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HAWAIʻI SENATE MAJORITY

Ka ʻAha Kenekoa – Ka ʻAoʻao Hapa Nui

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2024 LEGISLATIVE SESSION

UPCOMING HEARINGS

FIND YOUR SENATOR

OUR LEADERSHIP

RONALD D. KOUCHI
President of the Senate

LORRAINE INOUYE
Majority Whip

MICHELLE N. KIDANI
Vice President of the Senate

HENRY J.C. AQUINO
Assistant Majority Whip

DRU MAMO KANUHA
Majority Leader

TROY N. HASHIMOTO
Assistant Majority Whip

LES IHARA, JR.
Majority Policy Leader

JARRETT KEOHOKALOLE
Assistant Majority Whip

GLENN WAKAI
Majority Floor Leader

CHRIS LEE
Assistant Majority Whip

LYNN DECOITE
Assistant Majority Floor Leader

HERBERT "TIM" RICHARDS, III
Assistant Majority Whip

STAY CONNECTED:

This Peace Day, we unite to promote peace, strengthen international relations, and increase educational awareness of peace.

The Nagasaki Peace Bell, gifted to Honolulu by the Nagasaki Prefecture, is a reminder of these values and stands as a symbol of seeking understanding and compassion.

#hawaii #hawaiisenate #peaceday2024

This Peace Day, we unite to promote peace, strengthen international relations, and increase educational awareness of peace.

The Nagasaki Peace Bell, gifted to Honolulu by the Nagasaki Prefecture, is a reminder of these values and stands as a symbol of seeking understanding and compassion.

#hawaii #hawaiisenate #peaceday2024

Today, we remember those we lost on this day, 23 years ago.

Let us honor the memory of the first responders and victims and never forget how our nation came together that fateful day in compassion, unity, and strength.

#hawaiisenate #hawaii #neverforget

Today, we remember those we lost on this day, 23 years ago.

Let us honor the memory of the first responders and victims and never forget how our nation came together that fateful day in compassion, unity, and strength.

#hawaiisenate #hawaii #neverforget

Today also marks Labor Day, as we honor our state’s labor force and the history of the labor movement! From the sugar plantation workers that suffered under harsh labor conditions to the birth of unions that fight for fair wages and rights to this day, Hawaiʻi’s labor history captures the ideas of unity and perseverance. Mahalo to all of our hard-working residents of Hawaiʻi!

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #laborday #labormovement #sugarplantation #laborunions

Today also marks Labor Day, as we honor our state’s labor force and the history of the labor movement! From the sugar plantation workers that suffered under harsh labor conditions to the birth of unions that fight for fair wages and rights to this day, Hawaiʻi’s labor history captures the ideas of unity and perseverance. Mahalo to all of our hard-working residents of Hawaiʻi!

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #laborday #labormovement #sugarplantation #laborunions

Hauʻoli Lā Hānau e Queen Liliʻuokalani!

We celebrate the life and legacy of the last monarch of the Hawaiian Kingdom, who dedicated her life to welfare of her people. Queen Liliʻuokalani's story lives on through her compassion, writings, and music, serving as symbols of strength and resilience for the people of Hawaiʻi.

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #queenliliuokalani #queenliliuokalaniday #hauolilahanau

Hauʻoli Lā Hānau e Queen Liliʻuokalani!

We celebrate the life and legacy of the last monarch of the Hawaiian Kingdom, who dedicated her life to welfare of her people. Queen Liliʻuokalani's story lives on through her compassion, writings, and music, serving as symbols of strength and resilience for the people of Hawaiʻi.

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #queenliliuokalani #queenliliuokalaniday #hauolilahanau

With the approach of #TropicalStormHone, we urge everyone to take precautions and prepare for the storm.

Visit ready.hawaii.gov to gather the necessary information to prepare!

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #tropicalstormhone #hurricaneseason #stormwatch #beprepared

With the approach of #TropicalStormHone, we urge everyone to take precautions and prepare for the storm.

Visit ready.hawaii.gov to gather the necessary information to prepare!

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #tropicalstormhone #hurricaneseason #stormwatch #beprepared

Congratulations to our Hawai’i born, Hawai’i based, and UH Athletes on an incredible 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris!

Whether you are Team USA or representing another home nation, you have served as an inspiration. Mahalo for representing us on this international stage. We are so proud and honored to recognize such dedicated athletes who represent Hawaiʻi:

• Tatiana Weston-Webb, Surfing 🥈
• Carissa Moore, Surfing
• John John Florence, Surfing
• Taylor Averill, Volleyball 🥉
• Micah Christensen, Volleyball 🥉
• Micah Maʻa, Volleyball 🥉
• Erik Shoji, Volleyball 🥉
• Daniela Moroz, Kiteboarding
• Amy Atwell, Basketball 🥉
• Zigmars Raimo, Basketball
• Akira Jacobs, Basketball
• Hugh Watanabe, Basketball
• Laticia-Leigh Transom, Swimming
• Kane Follows, Swimming
• Micah Masei, Swimming
• Maartje Keuning, Water Polo 🥉
• Elyse Lemay-Lavoie, Water Polo
• Camile Radosavljevic, Water Polo
• Ema Vernoux, Water Polo

#hawaii #hawaiisenate #paris2024 #olympics

Photos: @isasurfing @usavolleyball @ussailing

Congratulations to our Hawai’i born, Hawai’i based, and UH Athletes on an incredible 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris!

