into the future. “Giving funding to the Hawai‘i Ant Lab and Hawai‘i GroupGap, will provide critical support to prevent further spread of Little Fire Ants, and protect residents and visitors from foodborne illnesses, respectively,” said Senator Mike Gabbard (Senate District 21, Kapolei, Makakilo, Kalaeloa, portions of Fernandez Village, and ‘Ewa), chair of the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Environment. “SB833 allows the state to take ownership and responsibility of the Wahiawā irrigation system, WahiawāDam and Lake Wilson Reservoir, and the associated spillway. Given the many vital uses of these places, it’s necessary for the State to take control, because if not, who knows who the buyer would be, and what it would be used for in the future.”

“We are definitely very excited about making sure that people who are using pesticides are doing it responsibly, and doing it in a safe way that protects our community,” said Representative Cedric Gates, chair of the House Committee on Agriculture and Food Systems (District 45 Wai‘anae, Mākaha). “I worked with the Ag Department very closely to make sure we increased the fines, to go after repeat-offenders who think they can pollute our communities without any consequences. I think that it was a good year for ag and there are a lot of exciting things coming out of the industry. We really want to support our local farmers.”

Hawaiʻi Farm Bureau Executive Director Brian Miyamoto said the bureau is very pleased with the many positive measures passed to help Hawaiʻi’s farmers and ranchers during thelegislative session, noting the high level of support from Governor Green and his Administration.

“We applaud Governor Green and the legislature for their leadership and support for Hawaiʻi’s farmers and ranchers through the signing of these bills today. The Governor signed bills that will help increase the viability and success of our farmers and ranchers through support for agricultural land use policy, irrigation infrastructure funding, controlling invasive species, food safety regulation, resources for the Department of Agriculture, and protecting one of Hawaiʻi’s iconic crops, coffee,” Miyamoto said.

SB833 SD2 HD3 CD1, (Act 218) Relating to the Wahiawā Irrigation System

Requires the Office of the Governor to negotiate the state’s fee simple acquisition of the Wahiawā Irrigation System on the island of Oʻahu. Authorizes and appropriates funds for the Department of Agriculture, Agribusiness Development Corporation, and Department of Land and Natural Resources to purchase, repair, and maintain the Wahiawā Irrigation System and the associated spillway. (CD1)

HB615 HD1 SD1, (Act 219) Restrictions on agricultural uses and activities

Clarifies that any provision in a private agreement contained in a conveyance of land recorded on or before July 8, 2003,  that has since expired but has not been renewed and recorded in the bureau of conveyances, is prohibited from restricting bona fide agricultural uses and activities on agricultural land. (SD1)

HB692 HD1 SD1 CD1, (Act 220) Relating to Pesticides

Increases the maximum administrative and criminal penalties for violators of the Hawaiʻi pesticides law. (CD1)

Additional Agriculture Bills Signed by the Governor on July 5:

SB746 SD1 HD2 CD1, (Act 211) RELATING TO COFFEE LABELING.

Expands the coffee labeling and advertising requirements to include ready-to-drink coffee beverages and the inner packages and inner wrapping labels of roasted coffee, instant coffee, and ready-to-drink coffee beverages. Specifies that the coffee labeling and advertising requirements apply if the applicable products are produced in whole or in part from Hawaiʻi-grown and Hawaii-processed green coffee beans. Requires disclosure on the label of coffee blends of the respective geographic and regional origins and percent by weight of the blended coffees. Prohibits use of the term “All Hawaiian” in labeling or advertising for roasted coffee or instant coffee not produced entirely from green coffee beans grown and processed in Hawaiʻi. Effective 7/1/2024. (CD1)

SB1588 SD2 HD2 CD1, (Act 212) RELATING TO FOOD SAFETY.

Appropriates funds to the Department of Agriculture to establish and implement a GroupGAP food safety training and certification program. (CD1)

HB307 HD1 SD1 CD1, (Act 213) RELATING TO AGRICULTURAL PARK LEASES.

Allows the Department of Agriculture to extend the agricultural park lease of any lessee who holds a lease with a remaining term of fifteen years or less, if the land covered by the lease is 25 acres or less and located in a county with a population of less than five hundred thousand. (CD1)

HB695 HD2 SD1 CD1, (Act 214) RELATING TO FENCES.

Allows the use of battery-charged security fences used for non-agricultural purposes, under certain circumstances. (CD1)

HB972 HD1 SD1 CD1, (Act 215) RELATING TO THE ANIMAL INDUSTRY SPECIAL FUND.

Adds revenue generated by the State Veterinary Laboratory and Animal Disease Control Branch as sources for the Animal Industry Special Fund and clarifies that the funds from the special fund may be expended to make laboratory improvements. (CD1)

SB743 SD1 HD1 CD1, (Act 216) RELATING TO COFFEE PEST CONTROL.

Extends the sunset date for the Coffee Berry Borer and Coffee Leaf Rust Pesticide Subsidy Program to June 30, 2025; and the program manager position, including the position’s civil service and collective bargaining laws exemption, to June 30, 2026. Requires the Department of Agriculture to report to the Legislature. Appropriates funds for the operation and implementation of the Pesticide Subsidy Program. (CD1)

SB1552 SD2 HD1 CD1, (Act 217) RELATING TO INVASIVE SPECIES.

Appropriates funds to the Department of Land and Natural Resources to support the Hawaiʻi Ant Lab in mitigating the effects of little fire ants in the state. (CD1)

Photos and video from the bill signing can be credited to the Office of the Governor.

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GOV. GREEN ENACTS LAWS TO PROMOTE A CLEAN ENERGY FUTURE

Office of the Governor Press Release, Jul 5, 2023

HONOLULU, HI – Governor Josh Green, M.D., signed several bills into law to help combat climate change and work towards the state’s zero-emission goal of 100-percent clean energy by 2045.

“Today we are taking action to build a clean energy future by signing bills that will create more standards for efficiency, protect our environment, and create more opportunities for collaboration,” said Governor Green. “It’s important to identify our vulnerabilities and then develop strategies to reduce carbon emissions and other pollutants that adversely affect our environment.”

Three of the six bills signed during the ceremony included SB691 (Act 224) which authorizes the State Energy Officer to adopt rules to enforce or amend minimum efficiency standards for certain products. This will provide product suppliers to have ample time to bring more energy-efficient products to market, which will result in greater energy and water savings starting in 2025.

Another bill signed, HB192 (Act 225), prohibits the sale of certain fluorescent lamps to reduce energy waste and quantities of mercury from such lamps to avoid having them pollute Hawaiʻi’s environment. Ten other states have already adopted similar laws. 

SB1024 (Act 226), which was also signed during the ceremony, establishes long-term goals and implements strategies that help to reduce and ultimately eliminate greenhouse gas emissions from Hawaiʻi’s ground and interisland transportation sectors. It also establishes a clean ground transportation working group and interisland transportation working group comprising Hawaiʻi state agency heads and other stakeholders.

