Rep. Lisa Marten

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.

Prohibits the distribution, sale, or use of single-use plastic food ware containing plastic with regulated perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances by businesses beginning on 1/1/2028. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)

Maddy summaryHB 2164 defines "compounded prescription drugs" specifically for workers' compensation claims. This bill directly affects injured workers seeking medical coverage and insurers processing those claims. It establishes a clear legal definition to determine which custom-mixed medications qualify for coverage under workers' compensation law. This clarification aims to reduce disputes over medication eligibility in injury claims. The bill does not change existing coverage rules but provides a precise standard for applying them.

Establishes a business competitiveness goal for the State to be nationally ranked in the top thirty states for business climate by 2050, with interim goals. Requires the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to submit annual progress reports to the Legislature. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)

Establishes a Hilo-Kona transportation pilot program within the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to study, plan, evaluate, implement, and trial transportation routes and services connecting Hilo and Kona. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)

Maddy summaryHB 1655 allows public employers (like city or state agencies) and union representatives to negotiate specific retirement benefits for public employees covered by collective bargaining agreements. The bill removes barriers that previously prevented these parties from discussing certain retirement benefits during contract talks. It directly affects public employees in unionized roles and their employers, focusing on retirement plan terms rather than other benefits. The bill is currently pending committee review and has not yet been enacted.

Requires hourly rate or salary ranges to be disclosed on job listings for full-time, part-time, temporary, or seasonal employees. Removes the exemption for employers having fewer than fifty employees. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)

Includes certain law enforcement administrators and employees of the Department of Law Enforcement as class A members of the pension and retirement systems and provides guidance for the computation of retirement benefits similar to police officers. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD3)

Maddy summaryHB 146 allocates state funds to the Judiciary to support its 'Ōlelo Hawai'i Initiatives, which aim to integrate the Hawaiian language into court proceedings and services. The bill directly affects the Judiciary by providing resources for language programs, including staff training, translation services, and community outreach. Key provisions involve using the appropriated funds to expand Hawaiian language access in judicial settings, such as court documents and interpreter services. The measure is effective starting July 1, 3000, as specified in the bill's abstract.

Maddy summaryHB 1522 extends the time period to file a discrimination complaint with the Hawaii Civil Rights Commission from the current limit to one year. This change directly affects individuals who experience discrimination in Hawaii, giving them more time to seek redress through the Commission. The bill’s key provision modifies the statute of limitations for filing such complaints, allowing a full year from the alleged discriminatory act to submit a formal complaint. The bill is currently pending before the House Judiciary Committee for further review.