New Laws Enacted
2008 NEW LAWS ENACTED
ACT 001 (08)
HB2688 HD1
Signed February 13, 2008
MAKING APPROPRIATIONS TO PROVIDE FOR THE EXPENSES OF THE LEGISLATURE, THE AUDITOR, THE LEGISLATIVE REFERENCE BUREAU, AND THE OMBUDSMAN.
Appropriates $38,125,649 for the expenses of the legislature, auditor, ethics commission, legislative reference bureau, ombudsman, and legislative broadcast program.
ACT 002 (08)
HB3037
Signed: March 25, 2008
MAKING AN EMERGENCY APPROPRIATION FOR ELECTRICITY, SEWER, REFUSE, AND INSURANCE PREMIUM PAYMENTS.
Appropriates $271,852 from the Stadium Special Fund to pay FY 2007-2008 increases in electricity, sewer, refuse, and insurance premium payments for Aloha Stadium.
ACT 003 (08)
HB3038
Signed: March 25, 2008
MAKING AN EMERGENCY APPROPRIATION FOR ELECTRICITY PAYMENTS STATEWIDE.
Appropriates $1 million in general funds to pay statewide increases in electricity payments for FY 2007-2008.
ACT 004 (08)
SB2292
Signed: March 31, 2008
RELATING TO AUTOMATED TELLER MACHINES.
Allows owners or operators of automated teller machines (ATM) to charge a transaction fee to international cardholders, similar to the fee assessed to U.S. cardholders. Prohibits credit card companies from enacting operating agreements that prohibit, limit, or restrict ATM owners’ rights to charge transaction fees.
ACT 005 (08)
SB3027 SD2
Signed by Lt. Governor Aiona, Acting Governor: April 3, 2008
RELATING TO OSTEOPATHY.
Incorporates doctors of osteopathy into existing law governing medical physicians so that the Board of Medical Examiners can oversee both professions in the same manner.
ACT 006 (08)
HB2138 HD1
Signed by Lt. Governor Aiona, Acting Governor: April 4, 2008
RELATING TO CAREGIVER RECOGNITION DAY.
Establishes the first Saturday of November as “Caregiver Recognition Day.”
ACT 007 (08)
HB3080 HD1
Signed by Lt. Governor Aiona, Acting Governor: April 4, 2008
RELATING TO PROPERTY OF PUBLIC UTILITIES.
Allows a utility to assign or transfer property to promptly restore service to its consumers without getting prior approval from the Public Utilities Commission.
ACT 008 (08)
SB2395 SD2
Signed: April 8, 2008
RELATING TO LANGUAGE ACCESS.
Adds five members to the Language Access Advisory Council and clarifies definitions of services for persons with limited English proficiency.
ACT 009 (08)
HB2169 HD1
Signed: April 11, 2008
RELATING TO HEALTH
Changes the name of the Board of Medical Examiners to the Hawai‘i Medical Board.
ACT 010 (08)
SB45 SD1
Signed: April 11, 2008
RELATING TO GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS.
Reaffirms that Hawai‘i Paroling Authority members may be reappointed and reconfirmed without requiring those members to again be nominated by a nomination panel.
ACT 011 (08)
HB2656
Signed: April 14, 2008
RELATING TO CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTIONS.
Allows reciprocal beneficiaries to contribute to a political campaign as if they were an immediate family member of the candidate.
ACT 012 (08)
HB2428
Signed: April 14, 2008
RELATING TO HIGHWAYS.
Expedites the approval of State highway projects by exempting them from the county subdivision approval process.
ACT 013 (08)
SB1809
Signed: April 15, 2008
RELATING TO CONDOMINIUMS.
Allows 25 percent of the owners of a condominium association who sign a petition for a special meeting to schedule that meeting within 60 days if the secretary or managing agent fails to do so.
ACT 014 (08)
HB3325 HD2
Signed: April 15, 2008
RELATING TO THE UNIFORM LAND SALES PRACTICES ACT.
Exempts time share plans from redundant registration requirements under the Uniform Land Sales Practices Act.
ACT 015 (08)
HB3343 HD1
Signed: April 15, 2008
RELATING TO FILIPINO-AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH.
Designates the month of October as “Filipino-American History Month.”
ACT 016 (08)
SB2399
Signed: April 15, 2008
RELATING TO STATUTORY REVISION: AMENDING OR REPEALING VARIOUS PROVISIONS OF THE HAWAI‘I REVISED STATUTES AND THE SESSION LAWS OF HAWAI‘I FOR THE PURPOSE OF CORRECTING ERRORS AND REFERENCES, CLARIFYING LANGUAGE, AND DELETING OBSOLETE OR UNNECESSARY PROVISIONS.
Makes technical, non-substantive changes to Hawai‘i’s statutes to correct errors, references, and deletes obsolete provisions.
ACT 017 (08)
SB2425 SD1
Signed by Lt. Governor Aiona, Acting Governor: April 16, 2008
RELATING TO ARSON.
Lists the fire-fighting costs a convicted arsonist would pay for fires they set damaging 10,000 square feet or more of property.
ACT 018 (08)
HB2467 HD2
Signed by Lt. Governor Aiona, Acting Governor: April 17, 2008
RELATING TO FIRE PROTECTION.
Incorporates the State Fire Code into the State Building Code and reaffirms yearly fire and safety inspections at State-owned airports.
ACT 019 (08)
SB2402 SD1
Signed by Lt. Governor Aiona, Acting Governor: April 17, 2008
MAKING VARIOUS HOUSEKEEPING AMENDMENTS TO VOLUME 11 OF THE HAWAI‘I REVISED STATUTES FOR THE PURPOSE OF CORRECTING ERRORS AND REFERENCES, AND CLARIFYING LANGUAGE.
Makes nonsubstantive corrections to Volume 11 of Hawai‘i Revised Statutes dealing with trade regulation and the Commercial Credit Code.