Whether you are Team USA or representing another home nation, you have served as an inspiration. Mahalo for representing us on this international stage. We are so proud and honored to recognize such dedicated athletes who represent Hawaiʻi:

• Tatiana Weston-Webb, Surfing 🥈
• Carissa Moore, Surfing
• John John Florence, Surfing
• Taylor Averill, Volleyball 🥉
• Micah Christensen, Volleyball 🥉
• Micah Maʻa, Volleyball 🥉
• Erik Shoji, Volleyball 🥉
• Daniela Moroz, Kiteboarding
• Amy Atwell, Basketball 🥉
• Zigmars Raimo, Basketball
• Akira Jacobs, Basketball
• Hugh Watanabe, Basketball
• Laticia-Leigh Transom, Swimming
• Kane Follows, Swimming
• Micah Masei, Swimming
• Maartje Keuning, Water Polo 🥉
• Elyse Lemay-Lavoie, Water Polo
• Camile Radosavljevic, Water Polo
• Ema Vernoux, Water Polo

#hawaii #hawaiisenate #paris2024 #olympics

Photos: @isasurfing @usavolleyball @ussailing

Today is the last day to vote in the primary election! To make sure that your vote counts, you can:

🗳️ Vote in person at a Voter Service Center. If you’re not registered to vote yet, no problem! Voter Service Centers offer same day voter registration.

🗳️ Drop off your voted mail ballot packet at a Drop Off Ballot Box. Voted ballots MUST be received before 7:00 p.m.

For more information, or to find a Voter Services Center/Ballot Drop Box near you, visit: bit.ly/hawaiivotelocations.

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #vote #primaryelection

Today is the last day to vote in the primary election! To make sure that your vote counts, you can:

🗳️ Vote in person at a Voter Service Center. If you’re not registered to vote yet, no problem! Voter Service Centers offer same day voter registration.

🗳️ Drop off your voted mail ballot packet at a Drop Off Ballot Box. Voted ballots MUST be received before 7:00 p.m.

For more information, or to find a Voter Services Center/Ballot Drop Box near you, visit: bit.ly/hawaiivotelocations.

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #vote #primaryelection

On the one-year anniversary of the Maui wildfires, our Maui Senators shared the following statement reflecting on the past year and the road to recovery for the island of Maui:

“Maui has always been a community of aloha, resilience, and hope and as we look back on the tragedies that occurred on August 8, 2023, we see this reflected in the people of Maui. Each and every life lost and survived has a story and a memory. As we continue to heal and move towards rebuilding, we remain committed to each other and to our communities.

Mahalo to the State, the County of Maui, community leaders, volunteers, and our neighbors for coming together in our time of need. While there is much to be done in our long journey to recovery, we see a road ahead full of hope and promise. With the foundation of the generations that came before us, we will rebuild for future generations, with hope, resilience, and aloha, for Maui Nui.” -@sendecoite, @senator_mckelvey, & @sentroyhashimoto

On the one-year anniversary of the Maui wildfires, our Maui Senators shared the following statement reflecting on the past year and the road to recovery for the island of Maui:

“Maui has always been a community of aloha, resilience, and hope and as we look back on the tragedies that occurred on August 8, 2023, we see this reflected in the people of Maui. Each and every life lost and survived has a story and a memory. As we continue to heal and move towards rebuilding, we remain committed to each other and to our communities.

Mahalo to the State, the County of Maui, community leaders, volunteers, and our neighbors for coming together in our time of need. While there is much to be done in our long journey to recovery, we see a road ahead full of hope and promise. With the foundation of the generations that came before us, we will rebuild for future generations, with hope, resilience, and aloha, for Maui Nui.” -@sendecoite, @senator_mckelvey, & @sentroyhashimoto

Today, members of the Senate joined other community leaders to tour Amazon’s new delivery station at Sand Island. The warehouse is nearly 600,000 square feet, over three stories and is expected to employ up to 500 local residents.

During the opening ceremony, the company reiterated its commitment to Hawaiʻi in supporting job growth, partnering with local businesses, and upholding cultural awareness.

There are more than 1,000 independent sellers throughout the state that already leverage Amazon’s global audience of potential customers. The company’s first delivery station in state will serve as the catalyst for many new opportunities to grow and diversity Hawaiʻi’s economy.

