Rep. Chris Todd

Reduces from 500 feet to 100 feet the buffer zones for commercial hemp production and processing. Authorizes hemp to be grown at a residential property under the control of a person licensed under federal law to produce hemp. Repeals authorization from the state department of agriculture as a prerequisite to transport hemp. Authorizes commercial hemp producers to sell whole, unprocessed hemp leaves to consumers, subject to certain requirements. Requires labels that disclose that leaves and hemp products were from hemp grown in the State. Replaces the referenced testing standard authority on labels for hemp products.

Prohibits the harvesting of aquatic life for commercial aquarium purposes, regardless of the method of collection.

Increases the amount of tax credit allowable for household and dependent care services from $2,400 to $4,800 for a qualifying individual and from $4,800 to $9,600 for two or more qualifying individuals.

Clarifies implied consent law to make an exception for giving a breath, blood, or urine test pursuant to a search warrant or any other basis permissible under the Constitution of the State of Hawaii and state law.

Requires the chairperson of the public utilities commission to appoint an administrative assistant, a research assistant, and legal counsel to assist each member of the public utilities commission with commission duties. Prohibits the chairperson from dismissing or re-assigning appointed staff members without the prior written approval of the affected commissioner.

Until 7/1/2026, allows restaurants to apply a restaurant service surcharge for the sale of food or beverage services, the revenues of which shall be used exclusively by the restaurants for economic recovery from COVID-19 impacts. Authorizes establishments with a class 2 restaurant liquor license to allow the consumption of liquor anywhere on the premises, including the restaurant's outdoor property and sell liquors in their original packages for pick up, delivery, take out, or other means for off-premises consumption.

Requires the harbors division of the department of transportation to inspect shipments landing at a commercial harbor within the division's jurisdiction and originating from a geographic location that is known to manufacture, use, or export aerial fireworks. Requires the harbors division to use specialized canine units to perform these inspections. Appropriates moneys.

Requires any advertisement for a transient accommodation or resort time share vacation interest, plan, or unit to include the general excise license number and short-term rental permit number of the operator or plan manager.

Establishes procedures for audits of pharmacies conducted by a health care provider, insurance company, third-party payor, sickness insurance provider, mutual benefit society, dental service corporation, health maintenance organization, or any entity that represents such companies or groups.

Requires the office of youth services to establish a pilot program to offer mentorship services to Pacific Islander students in high school and college. Establishes 1 FTE position for a youth pilot program coordinator. Requires a report to the legislature. Appropriates moneys.