Sen. Joy San Buenaventura

Maddy summarySB 2849 requires government offices to include specific details at the start of all public meeting notices. This affects local and state agencies that hold public meetings, ensuring attendees see key information like the meeting's purpose and location upfront. The bill mandates adding this required content to all official notices, making it easier for the public to understand and participate in meetings. The measure is currently pending committee review after passing its first reading.

Maddy summarySB 2444 increases the amount of real property (like homes or land) protected from being seized to pay debts. This change directly affects property owners, particularly those with modest home values, by shielding more of their home equity from creditors. The bill raises the exemption threshold, meaning a higher value of property remains protected during legal actions like debt collection. It does not alter other debt collection procedures or create new requirements. The bill is currently under review by the Judiciary Committee.

Maddy summarySB 2952 requires certain insurance companies to notify policyholders at least 60 days before implementing any change to their insurance premiums, starting January 1, 2027. This applies directly to policyholders whose insurance rates are adjusted, giving them advance notice of increases or decreases. The key provision mandates that insurers provide this written notice 60 days prior to the effective date of the rate change. The bill does not alter premium amounts but ensures policyholders have sufficient time to review or plan for upcoming changes.

Requires a seller of real property adjacent to the shoreline, and the seller's agent, to disclose and include in all advertisements certain shoreline erosion issues related to the parcel. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD2)

Maddy summarySB 2161 authorizes rodeos and rodeo activities on lands zoned for agricultural use. It specifically defines the term "rodeo and rodeo activities" to clarify what is permitted under this provision. The bill directly affects ranchers, event organizers, and landowners using agricultural-zoned properties for rodeo events. Currently, the bill is under review by the WLA committee, with a public hearing scheduled for February 4, 2026.

Prohibits the sale of geolocation information and internet browser information without consent. Prohibits the sale of data collected through eavesdropping or through an application operating in the background of a device that uses the device's microphone. Establishes exemptions for lawful investigations conducted by law enforcement agencies, customer proprietary network information, and certain telecommunication carriers. Effective 1/1/2077. (SD2)

Establishes a comprehensive system of public financing for all candidates seeking election to state and county public offices in the State, to begin with the 2028 general election year. Requires the Campaign Spending Commission to submit reports to the Legislature. Appropriates funds. Effective 3/22/2075. (SD1)

Maddy summarySB 2362 would eliminate a specific tax deduction for real estate investment trusts (REITs), requiring them to pay taxes on dividends they distribute to shareholders instead of deducting those payments. This change directly affects REITs, which are companies that own and operate real estate properties and typically rely on this deduction to reduce taxable income. The key provision removes the "dividends paid deduction" from the tax code, meaning REITs would no longer be able to subtract their dividend payments from their taxable earnings. This policy change would increase the tax burden on REITs without altering their operational structure.

Makes both the representative of the Building Industry Association of Hawaii and the representative of the General Contractors Association of Hawaii permanent standing members of the State Building Code Council, instead of members who alternate terms every 4 years. Adds members representing the Plumbers and Fitters United Association, Local 675 and International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 1186 to the State Building Code Council. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)

Maddy summarySB 2987 establishes statewide requirements for outdoor lighting fixtures beginning July 1, 2027. The bill directly affects property owners, businesses, and municipalities that install or maintain outdoor lighting across the state. It mandates specific standards for fixture design and light direction to reduce unnecessary illumination, without specifying exact technical measures in the provided abstract. The legislation aims to address light pollution through standardized outdoor lighting practices.