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #amazon #jobgrowth #cominghome

Today, members of the Senate joined other community leaders to tour Amazon’s new delivery station at Sand Island. The warehouse is nearly 600,000 square feet, over three stories and is expected to employ up to 500 local residents.

During the opening ceremony, the company reiterated its commitment to Hawaiʻi in supporting job growth, partnering with local businesses, and upholding cultural awareness.

There are more than 1,000 independent sellers throughout the state that already leverage Amazon’s global audience of potential customers. The company’s first delivery station in state will serve as the catalyst for many new opportunities to grow and diversity Hawaiʻi’s economy.

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #amazon #jobgrowth #cominghome

Aloha Lā Hoʻihoʻi Ea! This Sovereignty Restoration Day was established in 1843 by King Kamehameha III, after the temporary occupation by rogue agents from the British Crown. As Kauikeaouli famously proclaimed: "Ua mau ke ea o ka ʻāina i ka pono. The sovereignty/breath of our land is perpetuated through justice."

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #lahoihoiea #sovereigntyrestorationday

Aloha Lā Hoʻihoʻi Ea! This Sovereignty Restoration Day was established in 1843 by King Kamehameha III, after the temporary occupation by rogue agents from the British Crown. As Kauikeaouli famously proclaimed: "Ua mau ke ea o ka ʻāina i ka pono. The sovereignty/breath of our land is perpetuated through justice."

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #lahoihoiea #sovereigntyrestorationday

Today, @govjoshgreen appointed Croccifixio (Cross) Makani Crabbe to Senate District 22 (Ko ʻOlina, Nānākuli, Māʻili, Waiʻanae, Mākaha, Mākua), filling the vacancy left by the retirement of former Senator Maile Shimabukuro in May 2024.

Congratulations and welcome to the Hawaiʻi State Senate, @sencrabbe!

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #koolina #nanakuli #maili #waianae #makaha #makua

Today, @govjoshgreen appointed Croccifixio (Cross) Makani Crabbe to Senate District 22 (Ko ʻOlina, Nānākuli, Māʻili, Waiʻanae, Mākaha, Mākua), filling the vacancy left by the retirement of former Senator Maile Shimabukuro in May 2024.

Congratulations and welcome to the Hawaiʻi State Senate, @sencrabbe!

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #koolina #nanakuli #maili #waianae #makaha #makua

"Representative Nakashima was an unselfish public servant, who will be remembered for his wry sense of humor, easy going manner, and establishing the benchmark in dealing with life's adversities with quiet strength and resilience. My thoughts and prayers go out to his close friends and family, and hope they may find solace in these trying times." - Senate President Ronald D. Kouchi.

Rest in Aloha Representative Nakashima ❤️

"Representative Nakashima was an unselfish public servant, who will be remembered for his wry sense of humor, easy going manner, and establishing the benchmark in dealing with life's adversities with quiet strength and resilience. My thoughts and prayers go out to his close friends and family, and hope they may find solace in these trying times." - Senate President Ronald D. Kouchi.

Rest in Aloha Representative Nakashima ❤️

It's the last bill signing ceremony of 2024! @govjoshgreen just signed several crime-preventative bills into law, reaffirming the State’s commitment to reducing crime and enhancing public safety measures. Here are the highlights:

• SB 2845: Prohibits a person from selling ammunition to a person under the age of twenty-one and prohibits a person under the age of twenty-one from owning, possessing, or controlling ammunition, with exceptions.

• SB 2197: Amends the definition of "advance gambling activity" to emphasize the efforts to prevent the occurrence or continuation of gambling activity.

• SB 2601: Expands the statute of limitations for childhood sexual abuse committed on or after July 1, 2024.

• HB 2231: Establishes the goal to increase the number of female and nonbinary law enforcement officers in the State by 2030, requiring each law enforcement agency to recruit law enforcement officers from diverse backgrounds.

Mahalo to Governor Green, state legislators, and community advocates who shared their stories to promote the safety and well-being of our residents!

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #billsigning #crime #publicsafety

It's the last bill signing ceremony of 2024! @govjoshgreen just signed several crime-preventative bills into law, reaffirming the State’s commitment to reducing crime and enhancing public safety measures. Here are the highlights:

• SB 2845: Prohibits a person from selling ammunition to a person under the age of twenty-one and prohibits a person under the age of twenty-one from owning, possessing, or controlling ammunition, with exceptions.

• SB 2197: Amends the definition of "advance gambling activity" to emphasize the efforts to prevent the occurrence or continuation of gambling activity.

• SB 2601: Expands the statute of limitations for childhood sexual abuse committed on or after July 1, 2024.

• HB 2231: Establishes the goal to increase the number of female and nonbinary law enforcement officers in the State by 2030, requiring each law enforcement agency to recruit law enforcement officers from diverse backgrounds.

Mahalo to Governor Green, state legislators, and community advocates who shared their stories to promote the safety and well-being of our residents!

