Sen. Kurt Fevella

Maddy summarySB 621 requires that any extension of existing leases for public lands must go through a public auction process instead of being granted directly. This directly affects current lessees of public lands (such as ranchers, developers, or recreation operators) who seek to renew their lease agreements. The key provision replaces the current practice of administrative extensions with a competitive bidding system to determine lease renewals. The bill aims to ensure transparency and potentially maximize public revenue from land use.

In addition to the current requirement that towing companies allow individuals to pay by cash, credit card, or debit card, requires towing companies to have an on-site automatic teller machine. Specifies that a towing company cannot charge for tows if noncompliant.

Establishes a 1-year Physician Licensing Subsidy Pilot Program within the Professional and Vocational Licensing Division of the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs to provide subsidized licensing fees for eligible medical school graduates and out-of-state physicians applying for initial licensure in the State. Requires the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs to collaborate with the Department of Health, University of Hawaii John A. Burns School of Medicine, and other stakeholders to promote the pilot program; adopt rules; and submit a report to the Legislature. Appropriates funds. Sunsets 6/30/2026.

Requires the Department of Land and Natural Resources to incorporate into their assessment process the possession of dam insurance or the active seeking of dam insurance by private dam owners, as part of their valid mitigation strategies, in conjunction with approved modifications or repairs. Authorizes the DLNR to relax any restrictions and stringent standards on a dam or appurtenance upon verification of certain insurance coverage. Authorizes the DLNR to consider a dam, reservoir, or appurtenance is safe absent certain documents. Shifts the burden of proof to the DLNR to find that a dam is categorized as high-risk. Establishes additional requirements for the DLNR and Board of Land and Natural Resources regarding the Dam and Appurtenance Improvement or Removal Grant Program.

Allows all-terrain vehicle to drive on streets with posted speed limits of not more than forty-five miles per hour. Allows all-terrain vehicles to drive in the evening and night if they are equipped with headlights, tail lights, and while displaying a slow moving vehicle emblem. Allows drivers of all-terrain vehicles to wear a safety helmet with a securely fastened chin strap. Includes in the definition of "utility-terrain vehicle" a motor vehicle that accommodates one driver and one passenger sitting side-by-side, and up to six people in seat belts.

Prohibits nonresident aliens and businesses and trusts that are significantly controlled by nonresident aliens from acquiring certain residential property in the State, except as otherwise provided by law.

Prohibits certain foreign parties from owning, purchasing, or acquiring an interest in agricultural lands. Establishes an Office of Agricultural Intelligence within the Department of Agriculture to investigate claims that land is unlawfully owned by a prohibited foreign party. Requires the Attorney General to undertake enforcement activities. Appropriates moneys.

Amends the definition of electric bicycles subject to various state laws and classifies electric bicycles by top assisted speed. Establishes additional regulations for the registration and use of electric bicycles. Increases the minimum age to operate an electric bicycle.

Establishes a working group within the Department of Transportation to conduct a comprehensive study to assess the State's port and harbor system and the potential viability of each location in that system to support current and future agricultural product transportation methods and needs. Requires a report. Appropriates moneys.

Maddy summarySB 760 would allow rodeos to be held on land zoned for agricultural use, which is currently prohibited under existing land use rules. This bill directly affects landowners and event organizers in agricultural zones who want to host rodeos on their property. The key provision removes the restriction preventing rodeos on such land, changing the current zoning requirements. The bill is still in early stages, having been introduced in 2025 and carried over to the next legislative session.