ACT 020 (08)
SB3105 SD1
Signed by Lt. Governor Aiona, Acting Governor: April 18, 2008
RELATING TO PUBLIC AGENCY MEETINGS.
Allows boards and commissions to conduct on-site inspections without public participation if public attendance is impracticable, such as on private working farms.
ACT 021 (08)
HB3106
Signed by Lt. Governor Aiona, Acting Governor: April 18, 2008
RELATING TO GRADUATES OF FOREIGN ACUPUNCTURE PROGRAMS.
Requires foreign-educated applicants to have their transcripts evaluated by a professional accrediting agency before taking the Hawai‘i acupuncture licensing exam.
ACT 022 (08)
SB2258 SD1
Signed by Lt. Governor Aiona, Acting Governor: April 18, 2008
RELATING TO THE WIRELESS ENHANCED 911 BOARD.
Establishes that six members present at a Wireless Enhanced 911 Board meeting constitute a quorum.
ACT 023 (08)
HB2165
Signed: April 22, 2008
RELATING TO NURSING.
Allows nurses with a bachelor’s degree who have completed the pre-license portion of a master's degree program to qualify for a license as a registered nurse.
ACT 024 (08)
HB2441
Signed: April 22, 2008
RELATING TO WORKERS’ COMPENSATION.
Provides students working for public employers in a work-study program sponsored by the Department of Education or the University of Hawai‘i with the same workers' compensation protection as those working for private employers.
ACT 025 (08)
HB647 HD2
Signed: April 22, 2008
RELATING TO ENERGY.
Repeals the State Facilities Energy Management Advisory Committee in recognition of the fact that the Committee has fulfilled its purpose under the law.
ACT 026 (08)
HB2523
Signed: April 22, 2008
RELATING TO THE LAND USE COMMISSION.
Requires the Land Use Commission to consider county plans when reclassifying land.
ACT 027 (08)
HB2696 HD2
Signed: April 22, 2008
RELATING TO THE BOARD OF THE JUDICIARY HISTORY CENTER.
Sets up a process to fill vacancies on the Judicial History Center Executive Board.
ACT 028 (08)
SB2401 SD1
Signed: April 22, 2008
RELATING TO CONDOMINIUMS: MAKING VARIOUS TECHNICAL AMENDMENTS TO THE HAWAI‘I REVISED STATUTES FOR THE PURPOSE OF CORRECTING ERRORS AND REFERENCES, AND CLARIFYING LANGUAGE.
Updates and amends Hawai‘i condominium laws.
ACT 029 (08)
SB3068 SD1 HD1
Signed: April 22, 2008
MAKING AN EMERGENCY APPROPRIATION TO THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH FOR THE ADULT MENTAL HEALTH DIVISION.
Appropriates $10 million in emergency general funding to the Adult Mental Health Division at the Hawai‘i State Department of Health.
ACT 030 (08)
HB3161 SD3
Signed: April 22, 2008
MAKING AN EMERGENCY APPROPRIATION TO THE HAWAI‘I HEALTH SYSTEMS CORPORATION.
Appropriates $14 million in emergency funding for Hawai‘i Health Systems Corporation facilities, excluding Maui Memorial Medical Center.
ACT 031 (08)
HB2502 HD2
Signed: April 23, 2008
RELATING TO SOLAR ENERGY.
Allows the construction and operation of solar energy facilities on less productive agricultural lands.
ACT 032 (08)
HB2347 HD1
Signed: April 23, 2008
RELATING TO METAL.
Clarifies that scrap metal dealers violate the law if they fail to have a license, or if they fail to get proper documentation from a person selling scrap metal.
ACT 033 (08)
HB2369
Signed: April 23, 2008
RELATING TO THE AFTER-SCHOOL PLUS PROGRAM REVOLVING FUND.
Limits deposits into the A+ After School Program Revolving Fund to interest earnings and fees or charges collected for participation in the program.
ACT 034 (08)
SB2141 HD1
Signed: April 24, 2008
RELATING TO PUBLIC HOUSING.
Includes sidewalks and other common areas of public housing projects as areas in which the consumption of alcohol is prohibited by law.
ACT 035 (08)
SB3074 SD1 HD1
Signed: April 24, 2008
MAKING AN EMERGENCY APPROPRIATION TO THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH FOR THE EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES AND INJURY PREVENTION SYSTEM BRANCH.
Appropriates $1.8 million in emergency funds for collective bargaining pay increases for emergency medical service personnel.
ACT 036 (08)
HB2908 SD1
Without Signature: April 25, 2008
RELATING TO AUDIT RECOMMENDATIONS.
Requires annual reports from the auditor on recommendations pending more than one year and requires executive agencies to explain why the recommendations have not been followed. Read the Governor's Statement of Concerns.
ACT 037 (08)
HB2163 HD2 SD1
Signed: April 25, 2008
RELATING TO COMPTROLLER SUPERVISION OF ACCOUNTS.
Eliminates the requirement for the University of Hawai‘i to pre-audit payments under $10,000.
ACT 038 (08)
HB2436 HD2 SD2
Signed: April 25, 2008
RELATING TO FIREWORKS.
Makes it unlawful to throw fireworks at people, animals, cars, or from multi-story buildings, clarifies minors cannot buy or sell fireworks, and makes other adjustments to the fireworks statute.
ACT 039 (08)
HB2699 HD1 SD1
Signed: 4/25/2008
RELATING TO THE UNIFORM PROBATE CODE.
Limits who can receive information when a person dies; redefines how payment-on-death accounts are managed; and clarifies the duties of guardians, conservators, and attorneys in probate cases.
ACT 040 (08)
HB2517 HD1 SD1
Signed: April 28, 2008
RELATING TO INVASIVE SPECIES.
Regulates the importation and sale of plants harmful to public health, agriculture or the environment.
ACT 041 (08)
SB3004 SD2 HD2
Signed: April 29, 2008
RELATING TO THE EMPLOYEES’ RETIREMENT SYSTEM.