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #billsigning #crime #publicsafety

We're in the final stretch for bill signings! Today, @govjoshgreen signed bills to protect Hawaiʻi's environment and natural resources. Here are the highlights:

• SB 3364: Requires the @hawaiihta to develop and carry out destination management action plans for each county.

• HB 2248: Appropriates funding to the University of Hawaiʻi Sea Grant College Program to develop a North Shore Beach Management Plan for Oahu.

• HB 2475: Regulates advertisements and offers of illegal commercial ocean use activities for better enforcement by the @hawaiidlnr.

• SB 2575: Prohibits the mining, extraction, and removal of minerals from the seabed in all state marine waters, with certain exemptions.

Mahalo to Governor Green, state legislators, and advocates for all the efforts to safeguarding and preserving the beauty of our ʻāina.

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #billsigning #environment #naturalresources #climatechange #aina

We're in the final stretch for bill signings! Today, @govjoshgreen signed bills to protect Hawaiʻi's environment and natural resources. Here are the highlights:

• SB 3364: Requires the @hawaiihta to develop and carry out destination management action plans for each county.

• HB 2248: Appropriates funding to the University of Hawaiʻi Sea Grant College Program to develop a North Shore Beach Management Plan for Oahu.

• HB 2475: Regulates advertisements and offers of illegal commercial ocean use activities for better enforcement by the @hawaiidlnr.

• SB 2575: Prohibits the mining, extraction, and removal of minerals from the seabed in all state marine waters, with certain exemptions.

Mahalo to Governor Green, state legislators, and advocates for all the efforts to safeguarding and preserving the beauty of our ʻāina.

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #billsigning #environment #naturalresources #climatechange #aina

With the bill signing deadline next week, @govjoshgreen signed 18 bills today to make Hawaii safer for its residents. Bills signed into law today primarily focus on efforts to increase wildfire response, emergency preparedness, and traffic and public safety.
Some highlighted bills included:

• SB 2085: Establishes the Office of the State Fire Marshal within the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations to be headed by a State Fire Marshal.

• HB 2193: Authorizes law enforcement and fire officers to enter and inspect any licensee’s or permittee’s premises, under certain conditions, to verify compliance with the State’s Fireworks Control Law.

• HB 2107: Appropriates funds to establish a Limited English Proficiency Language Access Coordinator position and for programming support for LEP community projects within the Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency.

• SB 2693: Establishes the offense of charitable fraud during a state of emergency. Provides that a person commits charitable fraud during a state of emergency if that person, during a state of emergency proclaimed by the Governor, performs certain deceptive acts or practices in connection with the solicitation of a contribution to assist persons affected by a disaster or emergency.

• HB 2526: Increases the penalty for a third or subsequent offense involving the unauthorized driving or operation of motor vehicles to a class C felony. Authorizes the court, as part of the person’s sentencing for the third or subsequent offense, to order that the vehicle used by the person in the commission of the offense be subject to forfeiture.

• SB 2347: Establishes the offense of habitual violent crime.

Mahalo to Governor Green, legislators, and community advocates for their work in prioritizing the safety of our communities.

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #billsigning #wildfire #emergencypreparedness #trafficsafety #publicsafety

With the bill signing deadline next week, @govjoshgreen signed 18 bills today to make Hawaii safer for its residents. Bills signed into law today primarily focus on efforts to increase wildfire response, emergency preparedness, and traffic and public safety.
Some highlighted bills included:

• SB 2085: Establishes the Office of the State Fire Marshal within the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations to be headed by a State Fire Marshal.

• HB 2193: Authorizes law enforcement and fire officers to enter and inspect any licensee’s or permittee’s premises, under certain conditions, to verify compliance with the State’s Fireworks Control Law.

• HB 2107: Appropriates funds to establish a Limited English Proficiency Language Access Coordinator position and for programming support for LEP community projects within the Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency.

• SB 2693: Establishes the offense of charitable fraud during a state of emergency. Provides that a person commits charitable fraud during a state of emergency if that person, during a state of emergency proclaimed by the Governor, performs certain deceptive acts or practices in connection with the solicitation of a contribution to assist persons affected by a disaster or emergency.

• HB 2526: Increases the penalty for a third or subsequent offense involving the unauthorized driving or operation of motor vehicles to a class C felony. Authorizes the court, as part of the person’s sentencing for the third or subsequent offense, to order that the vehicle used by the person in the commission of the offense be subject to forfeiture.

• SB 2347: Establishes the offense of habitual violent crime.

Mahalo to Governor Green, legislators, and community advocates for their work in prioritizing the safety of our communities.

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #billsigning #wildfire #emergencypreparedness #trafficsafety #publicsafety

The Hawaiʻi State Senate wishes you and your ʻohana a safe and happy Fourth of July! The State Capitol will be closed in observance of the holiday.

