Rep. Andrew Garrett

Maddy summaryThis House Resolution (HR 141) urges Hawaii's Department of Health, Attorney General, and Department of Law Enforcement to create a coordinated enforcement plan addressing illegal dispensaries selling cannabis labeled as hemp. It directly affects state agencies responsible for public health and safety, noting over 84 such operations are selling unregulated cannabis near schools, airports, and residential areas without age checks or medical requirements. The resolution highlights that hemp (≤0.3% THC) and cannabis (over 0.3% THC) are chemically distinct, but illegal operators falsely label high-THC products as hemp, risking contaminated products. It references existing Hawaii laws (HRS Chapter 328G, HRS Chapter 11-37) but states no specific statutes currently cover these illegal operations. The resolution is non-binding and focuses on closing enforcement gaps, not creating new regulations.

Maddy summaryHCR 198 is a symbolic resolution passed by the Hawaii State House of Representatives expressing support for Taiwan's participation in international organizations and strengthening Hawaii-Taiwan ties. It urges the U.S. government to support Taiwan's observer status in the World Health Organization, International Civil Aviation Organization, and other bodies, while endorsing Hawaii's longstanding sister-state relationship with Taiwan. The resolution highlights Hawaii's agricultural exports to Taiwan, educational exchanges, and Taiwan's role as a key semiconductor supplier to the U.S. economy. As a concurrent resolution (not a binding law), it does not create new policy but formally states Hawaii's position in favor of democratic partnerships.

Maddy summaryThis Hawaii House Resolution (HR 190) is a symbolic expression of support for Taiwan's democratic values and security, not a binding law. It urges the U.S. government to endorse Taiwan's observer status in international organizations like the World Health Organization, International Civil Aviation Organization, and International Criminal Police Organization. The resolution highlights Hawaii's longstanding sister-state relationship with Taiwan (since 1993), Taiwan's role as a semiconductor leader critical to global supply chains, and Hawaii's agricultural trade with Taiwan. It specifically calls for advancing U.S.-Taiwan trade initiatives, including a Bilateral Trade Agreement. The resolution has no legal effect but formally expresses Hawaii's position to federal officials and Taiwan.

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.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial House Resolution (HR 204), not a substantive bill. It formally congratulates and honors the Ko'olau Mountains Watershed Partnership for its 25 years of work protecting Hawaii's water resources and ecosystems. The resolution recognizes the partnership's efforts in conserving the watershed, restoring native forests, combating invasive species, and fostering community collaboration. It has no legal effect or new policy requirements; it solely expresses the Hawaii House of Representatives' appreciation for the partnership's environmental stewardship.

Maddy summaryHB 893 bans assault rifles, assault shotguns, and .50 caliber rifles. It also expands the existing restriction on high-capacity detachable magazines. These provisions would directly affect firearm owners who possess or purchase these specific weapons and magazines. The bill aims to limit access to certain firearms and ammunition devices through these new restrictions.

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)