Rep. Gregg Takayama

Maddy summaryHB 581 appropriates state funds to the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) for constructing new housing units specifically for Native Hawaiians. The bill directly affects Native Hawaiians who qualify for DHHL housing programs by expanding available housing through new construction. Its key provision is allocating budgetary resources to DHHL for this purpose, without altering eligibility rules or existing program structures. The bill is currently pending in the 2025 legislative session after being referred to relevant committees.

Requires the court to impose a mandatory fine per violation for nuisance abatement laws related to gambling offenses. Allows citizens who bring civil nuisance abatement suits against places used for illegal gambling the same rights and protections as those afforded to victims and witnesses in criminal proceedings.

Establishes a working group within the Department of the Attorney General to study the issue of squatting in Hawaii and provide recommendations. Requires reports to the legislature. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)

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)

Requires the Department of Human Services to automatically enroll, or authorize the Social Security Administration to automatically enroll, in the State's Medicaid program any individual in the State who receives federal Supplemental Security Income benefits. Requires reports to the Legislature. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)

Maddy summaryHB 717 requires kratom product sellers to register with the Department of Health starting January 1, 2026, and mandates specific labeling for these products. It directly affects businesses selling kratom and consumers purchasing it, aiming to increase transparency and safety. The bill establishes a registration process and labeling standards but does not specify penalties for non-compliance. This proposed legislation is currently pending introduction for the 2026 Regular Session.

Establishes the Hawaii Agricultural Crimes Council. Expands the duties of the Department of Agriculture to collaborate with and support the Council. Establishes the Agricultural Enforcement Special Fund. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)

Beginning 1/1/2026, requires health insurers and mutual benefit societies to provide coverage for traditional native Hawaiian healing and cultural practices offered through a Federally Qualified Health Center or a Native Hawaiian Health Care System.

Makes a second or subsequent conviction for violation of a domestic abuse protective order a class C felony. Increases the sentencing requirements for second or subsequent convictions.

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)