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #independenceday #fourthofjuly

The Hawaiʻi State Senate wishes you and your ʻohana a safe and happy Fourth of July! The State Capitol will be closed in observance of the holiday.

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #independenceday #fourthofjuly

More bills signed into law by @govjoshgreen! Today, the Governor highlighted bills to invest in our biosecurity and promote Hawaiʻi’s agricultural industries!

• SB 2079: Allows passengers and crew of any flight/cruise entering the State to submit an electronic version of the the Hawaiʻi Plant and Animal Declaration Form.

• SB 3365: Allows the @hdoainfo to certify treatments performed on plant care components in the State and place certain restrictions on the distribution or transportation of plant care components without the certification to prevent the spread of pests and invasive species.

• HB 2298: Requires coffee products that have Hawaiʻi geographic origin in labeling or advertising to contain no less than fifty-one percent coffee by weight by July 1, 2027.

• HB 2278: Requires macadamia nut products to list the countries of origin and the portion of the processed nuts that are not grown in Hawaiʻi if applicable.

Mahalo to Governor Green, state legislators, the Department of Agriculture, and advocates for championing the efforts to support our farmers and our food systems!

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #billsigning #agriculture #biosecurity #foodsystems #farmers

More bills signed into law by @govjoshgreen! Today, the Governor highlighted bills to invest in our biosecurity and promote Hawaiʻi’s agricultural industries!

• SB 2079: Allows passengers and crew of any flight/cruise entering the State to submit an electronic version of the the Hawaiʻi Plant and Animal Declaration Form.

• SB 3365: Allows the @hdoainfo to certify treatments performed on plant care components in the State and place certain restrictions on the distribution or transportation of plant care components without the certification to prevent the spread of pests and invasive species.

• HB 2298: Requires coffee products that have Hawaiʻi geographic origin in labeling or advertising to contain no less than fifty-one percent coffee by weight by July 1, 2027.

• HB 2278: Requires macadamia nut products to list the countries of origin and the portion of the processed nuts that are not grown in Hawaiʻi if applicable.

Mahalo to Governor Green, state legislators, the Department of Agriculture, and advocates for championing the efforts to support our farmers and our food systems!

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #billsigning #agriculture #biosecurity #foodsystems #farmers

The State is committed to protecting our keiki, kūpuna, and education, and @govjoshgreen just signed sixteen bills into law to reinforce our commitment! Some highlights include:

• HB 2400: Requires teachers who resign or retire during an investigation into allegations of serious misconduct (sexual assault, harassment, or physical abuse) to forfeit their teaching licenses.

• SB 2475: Establishes a "Harm to Students" registry to prevent predatory school employees, contractors, or volunteers from gaining employment in schools.

• HB 2430: Establishes a Summer EBT program for our keiki to ensure access to nutritious meals during the summer months.

• HB 2224: Requires the Executive Office on Aging and State Health Planning and Development Agency to create a comprehensive long-term care plan for our growing kūpuna population in Hawaiʻi.

• SB 2305: Utilizes the emergency alert systems to establish a "Silver Alert" program to protect vulnerable seniors and individuals with cognitive impairments or developmental disabilities who go missing.

Mahalo to Governor Josh Green, state legislators, state agencies, and advocates who collaborated to support the keiki, kūpuna, and educators of Hawaiʻi!

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #billsigning #keiki #kupuna #education

The State is committed to protecting our keiki, kūpuna, and education, and @govjoshgreen just signed sixteen bills into law to reinforce our commitment! Some highlights include:

• HB 2400: Requires teachers who resign or retire during an investigation into allegations of serious misconduct (sexual assault, harassment, or physical abuse) to forfeit their teaching licenses.

• SB 2475: Establishes a "Harm to Students" registry to prevent predatory school employees, contractors, or volunteers from gaining employment in schools.

• HB 2430: Establishes a Summer EBT program for our keiki to ensure access to nutritious meals during the summer months.

• HB 2224: Requires the Executive Office on Aging and State Health Planning and Development Agency to create a comprehensive long-term care plan for our growing kūpuna population in Hawaiʻi.

• SB 2305: Utilizes the emergency alert systems to establish a "Silver Alert" program to protect vulnerable seniors and individuals with cognitive impairments or developmental disabilities who go missing.

Mahalo to Governor Josh Green, state legislators, state agencies, and advocates who collaborated to support the keiki, kūpuna, and educators of Hawaiʻi!

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #billsigning #keiki #kupuna #education

Progress for Native Hawaiian communities continues as @govjoshgreen signed thirteen bills into law this morning! Here are some of the highlights:

• SB 3109: Broadens the special fund to address the @departmentofhawaiianhomelands waitlist through developing housing, purchasing land, allocating funding for waitlisted applicants, and providing housing assistance

• HB 2074: Appropriates funds to the @hawaiipublicschools for Kaiapuni programs and the establishment of three full-time curriculum specialist II positions and ten full-time classroom teacher positions

• SB 2937: Effectively exempts @uhhilo’s College of Hawaiian Language from State English-medium standards to further support Hawaiian language fluency

• SB 2659: Directs the @hawaiihta to create a Tourism Functional Plan and to provide an update on the authority’s efforts towards sustainability, cultural integrity, and economic diversification.

