Sen. Michelle Kidani

Maddy summarySB 1053 would create a refundable child tax credit for families with children in the state. This credit would directly benefit low- and middle-income households with dependent children, providing them with financial support they can receive even if they owe no state income tax. The bill specifies the credit would apply to tax years starting after December 31, 2025, meaning it would take effect for 2026 tax filings. It establishes a concrete policy change by guaranteeing a direct cash payment to eligible families based on the number of qualifying children.

Maddy summarySB 377 would remove the general excise tax from medical services provided by healthcare facilities and professionals. This change directly affects hospitals, clinics, doctors, and their patients by eliminating a tax on services like check-ups, treatments, and hospital care. The bill's key provision is a straightforward tax exemption, meaning healthcare providers would no longer collect or remit this tax on qualifying medical services. The policy aims to reduce costs associated with healthcare delivery without altering other tax structures.

Requires the Research and Economic Analysis Division of the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to study the impacts of the incremental minimum wage increases pursuant to Act 114, Session Laws of Hawaii 2022, on businesses and other employers. Requires a report to the Legislature. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)

Requires condominium associations to repair defective conditions of common elements that constitute health or safety violations. Allows unit owners to make the repairs at the association's expense.

Maddy summarySB 1254 prohibits current employees of the University of Hawaii and the Research Corporation of the University of Hawaii from serving on the University's Board of Regents. This bill directly affects active staff at these institutions by preventing them from holding governing board positions. The key provision is a clear ban on current employees serving on the Board of Regents, aiming to separate operational staff from the board's oversight role. The bill focuses on the structural relationship between university employees and the governing body, without altering other board functions or responsibilities.

Requires clinical psychologists employed by the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation to obtain licensure within five years from the date of employment. Sunsets on 7/1/2030. Effective 7/1/2077. (SD1)

Establishes an inter-division program within the Department of Land and Natural Resources consisting of certain agencies to address the location, movement, and restoration of Hawaiian burial sites or ‘iwi, exposed or likely to be exposed by coastal erosion. Requires a report to the Legislature. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)

Authorizes boards and commissions to make employment decisions related to its officers and employees without the approval of the head of the department to which the board or commission is administratively attached.

Increases the amount of partial public campaign financing available for all elective offices. Adjusts the minimum amount of qualifying contributions certain candidates must receive to participate in the program. Increases the matching fund payments for excess qualifying contributions. Appropriates funds for the program and staff. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)

Authorizes the issuance of general obligation bonds to the Agricultural Development Corporation for the purchase of an agricultural parcel for agricultural development. Establishes one full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) Hawaii Island Property Manager position within the ADC. Appropriates funds.