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HAWAIʻI SENATE MAJORITY

Ka ʻAha Kenekoa – Ka ʻAoʻao Hapa Nui

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2025 LEGISLATIVE SESSION

UPCOMING HEARINGS

FIND YOUR SENATOR

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OUR LEADERSHIP

RONALD D. KOUCHI
President of the Senate

LORRAINE INOUYE
Majority Whip

MICHELLE N. KIDANI
Vice President of the Senate

HENRY J.C. AQUINO
Assistant Majority Whip

DRU MAMO KANUHA
Majority Leader

TROY N. HASHIMOTO
Assistant Majority Whip

GLENN WAKAI
Majority Floor Leader

JARRETT KEOHOKALOLE
Assistant Majority Whip

LYNN DECOITE
Assistant Majority Floor Leader

CHRIS LEE
Assistant Majority Whip

LES IHARA, JR.
Majority Policy Leader

HERBERT "TIM" RICHARDS, III
Assistant Majority Whip

STAY CONNECTED:

The week before Conference, the Hawaiʻi State Capitol was graced by @honokaajazzband with their amazing performances.

Mahalo to the students and faculty who flew out here to showcase their talents to our legislators, staff, and the public!

#hawaii #hawaiisenate #senatemajority #honokaajazzband

The week before Conference, the Hawaiʻi State Capitol was graced by @honokaajazzband with their amazing performances.

Mahalo to the students and faculty who flew out here to showcase their talents to our legislators, staff, and the public!

#hawaii #hawaiisenate #senatemajority #honokaajazzband

Follow Bill as they make their way through the legislative process! 📜👀

Summary: after a Senator introduces a bill, it’s reviewed in committee, debated on the Senate floor, and must pass a vote. From there, it heads to the House. If it comes back with changes, the bill goes to Conference. Once House and Senate members work out the exact language for the bill that they both agree with, it’s voted on a final time in each Chamber, then it’s off to the Governor's desk to become law!

If you want to dive deeper, find more information through the Legislative Reference Bureau or Public Access Room (@publicaccessroom)

(📷 credit: @hihousedems for the House Chamber photos)

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #senatemajority

Follow Bill as they make their way through the legislative process! 📜👀

Summary: after a Senator introduces a bill, it’s reviewed in committee, debated on the Senate floor, and must pass a vote. From there, it heads to the House. If it comes back with changes, the bill goes to Conference. Once House and Senate members work out the exact language for the bill that they both agree with, it’s voted on a final time in each Chamber, then it’s off to the Governor's desk to become law!

If you want to dive deeper, find more information through the Legislative Reference Bureau or Public Access Room (@publicaccessroom)

(📷 credit: @hihousedems for the House Chamber photos)

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #senatemajority

You know we've got a soft spot for Art at the Capitol, so here's a highlight reel (literally) of all the amazing events on April 11th!

Mahalo to everyone who joined us this year!

#hawaii #hawaiisenate #senatemajority #artatthecapitol #keshi

You know we've got a soft spot for Art at the Capitol, so here's a highlight reel (literally) of all the amazing events on April 11th!

Mahalo to everyone who joined us this year!

#hawaii #hawaiisenate #senatemajority #artatthecapitol #keshi

We have a budget!! This afternoon, the Hawai‘i State Senate and House of Representatives approved HB 300 CD1, the state’s biennium budget bill for fiscal years 2026 and 2027.

“This budget shows what we can accomplish when we work together. Mahalo to House Finance Chair Yamashita and the Finance Committee for their collaboration in developing this conference draft. Of course, mahalo to Senate President Kouchi, our subject matter committee Chairs, and Vice Chair Moriwaki for their close collaboration throughout the entire session. From expanding core programs for vulnerable populations to supporting regional economic development that builds long-term resilience, we’ve worked hard to make sure our decisions today strengthen Hawaiʻi’s foundation for tomorrow. Whether it's food security, access to healthcare, or helping small businesses grow, this budget is about making sure every part of our state has the opportunity to thrive.” - Senate Ways and Means Chair @senatordonovandelacruz

The bill will now be up for final reading in both chambers before heading to the Governor's desk for his signature.

