Rep. Luke Evslin

Maddy summaryHCR 90 is a non-binding concurrent resolution urging the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation (HHFDC) to create a plan addressing Hawaii's housing shortage. It highlights that current housing production (0.6% annual growth) lags behind the national average (1.3%) and fails to meet demand, particularly for middle- and higher-income households (e.g., 11,800+ ownership units needed at 120%+ area median income). The resolution requires HHFDC to develop this plan and submit it to the Legislature by October 20, 2025. It does not mandate new housing construction but seeks a strategic roadmap to align production with actual demand.

Maddy summaryThis House Resolution (HR 31) requests the University of Hawaii to study whether nuclear energy development is viable in the state. It directly affects Hawaii residents by addressing the state's high electricity rates (over 100% above the national average) and heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels for 80% of energy. The study must examine nuclear energy's cost, safety, and utility, including potential impacts on Hawaii's environment and communities. The University must submit findings and recommendations to the Legislature and relevant officials by 2027. This resolution does not approve nuclear power plants or waste disposal - it only asks for a study.

Requires and appropriates funds for the Department of Agriculture to develop an online reporting tool on restricted use pesticide usage. Appropriates funds to convert an unspecified number of temporary Environmental Health Specialist III positions into permanent positions. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)

Expands the types of water heater systems that may satisfy the relevant requirement for the issuance of a building permit for new single-family dwellings to include ENERGY STAR certified heat pump water heaters. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)

Establishes a Plant-based Building Materials Working Group to study and report on how best to grow plants and develop plant-based building materials in Hawaii. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)

Establishes the Kamaaina Homes Program to provide funding to the counties to purchase voluntary deed restrictions from eligible homeowners or homebuyers. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)

Beginning with the 2025-2026 school year, requires the Department of Education to provide free breakfast and lunch to students enrolled in a public school who meet certain requirements. Reduces the amount the Department of Education is authorized to charge for school meals to all students enrolled in department schools to no more than an unspecified portion of the cost of preparing the meals. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)

Requires the Board of Education to adopt a policy that bans the use of phones and related devices by students during school hours. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)

Establishes an exemption from mediation in paternity proceedings where there are allegations of domestic abuse. Clarifies the exemption from mediation in divorce proceedings as it relates to domestic abuse. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)

Establishes the Teacher Home Assistance Program to provide housing vouchers to certain eligible teachers. Appropriates funds out of the Teachers' Housing Revolving Fund. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD3)