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #billsigning #nativehawaiians #kānakamaoli

Progress for Native Hawaiian communities continues as @govjoshgreen signed thirteen bills into law this morning! Here are some of the highlights:

• SB 3109: Broadens the special fund to address the @departmentofhawaiianhomelands waitlist through developing housing, purchasing land, allocating funding for waitlisted applicants, and providing housing assistance

• HB 2074: Appropriates funds to the @hawaiipublicschools for Kaiapuni programs and the establishment of three full-time curriculum specialist II positions and ten full-time classroom teacher positions

• SB 2937: Effectively exempts @uhhilo’s College of Hawaiian Language from State English-medium standards to further support Hawaiian language fluency

• SB 2659: Directs the @hawaiihta to create a Tourism Functional Plan and to provide an update on the authority’s efforts towards sustainability, cultural integrity, and economic diversification.

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #billsigning #nativehawaiians #kānakamaoli

Today, the Hawaiʻi State Senate confirmed four judicial appointees to the First Circuit Court – Oʻahu.

Rebecca A. Copeland, Brian A. Costa, Dyan M. Medeiros, and Steven R. Nichols have been confirmed to the First Circuit Court as a Circuit Court Judges. To learn more about these judges, go to www.hawaiisenatemajority.com/post/senate-confirms-four-judicial-appointments-to-oʻahu-circuit-court.

Mahalo and congratulations to all appointees!

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #judiciary #specialsession #confirmations

Today, the Hawaiʻi State Senate confirmed four judicial appointees to the First Circuit Court – Oʻahu.

Rebecca A. Copeland, Brian A. Costa, Dyan M. Medeiros, and Steven R. Nichols have been confirmed to the First Circuit Court as a Circuit Court Judges. To learn more about these judges, go to www.hawaiisenatemajority.com/post/senate-confirms-four-judicial-appointments-to-oʻahu-circuit-court.

Mahalo and congratulations to all appointees!

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #judiciary #specialsession #confirmations

Today, the Hawaiʻi State Senate Committee on Judiciary held a public hearing to hear testimony on and consider four judicial appointments from @govjoshgreen.

The appointees, Rebecca A. Copeland, Brian A. Costa, Dyan M. Medeiros, and Steven R. Nichols, are being considered for the Circuit Court of the First Circuit on the island of Oʻahu.

The Committee on Judiciary will vote on the appointments on Wednesday, June 26th, at 11:45am. A final vote on the appointments by the full Senate is scheduled for Thursday, June 27, at 11:00am.

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #judiciary #appointment #confirmation #judge

Today, the Hawaiʻi State Senate Committee on Judiciary held a public hearing to hear testimony on and consider four judicial appointments from @govjoshgreen.

The appointees, Rebecca A. Copeland, Brian A. Costa, Dyan M. Medeiros, and Steven R. Nichols, are being considered for the Circuit Court of the First Circuit on the island of Oʻahu.

The Committee on Judiciary will vote on the appointments on Wednesday, June 26th, at 11:45am. A final vote on the appointments by the full Senate is scheduled for Thursday, June 27, at 11:00am.

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #judiciary #appointment #confirmation #judge

The Hawaiʻi State Senate sends our aloha and a hui hou to our ʻohana across the Moananuiākea. Reflecting on the theme of “Hoʻoulu Lāhui” for the 13th Festival of the Pacific Arts and Culture, the past ten days have been full of regenerating and strengthening the bonds between our island nations. Our ocean does not separate us, but binds us. Mahalo nui loa to everyone who devoted their time and effort to prepare for this historic reunion. We will cherish the beautiful arts and culture you generously shared with our people. Until we meet again at the next FestPAC!

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #festpac #moananuiakea #pacificislanders #polynesians #ohana #oneocean #artsandculture

The Hawaiʻi State Senate sends our aloha and a hui hou to our ʻohana across the Moananuiākea. Reflecting on the theme of “Hoʻoulu Lāhui” for the 13th Festival of the Pacific Arts and Culture, the past ten days have been full of regenerating and strengthening the bonds between our island nations. Our ocean does not separate us, but binds us. Mahalo nui loa to everyone who devoted their time and effort to prepare for this historic reunion. We will cherish the beautiful arts and culture you generously shared with our people. Until we meet again at the next FestPAC!

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #festpac #moananuiakea #pacificislanders #polynesians #ohana #oneocean #artsandculture

Aloha Lā Kamehameha!