“Transportation produces the majority of Hawaiʻi’s emissions,” said Senator Chris Lee, chair of the Senate Committee on Transportation and Culture and the Arts (District 25 Kailua, Waimānalo, Hawai‘i Kai) and author of SB1024. “This bill will move Hawaiʻi toward zero emissions from land, sea, and air transportation, catalyzing investment in new local jobs, reducing future transportation costs, and building a cleaner Hawaiʻi economy for our next generation.”

“These bills will provide direct savings to Hawaiʻi’s families and businesses by lowering energy costs, will benefit the electric grid by reducing demand, will reduce toxic waste in the environment, and will avoid hundreds of thousands of tons of carbon emissions,” said Nicole Lowen, chair of the House Committee on Energy and Environmental Protection (District 7, Kailua-Kona, Honokōhau, Kalaoa, Puʻu Anahulu, Puakō, portion of Waikoloa). “Measures like these are the true steps forward where we put one foot in front of the other and start making real change in the real world,” she said.

“Hawaiʻi is recognized as a global leader on ambitious climate policy, and the bills signed into law today move us closer to making our climate goals a reality,” said Blue Planet Foundation Executive Director Melissa Miyashiro. “We can’t overlook the importance of affordability as we transition to cleaner energy sources. The energy efficiency bills enacted today will play a foundational role in helping Hawaii lower its carbon footprint, while also lowering utility bills for residents and businesses. These are the win-win climate policies we need.”

Additional bills signed into law today include:

SB1417 SD1 HD1 CD1, (Act 221) Relating to Climate Change

Kakaʻako climate change and sea level rise

Requires the Hawaiʻi Community Development Authority to consider the impacts of climate change, sea level rise, and climate-resilient development in the design and siting of buildings in the Kakaʻako and Kalaeloa community development districts. (CD1)

SB1534 SD2 HD3 CD1, (Act 222) Relating to Transportation

Electric vehicle road usage charge

Creates a mileage-based road usage charge to replace state motor fuel taxes beginning on July 1, 2025, for electric vehicles. Eliminates the $50 annual state vehicle registration surcharge for electric vehicles. Allows electric vehicle owners to pay a registration surcharge or a per-mile road usage fee until June 30, 2028. Requires certificates of inspection to state the odometer reading of vehicles. Requires motor vehicle registration applications to specify whether the type of fuel for which the vehicle is adapted is battery electricity. Requires the Department of Transportation to plan for the deployment of a state mileage-based road user charge program by 2033 and submit a report to the Legislature. Appropriates funds. (CD1)

SB1173 SD1 HD2, (Act 223) Relating to Vehicles

Vehicle emissions penalties

Prohibits a person from causing a diesel- or gas-powered vehicle to discharge clearly visible smoke, soot, or other exhaust emissions onto another person or motor vehicle. Establishes a minimum $500 fine for violators. (HD2)

Climate Change and Clean Energy photos and video can be credited to Office of the Governor.

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GOV. GREEN ENACTS LAWS TO ENHANCE EDUCATION

Office of the Governor Press Release, Jul 3, 2023

HONOLULU, HI — Governor Josh Green, M.D., signed several education- and early-education-related bills into law today that will have positive and far-reaching impacts for Hawai‘i keiki, educators and school facilities in the years to come.

“These new laws will provide additional support to advance the efforts of many throughout our public school system, to educate students,” said Governor Green. “Nearly 169,000 students were enrolled in public and charter schools during the 2022 to 2023 school year. A number like that highlights the need for sound policies and support systems, sufficient funding, and resources for employees to ensure quality teaching and learning. Clearly, our students of today, are our leaders, our workforce and our parents of tomorrow, and it is our kuleana to set them up for success.”

Governor Green signed four bills at the ceremony, adding to seven education bills detailed below.

“We need 1,200 teachers to fill our annual teacher shortage,” Governor Green said. Construction of teacher housing is seen as a key step in the future of education of Hawai‘i’s keiki. Affordable housing will aid in recruitment and retention of teachers, and that will help to address the shortage. SB941 (Act 172) authorizes the School Facilities Authority to partner with public and private agencies to develop housing on- or off-campus for teachers, other educators and staff, and to develop classrooms.

Governor Green thanked Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Luke for leading the charge for the youngest of our learners. The Lieutenant Governor has taken a progressive approach to providing a strong foundation for early education efforts.

“All the momentum building to prioritize statewide preschool expansion, builds on decades of hard work from the early learning and childcare community in Hawaiʻi.The acts Governor Green signed today will not only focus on our youngest learners but provide economic stability to local families and support the state’s early education workforce,” said Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Luke. “It will take continuous collaboration to achieve universal access to preschool, so thank you to the Ready Keiki partners, the legislature, and Governor Green for supporting this effort,” she said.

HB960 (Act 175) places prekindergarten facilities within the authority of the DOE School Facilities Authority and transfers $200 million in general funds to the School Facilities Special fund for FY 2023-24. The funds will expand access to Pre-K to eligible children.

Governor Green also thanked Senate and House Education Committee Chairs, Senator Michelle Kidani and Representative Justin Woodson, for their leadership and commitment toward education for our keiki throughout the years, and to all the members of the legislature who strive to give our keiki the best possible future.

“We celebrate these bills as significant strides towards a brighter future for our students and educators,” said Senator Michelle Kidani, (Senate District 18, Mililani Town, Waipi‘o Gentry, Crestview, Waikele, portion of Waipahu, Village Park, Royal Kunia), Chair of the Senate Education Committee. “By investing in teacher housing, improving school facilities, and expanding early childhood education, we are paving the way for the success of our state and its future generations.”

“Education is about assuring that all of our keiki are lifted up, and these bills highlight how we can build a stronger world-class education system in Hawaiʻi,” said House Committee on Education Chair, Representative Justin Woodson (District 9, Kahului, Pu‘unēnē, portion of Wailuku).

HB503 (Act 174) acknowledges the importance of computer science in an increasingly technology-driven world, by requiring the Board of Education to determine whether making computer science a graduation requirement would be in the best interests of public school students and the public; and if so, to work with the Department of Education to analyze a timeline and process for making computer science a graduation requirement by no later than the 2030-2031 school year.

“From artificial intelligence to advances in healthcare, renewable energy, and agriculture, the current and future impact of technology cannot be overstated,” said David Sun-Miyashiro, executive director of HawaiiKidsCAN. “That is why computer science is a foundational area of education in 2023 and beyond. HB503 is critical in that it increases equity and access to computer science courses for all of Hawai‘i’s students, so that the STEM fields will finally reflect the diversity of our state. Our youth will not only understand these core concepts, but they’ll also have the choice to shape the innovations of the future and have jobs that enable them to afford to stay in Hawai‘i.”

