Designates pricing practices based on surveillance data as unfair or deceptive acts or practices and unfair methods of competition in the conduct of any trade or commerce.
Maddy summaryHB 2176 requires the Legislative Reference Bureau to study how other states regulate price gouging for food products. This bill does not change current law or directly affect consumers, businesses, or other stakeholders - it only directs a research study. The bill is currently in early stages (referred to committees after introduction on January 28, 2026). It focuses solely on gathering information, not implementing new policies.
Establishes the Hawaii Water Carrier Rates Board to review, evaluate, and set rates, fees, and charges for water carriers under chapter 271G, HRS. Transfers water carrier rate setting functions, powers, duties, records, personnel and cases from the Public Utilities Commission to the Hawaii Water Carrier Rates Board. Establishes the Hawaii Water Carrier Rates Board special fund. Requires annual reports to legislature and a sunset review in the last year. Sunsets 6/30/2032.
Protects minors from addictive content by imposing special requirements for operators regarding consent, notifications, and age verification. Protects minors from having their online personal data processed without parental consent.
Appropriates moneys to the Office of Hawaiian Affairs to facilitate the hiring of necessary staff and the purchase of equipment and professional services on behalf of the public land trust working group.
Provides that for any offense based on misconduct by a public servant, the appliable period of limitations for a criminal prosecution shall not commence until discovery of the offense by law enforcement.
Adds to the offense of bribery the offering or accepting of any pecuniary benefit because of any action previously taken by a public servant in the person's official capacity.
Maddy summaryHB 2008 establishes a new tax bracket for higher-income earners in the state, applying to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2029. This bill directly affects residents with higher incomes by subjecting additional earnings to a new, higher tax rate. The key provision creates a specific income threshold above which the new tax rate applies, altering how state income tax is calculated for those earning above that level. The bill is currently in early legislative stages, having been introduced and passed its first reading in January 2026.
Proposes a constitutional amendment to ensure that the inherent and inalienable right of the people, including future generations, to clean water and air, a healthful environment and climate and healthy native ecosystems and beaches, shall be protected and shall not be infringed.
Requires an audit for a self-insured employer or an insurance carrier that defaults in workers' compensation payments to identify other instances of unpaid compensation claims.