#hawaii #hawaiisenate #senatemajority #statebudget

We have a budget!! This afternoon, the Hawai‘i State Senate and House of Representatives approved HB 300 CD1, the state’s biennium budget bill for fiscal years 2026 and 2027.

“This budget shows what we can accomplish when we work together. Mahalo to House Finance Chair Yamashita and the Finance Committee for their collaboration in developing this conference draft. Of course, mahalo to Senate President Kouchi, our subject matter committee Chairs, and Vice Chair Moriwaki for their close collaboration throughout the entire session. From expanding core programs for vulnerable populations to supporting regional economic development that builds long-term resilience, we’ve worked hard to make sure our decisions today strengthen Hawaiʻi’s foundation for tomorrow. Whether it's food security, access to healthcare, or helping small businesses grow, this budget is about making sure every part of our state has the opportunity to thrive.” - Senate Ways and Means Chair @senatordonovandelacruz

The bill will now be up for final reading in both chambers before heading to the Governor's desk for his signature.

#hawaii #hawaiisenate #senatemajority #statebudget

Spring is a season of renewal, growth, and fresh beginnings. From all of us at the Hawaiʻi State Senate Majority, we wish you a joyful and peaceful Easter Sunday.

#HawaiiStateSenate #SenateMajority

Spring is a season of renewal, growth, and fresh beginnings. From all of us at the Hawaiʻi State Senate Majority, we wish you a joyful and peaceful Easter Sunday.

#HawaiiStateSenate #SenateMajority

The Hawai'i State Senate Majority wishes you a Good Friday. All state offices will be closed today, so enjoy the three-day weekend with your 'ohana and loved ones.

#HawaiiStateSenate #SenateMajority

The Hawai'i State Senate Majority wishes you a Good Friday. All state offices will be closed today, so enjoy the three-day weekend with your 'ohana and loved ones.

#HawaiiStateSenate #SenateMajority

It wouldn’t be spring without a visit from our Easter Bunny and Chick! 🌸🐰🐣

In the spirit of spreading aloha, one Easter basket at a time, the Hawaiʻi State Legislature’s Women’s Legislative Caucus (WLC) and their supporters came together last Friday for the 26th Annual Easter Basket Drive at the Capitol! The WLC is co-convened by Senate Vice President Michelle N. Kidani, Senator Lynn DeCoite, House Vice Speaker Linda Ichiyama, and House Minority Leader Lauren Matsumoto.

Nearly 90 baskets filled with household essentials were donated to help local families through organizations like @domesticviolenceactioncenter, @ihshawaii, Mohala Mai Women's Prison Project, @pacthawaii, and @salarmyhi.

A special mahalo to our Easter Bunny and Chick (@repkusch and @rep.mikelee) for bringing extra cheer to this annual event!

#hawaii #hawaiisenate #senatemajority #wlc #easterbasketdrive

It wouldn’t be spring without a visit from our Easter Bunny and Chick! 🌸🐰🐣

In the spirit of spreading aloha, one Easter basket at a time, the Hawaiʻi State Legislature’s Women’s Legislative Caucus (WLC) and their supporters came together last Friday for the 26th Annual Easter Basket Drive at the Capitol! The WLC is co-convened by Senate Vice President Michelle N. Kidani, Senator Lynn DeCoite, House Vice Speaker Linda Ichiyama, and House Minority Leader Lauren Matsumoto.

Nearly 90 baskets filled with household essentials were donated to help local families through organizations like @domesticviolenceactioncenter, @ihshawaii, Mohala Mai Women's Prison Project, @pacthawaii, and @salarmyhi.

A special mahalo to our Easter Bunny and Chick (@repkusch and @rep.mikelee) for bringing extra cheer to this annual event!

#hawaii #hawaiisenate #senatemajority #wlc #easterbasketdrive

April 10 marks the Second Crossover – the final day for the Third Reading of bills that have been amended by the receiving (non-originating) body! By tomorrow, April 8, the Senate will have considered a total of 187 House bills for Third Reading. Then, on April 10, the bills will cross back over to the House.