Streamlines the administration of the Employees’ Retirement System, including determining what data is transmitted electronically, clarifies who qualifies as a beneficiary, reconfirms how leave is treated for retirement purposes, provides for automatic increases in the pension benefits ceiling, and makes other changes to conform to the Internal Revenue Service Code.
ACT 042 (08)
HB3197 SD1
Signed: April 29, 2008
MAKING AN EMERGENCY APPROPRIATION TO THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FOR THE STATE HIGHWAY SYSTEM.
Appropriates $21,253,032 this fiscal year out of the State Highway Fund for road maintenance work.
ACT 043 (08)
HB3140 SD2
Signed: April 29, 2008
MAKING AN EMERGENCY APPROPRIATION TO THE HAWAI‘I PUBLIC HOUSING AUTHORITY
Appropriates $3,067,955 in emergency funding for the Hawai‘i Public Housing Authority.
ACT 044 (08)
HB2301 HD1 SD1
Signed: April 29, 2008
RELATING TO DENTISTRY.
Prohibits an unlicensed person or entity from interfering in the practice of a licensed dentist.
ACT 045 (08)
SB3200 SD1 HD1
Without Signature: April 30, 2008
RELATING TO GOVERNMENTAL RETENTION OF ATTORNEYS.
Requires the Attorney General to retain a private attorney if the Attorney General’s office determines he cannot represent the Legislature or the Judiciary due to a conflict of interest. Read the Governor's Statement of Concerns.
ACT 046 (08)
SB2956 SD1 HD1
Signed: April 30, 2008
RELATING TO MILK.
Ensures that Hawai‘i dairy producers are paid a price commensurate with the quality of milk they produce.
ACT 047 (08)
SB3005 SD2 HD2
Signed: April 30, 2008
RELATING TO FEDERAL TAX QUALIFICATION OF THE EMPLOYEES’ RETIREMENT SYSTEM.
Governs how elected officials and judges may participate in the Employees’ Retirement System and when they can obtain retirement benefits.
ACT 048 (08)
SB2569 HD1
Signed: April 30, 2008
RELATING TO THE MUSEUM OF HAWAIIAN MUSIC AND DANCE.
Extends the sunset date of the Museum of Hawaiian Music and Dance Committee from June 30, 2008 to June 30, 2009.
ACT 049 (08)
SB3228 HD1
Signed: April 30, 2008
RELATING TO ADJUSTING THE ANNUAL PENSIONS OF RETIRED PATIENT EMPLOYEES AT HANSEN’S DISEASE FACILITIES.
Adjusts the pensions of patient employees with Hansen’s disease at Kalaupapa and Lē‘ahi Hospital.
ACT 050 (08)
SB3240 SD1 HD2
Signed: April 30, 2008
RELATING TO MOTOR VEHICLE DRIVER’S LICENSE.
Allows military personnel to continue driving for up to 90 days if their license expires while deployed overseas and changes the expiration dates for Hawai‘i’s driver’s licenses.
ACT 051 (08)
HB2254 HD2 SD1
Signed: April 30, 2008
RELATING TO BANKS AND FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS.
Prohibits the unauthorized use of a financial institution’s name or trademark and establishes a $10,000 fine for violations.
ACT 052 (08)
SB3185 SD2 HD1
Signed: May 1, 2008
RELATING TO CANCER.
Redirects $150,000 in Fiscal Year 2008-2009 from the Department of Human Services to the Department of Health for breast and cervical cancer screening, education, and outreach.
ACT 053 (08)
SB2782 SD2 HD2
Signed: May 1, 2008
RELATING TO METAL.
Makes it a misdemeanor offense to steal a beer keg and requires scrap metal dealers to obtain proof of ownership from a prospective beer keg seller.
ACT 054 (08)
SB3006 SD1 HD2
Signed: May 1, 2008
RELATING TO BUSINESS REGISTRATION.
Updates and clarifies Hawai‘i business registration laws, including non-profit limited liability and for-profit business dissolutions.
ACT 055 (08)
HB2559 HD2 SD1
Signed: May 1, 2008
RELATING TO THE UNIFORM UNCLAIMED PROPERTY ACT.
Replaces Hawai‘i’s 1981 version of the Uniform Unclaimed Property Act with the most recent 1995 version.
ACT 056 (08)
SB2900 SD1 HD1
Signed: May 1, 2008
RELATING TO PUBLIC LANDS.
Authorizes the counties to enforce laws on public roads where the ownership is in dispute.
ACT 057 (08)
SB2816 SD1 HD2
Without Signature: May 2, 2008
RELATING TO INTRA-COUNTY FERRY SERVICE.
Gives priority mooring space to specific intra-county ferry services and exempts fuel sold to these ferries from paying the State fuel tax. Read the Governor's Statement of Concerns.
ACT 058 (08)
SB2153 SD1 HD1
Without Signature: May 2, 2008
RELATING TO INCOME TAX CREDIT.
To comply with the Constitutional mandate, provides only a $1 tax credit to the 1,040,000 taxpayers of Hawai‘i. Read the Governor's Statement of Concerns.
ACT 059 (08)
HB7 HD1 SD1
Vetoed: May 1, 2008; Veto Overridden: May 1, 2008
RELATING TO THE I-SAVERX PRESCRIPTION DRUG PROGRAM.
Requires the Governor to enter into an agreement that would allow Hawai‘i residents to import prescription drugs from other countries in violation of federal law. Read the Governor’s veto message.
ACT 060 (08)
SB868 SD2
Vetoed: April 22, 2008; Veto Overridden: May 1, 2008
RELATING TO BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS.
Unnecessarily bypasses the heads of departments in communications between the Legislature and boards and commissions attached to that department. Read the Governor’s veto message.
ACT 061 (08)
SB2779 HD2
Vetoed: May 1, 2008; Veto Overridden: May 1, 2008
RELATING TO LABOR.
Restricts the Governor’s authority to protect public health and safety by narrowing when the Governor may suspend prevailing wage and hour laws during an emergency. Read the Governor’s veto message.