SB1344 (Act 173) amends to ‘school health assistants,’ the former term ‘school health aides,’ to better reflect changes to the job title. The new law allows administration of medication to public school students by school health assistants, with the approval of a health care professional within the Department of Education, Department of Health, or a health care service pursuant to a written agreement with the Department of Education.

Additional education- and early education-related bills signed by Governor Green include:

SB7 HD1 CD1, (Act 165) Relating to the School Facilities Authority

School Facilities Authority Pilot Program

Makes necessary amendments to clarify certain references to the School Facilities Authority used in section 302A-1151.1, Hawaiʻi Revised Statutes. (CD1)

SB105 HD1 CD1, (Act 166) Relating to Education

Special education autism IEPs

Changes the Department of Education’s quarterly report requirement on autism spectrum disorder to an annual report. (CD1)

SB1340 SD2 HD2 CD1, (Act 167) Relating to the Practice of Behavior Analysts

Reinstates the exemption from the behavior analyst licensing requirements for certain teachers working in collaboration with a licensed behavior analyst or licensed psychologist. Expands the exemption for registered behavior technicians to implement applied behavior analysis services under the direction of a licensed psychologist. Reinstates the exemption from the behavior analyst licensing requirements for individuals who implement applied behavior analysis services to participants in the Medicaid home and community-based services waiver program. Requires the Department of Education to report to the Legislature on the implementation of Medicaid reimbursements for applied behavior analysis services. (CD1)

HB1045 HD1 SD1 CD1, (Act 165) Relating to Education

Transfer students, emancipated minors, homeless students

Requires a minor student’s parent or legal guardian, rather than the student, to produce the required student records when transferring schools. Clarifies that emancipated minors may produce the required student records when transferring schools. Clarifies that the transfer process is the same whether a transfer is within the same complex area or to another complex area. Exempts students eligible for assistance provided under the federal McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act of 1987 from producing required student records when transferring schools. Effective 1/1/2024. (CD1)

Early Education Bills

SB239 SD2 HD3 CD1, (Act 169) Relating to Early Learning Accreditation

Requires the Department of Human Services to establish a Child Care Accreditation Program to assist licensed and registered child care providers obtain accreditation. Authorizes the use of the Child Care Grant Program Special Fund for Child Care Accreditation Program grants. Extends the deadlines by which existing Preschool Open Doors Program service providers are required to commence the accreditation process and obtain accreditation. Appropriates funds for the Child Care Accreditation Program, including the establishment of one full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) position for the program. (CD1)

SB1022 HD1 CD1, (Act 170) Relating to the Early Learning Board

Amends the composition and qualifications of the Early Learning Board to consist of individuals from each county, instead of from particular entities or types of providers. Establishes general qualifications for the members of the Early Learning Board appointed by the Governor. (CD1)

HB961 HD1 SD2 CD1, (Act 171) Relating to Early Learning

Expand Preschool Open Doors to 3-year-olds

Expands the types of entities from which a Preschool Open Doors service provider may obtain accreditation. Beginning 1/1/2024, expands the Preschool Open Doors Program application process to eligible 3year-old children. (CD1)

Video and photos from the bill signing can be credited to Office of the Governor.

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SUPPORTING THE WELLNESS AND RESILIENCE OF HAWAIʻI’S FAMILIES

Office of the Governor Press Release, Jul 3, 2023

On June 14, Governor Green signed multiple bills to make life safer for Hawai‘i residents. The bills signed focused on the ongoing battle against domestic violence and sexual assault, and expanding support for survivors.

“Domestic violence and sexual assault are pervasive, life-threatening crimes that affect millions of lives across the country, without regard for their age, gender, economic status, race, religion or education level — each one of them deserves compassion, protection, and help,” said Governor Green. “The bills I have signed today will provide resources as well as improve the overall health, well­being, and resilience of our communities.

The bills were worked on collaboratively between the Women’s Legislative Caucus and their colleagues in the House and Senate, and advocates for domestic violence and child wellness. Domestic Violence Action Center CEO Nanci Kriedman, who gave a heartfelt speech and is retiring after 40 years as a well-regarded and highly respected community advocate said, “The importance of informed leadership cannot be overstated. The problem of abuse is too big and haunting for us to look the other way. Everyone has a role to play in bringing safety to island families. Safe families are at the core of a healthy community. It’s going to take all of us.”

For a full list of the bills signed into law related to domestic violence and child wellness, visit: https://governor.hawaii.gov/newsroom/office-of-the-governor-news-release-gov-green-acts-on-life-improving-bills/  

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GOV. GREEN SIGNS 18 BILLS TO REBUILD PUBLIC TRUST

Office of the Governor Press Release, Jun 23, 2023

HONOLULU, HI  ̶  Governor Josh Green, M.D., today signed 18 “Good Government” bills, enacting laws governing ethics, lobbying, campaign spending, and other activities that serve to provide greater transparency and accountability. In April, Governor Green signed seven bills into law that worked to further the goals of creating more transparency in government. Today’s bill signings further his commitment to rebuilding public trust.

“The good government and transparency bills that were passed by the legislature reflect the cumulative efforts of many in our community,” said Governor Green. “The input of the public, elected leaders, and other stakeholders throughout our state came together to collaborate on these multi-faceted efforts to give the people of Hawaiʻi the kind of government they want and deserve.”

“I firmly believe in holding elected officials to the highest standards of ethical conduct, beginning with the time they are running for office,” Governor Green said. “Campaign spending and disclosure requirements are crucial for a transparent electoral process. Candid, honest disclosure of all candidates’ funding sources for advertising and other campaign activities can help to inform voters and rebuild public trust in the process.”

Senator Les Ihara, majority policy leader (District 10 – Pālolo, St. Louis Heights, Maunalani Heights, Ala Wai mauka, portions of Kaimukī, Kapahulu, Mō‘ili‘ili, McCully), appreciated the sweeping support of fellow lawmakers and the public. “I’ve introduced many political reform bills in the past that have failed, but this year many have caught a huge wave of public sentiment caused by the unfortunate corrupt actions of colleagues,” he said. “I appreciate the hard work of both judiciary committee chairs. Let’s keep build a wave large enough to address the issue of money in politics and core public ethics issues.”

“The bills that Governor Green is signing today demonstrate the legislature’s commitment to strengthening campaign financing laws, reforming election procedures, and improving transparency and accountability within government,” said Representative David Tarnas, chair of the House Committee on Judiciary & Hawaiian Affairs (D-8, North and South Kohala). “We appreciate the collaboration of the Commission to Improve Standards of Conduct, State Ethics Commission, Campaign Spending Commission, and community advocates for helping us advance legislation that will improve the way government operates,” he said.

Retired Judge Dan Foley, former chair of the Commission to Improve Standards of Conduct, said the bills Governor Green signed today will make government more transparent and accountable.