Here’s how it works: If a bill has been amended since the Second Reading, legislators have 48 hours to review those changes. The originating chamber (House or Senate) can choose to accept or reject the amendment. If there’s any disagreement, both chambers will try to hash it out in the upcoming conference process.

Want to dive deeper into the legislative process? Follow @publicaccessroom for more insider info!

#hawaii #HawaiiStateSenate #SenateMajority

April 10 marks the Second Crossover – the final day for the Third Reading of bills that have been amended by the receiving (non-originating) body! By tomorrow, April 8, the Senate will have considered a total of 187 House bills for Third Reading. Then, on April 10, the bills will cross back over to the House.

Here’s how it works: If a bill has been amended since the Second Reading, legislators have 48 hours to review those changes. The originating chamber (House or Senate) can choose to accept or reject the amendment. If there’s any disagreement, both chambers will try to hash it out in the upcoming conference process.

Want to dive deeper into the legislative process? Follow @publicaccessroom for more insider info!

#hawaii #HawaiiStateSenate #SenateMajority

“Representative Ward dedicated his life to public service and in doing so displayed his greatness. My thoughts and prayers go out to his ʻohana and close friends and hope they may find comfort and support in this difficult time.”

- Senate President Ronald D. Kouchi

“Representative Ward dedicated his life to public service and in doing so displayed his greatness. My thoughts and prayers go out to his ʻohana and close friends and hope they may find comfort and support in this difficult time.”

- Senate President Ronald D. Kouchi

Executive Budget Bill HB300 SD1 Highlights are here!

This key piece of legislation outlines the Senate’s priorities and sets the stage for funding vital services and initiatives. From education to infrastructure, these decisions will shape our future. Swipe through to learn more.

#hawaii #hawaiisenate #senatepriorities

Executive Budget Bill HB300 SD1 Highlights are here!

This key piece of legislation outlines the Senate’s priorities and sets the stage for funding vital services and initiatives. From education to infrastructure, these decisions will shape our future. Swipe through to learn more.

#hawaii #hawaiisenate #senatepriorities

Internal deadlines for filing resolutions are happening this week for the Hawaiʻi State Senate – but what’s the difference between a bill and a resolution?

Bills are proposed laws that need approval to become official. Resolutions? They’re all about expressing opinions or decisions that don’t have the force of law.

Want to get the inside track on how it all works? Head to the @publicaccessroom on the fourth floor of the State Capitol and get the full scoop!

#hawaii #HawaiiStateSenate #SenateMajority

Internal deadlines for filing resolutions are happening this week for the Hawaiʻi State Senate – but what’s the difference between a bill and a resolution?

Bills are proposed laws that need approval to become official. Resolutions? They’re all about expressing opinions or decisions that don’t have the force of law.

Want to get the inside track on how it all works? Head to the @publicaccessroom on the fourth floor of the State Capitol and get the full scoop!

#hawaii #HawaiiStateSenate #SenateMajority

Manufacturing and Innovation Day at the Capitol was held last week, presented by the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii (@cochawaii) and Hawaii Technology Development Corporation (@htdcorg). Co-sponsored by Senator Lynn DeCoite and Representative Greggor Ilagan, the event highlighted various local businesses and products. It also gave our state’s local manufacturers the chance to speak with our legislators about industry challenges and priorities.

#hawaii #hawaiisenate #supportlocal

Manufacturing and Innovation Day at the Capitol was held last week, presented by the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii (@cochawaii) and Hawaii Technology Development Corporation (@htdcorg). Co-sponsored by Senator Lynn DeCoite and Representative Greggor Ilagan, the event highlighted various local businesses and products. It also gave our state’s local manufacturers the chance to speak with our legislators about industry challenges and priorities.

#hawaii #hawaiisenate #supportlocal

[KNOW YOUR SENATOR] "Now more than ever, it shows the importance of what we do every single day." Hear from Senator McKelvey (@senator_mckelvey ) as he opens up about the challenges he's faced and the lessons he's learned during his time as a public servant.