ACT 062 (08)
SB2898 SD1
Vetoed: April 22, 2008; Veto Overridden: May 1, 2008
RELATING TO THE AGREEMENT AMONG THE STATES TO ELECT THE PRESIDENT BY NATIONAL POPULAR VOTE.
Undermines the electoral process by allowing Hawai‘i’s electoral votes to go to a presidential candidate for whom the majority of Hawai‘i voters did not vote. Read the Governor’s veto message.
ACT 063 (08)
HB3109 SD1
Signed: May 7, 2008
RELATING TO DISPENSING OPTICIANS.
Prohibits unlicensed individuals who are not opticians from selling non-corrective, decorative contact lenses.
ACT 064 (08)
HB2009 SD1
Signed by Lt. Governor Aiona, Acting Governor: May 12, 2008
RELATING TO CORRECTIONS.
Deletes the Department of Public Safety’s Correctional Program Revolving Fund, which has been inactive since 1996 and has no funds in it.
ACT 065 (08)
HB1402 HD2 SD2
Signed by Lt. Governor Aiona, Acting Governor: May 12, 2008
RELATING TO CORRECTIONAL INDUSTRIES.
Allows Correctional Industries to hire more staff for inmate vocational training programs.
ACT 066 (08)
HB2953 SD1 CD1
Signed by Lt. Governor Aiona, Acting Governor: May 12, 2008
RELATING TO MOTOR VEHICLES.
Simplifies the paperwork required to transport a vehicle on an interisland ferry.
ACT 067 (08)
SB2961 SD2 HD2 CD1
Signed by Lt. Governor Aiona, Acting Governor: May 13, 2008
MAKING APPROPRIATIONS FOR CLAIMS AGAINST THE STATE, ITS OFFICERS, OR ITS EMPLOYEES.
Appropriates $2,264,576 in general funds and $4,892,623 in State highway funds to settle claims against the State.
ACT 068 (08)
SB1035 SD1 HD1 CD1
Signed by Lt. Governor Aiona, Acting Governor: May 13, 2008
RELATING TO MAKAHIKI DAY COMMEMORATION.
Establishes each November 20 as Makahiki Commemoration Day.
ACT 069 (08)
SB2785 SD1 HD1 CD1
Signed by Lt. Governor Aiona, Acting Governor: May 13, 2008
RELATING TO DISTRICT COURT JURISDICTION.
Increases the dollar threshold for civil cases that can be tried in district court from $20,000 to $25,000.
ACT 070 (08)
HB2894 SD1
Signed by Lt. Governor Aiona, Acting Governor: May 14, 2008
RELATING TO PLANNED COMMUNITY ASSOCIATIONS.
Makes it easier for planned community associations to update and amend their legal documents and clarifies the scope of Hawai‘i statutes governing these associations.
ACT 071 (08)
SB2499 HD1 CD2
Signed by Lt. Governor Aiona, Acting Governor: May 14, 2008
RELATING TO TARO.
Corrects the effective date from January 1, 2025 to July 1, 2008 of Act 36, Session Laws of Hawai‘i 2007, a law that designated taro as the official plant of the State of Hawai‘i.
ACT 072 (08)
SB2464 HD1 CD1
Signed by Lt. Governor Aiona, Acting Governor: May 14, 2008
RELATING TO THE STATE MAMMAL.
Designates the Hawaiian monk seal as the State’s official mammal.
ACT 073 (08)
HB2614 SD1
Signed by Lt. Governor Aiona, Acting Governor: May 15, 2008
RELATING TO ISLAND PACIFIC ACADEMY.
Authorizes the issuance of $30 million in special purpose revenue bonds to Island Pacific Academy to finance the construction of the largest and fastest growth private school in West O‘ahu.
ACT 074 (08)
HB2547 SD1
Signed by Lt. Governor Aiona, Acting Governor: May 15, 2008
RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF SPECIAL PURPOSE REVENUE BONDS FOR MAUI PREPARATORY ACADEMY.
Authorizes the issuance of $25 million in special purpose revenue bonds to Maui Preparatory Academy to expand the Upper School to include 11th and 12th grades.
ACT 075 (08)
HB2271 HD1 SD2
Signed by Lt. Governor Aiona, Acting Governor: May 15, 2008
RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF SPECIAL PURPOSE REVENUE BONDS TO ASSIST CASTLE MEDICAL CENTER AND ITS AFFILIATES.
Authorizes the issuance of $30 million in special purpose revenue bonds to Castle Medical Center to finance and refinance medical equipment and remodeling of the current 160-bed facility in Windward O’ahu.
ACT 076 (08)
HB2460 SD1
Signed by Lt. Governor Aiona, Acting Governor: May 15, 2008
RELATING TO CONDOMINIUMS.
Provides diversification for the investment of condominium funds by clarifying that condominium associations may invest association funds in certificates of deposit through the Certificate of Deposit Account Registry Service (CDARS) network.
ACT 077 (08)
HB1978 HD1 SD1
Signed by Lt. Governor Aiona, Acting Governor: May 15, 2008
RELATING TO PUBLIC ORDER.
Extends until 2012 the ban against publicly urinating and defecating in downtown Honolulu.
ACT 078 (08)
SB3076 HD1 CD1
Signed by Lt. Governor Aiona, Acting Governor: May 15, 2008
RELATING TO EPIDEMIOLOGISTS.
Authorizes the State to hire up to 10 highly-qualified scientists, known as epidemiologists, to enhance our ability to respond to health crises and better protect the public’s health and safety.
ACT 079 (08)
HB2917 HD2 SD1
Signed by Lt. Governor Aiona, Acting Governor: May 15, 2008
RELATING TO HARBORS.
Allows vessels with mooring permits for either Honolulu Harbor or Kewalo Basin to moor in the other harbor under certain circumstances.
ACT 080 (08)
HB3040 HD1 SD1 CD1
Signed by Lt. Governor Aiona, Acting Governor: May 16, 2008
RELATING TO PUBLIC SAFETY.
