Sen. Angus McKelvey

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (SR 66) requests the State Auditor to conduct a financial audit of Hawaii's institutional networks on each island to determine their actual maintenance costs. It directly affects the State Auditor, who must report findings and recommendations to the Legislature by early 2026. The resolution aims to increase transparency about costs for these networks, which serve public institutions like schools and government buildings, and addresses concerns that franchise fees (meant for maintenance) may not align with actual expenses. It does not create new law but seeks factual data to inform future decisions.

Clarifies who may serve as a qualified examiner in a fitness-to-proceed examination. Clarifies the term of commitment for a defendant being held at a hospital or mental health facility for a fitness-to-proceed examination. Reduces the number of qualified examiners required for a fitness-to-proceed examination in a felony case from 3 to 1. Establishes a reduced penalty, except in certain circumstances, for a person who commits the offense of escape in the second degree while in the custody of the Director of Health. Sunsets the amendments related to fitness-to-proceed examinations on 12/31/26. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)

Appropriates funds to the Department of Education to support public schools impacted by a local investor‑owned electric utility's planned public safety power shutoff program. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)

Requires an owner or operator of an underground storage tank or tank system with a confirmed release to meet certain standards for the restoration of the environment. Establishes a rebuttable presumption that any detection of these contaminants in the vicinity of an underground storage tank or a tank system after a confirmed release is a result of the confirmed release. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)

Requires each motor vehicle insurance policy to cover the replacement cost of a child passenger restraint system that was damaged or in use by a child during a motor vehicle accident for which liability coverage under the policy is applicable. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)

Requires employers in the hospitality industry to implement anti-harassment measures, provide training, and equip certain workers with panic buttons. Prohibits retaliation against a hospitality worker who files a complaint, uses the provided panic button, or participates in an investigation or proceeding related to a harassment complaint. Requires the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations to adopt rules, including rules determining penalties and establishing procedures for handling complaints. Requires all hospitality employers to comply no later than 1/1/2026. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)

Maddy summarySCR 162 is a non-binding Senate resolution urging Hawaii's Department of Land and Natural Resources to create an accessibility program for state parks, trails, and facilities in Maui County. It specifically aims to improve access for people with disabilities by researching successful models like Colorado's Track-Chair Program and California's wheelchair-accessible trails. The resolution requests the department to collaborate with disability advocates and stakeholders, then report on implementation plans and funding needs by early 2026. It does not create new law but encourages adopting proven accessibility practices to expand recreational opportunities in Maui's natural areas.

Maddy summarySCR 228 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution requesting Hawaii's Department of Education to establish a pilot program in public and charter schools requiring staff trained in epinephrine administration for severe allergic reactions. It specifies that each school should have at least one trained staff member per 100 students or per accessible building floor, and mandates clear signage about anaphylaxis symptoms and treatment. The resolution requires the Department to report findings and recommendations to the Legislature by early 2026. This affects all public and charter schools in Hawaii by creating a temporary training requirement for staff handling allergy emergencies. The bill is procedural, not a law, and focuses on establishing a pilot program to improve response times during anaphylactic emergencies.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (SR 208) designates September 2nd of each year as "Richard 'Buffalo' Keaulana Day" in the State of Hawaii. It honors Richard Keaulana, a renowned Hawaiian surfer, lifeguard, and cultural figure known for his surfing achievements, role as Makaha's chief lifeguard for over 20 years, and contributions to Hawaiian culture. The resolution explicitly states this recognition is symbolic and **not** a state holiday. It commemorates Keaulana's legacy as a community leader and surfing icon, particularly his impact on Makaha and Hawaiian cultural preservation.

Maddy summarySCR 215 is a concurrent resolution requesting the Hawaii Department of Education to implement a veterinary technician pilot program at James Campbell High School. The program would combine veterinary training with animal-assisted therapy for students identified as "troubled youth," aiming to build empathy, responsibility, and emotional skills through caring for animals. Key provisions require mandatory training from organizations like the Hawaii Humane Society, consistent staff supervision, strict safety protocols, and liability insurance. The resolution specifically targets James Campbell High School and does not mandate statewide implementation.