#hawaii #HawaiiStateSenate #SenateMajority #KnowYourSenator

[KNOW YOUR SENATOR] "Now more than ever, it shows the importance of what we do every single day." Hear from Senator McKelvey (@senator_mckelvey ) as he opens up about the challenges he's faced and the lessons he's learned during his time as a public servant.

#hawaii #HawaiiStateSenate #SenateMajority #KnowYourSenator

Today, we honor the legacy of Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole and celebrate his many contributions in serving the people of Hawaiʻi.

The Hawaiʻi State Capitol will remain closed on Wednesday, March 26, in observance of Kūhiō day.

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #senatemajority #princekūhiōday

Today, we honor the legacy of Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole and celebrate his many contributions in serving the people of Hawaiʻi.

The Hawaiʻi State Capitol will remain closed on Wednesday, March 26, in observance of Kūhiō day.

#hawaii #hawaiistatesenate #senatemajority #princekūhiōday

[KNOW YOUR SENATOR] "I didn't know you could do this for a living!" Discover why Senator Elefante (@senelefante) chose public service as a career, and the insights he's gained throughout his journey.

#hawaii #HawaiiStateSenate #SenateMajority #KnowYourSenator

[KNOW YOUR SENATOR] "I didn't know you could do this for a living!" Discover why Senator Elefante (@senelefante) chose public service as a career, and the insights he's gained throughout his journey.

#hawaii #HawaiiStateSenate #SenateMajority #KnowYourSenator

Education is the window to opportunity.

As we wrap up this year's Education Week, we celebrate how Hawaiʻi's public schools are creating opportunities for our keiki to expand their knowledge and skills. From career readiness to STEAM, innovation, art, and culture, students across the state proudly represented their schools in showcasing their projects to our legislators and the public!

#hawaii #hawaiisenate #senatemajority #educationweek #publicschoolproud

Education is the window to opportunity.

As we wrap up this year's Education Week, we celebrate how Hawaiʻi's public schools are creating opportunities for our keiki to expand their knowledge and skills. From career readiness to STEAM, innovation, art, and culture, students across the state proudly represented their schools in showcasing their projects to our legislators and the public!

#hawaii #hawaiisenate #senatemajority #educationweek #publicschoolproud

Last week, the Hawaiʻi State Legislature was proud to host Education Week at the State Capitol, honoring the incredible students, teachers, faculty, and schools who make a difference for our keiki every day. Swipe through for highlights from special events, floor presentations, and more as we celebrate education across our islands!

#hawaii #hawaiisenate #senatemajority #educationweek

Last week, the Hawaiʻi State Legislature was proud to host Education Week at the State Capitol, honoring the incredible students, teachers, faculty, and schools who make a difference for our keiki every day. Swipe through for highlights from special events, floor presentations, and more as we celebrate education across our islands!

#hawaii #hawaiisenate #senatemajority #educationweek

We're grateful for the teachers and people that have shaped our education. Senator Karl Rhoads and Senator Brandon Elefante (@senelefante) share the stories of those who inspired them and made learning unforgettable.

#hawaii #HawaiiSenate #SenateMajority #EducationWeek #favoriteteacher

We're grateful for the teachers and people that have shaped our education. Senator Karl Rhoads and Senator Brandon Elefante (@senelefante) share the stories of those who inspired them and made learning unforgettable.

#hawaii #HawaiiSenate #SenateMajority #EducationWeek #favoriteteacher

Every lesson tells a story. Our legislators Senator Glenn Wakai, Senator Stanley Chang (@stanleypchang), and Senator Lorraine R. Inouye think back to the subjects and lessons in school that led them to where they are today.

#hawaii #HawaiiSenate #SenateMajority #EducationWeek #favoritesubject

Every lesson tells a story. Our legislators Senator Glenn Wakai, Senator Stanley Chang (@stanleypchang), and Senator Lorraine R. Inouye think back to the subjects and lessons in school that led them to where they are today.

#hawaii #HawaiiSenate #SenateMajority #EducationWeek #favoritesubject

It's always a literary treat for everyone at the Hawaiʻi State Capitol when @hawaiilibraryfriends host their annual Book Fair!

Check out what books our Senators and staffers got during yesterday's event!

