Rep. Diamond Garcia

Maddy summaryHB 291 clarifies situations where the use of deadly force in self-defense is not permitted. It removes the requirement for individuals to retreat or surrender property before using deadly force in response to an immediate threat. The bill directly affects people claiming self-defense in legal cases by simplifying the standard for when lethal force may be justified. This change aims to update the legal framework for self-protection without expanding or restricting existing rights.

Prohibits the addition of fluoride to a public water system. Preempts and voids conflicting laws, executive orders, ordinances, regulations, or rules.

Authorizes and decriminalizes the sale of raw milk, raw milk products, and raw milk dairy products directly from producers to consumers for human consumption, subject to certain restrictions. Authorizes the direct sale of raw goat milk for pet consumption. Establishes labeling requirements. Requires the Board of Agriculture and Department of Health to adopt rules no later than 7/1/2026.

Maddy summaryHB 524 caps the state's minimum wage at $15 per hour, preventing future increases above this level. It directly affects low-wage workers and employers subject to minimum wage laws, including those in the hospitality industry relying on tip credits. The bill adjusts the schedule for raising the tip credit (how tips count toward meeting minimum wage requirements), changing when employers can reduce their wage obligation based on tips. This legislation freezes the minimum wage floor at $15 and modifies the timeline for tip credit adjustments, with no further increases planned under this bill.

Establishes a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment for promoting a dangerous drug in the third degree if the conviction is predicated on the possession of methamphetamine or fentanyl, and progressive mandatory minimum terms of imprisonment if the person has prior convictions predicated on the trafficking of methamphetamine or the possession of methamphetamine or fentanyl.

Amends the amount of total income tax credits available. Increases the annual per production and aggregate caps. Provides the State with alternative marketing opportunities in lieu of a shared-card, end-title screen credit.

Requires the Board of Education to adopt and enact a policy by the 2026-2027 school year directing Department of Education public schools to incorporate financial literacy education in the school's curriculum. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)

Creates the offense of urinating or defecating in public. Provides penalties for public urination or defecation. Requires mental health evaluation and supportive services for a person experiencing homelessness who is arrested for urinating or defecating in public places.

Establishes the Office of Entrepreneurship. Authorizes the use of the Hawaii Film and Creative Industries Development Special Fund to fund a program in partnership with the Office that creates opportunities in film, media, electronic sports, and creative industries for new businesses. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)

Maddy summaryHB 1243 authorizes the issuance of government bonds and allocates state funds for capital improvement projects within the 42nd Representative District. It directly affects residents and local infrastructure in that district by providing financial resources for projects like roads, parks, or public facilities. The bill enables the district to secure funding through bond sales and state appropriations, pending approval by the legislature. It is currently pending in the 2026 Regular Session after being carried over from 2025.