Strengthens Hawai‘i’s laws against those who use the Internet to entice a child for sexual purposes or who engage in indecent electronic displays targeted at minors. Read a news release.
ACT 081 (08)
HB2346 HD2 SD2 CD1
Signed by Lt. Governor Aiona, Acting Governor: May 16, 2008
RELATING TO ENDANGERING THE WELFARE OF A MINOR.
Makes it a crime for any person to introduce illicit drugs or prescription drugs into a child’s body if the drug is not prescribed by a doctor for the child.
ACT 082 (08)
HB2770 HD1 SD2
Signed: May 20, 2008
RELATING TO BRIDGE TO HOPE PROGRAM.
Expands those eligible to participate in the Bridge to Hope educational program at the University of Hawai‘i to all low-income heads of households participating in the First-to-Work Program.
ACT 083 (08)
HB3151 HD2 SD1
Signed: May 20, 2008
RELATING TO ELECTRONIC PERMITTING FEES.
Facilitates the ability of the Department of Health to process permits and applications electronically.
ACT 084 (08)
HB2164 HD1 SD1
Signed: May 20, 2008
RELATING TO THE CANCER RESEARCH SPECIAL FUND.
Expands the sources of moneys deposited into the Cancer Research Center Special Fund and permits that fund to be used for both operating and capital expenditures.
ACT 085 (08)
HB3126 SD2 CD1
Signed: May 21, 2008
RELATING TO THE HAWAIIAN HOMES COMMISSION ACT.
Increases the loan ceiling for farm and ranch operations on Hawaiian home lands from $50,000 to $200,000. Read a news release.
ACT 086 (08)
SB3092 SD1 HD1 CD1
Signed: May 21, 2008
RELATING TO SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER.
Enhances protection against identity theft by requiring that only the last four digits of an individual’s Social Security number be listed on documents recorded with the Bureau of Conveyances. Read a news release.
ACT 087 (08)
HB3150 HD2 SD1
Signed: May 21, 2008
RELATING TO THE HAWAI‘I EMERGENCY PLANNING AND COMMUNITY RIGHT-TO-KNOW ACT.
Clarifies reporting requirements for hazardous substances to help first responders, such as police and firemen, to have accurate information.
ACT 088 (08)
SB3061 HD1 CD1
Signed: May 21, 2008
RELATING TO THE FIRST-TO-WORK PROGRAM.
Changes terminology in State law to be consistent with the terms in the federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) statute.
ACT 089 (08)
HB1755 HD1 SD1
Signed: May 21, 2008
RELATING TO THE GENERAL EXCISE TAX.
Confirms that the 0.5 percent general excise tax rate applies to services to fulfill manufacturer warranty obligations.
ACT 090 (08)
HB3179 SD1 CD1
Signed: May 21, 2008
RELATING TO THE DEFINITION OF RENEWABLE ENERGY PRODUCER.
Allows producers of biofuels from plant or animal materials to directly lease public land by amending the definition of “renewable energy producer.” Read the news release.
ACT 091 (08)
HB2589 HD2 SD2
Signed: May 22, 2008
RELATING TO SCRAP METAL.
Stops copper thieves from receiving “fast cash” by requiring scrap dealers and metal recyclers to pay for scrap copper by check.
ACT 092 (08)
HB1365 SD2 CD1
Signed: May 22, 2008
RELATING TO THE STATE OF HAWAI‘I DEFERRED COMPENSATION PLANS.
Broadens the types of investments available to participants in the State's Deferred Compensation Plan.
ACT 093 (08)
HB3191 HD1 SD2
Signed: May 22, 2008
RELATING TO CONFORMITY OF THE HAWAI‘I INCOME TAX LAW TO THE INTERNAL REVENUE
Amends Hawai‘i‘s income tax law to reflect changes in the federal Internal Revenue Code.
ACT 094 (08)
SB788 SD2
Signed: May 22, 2008
RELATING TO DISASTER RELIEF.
Extends from June 30, 2008 to June 30, 2009 the period of time to use emergency disaster relief appropriations for the floods that occurred in February and March of 2006.
ACT 095 (08)
SB2784 SD1 HD1 CD1
Signed: May 22, 2008
RELATING TO THE POWER OF ARREST.
Authorizes agents of the United States Marshal Service to make arrests under state law and updates state statutes to reflect federal Department of Homeland Security terminology.
ACT 096 (08)
HB3173 HD1 SD1 CD1
Signed: May 22, 2008
RELATING TO GROUNDED VESSELS.
Authorizes the Department of Land and Natural Resources to remove a grounded vessel in order to minimize damage to coral reefs and to avoid becoming a navigational hazard.
ACT 097 (08)
HB2965 HD2 SD2
Signed: May 22, 2008
RELATING TO AGRICULTURAL WATER SECURITY.
Authorizes operators of damaged agricultural water systems to negotiate emergency power production following a disaster declaration issued by the Governor.
ACT 098 (08)
SB1802 HD1 CD1
Signed: May 23, 2008
RELATING TO MENTAL HEALTH
Allows health care providers to share mental health records, while preserving patient privacy, for the purpose of continued care or treatment.
ACT 099 (08)
SB3069 SD2 HD1 CD1
Signed: May 23, 2008
RELATING TO RECORDS OF DEFENDANTS COMMITTED TO A HOSPITAL CONTROLLED BY THE DIRECTOR OF HEALTH OR TO CUSTODY OF DIRECTOR OF HEALTH
Improves the quality of care for persons at Hawai‘i State Hospital by providing treatment professionals with better access to information and records that describe an individual’s history of mental illness.
ACT 100 (08)
SB2396 SD1 HD3 CD1
Signed: May 23, 2008
RELATING TO MENTAL HEALTH
Makes reforms to Hawai‘i’s public mental health system to minimize the census at the Hawai‘i State Hospital and promote community-based health services.
