Sen. Clarence K. Nishihara

Establishes the transit-oriented development infrastructure improvement zone program to facilitate the development of certain areas. Authorizes the creation of transit-oriented development infrastructure improvement zone subaccounts to make grants or loans. Expands the use of the dwelling unit revolving fund to improve and increase the capacity of infrastructure facilities. Identifies the members of the Hawaii Community Development Authority authorized to exercise jurisdiction over matters affecting transit-oriented development infrastructure improvement zones. Appropriates funds for an infrastructure study and for staff to develop and manage the transit-oriented development infrastructure improvement zone program. (SB2943 HD1)

Prohibits manufacturers and contract testing facilities in Hawaii from using animal test methods for the purpose of testing cosmetics or household products for which an alternative test method is available. Imposes a civil fine and authorizes the attorney general to seek injunctive relief and any other recovery of damages. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD2)

Exempts sales of farm equipment and machinery to certain producers of agricultural products from the general excise tax. Applies to taxable years beginning after 12/31/2019. Sunsets on an unspecified date. (SB2565 HD1)

Establishes a temporary telecommuting task force to develop incentives and recommendations to encourage and expand telecommuting opportunities in the public and private sectors. (SB2397 HD1)

Establishes an individual mandate for certain qualified taxpayers to sign up for and maintain health insurance throughout the year, or pay a penalty on their individual income tax return, subject to certain exceptions. Sunsets on 12/31/2023. (SB2924 HD2)

Amends the ethics continuing education requirement for dentists to require six hours of ethics training within each biennial renewal period instead of three hours annually. (SB2931 HD2)

Requires inclusion of 20% affordable housing units in state agencies' development and redevelopment plans along the rail transit corridor. Allows the Office of Planning, in consultation with the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation, to make exceptions to the affordable housing requirement. (SB3034 HD1)

Authorizes the issuance of special purpose revenue bonds to assist SpinLaunch, Inc., with the financing of the planning, design, and construction of a satellite launch system. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)

Expands the scope of the condominium education trust fund to cover voluntary binding arbitration between interested parties. Amends the conditions that mandate mediation and exceptions to mandatory mediation. Makes conforming amendments. Sunsets on July 1, 2020. (SB2060 HD1)

Appropriates funds for one ambulance unit each for the counties, which includes the purchase of one ambulance vehicle per county and the corresponding operating costs, including equipment, supplies, and personnel costs for state-certified emergency medical service personnel. (SB2658 HD1)