Maddy summaryHCR 18 requests a study to determine if Hawaii can establish an EPA-certified laboratory for testing drinking water locally. Currently, Hawaii lacks such a facility, requiring samples to be sent to California for testing, which causes delays (up to a week), risks sample spoilage during transport, and creates vulnerabilities during emergencies like the 2021 Red Hill water crisis. The study would examine costs for creating a new lab or upgrading the existing Department of Health lab in Pearl City, including initial setup, annual operations, organizational structures, and potential hosting entities. It aims to assess whether local testing could improve response times for contaminants like petroleum hydrocarbons and PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), with findings due to the Legislature by early 2026.
Sponsored bills
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.
Establishes statewide goals for solid waste reduction and organic waste diversion. Requires each county to incorporate into its next integrated solid waste management plan revision a plan to divert certain organic waste generated within the county in alignment with established state benchmarks. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
Maddy summaryHCR 34 is a Hawaii state resolution urging Congress to call a constitutional convention under Article V of the U.S. Constitution. It specifically requests a convention limited to proposing amendments that impose fiscal restraints on federal spending, reduce federal power and jurisdiction, and establish term limits for federal officials and members of Congress. The resolution explicitly states the convention must not consider changes to the Bill of Rights and includes detailed procedural requirements for how Congress should handle such a request. As a concurrent resolution, it does not create new law but formally expresses Hawaii’s position to Congress. This is a procedural request, not a legislative action affecting residents or federal policy directly.
Maddy summaryThis House Resolution (HR 47) requests the City and County of Honolulu to construct a new swimming pool complex in the Forty-First House District on Oahu's west side. It specifically asks for an Olympic-sized pool, a jetted hot tub, a dedicated children's pool, and funding/approval from the Honolulu City Council and Mayor. The resolution does not mandate construction but formally asks the city to prioritize this project to serve the local community's recreation and public health needs. It directly affects Honolulu's city government and residents in the specified district.
Maddy summaryHCR 49 is a non-binding resolution urging the City and County of Honolulu to adopt new measures to address illegal dumping in Ewa Beach. It recommends increasing disposal site access in high-incident areas, implementing weekly bulk item pickup (instead of appointment-only service), and testing pilot programs with measurable metrics. The resolution cites successful models from cities like Sacramento, Houston, and Milwaukee as examples for Honolulu to consider. It does not create new laws but formally asks the city government to take specific action.
Maddy summaryThis is a Hawaii House resolution (HR 168), not a bill, urging Congress to exempt Hawaii residents from federal income tax. It cites Hawaii's geographic isolation, high cost of living, and economic challenges as reasons for seeking this tax relief, referencing Alaska's precedent. The resolution formally asks Congress to enact such legislation and encourages Hawaii's congressional delegation to support it. It has no legal effect but expresses the state's position.
Maddy summaryThis House Resolution (HR 45) urges the City and County of Honolulu to address illegal dumping in Ewa Beach through specific, non-binding recommendations. It calls for adopting innovative programs like increasing disposal site access in high-dumping areas, offering weekly bulk item pickup (instead of appointment-only services), and testing pilot programs with measurable metrics. The resolution references successful models from cities like Sacramento, Houston, and Milwaukee as potential solutions. It directly affects Honolulu officials, including the Mayor, City Council, and Environmental Services Department, by requesting concrete actions to tackle this community health and environmental issue. The resolution does not create new law but seeks to influence local policy implementation.
Maddy summaryHR 73 is a House Resolution (not a bill) requesting the Hawaii Attorney General to develop a process for voters to determine government officials' salaries. It directs the Attorney General to submit a report with recommendations, including potential legislation, by January 2026. The resolution does not change current salary structures but asks for a study on implementing direct voter input for compensation decisions. It applies broadly to state government officials and aims to align pay with constituent preferences. This is a procedural request for research, not a policy change.
Maddy summaryThis bill (HCR 20) requests the Honolulu Auditor to audit the city's current permitting, inspection, and penalty processes for "monster homes" - oversized residential structures that bypass zoning and building codes. It directs the Auditor to identify flaws in these processes and recommend specific improvements, including stronger penalties (based on property value, demolition costs, or correction costs), clearer compliance deadlines, and better enforcement steps. The resolution does not change laws but requires a report with actionable recommendations to the Mayor, City Council, and Legislature by early 2026. The goal is to prevent future violations and protect neighborhood integrity through more effective oversight.