ACT 101 (08)
SB2400 SD1 HD1 CD1
Signed: May 23, 2008
RELATING TO DECRIMINALIZATION OF MINOR OFFENSES PURSUANT TO ACT 124, SESSION LAWS OF HAWAI‘I 2005
Eliminates the need for the courts to prosecute minor offenses where only a fine is usually imposed.
ACT 102 (08)
HB2700 HD1 SD2 CD1
Signed: May 23, 2008
RELATING TO THE JUDICIARY
Appropriates an additional $6,402,251 in operating funds and $13,760,000 in capital improvement funds for the Judicial Branch for fiscal year 2009.
ACT 103 (08)
SB2034 HD2
Signed: May 23, 2008
AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF SPECIAL PURPOSE REVENUE BONDS TO ASSIST OCEANLINX HAWAI‘I LLC.
Authorizes up to $20 million in special purpose revenue bonds to build a 2.7 megawatt wave energy facility off the coast of Maui.
ACT 104 (08)
SB1720 SD1 HD2
Signed: May 23, 2008
RELATING TO SPECIAL PURPOSE REVENUE BONDS TO ASSIST JACOBY DEVELOPMENT, INC., A PROCESSING ENTERPRISE.
Authorizes up to $100 million in special purpose revenue bonds to build a plasma solid waste-to-energy facility in the State of Hawai‘i.
ACT 105 (08)
SB3190 HD1
Signed: May 23, 2008
RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF SPECIAL PURPOSE REVENUE BONDS TO ASSIST SOPOGY INC., IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF RENEWABLE ENERGY ON THE ISLAND OF O‘AHU.
Authorizes up to $35 million in special purpose revenue bonds to build a solar farm power plant on O‘ahu.
ACT 106 (08)
HB2245 HD1 SD2 CD1
Signed: May 23, 2008
RELATING TO THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAI‘I
Allows the University of Hawai‘i to transfer certain moneys into the commercial enterprises revolving fund to finance the establishment of new commercial enterprises at the university.
ACT 107 (08)
HB660 SD1 CD1
Signed: May 23, 2008
RELATING TO THE JURISDICTION OF THE CIRCUIT COURTS.
Expands the jurisdiction of the State circuit courts to expressly include impeachment of county elected officials.
ACT 108 (08)
HB3085 HD2 SD1
Signed: May 23, 2008
RELATING TO BUSINESS REGISTRATION
Clarifies the law relating to registration and protection of trade names and trademarks and clarifies how conflicts involving similar trade names are resolved.
ACT 109 (08)
HB3120 HD2 SD1 CD1
Signed: May 23, 2008
RELATING TO ANIMAL QUARANTINE FACILITIES
Allows the animal quarantine station at Halawa on O‘ahu to be used for animal welfare, including emergency animal shelters, at a reasonable lease rent.
ACT 110 (08)
SB2808 SD2 HD1
Signed: May 27, 2008
RELATING TO ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENTS
Clarifies the rulemaking authority of the Office of Environmental Quality Control for environmental assessments and the responsibilities when two or more state or county agencies have jurisdiction.
ACT 111 (08)
SB2895 SD1 HD1 CD1
Signed: May 27, 2008
RELATING TO OFFENSES AGAINST PUBLIC ORDER
Adds equine animals as protected under the law pertaining to cruelty to animals.
ACT 112 (08)
HB3174 HD1 SD1 CD1
Signed: May 27, 2008
RELATING TO FEDERAL FISHERIES REGULATIONS
Requires the Department of Land and Natural Resources to adopt, amend, or repeal administrative rules to be consistent with federal fisheries regulations.
ACT 113 (08)
HB3175 HD1 SD1 CD1
Signed: May 27, 2008
RELATING TO COMMERCIAL MARINE FISHING REPORTS
Ensures that fishermen report their catches in a manner consistent with federal fisheries regulations.
ACT 114 (08)
SB2054 SD2 HD2 CD1
Signed: May 27, 2008
RELATING TO FAMILY COURT
Defines the criteria to be used by family court relating to custody and visitation of minor children in child welfare cases.
ACT 115 (08)
SB2768 SD2 HD1 CD1
Signed: May 27, 2008
RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF REVENUE BONDS TO ASSIST THE MAUI REGION OF THE HAWAI‘I HEALTH SYSTEMS CORPORATION
Authorizes the issuance of up to $150 million in special purpose revenue bonds for Maui Memorial Medical Center to build a heart, brain, and vascular center on Maui.
ACT 116 (08)
HB2168 HD1
Signed: May 27, 2008
RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF SPECIAL PURPOSE REVENUE BONDS
Authorizes the issuance of up to $50 million in special purpose revenue bonds to H2 Technologies to construct a hydrogen generator appliance laboratory and hydrogen generation and conversion facilities.
ACT 117 (08)
SB2040 SD1 HD2
Signed: May 27, 2008
RELATING TO CANCER SURVEILLANCE
Removes the provision in current law that requires cancer researchers to gain permission from an individual's physician before contacting the patient, and facilitates Department of Health data collection for cancer research.
ACT 118 (08)
SB3001 SD2 HD2 CD1
Signed: May 28, 2008
RELATING TO ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Clarifies that moneys in the Public Utilities Commission Public Benefits Fund from utility ratepayers are not subject to annual legislative appropriations and are outside the State procurement code.
ACT 119 (08)
SB1491 SD1 HD2
Signed: May 28, 2008
RELATING TO CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES
Allows fees from manufacturers and distributors of controlled substances to be used to operate the State’s forensic lab and to investigate violations of the controlled substances laws. Conforms Hawai‘i’s list of controlled substances to be consistent with the official federal list.
ACT 120 (08)
HB2224 HD1 SD2
Signed: May 28, 2008
RELATING TO INSURANCE
Requires group health issuers to offer small group health plans to self-employed, non-incorporated individuals who are registered or licensed by the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs.
ACT 121 (08)
SB3174 SD2 HD2 CD1
Signed: May 29, 2008
RELATING TO AFFORDABLE HOUSING.
