Governor Green recently signed four measures into law to strengthen public services, support working families and improve government operations across Hawaiʻi.
SB3125: RELATING TO INCOME TAX
Senate Bill 3125 (Act 24) strengthens Hawaiʻi’s long-term fiscal outlook by making targeted changes to the state’s tax structure in response to a projected revenue shortfall, driven in part by recent federal actions that are expected to reduce state revenues by nearly $3 billion. The law preserves a vast majority of income tax relief from Act 46, Session Laws of Hawai‘i 2024, for low- and middle-income households, while revising certain future tax bracket and rate adjustments and repealing or sunsetting selected tax credits. By taking a measured approach, the law protects essential public services such as SNAP and healthcare, while continuing to support working families facing rising costs for housing, food, utilities and other necessities.
HB2310: MAKING AN EMERGENCY APPROPRIATION TO THE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES
House Bill 2310 (Act 21) maintains emergency food assistance and healthcare services for Hawaiʻi residents by providing an emergency appropriation to the Department of Human Services. It allows the department to restore general funds that were redirected for emergency SNAP assistance during the 2025 federal government shutdown and supports continued health insurance coverage for individuals affected by changes to federal coverage. This measure ensures continuity of essential public assistance programs and fulfillment of existing program obligations.
HB1696: RELATING TO COMMERCIAL DRIVER’S LICENSES
House Bill 1696 (Act 22) expands workforce opportunities and addresses commercial driver shortages in Hawaiʻi by amending qualifications for intrastate commercial driving. It lowers the minimum age from 19 to 18 and establishes safeguards for commercial motor vehicle drivers by requiring drivers under 21 to participate in a registered apprenticeship or structured employer training program that meets specified requirements.
SB3102: RELATING TO PORT PILOTAGE
Senate Bill 3102 (Act 23) improves oversight and facilitation of Hawaiʻi’s port pilotage system, by including the Department of Transportation in advising the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs on port pilot licensure standards, requirements and qualifications. This law helps streamline regulatory responsibilities and modernize port pilotage administration in Hawaiʻi.