“I deeply appreciate the Governor and Legislature’s responses to bills recommended by the commission, to give the people of Hawaiʻi a more open and honest government,” Foley said. “This is the second set of good government bills to be signed by Governor Green and there are more bills to come. Our work is not finished, but we are making significant strides in addressing misconduct in government and elections with the hope of restoring public trust that has been lost in the last few years.”

Among the other bills Governor Green has signed, HB1502 will right a 10-year-old wrong, when the state’s Shield Law for journalists was allowed to sunset.

“Originally, the Hawaiʻi Shield Law of 2008 was nationally recognized and was viewed as model legislation that protected a fundamental component of the First Amendment and that is, freedom of the press. It is my pleasure to support our local journalists with the stroke of a pen,” Governor Green said.

Act 127 (SB51) will increase the amount of fines that may be assessed against noncandidate committees for violations of organizational report and advertisement disclosure requirements. This bill will increase compliance with the reporting laws and help restore public trust in state government.

Act ­­128 (SB1493) prohibits lobbyist contributions and expenditures, and promises of contributions or expenditures, to any elected official, candidate, candidate committee, or individual who is required to file an organizational report with the Campaign Spending Comission during legislative sessions. This bill will help reduce undue influence and its appearance.

Act ­­129 (SB182) amends the filing deadline, the penalty for the unauthorized release of confidential financial disclosure information, and the fines imposed and procedures relating to disclosures of financial interests. By doing so, this bill will make the enforcement process for financial disclosure penalties more efficient, while also maintaining accountability.

Act ­­130 (HB986) enhances the criminal penalties for offenses involving public corruption.  This bill establishes the criminal offense of official misconduct as a Class C felony.  The new offense will prohibit a public servant from acting or refraining from performing an official duty with the intent to obtain a benefit other than the person’s lawful compensation, or submitting or inviting reliance on any false statement, document, or record. This bill will help build the public’s faith in government and provide law enforcement with a tool to deter and punish public corruption.

Additional bills signed by Governor Green on June 23 included (click on links for details):

SB19 HD1 CD1, Relating to Cast Ballots (Act 113)

SB141 SD1 HD1 CD1, Relating to Elections (Act 114)

SB1076 SD2 HD2 CD1, Relating to Elections (Act 115)

SB1541 HD1, Relating to Voting More Than Once During an Election (Act 116)

HB1294 HD1 SD1 CD1, Relating to Elections (Act 117)

SB203 SD1 HD1 CD1, Relating to Complaints Alleging Violations of Campaign Spending Laws (Act 118)

SB1189 SD1 HD1 CD1, Relating to Campaign Finance (Act 119)

HB91 HD1 SD1, Relating to Orders of the Campaign Spending Commission (Act 120)

HB92 SD1, Relating to Violations of Campaign Finance Law (Act 121)

HB463 SD1 CD1, Relating to Elections (Act 122)

HB141 HD1 SD1, Relating to Financial Disclosures (Act 123)

HB983 SD2, Relating to Time Limitations (Act 124)

HB712 HD1 SD1, Relating to Recordings of Public Meetings (Act 125)

HB1502 HD1 SD1 CD1, Relating to Evidence (Act 126)

Pictures and video from today’s bill signing can be credited to the Office of the Governor.

CB: Green: Good-Government Bills Will Rebuild Public Trust 

SA: Gov. Josh Green signs batch of government reform bills

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GOV. GREEN SIGNS BILLS TO INCREASE ACCESS TO HEALTH CARE AND WELLNESS

Office of the Governor Press Release, Jun 22, 2023

KAILUA-KONA, HI – Governor Josh Green, M.D., signed 13 bills at a ceremony at Kealakehe Clinic in the Hawaiʻi Island Community Health Center, to support various aspects of health care that will allow for improved access and services for the community.

“Today’s bill signing will further our Administration’s priorities of ensuring quality health care access for the people of Hawaiʻi,” said Governor Green. “Access to health care shouldn’t be a ‘want to have,’ but a ‘need to have,’ and we will continue to work toward finding those solutions that increase access, especially in our rural communities.”

SB404 Updates the Hospital Sustainability Program to clarify the use of the Hospital Sustainability Program Special Fund to support a hospital’s ability to continue to provide services to Medicaid recipients. The bill makes these programs permanent with passage, rather than allowing the program to sunset at the end of December 2023.

SB671 Excludes fentanyl testing strips from the definition of drug paraphernalia in the uniform Controlled Substance Act and defines a fentanyl test strip.

“As a state, we need to be compassionate and focus on harm reduction,” said Governor Green of SB671. “It is important to legalize fentanyl test strips, because fentanyl is 80 times more powerful than morphine, and it’s being laced into other drugs and people are dying. If we can save lives, we should.”

SB674 Allows Hawaiʻi to enter into the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (already in effect in 37 other states, the District of Columbia, and Guam) to allow physicians to more easily practice in Hawaiʻi, while still meeting nationally established standards for education and training.

“Our state continues to experience a shortage of healthcare professionals, especially in our rural communities. This bill will help ensure adequate care and health care access for all, not just some,” said Governor Green.

“Coming from a rural district on Hawaiʻi Island  ̶  one of three Oʻahu sized districts  ̶  health care access is critical to the wellbeing of our residents,” said Representative Mark M. Nakashima (D-1, Hāmākua, portion of Hilo, Ka‘ūmana). “When the only option is to travel to Oʻahu to see a doctor, it can be overwhelming and financially burdensome. I’m pleased with the expansion of telemedicine and the scope of practice for nurse practitioners and health care professionals, which aims to safely increase available healthcare services to neighbor island residents,” he said.

HB907 HD2 SD2 temporarily allows for the reimbursement of services provided through telehealth via an interactive telecommunications system and two-way, real-time, audio-only communications in certain circumstances. Defines “interactive telecommunications system.” The bill sunsets Dec. 31, 2025.

Hawaiʻi Island Community Health Center CEO Richard Taaffe expressed gratitude to the Governor on behalf of the health centers across Hawaiʻi for signing HB 907 into law.

“HB 907 represents a huge step forward in our effort to extend access to behavior health services to our rural and vulnerable communities, especially here on the Big Island,” he said. “The new law will allow our behavioral practitioners to use audio-only technology to reach patients struggling with isolation, anxiety, depression, addiction and who would not otherwise seek care. Governor Green, by signing this bill into law, gives us another method for reaching patients in their homes, where they live.”

