Sen. Mike Gabbard

Proposes a constitutional amendment to ensure that the inherent and inalienable right of the people, including future generations, to clean water and air, a healthful environment and climate, healthy native ecosystems, and beaches, shall be protected and shall not be infringed. (SD1)

Clarifies the registration process for beekeepers with the Department of Agriculture. Requires the Department of Agriculture to provide guidance and support to registered beekeepers to help beekeepers adhere to certain industry standards and best management practices. Establishes a limitation on liability for any registered beekeeper who follows industry standards and best practices. Appropriates funds. Takes effect 7/1/2050. (SD1)

Establishes a criminal penalty and monetary fines for aquarium fishing violations. Clarifies that each fish or aquatic life specimen taken in violation of certain fishing laws regarding aquarium fish and the possession and use of prohibited explosives, electrofishing devices, and poisonous substances constitutes a separate offense.

Creates an income tax credit for qualified transportation costs incurred by certain taxpayers who ship agricultural products and inputs between counties. Applies to taxable years beginning after 12/31/2025. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)

Appropriates funds to the Department of Agriculture for the establishment and operation of programs relating to the development of biocements and hemp- and bamboo-based building materials. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)

Amends conservation and resources law to prohibit: (1) Commercial sales of parrotfish that have been caught by spearing; and (2) The spearing of parrotfish in state waters after sunset or before sunrise.

Maddy summarySB 684 requires the Board of Education to create rules prohibiting cell phone use in all Department of Education schools. This bill directly affects students and staff in public schools by restricting personal phone usage during school hours. The key mechanism is mandating the Board to adopt specific administrative rules governing phone policies. The bill is currently pending before the Education Committee, having been deferred for further review on February 5, 2025. It has not yet become law.

Maddy summarySB 476 increases fines for specific fireworks violations, directly affecting individuals or businesses that break existing fireworks laws. The bill raises penalty amounts for offenses like unauthorized sale, possession, or use of prohibited fireworks. It does not change what activities are banned but makes penalties for violations stricter. The bill takes effect on July 1, 2025, if passed.

Requires the Hawaii State Energy Office to conduct a statewide environmental assessment for, and subsequently administer, a Geothermal Resources Characterization Program under the direction of the Hawaii Groundwater and Geothermal Resources Center at the University of Hawaii. Appropriates funds.

Restricts civil asset forfeiture to cases involving the commission of a felony offense where the property owner has been convicted of an underlying felony offense. Directs forfeiture proceeds to the general fund. Amends the allowable expenses for moneys in the Criminal Forfeiture Fund. Requires the Attorney General to adopt rules necessary to carry out the purpose of the Hawaii Omnibus Criminal Forfeiture Act. Amends the deadline for the Attorney General to report to the Legislature on the use of the Hawaii Omnibus Criminal Forfeiture Act. Limits the transfer of certain forfeiture property to federal agencies. Establishes records requirements.