Sen. Brandon Elefante

Effective 1/1/2025, allows the Board of Nursing to issue temporary permits to out-of-state licensed registered nurses and practical nurses and nurses who hold a multistate license issued by another state, territory, or country, under certain circumstances. Beginning 7/1/2025, allows an out-of-state licensed practical nurse or registered nurse to apply for a temporary permit simultaneously with an application for a license to practice in the State. Excepts from license requirements nurses who are licensed in another state, territory, or country accompanying a patient from out-of-state for a period of less than two weeks and not employed or affiliated with a health care entity in the State. Takes effect 1/1/2025. (CD2)

Establishes the Automated Speed Enforcement Systems Program, to be implemented by the State in only those locations where a photo red light imaging detector system has been implemented. Creates a new offense of noncompliance with maximum speed limit under an automated speed enforcement system. Appropriates funds. (CD1)

Maddy summaryThis bill urges the Hawaii Department of Transportation to install speed bumps and speed limit signs on Kapolei Parkway between Kapolei High School and Kapolei Middle School. The legislation aims to address safety concerns by reducing speeding traffic in an area where accidents and fatalities are a known issue. It does not mandate the installation but formally requests the action to protect pedestrians and residents in the community.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution urges the Department of Accounting and General Services to create a recycling program for all offices at the Hawaii State Capitol. The bill specifically requests that the program prioritize the collection of HI-5 recyclable items to help manage waste within the state government. As a Senate resolution, this document serves as a formal recommendation rather than a law that directly mandates changes or imposes penalties.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution requests the Hawaiʻi Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission to create an educational program that helps individuals understand which personal habits contribute most to climate change. The program aims to clarify common misconceptions about lifestyle choices, such as recycling or diet, by highlighting actions with the highest impact on carbon emissions. It specifically asks the commission to use printed materials and to work with the Department of Health to distribute this information to the public. As a non-binding request, the bill does not mandate funding or enforce specific actions but serves to encourage the commission to focus on individual behavior in its climate education efforts.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution asks the Department of Land and Natural Resources to find suitable locations within state parks for installing water-bottle filling stations. The request specifically targets sites that already have the necessary water hookups and considers multiple spots in larger parks to support visitors who use refillable bottles. By identifying these locations, the state aims to reduce plastic waste and lower costs associated with recycling single-use containers. The resolution directs the department to submit a list of potential sites to the Board of Land and Natural Resources for further review.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution officially recognizes the day of the second new moon after the winter solstice as the Lunar New Year in Hawaii, acknowledging the cultural significance of the holiday for the state's Asian community. The measure does not create a paid state holiday but instead serves as a formal declaration to honor the diverse traditions and contributions of Asian residents. By passing this resolution, the legislature aims to demonstrate its commitment to cultural diversity and validate the importance of the celebration within Hawaii's vibrant society.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution requests the Department of Accounting and General Services to create a working group to plan and build a permanent memorial honoring Hawaii first responders, including firefighters, lifeguards, and paramedics who died in the line of duty. The proposed memorial would be funded through private donations rather than state taxes and is intended to recognize the bravery of individuals who served at local, state, and federal levels. The working group will include representatives from various fire departments, emergency services, labor unions, and family members of fallen heroes to guide the project. By November 30, 2024, the department must submit a report detailing the memorial's plans, estimated costs, and any additional legislation needed to proceed.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution urges the Hawaii Legislature to take action to preserve, protect, and restore limu kala, a type of seaweed designated as the state's official limu. The measure highlights that limu kala populations have declined due to climate change, development, and runoff, while noting that healthy populations support food security and biodiversity. By calling for legislative attention to this issue, the resolution aims to encourage policies that safeguard nearshore ecosystems and reefs. It does not create new laws but serves as a formal expression of support for future conservation efforts.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Concurrent Resolution encourages developers in Hawaii to adopt net zero water strategies when building or renovating housing projects. The bill defines these strategies as methods that minimize water use, create alternative water sources, and treat wastewater on-site to return it to natural supplies like aquifers. By promoting these practices, the resolution aims to protect Hawaii's limited fresh water resources from pollution and depletion. The measure is non-binding and serves as a recommendation rather than a mandatory law, directing copies to state housing officials and the Governor.