Additional bills signed by Governor Green on June 22, 2023 included (click on links for details):

SB162 SD2 HD2 CD1, Relating to Dentistry

SB473 SD1 HD2 CD1, Relating to the Practice of Pharmacy

SB599 SD1 HD2 CD1, Relating to Health Care Providers

SB602 SD2 HD1 CD1, Relating to Health Care Providers

SB759 SD2 HD2 CD1, Relating to Health Community Efforts

HB660 HD1 SD2 CD1, Relating to the Issuance of Special Purpose Revenue Bonds

HB884 HD1 SD2 CD1, Relating to Traveling Team Physicians

HB1082 HD3 SD2 CD1, Relating to Medical Cannabis

HB1369 HD1 SD2 CD1, Relating to Nursing Facilities

Photos and video from today’s bill signing event can be credited to Office of the Governor.

The presentation slides Governor Green used are attached and also can be credited to Office of the Governor.

HTH: Green signs healthcare bills

HNN: Gov. Green makes big steps in Hawaiʻi’s medical laws

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GOV. GREEN SIGNS BILLS TO INCREASE AFFORDABLE HOUSING, REDUCE HOMELESSNESS

News Release from Office of the Governor, Jun 21, 2023

HONOLULU, HI –Governor Josh Green, M.D., today signed several bills that will expand access to affordable housing and provide much-needed assistance to families and individuals who might be at risk of becoming homeless.

“Since taking office, tackling the hard issues of housing and homelessness has been at the forefront of my Administration’s efforts,” said Governor Green. “Unless we address the lack of affordable housing in our state head-on, the housing crisis will continue to affect the quality of life for all our communities, which is why I am pleased to be signing various bills that work to provide some solutions to help those most in need.”

Act 96 (SB764) will allow banks to invest in entities formed to invest in developing residential properties that qualify for low-income housing tax credits. This bill encourages the financing of affordable residential housing projects by increasing the investment limit.

Act 97(SB865) will establish a 99-year leasehold program to develop low-cost homes on state- and county-owned land in an urban redevelopment site to be sold in leasehold by the Hawaiʻi Community Development Authority to qualified residents. This bill will increase the number of affordable residential leasehold units in our state.

“With Act 97 (SB865), the state for the first time will take direct responsibility for reversing the housing shortage by providing income-blind, revenue-neutral, 99-year leasehold homes for all of Hawaiʻi’s people,” said Senator Stanley Chang (Senate District 9, Hawai‘i Kai, Kuli‘ou‘ou, Niu, ‘Āina Haina, Wai‘alae-Kāhala, Diamond Head, Kaimukī, and Kapahulu). “It’s a proven model that has worked in Singapore and will finally enable every generation of local people to have a good life here in Hawaiʻi. Thank you to Governor Green for signing this bill, to Senate President Kouchi and my colleagues in the Senate and House, and all the many supporters who have fought for this concept since 2018.”

Act 98 (SB898) temporarily expands the State Rent Supplement Program specifically for qualified persons who are sixty-two years of age or older and are homeless or at imminent risk of becoming homeless. Funding from the Hawaiʻi State Rent Supplement Program will help eligible families by subsidizing part of their monthly rent. It is mainly geared toward helping kūpuna and older adults and families to avoid becoming homeless.

Act 99 (HB674) repeals the percentage requirements related to the Hawaiʻi Public Housing Authority’s (HPHA) admission of applicants into federal and state low-income public housing units. This gives HPHA the ability to prioritize its public housing inventory to allow greater preference for those who are the most in need, including families and individuals experiencing homelessness, victims of domestic violence, and those who are displaced.

“This was a monumental year in making significant progress toward addressing the affordable housing crisis in Hawaiʻi. We are immensely proud of our focused efforts in providing housing relief to those who need it the most. Our continual priority has been to address the needs of asset-limited, low-income families, renters, Native Hawaiians, and our kūpuna population,” said House Committee on Housing Chair Troy Hashimoto (D-10, Waiehu, Wailuku, Waikapū, Sand Hills).

Additional bills signed by Governor Green on June 21, 2023 include:

SB1357 SD1 HD1 CD1, (Act 90) Relating to Affordable Housing on Hawaiian Home Lands

HB675 HD1 SD2 CD1, (Act 91) Relating to the Hawaiʻi Housing Finance and Development Corporation

HB677 HD1 SD2 CD1, (Act 92) Relating to the Dwelling Unit Revolving Fund

HB992 HD1 SD1 CD1, (Act 93) Relating to the Affordable Homeownership Revolving Fund

HB1366 HD1 SD2 CD2, (Act 94) Relating to Homelessness

HB1397 HD1 SD2 CD1, (Act 95) Relating to Supportive Housing

“Each of these bills will get us one step closer to providing long-term housing solutions and easing our housing crisis, but it’s just the beginning,” said Governor Green.

Pictures and video from today’s bill signing can be credited to Office of the Governor.

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GOV. GREEN ACTS ON LIFE-IMPROVING BILLS

Office of the Governor Press Releases, Jun 14, 2023 

HONOLULU, HI — Governor Josh Green, M.D. today signed numerous bills to make life safer and better for countless Hawai‘i residents.

Bills relating to the ongoing battle against domestic violence and sexual assault as well as expanded support for survivors; and bills relating to residents’ wellness and resilience and to improving childcare for Hawai‘i families, now bear Governor Green’s signature, bettering the day-to-day lives of many isle residents and keiki.

“What I’m signing today may appear to be simple words on paper, but it’s been said that ‘the pen is mightier than the sword,’ and so it is with this legislation,” said Governor Green. “The bills I have signed today will provide resources for those who have endured domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking, as well as improve the overall health, well-being, and resilience of our people.”

“Domestic violence and sexual assault are pervasive, life-threatening crimes that affect millions of lives across the country, without regard for their age, gender, economic status, race, religion or education level — each one of them needs protection and help,” he said.

With the passage of these bills and the resources provided in the 2023 state budget, we hope that there will no longer be any more preventable deaths due to domestic violence and child abuse,” said Sen. San Buenaventura, (Senate District 2, Puna), Chair of the Senate Health and Human Services Committee. “With the Governor’s signing of today’s child welfare bills, we hope to address the failures that led to the abuse of children whom the state is supposed to protect.”

The passage and signing of the eight bills represent a shared commitment to the safety and protection of individuals impacted by domestic violence or sexual assault, said Rep. Linda Ichiyama, (House District 31 Salt Lake, Āliamanu, Makalapa), co-convener of the Women’s Legislative Caucus.

“The Women’s Legislative Caucus worked in close partnership with our House and Senate colleagues, the Green Administration, and community advocates to improve UH campus safety, combat human trafficking, and enhance training requirements for child custody evaluators. Collectively, these measures help ensure better support for survivors and their families,” she said.

Senate Bill 1267 expands the jurisdiction where petitions for domestic abuse protective orders and temporary restraining orders may be filed and it is based on the real-life experience of a woman who found local champions, including Domestic Violence Action Center CEO Nanci Kriedman, to take up her cause and see it through, Governor Green said. It is just one of several domestic violence-related bills being signed today.