Today we honor King Kamehameha the Great and his legacy in unifying the Hawaiian Islands under one kingdom in 1810. As the father of the Hawaiian Kingdom, his leadership and vision for his people inspires our own work and dedication for the people of Hawaiʻi. We hope you take part in the many celebrations happening across the state this week!

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #kingkamehamehathegreat #kamehamehaday #hawaiiankingdom

Aloha Lā Kamehameha!

Today we honor King Kamehameha the Great and his legacy in unifying the Hawaiian Islands under one kingdom in 1810. As the father of the Hawaiian Kingdom, his leadership and vision for his people inspires our own work and dedication for the people of Hawaiʻi. We hope you take part in the many celebrations happening across the state this week!

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #kingkamehamehathegreat #kamehamehaday #hawaiiankingdom

As inflation and high cost-of-living continues to burden the working families of Hawaiʻi, the Legislature, along with many community advocates, sought new solutions to support the people of Hawai'i. This year, the Legislature passed two monumental bills that will provided much-needed tax relief, which @govjoshgreen signed into law today!

First up, HB2404 delivers the biggest tax cut in the history of Hawaiʻi, by incrementally increasing the standard deduction and amending the tax brackets over a seven year period. This bill will allow low-to-moderate-income taxpayers to retain more of their income, and will help address cost-of-living increases.

Second, SB1035 aims to keep our medical and dental providers in Hawaiʻi by exempting them from General Excise Tax on goods or services that are reimbursed through Medicaid, Medicare, or TRICARE. Currently, medical services rendered by individual or group practices or clinics are fully taxable. Medicare, Medicaid, and TRICARE does not compensate for these taxes, which requires some providers to cover the added costs. Hawaiʻi is facing a crucial shortage of nearly eight-hundred physicians, and a recent survey of physicians by the John A. Burns School of Medicine found that this bill could be an effective means of recruiting and maintaining more physicians.

Mahalo to all of the Legislators, advocates, and Governor Green for your support of these bills. Your Senate will continue to work on ways to make Hawaiʻi safe and affordable for our residents!

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #billsigning #taxcuts #taxexemption #physicianshortage

As inflation and high cost-of-living continues to burden the working families of Hawaiʻi, the Legislature, along with many community advocates, sought new solutions to support the people of Hawai'i. This year, the Legislature passed two monumental bills that will provided much-needed tax relief, which @govjoshgreen signed into law today!

First up, HB2404 delivers the biggest tax cut in the history of Hawaiʻi, by incrementally increasing the standard deduction and amending the tax brackets over a seven year period. This bill will allow low-to-moderate-income taxpayers to retain more of their income, and will help address cost-of-living increases.

Second, SB1035 aims to keep our medical and dental providers in Hawaiʻi by exempting them from General Excise Tax on goods or services that are reimbursed through Medicaid, Medicare, or TRICARE. Currently, medical services rendered by individual or group practices or clinics are fully taxable. Medicare, Medicaid, and TRICARE does not compensate for these taxes, which requires some providers to cover the added costs. Hawaiʻi is facing a crucial shortage of nearly eight-hundred physicians, and a recent survey of physicians by the John A. Burns School of Medicine found that this bill could be an effective means of recruiting and maintaining more physicians.

Mahalo to all of the Legislators, advocates, and Governor Green for your support of these bills. Your Senate will continue to work on ways to make Hawaiʻi safe and affordable for our residents!

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #billsigning #taxcuts #taxexemption #physicianshortage

Happy Pride Month from the Hawaiʻi State Senate!

As we celebrate our LGBTQIA+ community members, we also recognize that the fight for equal rights, protection, and representation continues on.

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #pride #PrideMonth2024

Happy Pride Month from the Hawaiʻi State Senate!

As we celebrate our LGBTQIA+ community members, we also recognize that the fight for equal rights, protection, and representation continues on.

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #pride #PrideMonth2024

The Hawaiʻi State Senate sends a fond farewell to @senshimabukuro as she will be moving on to a new chapter in her life.

"It has been an amazing journey, and such a privilege, to serve as an elected official since 2003.

From the bottom of my heart, I thank all of my fellow Legislators, Capitol staff, passionate advocates, constituents, and of course my family and friends, for all the support, teamwork, mentorship, and camaraderie that you have gifted me over these past 21 years. I am so proud of the many things we have accomplished together, such as, the Nānākuli contraflow lane; MA‘O Organic Farms’ expansion; buildings for Searider Productions, LCC Wai‘anae Moku, Papahana O Kaiona, E Ala Voyaging Canoe, Nā Kama Kai, and Wai‘anae Coast Comprehensive Health Center, to name a few. Bills such as legalizing pa‘i‘ai, extending the statute of limitations for sex abuse victims, eliminating the reconstructed car inspection, transfer on death deeds, prohibiting the removal of sand from our shorelines, beach brown water testing, and requiring counties to maintain DHHL infrastructure, will have a tremendous positive impact on the generations to come.

