This bill informs the Hawaii Legislature that Governor Josh Green signed HB1946 into law on May 19, 2026, to streamline the registration process for time share developers and agents. The key provision establishes that renewal applications and plan amendments will be automatically approved within 30 and 60 days respectively, unless the Commerce and Consumer Affairs Department issues a deficiency notice during that time. This change aims to reduce administrative delays while maintaining oversight of the time share industry. The law directly affects developers, acquisition agents, plan managers, and exchange agents operating in Hawaii's visitor economy.
This bill, signed into law by the Governor of Hawaii on May 19, 2026, amends a previous statute regarding the management of the Maui state veterans home. It directly affects the state agencies responsible for long-term care, specifically the Oahu regional health care system or any other state agency with a Maui affiliation, as well as the Department of Defense. The key provision removes a specific deadline of June 30, 2027, that required the veterans home to be transferred to a state agency, replacing it with a requirement that the transfer be completed as soon as practicable. This change acknowledges the logistical, labor, and financial complexities involved in moving the facility while maintaining the original intent to place it under state management.
This bill amends Hawaii's laws regarding uncrewed aircraft, or drones, to clarify who is exempt from certain offenses and to define specific criminal acts involving their misuse. It exempts law enforcement, fire personnel, and other government workers from liability when operating drones as part of their official duties. The legislation also establishes new third-degree offenses for actions such as tampering with a drone's identification, obstructing emergency responders, causing bodily injury or property damage over $750, flying while intoxicated, or operating without a valid license. Additionally, it specifies that using a drone to commit a felony is punishable as a separate crime that can be sentenced alongside the underlying felony.
This bill, signed into law on May 19, 2026, updates Hawaii's procedures for administrative driver's license revocations to ensure individuals receive clearer information and timely hearings. It requires the state to mail a detailed notice explaining the reasons for revocation, how to request a hearing, and the specific deadlines for doing so, which differ based on whether the offense involves alcohol or drugs. The law also mandates that hearings be held within twenty-five days for alcohol-related cases or thirty-nine days for drug-related cases, while allowing these proceedings to be conducted via interactive conference technology. Additionally, the bill clarifies that a temporary permit will not be extended if a person fails to request a hearing within the initial six-day window and requires those with valid licenses at the time of arrest to obtain an ignition interlock permit during the revocation period.
This bill, signed into law by Governor Josh Green on May 19, 2026, expands Hawaii's family leave protections to include military families. It directly affects employees who are spouses, children, siblings, parents, or other relatives of active-duty service members. The key provision adds "qualifying military exigency" as a valid reason for taking up to four weeks of unpaid family leave per year, aligning state law with federal standards. To use this leave, employees must provide their employer with official military orders as proof of the qualifying situation. The changes take effect on July 1, 2026.
This bill creates a general excise tax exemption for the sale of aircraft parts and tools to airlines in Hawaii. It directly affects aviation companies that purchase materials for servicing planes or building maintenance facilities. The law corrects a previous legal ruling that had excluded these parts from the tax exemption, aligning the rules with those used for importing such items. By removing the tax on these specific purchases, the state aims to support the airline industry and remain competitive with other states. The changes will officially take effect on January 1, 2027.
This document is a formal notification from the Governor of Hawaii to the Legislature confirming that House Bill 1163 was signed into law on May 19, 2026. The bill amends state statutes regarding commercial driver's licensing to align more closely with federal regulations. Specifically, it requires applicants to prove citizenship or lawful permanent residency and mandates that skills tests be conducted exclusively in English. Additionally, the law updates procedures for verifying medical certifications and processing waivers for drivers who do not meet certain physical standards.
This bill directs Hawaii's regulatory commission to create automatic rate adjustment mechanisms for water carriers to address inflation and other economic factors. Under the new rules, carriers must apply these adjustments annually for three-year periods, with a cap of five percent per year, while exempting customers receiving preferential agricultural water rates. The legislation also requires carriers to submit standard rate applications every third year regardless of whether they are seeking rate changes.
This bill establishes the Hawaii Leadership Awards Program to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to the state and serve as inspirations to others. The program will present annual awards in twelve categories, including arts, business, science, and public service, to residents who have lived in Hawaii for at least seven years, with one exception for the 'Friend of Hawaii' category. A selection committee appointed by the governor, legislature leaders, and the state archives will manage the nomination and selection process, while winners receive a certificate, medal, and public recognition.
This bill, known as Act 011, clarifies that corporations and other artificial legal entities in Hawaii do not have the right to spend money to influence elections or ballot measures. It explicitly states that the powers granted to these entities are limited strictly to what is necessary for conducting their lawful business, excluding political activities. The law applies to all private organizations chartered under state law, such as corporations and limited liability companies, while exempting government agencies and public bodies. Violations of these new limitations would result in penalties as established by the state. The legislation aims to reaffirm that political spending powers belong to natural persons rather than artificial legal entities.
This bill, signed into law by Governor Josh Green on May 14, 2026, establishes new requirements for vehicle inspections and license plate visibility in Hawaii. Effective January 1, 2027, the state will require all vehicles and mopeds to pass safety inspections that specifically check for compliant mufflers, functioning headlights, and unobstructed license plates. The legislation prohibits the use of any covers, shields, or films over license plates, regardless of whether they are clear or tinted, and sets a fine of up to $1,000 for each violation. Enforcement authority is granted to state and county law enforcement officers, who can issue citations for these infractions.
This bill designates the first Friday in February of each year as "Love My Library Day" to honor the vital role libraries play in Hawaii's communities. The legislation applies to all libraries, including public, school, and higher education facilities, emphasizing their importance for lifelong learning, civic engagement, and access to essential resources. By adding this designation to the state statutes, the bill aims to raise public awareness and encourage support for library services without creating a new state holiday.
