Sen. Donna Kim

Maddy summarySCR 83 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution requesting the State Auditor to conduct a financial audit of Hawaii's institutional networks (used by government, schools, etc.) on each island. The audit aims to determine the actual maintenance costs for these networks, which cable operators were originally contractually required to build at no cost to the state or subscribers. The resolution requires the Auditor to report findings and recommendations to the Legislature by early 2026, including any proposed legislative changes. This is a procedural request for transparency, not a new law.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (SR 66) requests the State Auditor to conduct a financial audit of Hawaii's institutional networks on each island to determine their actual maintenance costs. It directly affects the State Auditor, who must report findings and recommendations to the Legislature by early 2026. The resolution aims to increase transparency about costs for these networks, which serve public institutions like schools and government buildings, and addresses concerns that franchise fees (meant for maintenance) may not align with actual expenses. It does not create new law but seeks factual data to inform future decisions.

Maddy summarySB 436 limits the State Fire Marshal to serving no more than three terms in office. This bill directly affects the individual holding the State Fire Marshal position by imposing a term limit. The key provision states that no person may serve as State Fire Marshal for more than three terms, effective July 1, 2050. The bill does not alter current officeholders' terms but sets a future restriction for all subsequent appointments.

Maddy summarySCR 215 is a concurrent resolution requesting the Hawaii Department of Education to implement a veterinary technician pilot program at James Campbell High School. The program would combine veterinary training with animal-assisted therapy for students identified as "troubled youth," aiming to build empathy, responsibility, and emotional skills through caring for animals. Key provisions require mandatory training from organizations like the Hawaii Humane Society, consistent staff supervision, strict safety protocols, and liability insurance. The resolution specifically targets James Campbell High School and does not mandate statewide implementation.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (SR 170) requests the State Auditor to audit how the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) spent $600 million appropriated under Act 279 (2022), which aimed to eliminate a waitlist of over 28,000 native Hawaiian beneficiaries for land and housing. It specifically targets DHHL's compliance with reporting requirements under Act 279, following the department's failure to submit its required 2024 Annual Activity Report detailing fund usage and beneficiary assistance. The audit will verify whether funds were properly allocated to projects like land development and housing, as mandated by Act 279 and the 2020 Beneficiaries Study.

Maddy summarySCR 189 is a procedural resolution requesting the State Auditor to audit how the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) used $600 million in funds appropriated under Act 279 (2022). It specifically requires an audit of DHHL's spending to eliminate the waitlist for native Hawaiian beneficiaries, as the department has not submitted its required Annual Activity Report for 2024. The resolution stems from concerns that over 28,700 beneficiaries remain on the waitlist despite the funding, and DHHL reportedly allocated the full $600 million by early 2025 without proper reporting. This is a transparency measure, not a policy change, directly affecting DHHL's accountability for public funds.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (SR 190) requests the Hawaii Department of Education to implement a pilot program at James Campbell High School. The program would train students to become veterinary technicians while using animal-assisted therapy to support students facing emotional or behavioral challenges. Key provisions include mandatory training (e.g., from Hawaii Humane Society), strict supervision, safety protocols, and liability coverage for all participants. The resolution does not mandate the program but seeks to establish it as a test model that could expand to other schools if successful.

Requires the Auditor to conduct a financial audit of each charter school under the State Public Charter School Commission. Requires a report to the Legislature. Requires the State Public Charter School Commission to take action based on the Auditor's recommendations. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD2)

Establishes a two-year Electric Vehicle Battery Recycling and Reuse Working Group within the Hawaii State Energy Office. Requires the working group to examine how to maximize the recycling and reuse of electric vehicle batteries and recommend electric vehicle battery management practices. Requires a report to the Legislature. (SD1)

Maddy summarySB 1620 exempts natural hair braiders from state licensing requirements under specific conditions. This bill directly affects individuals who braid hair using natural textures, such as cornrows or braids, by removing a barrier to practicing their trade without a license. The key provision is a targeted exemption from licensing rules, though the exact conditions for exemption aren't detailed in the provided context. The bill passed committee recommendation on February 7, 2025, with no opposing votes. It focuses on simplifying regulatory requirements for this specific service.