Sen. Lynn DeCoite

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 140 is a formal statement urging state officials to prioritize culturally appropriate resources and services for Native Hawaiians with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The document highlights that Native Hawaiians are overrepresented in this population and calls for support systems that honor traditional family-based care methods rather than standardized approaches. While it does not change laws or allocate specific funds, it directs the Governor and various state boards to commit to addressing the unique needs and historical disparities faced by this community.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution urges the Hawaii Legislature to take action to preserve, protect, and restore limu kala, a type of seaweed designated as the state's official limu. The measure highlights that limu kala populations have declined due to climate change, development, and runoff, while noting that healthy populations support food security and biodiversity. By calling for legislative attention to this issue, the resolution aims to encourage policies that safeguard nearshore ecosystems and reefs. It does not create new laws but serves as a formal expression of support for future conservation efforts.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Concurrent Resolution encourages developers in Hawaii to adopt net zero water strategies when building or renovating housing projects. The bill defines these strategies as methods that minimize water use, create alternative water sources, and treat wastewater on-site to return it to natural supplies like aquifers. By promoting these practices, the resolution aims to protect Hawaii's limited fresh water resources from pollution and depletion. The measure is non-binding and serves as a recommendation rather than a mandatory law, directing copies to state housing officials and the Governor.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution asks the Department of the Attorney General to study how well current Hawaii laws protect local food producers from false labeling claims. The study will examine specific statutes regarding unfair competition, product labeling, and false advertising to see if they effectively stop non-Hawaii goods from being marketed as locally made. The Attorney General is required to review the legal costs and processes involved in these cases and submit a report with findings and recommendations to the Legislature by early 2025. This measure does not change any laws immediately but instead initiates an official review to determine if new legislation is needed to better safeguard Hawaii-made food brands.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution encourages developers in Hawaii to adopt net zero water strategies when building or renovating housing projects. The bill promotes the use of water-saving technologies, on-site wastewater treatment, and alternative water sources to reduce reliance on the state's finite freshwater supply. By minimizing water consumption and pollution runoff, the resolution aims to help preserve the quantity and quality of natural water resources like aquifers. It does not impose legal requirements but serves as a formal recommendation to the Governor and housing agencies.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution asks the Department of Transportation to study whether other airlines could begin serving Molokai Airport. The bill is driven by concerns that the single current carrier offers expensive tickets and unreliable flights, which creates travel difficulties for residents needing to reach work, medical care, and family. If the study determines that adding more airlines is possible, the department must submit a report with its findings and any suggested laws to the Legislature by late 2024.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Concurrent Resolution urges the Hawaii Department of Transportation to collaborate with the City and County of Honolulu on creating alternative emergency access routes for Pacific Palisades. The bill highlights that the area currently relies on a single, narrow road with a steep hairpin turn, which poses significant risks during natural disasters like wildfires or flash floods. It requests that the transportation department develop a plan with a completion timeline and submit it to the legislature before the start of the 2025 session. This measure aims to improve public safety by ensuring multiple evacuation options are available for the community.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution asks the Hawaii State Energy Office to create a working group focused on studying renewable liquid fuels, such as sustainable aviation fuel and renewable diesel. The group will include representatives from state agencies, the legislature, universities, and industry stakeholders to explore local production methods and potential tax incentives. Over the next two years, the committee will evaluate technologies and policies to promote the use of these fuels while submitting progress updates and final recommendations to the Governor and Legislature.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution urges the Hawaii Department of Transportation to collaborate with the City and County of Honolulu on creating alternative emergency routes for Pacific Palisades. The bill highlights that the area currently relies on a single, narrow road with a steep hairpin turn, which poses risks during natural disasters or emergencies. It requests that transportation officials develop a plan and timeline for these new access options and submit the proposal to the Legislature by the start of the 2025 session.

Proposes amendments to the Constitution of the State of Hawaiʻi relating to the appointment of justices and judges. Makes the appointment and senate consent procedure for district court judges the same as the appointment and senate consent procedure for supreme court justices and intermediate court of appeals and circuit court judges. (CD1)