#hawaii #hawaiisenate #senatemajority #educationweek #bookfair

It's always a literary treat for everyone at the Hawaiʻi State Capitol when @hawaiilibraryfriends host their annual Book Fair!

Check out what books our Senators and staffers got during yesterday's event!

#hawaii #hawaiisenate #senatemajority #educationweek #bookfair

Celebrating Education Week with gratitude! Our Chair of the Education Committee Senator Michelle N. Kidani and Senate President @senatorronkouchi reflect on the teachers who inspired them and shaped their journeys.

#hawaii #HawaiiSenate #SenateMajority #EducationWeek #favoriteteacher

Celebrating Education Week with gratitude! Our Chair of the Education Committee Senator Michelle N. Kidani and Senate President @senatorronkouchi reflect on the teachers who inspired them and shaped their journeys.

#hawaii #HawaiiSenate #SenateMajority #EducationWeek #favoriteteacher

Spring break may be near, but the learning never stops! Next week, the Hawaiʻi State Legislature will be hosting Education Week at the State Capitol to celebrate and recognize the hard work of students, teachers, and staff across the state. Swipe through to see all the awardees we will be recognizing every day on the Senate and House Floors!

#hawaii #hawaiisenate #senatemajority #educationweek #education

Spring break may be near, but the learning never stops! Next week, the Hawaiʻi State Legislature will be hosting Education Week at the State Capitol to celebrate and recognize the hard work of students, teachers, and staff across the state. Swipe through to see all the awardees we will be recognizing every day on the Senate and House Floors!

#hawaii #hawaiisenate #senatemajority #educationweek #education

[KNOW YOUR SENATOR] Senate Vice President Michelle N. Kidani reflects on her journey from being a quiet student to a state leader, sharing the lessons that shaped her path. Her biggest advice? Don't be afraid to seek support.

#hawaiisenate #senatemajority #knowyoursenator

[KNOW YOUR SENATOR] Senate Vice President Michelle N. Kidani reflects on her journey from being a quiet student to a state leader, sharing the lessons that shaped her path. Her biggest advice? Don't be afraid to seek support.

#hawaiisenate #senatemajority #knowyoursenator

[KNOW YOUR SENATOR] Take a closer look at the journey that shaped Senator Karl Rhoads’ public service career. In this video, he opens up about his path that led to the Senate, the challenges he currently faces, and the guidance he would offer his younger self.

#hawaiisenate #senatemajority #knowyoursenator

[KNOW YOUR SENATOR] Take a closer look at the journey that shaped Senator Karl Rhoads’ public service career. In this video, he opens up about his path that led to the Senate, the challenges he currently faces, and the guidance he would offer his younger self.

#hawaiisenate #senatemajority #knowyoursenator

Last Friday, the Hawaiʻi State Capitol brimmed with excitement as tourism industry leaders, workers, and advocates came together to highlight the vital role of tourism in our state. They engaged with our legislators and the public on the many ways that the tourism sector fuels our economy, provides jobs for local families, and shares our culture with the world.

#hawaii #hawaiisenate #senatemajority #tourismday #tourism

Last Friday, the Hawaiʻi State Capitol brimmed with excitement as tourism industry leaders, workers, and advocates came together to highlight the vital role of tourism in our state. They engaged with our legislators and the public on the many ways that the tourism sector fuels our economy, provides jobs for local families, and shares our culture with the world.

#hawaii #hawaiisenate #senatemajority #tourismday #tourism

On this International Women's Day, coinciding with Women's History Month, we celebrate the dedicated women legislators and staffers at the State Capitol who work tirelessly to serve our communities. Their leadership and contributions inspire us all, as they pave the way for our future generations.

Mahalo for all that you do!

#hawaii #hawaiisenate #senatemajority #internationalwomensday #womenshistorymonth #womenlegislators

On this International Women's Day, coinciding with Women's History Month, we celebrate the dedicated women legislators and staffers at the State Capitol who work tirelessly to serve our communities. Their leadership and contributions inspire us all, as they pave the way for our future generations.

Mahalo for all that you do!

