Hawaiʻi Public Radio’s coverage of the 2026 legislative session includes the latest on bills from inside the Hawaiʻi State Capitol, interviews with state lawmakers, and updates from Gov. Josh Green.
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The Legislature appropriated $3 million to start the Hanai Memory Network Program. -
Gov. Josh Green has signed two bills into law on Tuesday that ensure people are protected and have tools for artificial intelligence use. The bills take effect immediately. -
One law provides annual step increases for public and charter school teachers while the other provides better protection for school officials against harassment. -
A new law allows the state to give more authority to grassroots organizations that do conservation work. -
The state’s high cost of living continues to be one of the highest priority issues for both residents and policymakers, and it can quickly become a dire situation with sudden and often expensive medical treatment. -
House Bill 1618 establishes a new loan program to help homeowners afford cesspool conversions. -
The new law comes as local leaders try to curb the growing use of nicotine through e-cigarettes, or vapes, especially among Hawaiʻi’s youth. -
Gov. Josh Green signed two bills into law to enhance human trafficking awareness and support survivors of domestic violence. -
A new state law focuses Hawaiʻi’s marine-related policies to help facilitate its ocean economy and properly steward its natural resources. -
Gov. Josh Green has signed a $20 billion state budget for the upcoming fiscal year meant to account for federal cuts while maintaining benefits and services for residents.