Increases the Hula Mae multi-family revenue bond authority from $400 million to $500 million to support the construction of affordable housing projects.
ACT 122 (08)
HB2139 HD2 SD1 CD1
Signed: May 29, 2008
RELATING TO ANATOMICAL GIFTS.
Replaces Hawai‘i’s 1988 statute with a new uniform law relating to organs, eyes, and tissue donations for transplantation and research.
ACT 123 (08)
SB2293 SD1 HD1 CD1
Signed: May 29, 2008
RELATING TO AFFORDABLE HOUSING.
Exempts new for-sale multi-family housing developments from certain restrictions to encourage the construction of more affordable housing units.
ACT 124 (08)
HB2450 HD1 SD2 CD1
Signed: May 29, 2008
RELATING TO LAND USE.
Requires the Land Use Commission to notify applicants applying for reclassification of lands adjacent to the Agricultural District of the protections included in Hawai‘i’s Right to Farm Act.
ACT 125 (08)
SB2163 SD1 HD1 CD1
Signed: May 29, 2008
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
Allows the Department of Education to employ individuals as emergency hire teachers for up to three years, in accordance with the No Child Left Behind Act.
ACT 126 (08)
SB2433 SD2 HD1
Signed: May 29, 2008
RELATING TO ‘IOLANI PALACE.
Establishes standards that the State of Hawai‘i Museum of Monarchy History (Friends of ‘Iolani Palace) must meet to receive State funds.
ACT 127 (08)
HB3352 HD2 SD2 CD1
Signed: May 29, 2008
RELATING TO AN AUDIT OF THE HAWAI‘I DISABILITY RIGHTS CENTER.
Ensures the proper use of State funds intended to assist and advocate for individuals with disabilities in Hawai‘i through a financial and management audit of the Hawai‘i Disability Rights Center.
ACT 128 (08)
SB3203 SD1 HD1 CD1
Signed: May 30, 2008
RELATING TO ANIMAL HOARDING
Makes it a misdemeanor to intentionally or knowingly possess more than 20 dogs and cats without adequate food and in injurious conditions.
ACT 129 (08)
HB2204 HD1 SD1 CD1
Signed: May 30, 2008
RELATING TO THE LIABILITY OF A FIREARM OWNER
Exempts the State and counties from absolute liability for use of a firearm owned by the State or county if it is used by a law enforcement officer outside of the course and scope of the officer’s duties.
ACT 130 (08)
HB3249 HD1 SD1 CD1
Signed: May 30, 2008
RELATING TO TRANSPORTATION
Prohibits parking motor vehicles on bicycle lanes or bike paths; establishes a fine of up to $500 per violation.
ACT 131 (08)
SB2157 SD1 HD2 CD1
Signed: May 30, 2008
RELATING TO HEALTH
Establishes parameters for the dispensing of opiate medications to relieve acute and severe chronic pain.
ACT 132 (08)
SB3166 HD1 CD1
Signed: June 2, 2008
RELATING TO THE HAWAI‘I COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
Requires that at least two of the 13 Hawai‘i Community Development Authority members represent small business and be allowed to vote.
ACT 133 (08)
SB2456 SD2 HD1 CD1
Signed: June 2, 2008
RELATING TO HARASSMENT
Creates a new misdemeanor offense of harassment by impersonation.
ACT 134 (08)
SB1961 SD1 HD1 CD1
Signed: June 3, 2008
RELATING TO BAIL
Regulates the conduct and practices of bail agents by defining them as licensed insurance producers.
ACT 135 (08)
HB2954 SD1
Signed: June 3, 2008
RELATED TO TOWING
Reinstates the authority of towing companies to charge a $15 overtime fee during nights and weekends.
ACT 136 (08)
SB3051 SD2 HD1 CD1
Signed: June 3, 2008
RELATING TO CRIMINAL HISTORY BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR SOCIAL SERVICES PROGRAMS
Authorizes designees of the State Department of Human Services to conduct criminal history record checks and child abuse registry checks on those caring for vulnerable individuals.
ACT 137 (08)
HB2326 HD2 SD1
Signed: June 3, 2008
RELATING TO MORTGAGES
Requires property consultants to provide specific information and disclosures to distressed property owners who may be facing foreclosure actions.
ACT 138 (08)
SB2454 SD1 HD1 CD1
Signed: June 3, 2008
RELATING TO MORTGAGE FORECLOSURES
Amends the mortgage foreclosures law to ensure that property owners and others receive information regarding a pending foreclosure in a timely manner.
ACT 139 (08)
SB3102 SD2 HD1 CD1
Signed: June 4, 2008
RELATING TO THE LAND CONSERVATION FUND.
Allows public and private money to be deposited into the Land Conservation Fund to acquire and maintain natural, open areas.
ACT 140 (08)
SB2423 SD2 HD2 CD1
Signed: June 4, 2008
RELATING TO LAND ACQUISITION.
Authorizes the Governor to acquire the area commonly known as Turtle Bay by outright purchase, exercising eminent domain, or by entering into a collective agreement.
ACT 141 (08)
HB2605 HD2 SD1
Signed: June 5, 2008
RELATING TO THE ARMED SERVICES.
Provides vehicle weight tax exemptions for private vehicles of Hawai‘i residents who are members of the military, including the National Guard and Coast Guard.
ACT 142 (08)
SB3019 SD1 HD2
Signed: June 5, 2008
RELATING TO INSURANCE.
Updates the Insurance Code to allow insurers more flexibility in their investments in keeping with standards set by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.
ACT 143 (08)
HB2739 HD1 SD2 CD1
Signed: June 5, 2008
RELATING TO STATE ENTERPRISE ZONES.
Amends Hawai‘i’s Enterprise Zone law to allow farming operations to qualify for tax benefits through increases in their gross sales and eases employment requirements for non-agricultural operations who wish to qualify for the enterprise zone tax benefits.