#hawaii #hawaiisenate #senatemajority #internationalwomensday #womenshistorymonth #womenlegislators

[KNOW YOUR SENATOR] Leadership isn’t a destination, it’s a journey. Watch and listen to our Senate President Ronald D. Kouchi (@senatorronkouchi) as he shares his personal story: why he chose to serve, the challenges he’s faced, and the lessons he’s learned along the way.

#hawaiisenate #senatemajority #knowyoursenator

[KNOW YOUR SENATOR] Leadership isn’t a destination, it’s a journey. Watch and listen to our Senate President Ronald D. Kouchi (@senatorronkouchi) as he shares his personal story: why he chose to serve, the challenges he’s faced, and the lessons he’s learned along the way.

#hawaiisenate #senatemajority #knowyoursenator

Today marks First Crossover, the deadline for bills from the Hawaiʻi State Senate to “cross over” to the House of Representatives!

From Opening Day on January 15 until now, the Senate has been hard at work in advancing meaningful legislation, holding impactful hearings and briefings, and shaping a brighter future for our state. So far, we’ve held 293 committee hearings and 15 informational briefings to vet and refine the proposed legislations.

We began this legislative session with 1,669 Senate Bills. After rigorous committee deliberations and input from hundreds of testifiers, a final total of 390 Senate Bills have successfully crossed over to the House!

As we now turn our attention towards reviewing the House Bills that crossed over to the Senate side, we remain committed to making progress and driving change for our communities.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to push forward!

#hawaii #hawaiisenate #senatemajority #senaterecap #firstcrossover

Today marks First Crossover, the deadline for bills from the Hawaiʻi State Senate to “cross over” to the House of Representatives!

From Opening Day on January 15 until now, the Senate has been hard at work in advancing meaningful legislation, holding impactful hearings and briefings, and shaping a brighter future for our state. So far, we’ve held 293 committee hearings and 15 informational briefings to vet and refine the proposed legislations.

We began this legislative session with 1,669 Senate Bills. After rigorous committee deliberations and input from hundreds of testifiers, a final total of 390 Senate Bills have successfully crossed over to the House!

As we now turn our attention towards reviewing the House Bills that crossed over to the Senate side, we remain committed to making progress and driving change for our communities.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to push forward!

#hawaii #hawaiisenate #senatemajority #senaterecap #firstcrossover

Maui Economic Opportunity (MEO) has been helping low-income families recover from the August 2023 Maui wildfires through the federally funded National Dislocated Worker Grant (NDWG), providing temporary jobs for cleanup and rebuilding. However, as of February 24, 2025, the state Department of Labor and Industrial Relations (DLIR) informed MEO that funding for reimbursements are now uncertain.

Hear the stories of Maui residents directly affected by this budget cut, and Senator Angus L.K. McKelvey’s (@senator_mckelvey) response to the cuts.

Maui Economic Opportunity (MEO) has been helping low-income families recover from the August 2023 Maui wildfires through the federally funded National Dislocated Worker Grant (NDWG), providing temporary jobs for cleanup and rebuilding. However, as of February 24, 2025, the state Department of Labor and Industrial Relations (DLIR) informed MEO that funding for reimbursements are now uncertain.

Hear the stories of Maui residents directly affected by this budget cut, and Senator Angus L.K. McKelvey’s (@senator_mckelvey) response to the cuts.

[KNOW YOUR SENATOR] Every Senator has a story -- one of ambition, challenges, and newfound paths. Hear about Senator Joy San Buenaventura's (@senjoysanbuenaventura) journey to leadership, struggles, and wisdom she wished she had earlier.

#hawaiisenate #senatemajority #knowyoursenator

[KNOW YOUR SENATOR] Every Senator has a story -- one of ambition, challenges, and newfound paths. Hear about Senator Joy San Buenaventura's (@senjoysanbuenaventura) journey to leadership, struggles, and wisdom she wished she had earlier.

#hawaiisenate #senatemajority #knowyoursenator

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Email: scomm@capitol.hawaii.gov

Phone: 808-586-6261

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Honolulu, HI 96813

©2024 Hawai'i Senate Majority

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