“The importance of informed leadership cannot be overstated, said Kriedman. “The problem of abuse is too big and haunting for us to look the other way. Everyone has a role to play in bringing safety to island families. Safe families are at the core of a healthy community. #itsgonnatakeallofus”

Additional legislation signed by Governor Green today addresses expanded ways to improve the lives of our vulnerable communities.

Reports of child abuse in the state reached a record-high in 2021. It was a time during the pandemic, full of tension due to lockdowns, job-losses, economic uncertainty, and families finding themselves with few healthy outlets for their stresses.

“The Office of Wellness and Resiliency was created and I appointed Tia Hartsock as its first director to oversee the many efforts to assist impacted families and support and sustain our child welfare system,” he said.

House Majority Leader, Rep. Nadine Nakamura, expresses gratitude to her House and Senate colleagues for passing legislation that safeguards and supports the well-being of Hawaiʻi’s keiki.

“HB948 is a House Majority bill that establishes a two-year pilot program for a child and adolescent crisis mobile outreach team on O‘ahu and one neighbor island,” said Rep. Nakamura (House District 15, Hā‘ena, Wainiha, Hanalei, Princeville, Kīlauea, Anahola, Keālia, Kapa‘a, portion of Wailua, Kawaihau). “This legislation reflects our unwavering commitment to recognizing the vital importance of crisis outreach services and mental health support for Hawai‘i’s youth.”

Office of Wellness and Resiliency Director Tia Roberts Hartsock thanked Senate Ways and Means Chair Donovan Dela Cruz (Senate District 17, a portion of Mililani, Mililani Mauka, portion of Waipi‘o Acres, Launani Valley, Wahiawā, Whitmore Village) for championing the legislation.

“I share the concerns of our community to urgently address the tragedies and shortcomings of Hawaiʻi’s child welfare system, therefore, I was moved to action and introduced Malama ʻOhana – SB295,” said Senator Donovan Dela Cruz. “This bill aims to reform the Child Welfare System by requiring the Department of Human Services to work with the community and various stakeholders to determine and address core structural and process failures within our system.”

If you or someone you know needs assistance, help is available 24/7 from the Domestic Violence Action Center: Text (605) 956-5680 or chat online at www.domesticviolenceactioncenter.org; or the Sex Abuse Treatment Center: call (808) 524-7273 or chat online at www.satchawaii.org.

All the bills are listed below.

Photos and video of the first and second bill signings can be credited to Office of the Governor.

Domestic Violence – Sexual Assault-related bills:

SB933 SD1 HD1 CD1, Relating To Temporary Restraining Orders

Authorizes the family courts to allow petitioners to attend TRO hearings remotely upon request. Requires the courts to consider certain factors. Requires the courts to allow petitioners who allege domestic abuse to attend TRO hearings remotely. (CD1)

SB1267 SD1 HD1, Relating To Protective Orders

Expands the jurisdiction for where petitions for domestic abuse protective orders and temporary restraining orders may be filed. (HD1)

SB1527 SD2 HD1 CD1, Relating To Address Confidentiality

Changes the governmental entity responsible for the administration of the Address Confidentiality Program from the Office of the Lieutenant Governor to the Department of Law Enforcement. Allows the Department of Law Enforcement to contract with a third party for the mail forwarding and acceptance of service of legal process aspects of the program. Appropriates funds for full-time equivalent positions, operating costs, and equipment to support the Department of Law Enforcement in administering the Address Confidentiality Program. Effective 1/1/2024. (CD1)

HB554 HD2 SD2 CD2, Relating To Campus Safety

Requires that the University of Hawaiʻi ensure that any individual who participates in implementing the University’s disciplinary process has training or experience in handling sexual misconduct complaints and the University’s disciplinary process. Requires that the University provide mandatory annual trauma-informed, gender-inclusive, LGBTQ+-inclusive sexual misconduct primary prevention and awareness programming for students and employees of the University. Prohibits the University from taking certain disciplinary action against individuals reporting sexual misconduct unless certain exceptions apply. Establishes positions and appropriates funds. (CD2)

HB579 HD2 SD1 CD1, Relating To Human Trafficking*

Establishes the statewide human trafficking prevention program within the Department of the Attorney General to provide services and assistance to victims of human trafficking and victims of the commercial sexual exploitation of children. Requires reports to the legislature. (CD1)*

HB580 HD1 SD1, Relating To Victim-Counselor Privilege*

Expands the victim-counselor privilege under the Hawaiʻi Rules of Evidence to include confidential advocates employed by the University of Hawaiʻi. Increases the minimum number of hours of training a domestic violence victims’ counselor must complete to be considered a victim counselor. (SD1)*

HB581 HD2 SD2, Relating To Child Custody*

Requires certain individuals attempting to serve as child custody evaluators to complete a training course on the dynamics of domestic violence every three years. Requires individuals to submit a letter or certificate of completion to the family court. (SD2)*

SB406 SD1 HD1, Relating To Child Visitation

Allows the court to award reasonable visitation rights to a petitioning grandparent of a minor child when the child’s parent is unable to exercise parental visitation due to death or incarceration and denial of reasonable grandparent visitation rights would cause significant harm to the child. Requires the court to follow best interest of the child procedures, considerations, and standards when granting grandparent visitation rights. Specifies that any person who violates the terms and conditions of a court order granting reasonable grandparent visitation rights are subject to sanctions. (HD2)

* – asterisk designates Women’s Legislative Caucus bills

Wellness and Resiliency and Child Welfare Bills:

SB295 SD2 HD2 CD1, Relating To Child Welfare Services

Establishes within the Office of Wellness and Resilience the Malama ʻOhana Working Group to seek, design, and recommend transformative changes to the State’s existing child welfare system. Allows the Office to contract with an administrative facilitator to provide necessary support for the working group. Requires the Malama ʻOhana Working group to report to the Legislature. (CD1).

SB712 SD2 HD1 CD1, Relating To Corrections

Establishes a trauma-informed certification program at the Windward Community College campus of the University of Hawaiʻi for adult corrections officers. Requires the curriculum to include a level I trauma-informed care course designed for adult corrections officers. (CD1)

SB894 SD2 HD2 CD1,, Relating To The Office Of Wellness And Resilience

Transfers the Office of Wellness and Resilience from the Office of the Governor to the Department of Human Services on 7/1/2025. Extends the Trauma-Informed Care Task Force dissolution date to 6/30/2025 and establishes the Task Force as an advisory board to the Office of Wellness and Resilience until its dissolution. Reconstitutes the membership of the Trauma-Informed Care Task Force into a permanent advisory board to the Office of Wellness and Resilience to be called the Wellness and Resilience Advisory Board. Effective 1/1/2024. (CD1)

HB349 HD2 SD1 CD1, Relating To Children

Expands the original jurisdiction of family court to include proceedings for declarations of emancipation of minors. Specifies the rights of an emancipated minor. Establishes procedures for the emancipation of minors. Effective 1/1/2024. (CD1)

