Sen. Tim Richards

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution asks the Department of Budget and Finance to collaborate with the State Council on Developmental Disabilities to better promote the Hawaii ABLE Savings Program. The initiative aims to encourage all eligible individuals, including those with developmental and other disabilities, to open accounts that allow them to save money for expenses like education, healthcare, and housing. By increasing awareness of this tax-advantaged savings option, the bill seeks to help more people with disabilities access financial planning tools similar to those available to the general public.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution urges the Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Board of Land and Natural Resources to adopt clearer procedures for their Dam and Appurtenance Improvement or Removal Grant Program. The bill specifically asks these agencies to publicly share the criteria used to award grants and to ensure that all requirements are communicated clearly, fairly, and in writing to applicants. It further requests that the agencies allow applicants to seek clarification on conditions and to appeal decisions regarding their applications. While the resolution does not change existing laws, it aims to make the process for private dam owners seeking funding more transparent and consistent.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution asks the Hawaii Board of Agriculture to study how much state-owned farmland is actually being used for farming versus left vacant or used for non-agricultural purposes. The study will also calculate specific financial details for lease transfers, such as the rent paid, infrastructure costs, and how much money goes to the state versus private individuals. The goal is to gather data on whether current lease practices are helping the state achieve its food production goals or if they are creating unintended financial windfalls for private lessees. The Board must submit its findings and any recommended laws to the legislature by late 2024.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution requests the State Auditor to evaluate the social and financial impacts of mandating dental and vision insurance coverage in Hawaii. The bill directs the Auditor to conduct a formal analysis, known as a sunrise analysis, on a proposed measure that would require such coverage for residents. The Auditor is tasked with submitting a report with findings and recommendations to the Legislature by a specific deadline before the next session begins. This procedural step ensures that the potential effects of the insurance mandate are assessed before any final legislation is passed.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution asks the Department of Human Services to provide a report on the cultural and therapeutic services offered by community organizations at the Kawailoa Youth and Family Wellness Center. The request focuses on youth facing homelessness, poverty, or incarceration, aiming to gather data on how these programs help reduce negative outcomes like jail time and housing instability. The report must also outline plans for expanding collaboration between the state and private sectors to improve youth wellness and include any legislative recommendations. The Department is required to submit these findings and suggestions to the Legislature by twenty days before the start of the 2025 session.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution urges the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to establish Neighborhood Security Watch programs in every homestead area, starting with Kanehili. The bill responds to reports of rising illegal activities and inconsistent law enforcement responses on lands that currently lack standard zoning or immediate police access. It proposes a system where trained community volunteers work alongside police to patrol neighborhoods, gather information, and help address local safety issues. By formalizing this volunteer effort, the resolution aims to improve community safety and streamline cooperation between residents and government agencies.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution asks the Governor to direct state health agencies to work together with local hospitals and pharmacies to keep affordable medications available for Hawaii's underserved communities. The bill also urges federal officials and Hawaii's congressional representatives to watch for and stop actions by drug companies that limit how these hospitals can distribute discounted drugs. By encouraging collaboration and oversight, the resolution aims to preserve the 340B Drug Pricing Program's ability to provide low-cost medicines to patients who need them most.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Concurrent Resolution urges the State of Hawaii to prohibit the introduction of biological control agents that could harm economically important forage grasses used in beef cattle production. The bill highlights the industry's significant contribution to the state economy and emphasizes that these specific grasses are vital for managing rangelands, preventing erosion, and reducing wildfire risks. Additionally, it calls for state funding and policies to incentivize livestock grazing as a practical method for maintaining healthy ground cover and controlling vegetation.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution asks the Office of Planning and Sustainable Development to create an inventory and map of existing R-1 water delivery systems and reservoirs in Maui County. The bill aims to locate infrastructure that can store treated wastewater for future use in firefighting, agriculture, and landscaping. By identifying these resources, the resolution seeks to help prevent groundwater contamination and ensure access to fresh water for emergency and non-potable needs. The office is required to submit the completed inventory and maps to the Legislature before the start of the 2025 session.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution urges the State of Hawaii to ban the introduction of biological control agents that could harm economically important forage grasses used in beef cattle production. The bill aims to protect these grasses, which are vital for the state's ranching industry and help manage rangelands by reducing erosion and fire risks. Additionally, it requests that state agencies create funding policies to encourage livestock grazing as a method for maintaining healthy vegetation on both public and private lands.