SB 2688 establishes a state protocol for releasing incarcerated individuals who are seriously ill or debilitated due to medical conditions. It directly affects people in state custody with severe health issues who meet specific medical criteria. The bill creates a formal process for prison officials to evaluate and approve compassionate release requests, replacing current ad-hoc practices. Currently, the bill is under review by the PSM committee, having passed its first reading on January 26, 2026, with a public hearing scheduled for February 4, 2026.
Establishes a minimum time frame of twenty-four months following loss due to declared state of emergency for the policyholder to submit documentation to recover full replacement cost value of covered dwelling or structure. Allows extensions for good cause. Establishes a minimum time frame of twelve months from completion of covered dwelling or structure for the policyholder to submit documentation to recover full replacement cost value of covered personal property. Requires homeowners insurers to give timely notice to policyholders to explain the time frames and extensions. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
Appropriates moneys to the Department of Health for the development and implementation of the Comprehensive Watershed-based Water Quality Monitoring Pilot Program for the Waikele Watershed. Requires report to the Legislature. Appropriates moneys to the Division of Aquatic Resources of the Department of Land and Natural Resources for mangrove removal and shoreline and stream maintenance in the Nineteenth Senatorial District and nearby areas, including the West Loch and Middle Loch shorelines. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
Requires the Director of Corrections and Rehabilitation to incrementally return committed felons incarcerated in private, out-of-state correctional institutions to in-state correctional facilities. Requires reports to the Legislature. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD1)
This bill proposes the appointment of Michael K. Soong as a Circuit Court Judge for the Fifth Circuit on the island of Kauaʻi. If confirmed by the Senate, Soong would serve a ten-year term as a judge in the state's court system. The legislation is a procedural measure that formally submits the Governor's nomination to the legislative body for their advice and consent. It does not alter existing laws or policies but rather initiates the process to fill a specific judicial vacancy.
This bill proposes the appointment of Annalisa M. Bernard Lee as a judge for the Circuit Court of the Second Circuit on the island of Maui. The Governor is submitting her name to the Senate for confirmation to serve a ten-year term. If confirmed, she would join the existing bench to hear cases in that specific court district. The process requires the Senate to provide advice and consent before her appointment becomes official.
This bill nominates Traci Fujita to serve on the Commission to Promote Uniform Legislation in Hawaii until June 30, 2030. The nomination is submitted by Governor Josh Green under the state constitution's provisions for appointing commission members. If confirmed by the Senate, Fujita would join other appointed members to review and recommend uniform legislation for the state. This is an administrative appointment rather than a new law, and it does not change existing policies or affect the general public directly.
This bill formally nominates Jessica Shaffer to serve as a member of Hawaii's Commission on the Status of Women, with her term set to end on June 30, 2030. The nomination is submitted by Governor Josh Green under the authority of the Hawaii State Constitution and requires confirmation by the Senate. If confirmed, Shaffer will join the commission to advise on issues related to women's status and rights in the state. This is an administrative appointment process rather than a new policy initiative.
This House Concurrent Resolution urges the Hawaii Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity to investigate and develop projects that combine renewable energy generation with existing agricultural reservoirs and irrigation systems. The bill proposes placing floating solar panels and small water turbines in water infrastructure to produce clean electricity without disrupting water delivery or requiring major construction. It encourages collaboration with farmers, local communities, and energy developers to identify suitable sites and conduct feasibility studies for pilot programs. The resolution aims to support Hawaii's clean energy goals while providing benefits like reduced water evaporation, improved water quality, and local economic opportunities.
This bill requests the creation of a working group to study staffing shortages and security challenges at Hawaii's state courts. The group would examine how expanded duties for the Department of Law Enforcement have outpaced available Deputy Sheriff positions, leading to increased reliance on private security contractors. Its purpose is to evaluate solutions for aligning staffing levels with responsibilities, improving recruitment and retention, and reducing long-term dependence on private security contracts. The working group would include leaders from the judiciary, law enforcement, human resources, and finance to develop recommendations for addressing these systemic issues.
This bill requests the State Auditor of Hawaii to evaluate the social and financial impacts of a new law mandating health insurance coverage for biomarker testing. The assessment will focus on House Bill 1971, which requires insurers to cover medically necessary biomarker testing for diagnosing, treating, and monitoring diseases. The Auditor must submit a report with findings and recommendations to the Legislature before the 2027 session begins. This procedural measure ensures the state reviews the costs and effects of requiring insurance plans to cover this specific medical testing technology.
This bill asks Hawaii's Department of Education to officially recognize competitive cheerleading as a Title IX sport. It urges state officials to develop guidelines and safety standards that align with federal requirements for equal athletic opportunities. The resolution directs the Department of Education to work with the Hawaii High School Athletic Association to establish rules for coaching, facilities, and oversight. This measure seeks to ensure high school cheer athletes receive resources comparable to other varsity sports.