After my departure, I look forward to tending to my mother and son, spending time with family and friends, focusing on my legal services work, volunteering for nonprofits, and enjoying the healing powers of nature and the ocean.

Thank you again for providing me with the immense privilege of serving in this august body." - Senator Maile Shimabukuro

Mahalo for your over twenty years of service to the people of Hawaiʻi in the State Legislature!

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate

The Hawaiʻi State Senate sends a fond farewell to @senshimabukuro as she will be moving on to a new chapter in her life.

"It has been an amazing journey, and such a privilege, to serve as an elected official since 2003.

From the bottom of my heart, I thank all of my fellow Legislators, Capitol staff, passionate advocates, constituents, and of course my family and friends, for all the support, teamwork, mentorship, and camaraderie that you have gifted me over these past 21 years. I am so proud of the many things we have accomplished together, such as, the Nānākuli contraflow lane; MA‘O Organic Farms’ expansion; buildings for Searider Productions, LCC Wai‘anae Moku, Papahana O Kaiona, E Ala Voyaging Canoe, Nā Kama Kai, and Wai‘anae Coast Comprehensive Health Center, to name a few. Bills such as legalizing pa‘i‘ai, extending the statute of limitations for sex abuse victims, eliminating the reconstructed car inspection, transfer on death deeds, prohibiting the removal of sand from our shorelines, beach brown water testing, and requiring counties to maintain DHHL infrastructure, will have a tremendous positive impact on the generations to come.

After my departure, I look forward to tending to my mother and son, spending time with family and friends, focusing on my legal services work, volunteering for nonprofits, and enjoying the healing powers of nature and the ocean.

Thank you again for providing me with the immense privilege of serving in this august body." - Senator Maile Shimabukuro

Mahalo for your over twenty years of service to the people of Hawaiʻi in the State Legislature!

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate

Today, @govjoshgreen signed SB2600, SB2726, HB2315, HB2685, and HB2801, which collectively are related to condominiums and supporting green energy programs for those communities.

Mahalo to all legislators and community members for working to consider condo residents in our State.

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #condos #housingaccess #greenenergy

Today, @govjoshgreen signed SB2600, SB2726, HB2315, HB2685, and HB2801, which collectively are related to condominiums and supporting green energy programs for those communities.

Mahalo to all legislators and community members for working to consider condo residents in our State.

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #condos #housingaccess #greenenergy

Today, @govjoshgreen signed several bills into law to address Hawaiʻi’s pressing need for affordable housing, including SB2066, SB2133, SB3202, HB2090, HB1925, and HB1760.

Mahalo to all legislators and community advocates who continue to support affordable housing access in our State.

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #billsigning #affordablehousing

Today, @govjoshgreen signed several bills into law to address Hawaiʻi’s pressing need for affordable housing, including SB2066, SB2133, SB3202, HB2090, HB1925, and HB1760.

Mahalo to all legislators and community advocates who continue to support affordable housing access in our State.

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #billsigning #affordablehousing

Today, we remember and honor the courageous souls who devoted and gave their lives in service to their country.

In observance of Memorial Day, the Hawaiʻi State Capitol will be closed to the public.

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #memorialday

Today, we remember and honor the courageous souls who devoted and gave their lives in service to their country.

In observance of Memorial Day, the Hawaiʻi State Capitol will be closed to the public.

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #memorialday

Our beaches and waters are world renowned, and those who swim, wade, dive, surf, paddle, snorkel, and enjoy the ocean should be aware of the risk of water-related accidents. Between 2018 and 2022, drowning was the leading cause of death for children one to seventeen years of age in Hawai'i. Water safety is a skill that can be taught, and water safety education/awareness can help curb the number of child drowning fatalities.

Today, @govjoshgreen has signed into law SB2841 and SB116. These measures, respectively, establishes May 15th as Water Safety Day, and authorize the issuance of special license plates to recognize waterman, lifeguard, and legend, Duke Kahanamoku.

Mahalo to our state legislators and advocates who shared their own personal stories to inspire action, as we continue our efforts to spread awareness and educate our youth about becoming safer in and around the water.

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #billsigning #watersafetyday

Our beaches and waters are world renowned, and those who swim, wade, dive, surf, paddle, snorkel, and enjoy the ocean should be aware of the risk of water-related accidents. Between 2018 and 2022, drowning was the leading cause of death for children one to seventeen years of age in Hawai'i. Water safety is a skill that can be taught, and water safety education/awareness can help curb the number of child drowning fatalities.

Today, @govjoshgreen has signed into law SB2841 and SB116. These measures, respectively, establishes May 15th as Water Safety Day, and authorize the issuance of special license plates to recognize waterman, lifeguard, and legend, Duke Kahanamoku.

Mahalo to our state legislators and advocates who shared their own personal stories to inspire action, as we continue our efforts to spread awareness and educate our youth about becoming safer in and around the water.

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #billsigning #watersafetyday

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