HB350 HD2 SD1, Relating To Child Abuse Reporting

Establishes that the exemption from mandatory reporting by members of the clergy does not apply when the clergy member believes that there exists a substantial risk that child abuse or neglect that is especially heinous, atrocious, or cruel, manifesting exceptional depravity, may occur in the reasonably foreseeable future. (SD1)

HB777 HD2 SD2 CD1, Relating To Background Checks

Authorizes the department of human services to conduct background checks for current and prospective employees, volunteers, contractors, contractors’ employees and volunteers, subcontractors, and subcontractors’ employees and volunteers whose position places them or would place them in close proximity to certain minors, young adults, or vulnerable adults. Clarifies that any state law permitting a more extensive inquiry into an individual’s criminal history by the state and any of its branches, political subdivisions, agencies, or semi-autonomous public bodies corporate and politic will prevail over conflicting conviction record inquiries under the state’s employment practices law. (CD1)

HB948 HD2 SD2 CD1, Relating To Child And Adolescent Mental Health

Establishes a two-year child and adolescent crisis mobile outreach team pilot program on Oʻahu and one neighbor island site to expand existing crisis response services. Appropriates funds. Sunsets 12/31/2025. (CD1)

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GOV. GREEN EXPANDS HEALTH CARE INFRASTRUCTURE, EDUCATION

Office of the Governor Press Releases, Jun 13, 2023

KAHULUI, HI  ̶  Governor Josh Green, M.D. has signed legislation to expand access to health care on Maui and to uplift career advancement opportunities for health care workers in the state.

“These bills emphasize the importance of our health and education systems, in meeting the healthcare needs of residents across our state,” said Governor Green. “Both bills represent the collaborative efforts between my Administration and the Legislature to help address these needs.”

“An acute-care hospital is greatly needed for West Maui. The island has seen tremendous growth and protected rates of growth and visitors going forward are unprecedented,” he said. “In addition to providing greater access to health care for the people of Maui, completion of a West Maui Hospital and Medical Center will also generate excellent job opportunities for residents in the community.”

To address the statewide shortage of health care workers, Governor Green signed HB 353, which appropriates $130,000 for instructional costs for the Certified Nurse Aide-to-Practical Nurse Bridge Program at University of Hawaiʻi Maui College; and $200,000 to provide student aid to participants in the CNA-to-LPN Program at the school. The appropriation includes funds for tuition, fees, supplies, and related costs. The program is designed especially for working certified nurse aides and other health care professionals who want to become licensed practical nurses, and will enhance the quality and provision of health care services on Maui.

“This funding contributes to a robust education system in providing health workforce education and training, to enhance the quality of health care in our community and address the dire shortage of health care workers in our state,” said Governor Green.

The program partners with Hale Makua, ʻOhana Pacific Health, and Kaiser Permanente Hawaiʻi and provides eligible Maui and Oʻahu health care professionals with the opportunity to become LPNs while they are working.

State Senator Gil Keith-Agaran called the bills Maui community bills. “These two bills came out of the community and were actually driven by the community,” he said. “Getting the financing (for West Maui Hospital and Medical Center) has been going on for a long time … that is not something we can take credit for. The other bill, from Representative Hashimoto, again came through the community. HB353 was probably one of the easiest bills to move through the legislature this year … because the expansion will also provide more health care positions on Kaua‘i and O‘ahu – this is helpful for health care throughout the state.”

“We are so very grateful to Governor Green for signing this bill, authorizing up to $20M in special purpose revenue bonds to help our foundation with financing costs for the long-planned West Maui Hospital and Medical Center,” said Jo Anne Johnson Winer, of the West Maui Hospital Foundation. “Our West Maui community can now see its long-time hopes and dreams become reality.”

“This is a proud day for UH Maui, as we will be able to contribute greatly to helping our state’s health care system staff up, while at the same time, affording certified nurse aides an opportunity to advance their careers through the bridge program,” said UH Maui College Chancellor Lui Hokoana.

Act 73, H.B. No. 1255, H.D. 1, S.D. 1, C.D. 1, Relating to Special Purpose Revenue Bonds

Authorizes the issuance of up to $20M in special purpose revenue bonds to assist West Maui Hospital Foundation, Inc. in the construction of West Maui Hospital and Medical Center in the county of Maui, including any necessary infrastructure. (CD1)

Act 74, H.B. No. 353, H.D. 1, S.D. 1, C.D. 1, Relating to Health Care Education

Appropriates funds for the expansion of the certified nurse aide to practical nurse bridge program at the University of Hawaiʻi Maui college, including funding for instructional costs and student aid. The allocation for the Certified Nurse Aide-to-Practical Nurse Bridge Program at University of Hawaiʻi Maui College will receive $130,000 for instructional costs, while $200,000 will be provided for student aid to be applied toward tuition, fees, supplies, and related costs. (CD1)

Photos and video from today’s bill signing are courtesy Office of the Governor.

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NINE BILLS SIGNED BY GOVERNOR GREEN ON WEDNESDAY, JUNE 7, 2023, ENACTED INTO LAW

Office of the Governor Press Releases, June 13, 2023

HONOLULU, HI  ̶  On Monday, June 7, 2023, Governor Josh Green, M.D. signed nine bills.

The legislation signed by Governor Green included bills that:

Provide funds for the University of Hawaiʻi Pamantasan Council’s positions and projects to ensure the state champions educational equity and diversity in higher education [HB968 HD1 SD1 CD1];

Appropriate funds to the Department of Taxation for upgrades to software and computer systems; and require the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to work with the University of Hawaiʻi on workforce development activities that support the development of the Hawaiʻi Pacific Hydrogen Hub [HB28 HD1 SD1 CD1]; and

Establish the Illegal Fireworks Task Force within the Department of Law Enforcement to stop the importation of illegal fireworks and explosives into the state, promote compliance with the fireworks control laws, and ensure the safety and security of facilities and institutions in the state against the discharge of illegal fireworks and explosives [SB821 SD1 HD2 CD1].

The complete list of bills signed includes the following:

Click links to see full details of bills enacted into law.

