Rep. Garner Shimizu

Maddy summaryThis bill requests that Hawaii's State Building Code Council and local counties update their building codes to include national standards for off-site construction methods like modular and prefabricated building. The proposed standards would cover planning, design, fabrication, inspection, and mechanical systems to promote faster, safer, and more cost-effective construction while supporting energy efficiency and disaster resilience. The resolution also asks for a statewide registry of pre-approved building designs to streamline the approval process and reduce redundant reviews. Officials are directed to consult with industry stakeholders and labor groups to ensure the new standards fit Hawaii's unique climate and workforce needs before adoption.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House Resolution that asks Hawaii's Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to study how to increase remote work opportunities for state residents and make it easier for out-of-state companies to hire them. The resolution directs the department to evaluate ways to clarify tax and regulatory rules for remote employers, simplify hiring processes, and ensure worker protections remain intact while prioritizing long-term Hawaii residents. The department must submit a report with findings and recommendations to the Legislature by early 2027, and copies are sent to state leadership including the Governor and relevant agency directors.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a non-binding resolution that formally affirms the Hawaii Legislature's commitment to improving public safety and fair treatment for domestic violence survivors within the state's justice system. It recommends several policy improvements, including enhanced coordination between state and community service providers to ensure victims receive timely information about available resources such as emergency housing, counseling, and legal assistance. The resolution urges the Judiciary and Honolulu Office of the Prosecuting Attorney to review existing practices and implement specific reforms, such as assigning experienced attorneys to domestic violence cases and requiring mandatory training for prosecutors. While it does not create new laws or allocate funding, it serves as an official statement of legislative intent and calls for administrative changes to improve consistency, efficiency, and victim support in handling domestic violence cases.

Maddy summaryThis is a House Resolution, not a bill, and it does not create new laws or change policy. It is a formal expression of appreciation and support for law enforcement officers in Hawaii, acknowledging their sacrifices and the challenges they face. The resolution calls for increased resources, better training and equipment, stronger penalties for offenses against officers, and expanded mental health support, though it does not mandate specific actions or allocate funding. It is directed to state and local law enforcement leaders to recognize the need for improved officer safety and well-being.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House Concurrent Resolution that expresses appreciation for law enforcement officers in Hawaii and calls for increased support for them. It does not create new laws or change policies but serves as a formal statement of recognition and encouragement for police officers who protect communities. The resolution highlights the challenges officers face, including high rates of trauma, suicide, and staffing shortages, while urging government leaders to provide better equipment, training, and mental health resources. Copies of the resolution will be sent to state and local police chiefs as a gesture of support.

Maddy summaryThis House Resolution urges Hawaii's Department of Education to provide students with information on how to preregister to vote before they turn 18. The bill directs schools to distribute voter registration materials, offer guidance on eligibility and submission procedures, and designate the last two weeks of September as a dedicated period for voter registration activities. It also requires the department to make paper application forms available and provide resources on accessible voting options for students with disabilities. The resolution aims to increase civic engagement among youth by making voting information more accessible in public schools, where civics education is already part of the curriculum.

Maddy summaryThis bill requests the Hawaii State Energy Office to create an Offshore Wind Energy Working Group to study and provide recommendations on offshore wind energy development in the state. The working group will review existing data, engage with community stakeholders, assess the suitability of offshore wind projects, and develop best practices for future development. The bill aims to balance renewable energy goals with environmental, cultural, and community concerns while honoring the legacy of Representative Gene Ward.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a non-binding resolution that urges Hawaii's Department of Education and Board of Education to create a plan for transitioning school buses to electric vehicles. It directs these agencies to collaborate with districts that have already made the switch, such as Oakland, to study potential benefits like reduced emissions, lower maintenance costs, and improved student safety. The resolution requires a report with findings and recommendations to be submitted to the Legislature by late 2027.

Maddy summaryThis bill encourages the Hawaii Department of Education to offer a basic swimming course at either the primary or secondary education level. It aims to address the state's high drowning rates and the financial barriers that prevent many families from providing water safety training. The resolution does not mandate the program but instead urges the state education agency to consider implementing swim education. Copies of the resolution are sent to the Superintendent of Education and the Chairperson of the Board of Education for their awareness.

Maddy summaryThis bill requests the state Auditor to evaluate the social and financial impacts of a proposed law that would expand health insurance coverage for autism diagnosis and treatment services. The measure specifically targets the removal of current restrictions that limit coverage to individuals under 14 years old and cap applied behavioral analysis benefits at $25,000 annually. By requiring an assessment before the proposed changes take effect, the bill ensures lawmakers receive data on how expanding coverage would affect healthcare costs and access for adolescents and adults with autism. The report must be completed and submitted to the Legislature before the start of the 2027 session.