Rep. Kim Coco Iwamoto

Maddy summaryHCR 210 is a non-binding concurrent resolution (not a law) urging Hawaii’s state government to reject energy sources harmful to the climate and environment, specifically targeting liquefied natural gas (LNG). It directs state agencies to avoid providing financial or regulatory support for new fossil fuel projects like LNG, which the resolution cites as contributing to methane emissions and climate impacts. The resolution requests that Hawaii focus resources on transitioning to renewable energy, aligning with scientific recommendations for reducing fossil fuel dependence. It applies directly to state officials, including the Governor, agency heads, and county mayors, as specified in the resolution’s transmission requirements.

Maddy summaryHCR 85 is a resolution requesting Hawaii's Insurance Commissioner to study alternative insurance models for condominium associations and unit owners. It specifically directs the study to examine mutual insurance models and building life insurance, which would require developers to secure long-term coverage (60+ years), establish maintenance schedules, and manage premiums in escrow accounts. The study must develop standards for mutual insurance and evaluate building life insurance's feasibility, including how premiums would be calculated based on building materials and maintenance. The resulting report, due by early 2026, will inform potential future legislation to address soaring insurance costs affecting hundreds of condominium associations.

Maddy summaryHR 183 is a non-binding House Resolution urging Hawaii's Department of Health and the University of Hawaii Water Resources Research Center to incentivize wastewater treatment plants to test sewage sludge, reclaimed water, and other residuals for PFAS (forever chemicals). It does not create new laws but calls for testing to prevent PFAS contamination in agricultural use and drinking water sources. The resolution specifically requests administrative rules for safe disposal of PFAS-containing materials and restrictions on land application where PFAS is detected. This affects wastewater facilities, farms using reclaimed water, and public health by addressing PFAS exposure risks linked to food chains and environmental contamination.

Maddy summaryHCR 46 is a non-binding request urging Hawaii's Department of Education to make school recreational facilities (like pools, gyms, and fields) available to the public during non-peak hours and non-school days. It aims to improve access for residents, particularly in underserved rural and low-income communities facing barriers to recreational amenities. The resolution references existing rules requiring advance online applications but seeks to expand access beyond current practice. As a concurrent resolution, it does not create new law but asks the Department of Education to act on this recommendation.

Maddy summaryHR 39 is a House Resolution requesting Hawaii's Department of Education to make public school recreational facilities (like pools, gyms, and fields) available to the public during non-peak hours and non-school days. It aims to address inequitable access to recreation, noting that 29% of U.S. residents lack walkable park access and low-income/rural communities in Hawaii face significant barriers. The resolution builds on existing rules requiring school facilities to be publicly accessible but seeks to expand access without the current 10-day online application requirement. It directly affects residents, particularly in underserved communities, by potentially increasing opportunities for physical activity outside of school hours. This is a request, not a binding law, and would require the Department of Education to act on the proposal.

Appropriates funds to the Judiciary to support services contracted with community-based organizations that deliver essential services, streamline judicial processes, and support the judiciary's capacity to effectively meet the needs of vulnerable households. Effective 4/23/2057. (SD1)

Appropriates funds to the Department of Agriculture for agricultural biosecurity and the prevention, detection, and control of invasive species in Maui County. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)

Establishes statewide, uniform standards to promote agricultural tourism activities in the State for all counties that have adopted an agricultural tourism ordinance. Requires agricultural tourism activities to be registered by the county planning department. Requires agricultural tourism activities to coexist with an agricultural activity on a farming operation and requires termination of the agricultural tourism activities upon cessation of the agricultural activity, except under certain circumstances. Makes conforming amendments. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)

Maddy summaryHB 131 allows state government agencies to share certain government records with researchers for specific research projects. It directly affects researchers seeking access to public data and government agencies handling record disclosures. The bill establishes a clear process for agencies to release records when researchers demonstrate the work serves a legitimate public interest, such as policy analysis or community studies. The measure passed committee unanimously on January 28, 2025, with 8 representatives voting in favor. This policy change aims to improve data access for research while maintaining appropriate safeguards.

Allows the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to utilize the Dwelling Unit Revolving Fund as collateral when the Department acts as an eligible borrower for a loan agreement under section 184A of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1992, as amended. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)