RELATING TO EXCESSIVE NOISE:

SB588 SD2 HD1 CD1, enacted as Act 63, SLH 2023

RELATING TO THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII:

HB968 HD1 SD1 CD1, enacted as Act 64, SLH 2023

RELATING TO LIQUOR:

HB16 HD2 SD1, enacted as Act 65, SLH 2023

RELATING TO STATE PROGRAMS:

HB28 HD1 SD1 CD1, enacted as Act 66, SLH 2023

RELATING TO FIREWORKS:

SB821 SD1 HD2 CD1, enacted as Act 67, SLH 2023

RELATING TO AGRICULTURAL LANDS:

SB1268 SD1 HD2, enacted as Act 68, 2023

RELATING TO PRELIMINARY DETERMINATION OF PROBABLE CAUSE:

HB97 HD1 SD1, enacted as Act 69, SLH 2023

RELATING TO THE JUDICIARY:

HB382 HD1 SD3 CD1, enacted as Act 70, SLH 2023

RELATING TO THE BUDGET OF THE OFFICE OF HAWAIIAN AFFAIRS:

HB133 HD1 SD2 CD1, enacted as Act 71, SLH 2023

BIVN: Hawai‘i Gov. Josh Green signs fireworks task force bill, several others into law

SA VIDEO: Green signs bills protecting domestic violence victims

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EIGHT BILLS SIGNED BY GOVERNOR GREEN ON MONDAY, JUNE 5, 2023, ENACTED INTO LAW

News Release from Office of the Governor, Jun 8, 2023

HONOLULU, HI  ̶  On Monday, June 5, 2023, Governor Josh Green, M.D. signed eight  bills.

The legislation signed by Governor Green included bills that:

• Mandate that if a law enforcement officer has reasonable belief that another law enforcement officer is using unnecessary or excessive force on an arrestee, they are obligated to intervene and report the incident to the supervisor of the officer involved. Additionally, relevant departments are required to submit annual reports to the legislature;
• Ensure University of Hawaiʻi community college students who are enrolled in certificate programs, access to the Hawaiʻi Community College Promise Program by exempting them from the requirement to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid each academic year; and
• Authorize the School Facilities Authority Board, rather than the Governor, to appoint an Executive Director of the School Facilities Authority.

The complete list of bills signed includes the following:

Click links to see full details of bills enacted into law.

RELATING TO MEAT DONATION:  HB1382 HD2 SD1 CD1 enacted as Act 54, SLH 2023

RELATING TO GOVERNMENT SERVICES RELATING TO THE LAW:  SB372 SD1 HD1 enacted as Act 55, SLH 2023

RELATING TO CONFORMITY TO THE INTERNAL REVENUE CODE:  HB1100 HD1 SD2 enacted as Act 56, SLH 2023

RELATING TO THE HAWAIʻI COMMUNITY COLLEGE PROMISE PROGRAM:  SB1151 SD2 HD1 CD1 enacted as Act 57, SLH 2023

RELATING TO UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS:  SB989 HD2 enacted as Act 58, SLH 2023

RELATING TO TRANSPORTATION:  SB1505 SD2 HD2 enacted as Act 59, SLH 2023

RELATING TO MOTOR VEHICLES:  HB494 HD1 SD1 CD1 enacted as Act 60, SLH 2023

RELATING TO EDUCATION:  SB531 SD2 HD1 CD1 enacted as Act 61, SLH 2023

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TWENTY-TWO BILLS SIGNED BY GOVERNOR GREEN ON THURSDAY, JUNE 1, 2023, ENACTED INTO LAW

Office of the Governor Press Release, Jun 1, 2023

Honolulu, HI – On Thursday, June 1, 2023, Governor Josh Green, M.D.  signed 22 of the 245 bills enrolled for his consideration since the adjournment of the 2023 Regular Session.

The bills signed by Governor Green included bills that:

• Raise salaries and pay for benefits of Hawaiʻi’s public employees, including teachers, health and correctional workers, registered professional nurses, firefighters, and other employees, which will improve the quality of life of these residents and aid in recruitment and retention efforts to strengthen the workforce in the state;
• Preserve access to health care for Medicaid recipients and strengthen the Nursing Facility Sustainability Program by making the program permanent and ensuring the program’s sustainability;
• Enhance Hawaiʻi’s “Our Care, Our Choice Act” to provide terminally ill individuals with six months or less to live with greater access to the end-of-life options under the law; and
• Help Hawaiʻi’s small businesses by allowing certain pass-through entities to elect to pay Hawaiʻi income tax at the entity level.

The complete list of bills signed included the following:

Click links to see full details of bills enacted into law.

RELATING TO PUBLIC EMPLOYMENT COST ITEMS:

HB1000 HD1 SD1 CD1 enacted as Act 30, SLH 2023

HB1001 HD1 SD1 CD1 enacted as Act 31, SLH 2023

HB1004 HD1 SD1 CD1 enacted as Act 32, SLH 2023

HB1006 HD1 SD1 CD1 enacted as Act 33, SLH 2023

HB1010 HD1 SD1 CD1 enacted as Act 34, SLH 2023

RELATING TO STATE FUNDS:

HB1018 HD1 SD1 CD1 enacted as Act 35, SLH 2023

RELATING TO PAYMENT OF CLAIMS OF THE UNCLAIMED PROPERTY PROGRAM:

HB1020 SD1 CD1 enacted as Act 36, SLH 2023

RELATING TO FUNDING ADJUSTMENTS FOR STATE PROGRAMS:

HB1022 HD1 SD1 CD1 enacted as Act 37, SLH 2023

RELATING TO THE HAWAIʻI EMPLOYER-UNION HEALTH BENEFITS TRUST FUND:

SB1313 SD1 HD1 CD1 enacted as Act 38, SLH 2023

MAKING APPROPRIATIONS FOR CLAIMS AGAINST THE STATE, ITS OFFICERS, OR ITS EMPLOYEES:

SB1277 SD2 HD2 CD1 enacted as Act 39, SLH 2023

RELATING TO THE HAWAIʻI EMPLOYER-UNION HEALTH BENEFITS TRUST FUND SPOUSAL MEDICARE PART B PREMIUM REIMBURSEMENT:

SB1314 SD2 HD1 enacted as Act 40, SLH 2023

SB1315 SD2 HD1 enacted as Act 41, SLH 2023

RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS FROM CIVIL SERVICE FOR POSITIONS IN THE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES:

HB339 HD2 SD1 CD1 enacted as Act 42, SLH 2023

RELATING TO HEALTH:

HB650 HD2 SD1 enacted as Act 43, SLH 2023

RELATING TO PURCHASES OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES:

HB977 HD1 SD1 enacted as Act 44, SLH 2023

HB978 HD2 SD2 CD1 enacted as Act 45, SLH 2023

RELATING TO THE EMPLOYEES’ RETIREMENT SYSTEM:

SB211 SD2 HD2 CD1 enacted as Act 46, SLH 2023

RELATING TO WAGES:

SB415 SD2 HD2 enacted as Act 47, SLH 2023

RELATING TO TAXATION:

HB1363 HD3 SD2 CD1 enacted as Act 48, SLH 2023

RELATING TO STATE BONDS:

HB33 HD1 SD1 CD1 enacted as Act 49, SLH 2023

RELATING TO PASS-THROUGH ENTITY TAXATION:

SB1437 SD1 HD2 CD1 enacted as Act 50, SLH 2023

RELATING TO PUBLIC WORKS:

SB435 SD1 HD2 CD1 enacted as Act 51, SLH 2023

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