ACT 144 (08)
SB2170 SD1 HD1 CD1
Signed: June 5, 2008
RELATING TO PUBLIC LAND.
Limits the liability of counties when proper warning signs are posted at public beach parks.
ACT 145 (08)
SB2849 SD1 HD1 CD1
Signed: June 5, 2008
RELATING TO AGRICULTURAL LANDS.
Clarifies that new agricultural housing and business support services are allowed in plantation community subdivisions located on agriculturally classified lands and permits agricultural-energy facilities in agricultural districts.
ACT 146 (08)
SB3087 SD1 HD1 CD1
Signed: June 6, 2008
RELATING TO CONTRACTOR SUSPENSION ON PUBLIC WORKS PROJECTS
Suspends contractors who falsify records or delay an investigation under Hawai‘i’s wage and hour law from bidding on public works projects.
ACT 147 (08)
SB2212 SD1 HD2 CD1
Signed: June 6, 2008
RELATING TO CRIME
Amends existing kidnapping, extortion, and prostitution laws to make it easier to prosecute human trafficking offenses under Hawai‘i statutes.
ACT 148 (08)
HB2697 HD1 SD1 CD1
Signed: June 6, 2008
RELATING TO THE INTERMEDIATE APPELLATE COURT
Gives the Intermediate Court of Appeals subpoena powers and the ability to compel the attendance of witnesses.
ACT 149 (08)
SB2055 SD2 HD2 CD1
Signed: June 6, 2008
RELATING TO FAMILY COURT
Establishes the duties and standards of “child custody evaluators” who assist family court when a child is involved in a contested custody dispute.
ACT 150 (08)
HB2550 HD2 SD2 CD1
Signed: June 6, 2008
RELATING TO PUBLIC UTILITIES
Amends Hawai‘i’s net energy metering statute to provide that electric utilities shall reserve a portion of their net energy metering component for electricity generated by residential and small commercial customers.
ACT 151 (08)
SB988 SD2 HD3 CD1
Signed: June 6, 2008
RELATING TO PHOTOVOLTAIC ENERGY
Allows the PUC to determine if a rebate program should be established to promote the use of photovoltaic energy.
ACT 152 (08)
HB2971 HD1 SD2
Signed: June 9, 2008
RELATING TO EDUCATION
Expands online learning opportunities for students and teachers by requiring the Department of Education to implement recommendations of the Online Learning Task Force.
ACT 153 (08)
HB2730 HD1 SD1 CD1
Signed: June 9, 2008
RELATING TO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS FOR NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD MEETINGS
Allows neighborhood board members to attend meetings and seminars, hear public comments not on an agenda, and receive testimony without a quorum present, without violating Sunshine laws.
ACT 154 (08)
SB2150 SD2 HD2 CD1
Signed: June 9, 2008
RELATING TO ADULT PROTECTION
Increases the authority of the Department of Human Services to investigate abuse, neglect and financial exploitation of vulnerable adults.
ACT 155 (08)
HB2255 HD2 SD2 CD1
Signed: June 9, 2008
RELATING TO LIFE INSURANCE
Eliminates outdated and unnecessary restrictions relating to the purchase of and participation in employee group life insurance and disability insurance.
ACT 156 (08)
HB2710 HD2 SD2
Signed: June 9, 2008
RELATING TO THE RE-EMPLOYMENT OF RETIREES
Allows the State and counties to hire retired employees for labor shortage or difficult to fill positions without suspending the retirees’ retirement and health benefits.
ACT 157 (08)
SB1337 HD1 CD1
Signed: June 9, 2008
RELATING TO CONTEMPT OF COURT
Makes failure to pay child support a civil contempt of court after it is proven that the parent was present in court or was served with orders to pay and did not do so.
ACT 158 (08)
HB2500 HD1 SD1 CD1
Signed: June 10, 2008
RELATING TO THE STATE BUDGET.
Appropriates $10,789,367,663 in operating funds and $2,065,812,000 in capital improvement funds for fiscal year 2008-2009 that begins July 1, 2008.
ACT 159 (08)
HB118 SD1 CD1
Signed: June 10, 2008
RELATING TO STATE BONDS.
Authorizes the issuance of $805,079,000 in general obligation bonds to finance various capital improvement projects in the fiscal year 2009 supplemental budget and 2009 Judiciary supplemental budget.
ACT 160 (08)
HB2977 HD1 SD1 CD1
Signed: June 10, 2008
RELATING TO INVASIVE SPECIES.
Requires the Hawai‘i Invasive Species Council to collaborate with county organizations to address coqui frog infestation on public lands.
ACT 161 (08)
HB2955 HD1 SD1
Signed: June 10, 2008
RELATING TO ARCHAEOLOGICAL DATA.
Creates an on-line database of archaeological information managed by the Bishop Museum.
ACT 162 (08)
SB2482 SD2
Signed: June 10, 2008
RELATING TO THE HAWAI‘I INSTITUTE OF MARINE BIOLOGY.
Extends from June 30, 2008 to June 30, 2010 the lapse date for $31,000,000 in revenue bonds for the construction by the University of Hawai‘i of a laboratory and office complex at Coconut Island.
ACT 163 (08)
SB2169 SD1 HD1
Signed: June 10, 2008
RELATING TO LIQUOR LICENSES.
Allows licensed wineries in Hawai‘i to make and sell wine for distribution, as well as for on site and off site consumption.
ACT 164 (08)
SB2080 SD2 HD2 CD1
Signed: June 11, 2008
RELATING TO TEACHER LICENSURE
Allows the Hawai‘i Teacher Standards Board to suspend a teacher's license if the teacher has been convicted of a sexual offense.
ACT 165 (08)
HB2366 SD1 CD1
Signed: June 11, 2008
RELATING TO THE ORGAN DONOR REGISTRY
Establishes a statewide organ donor registry.
ACT 166 (08)
HB2511 HD1 SD2 CD1
Signed: June 11, 2008
RELATING TO RENTAL ASSISTANCE
Allows approved State Rent Supplement Program applicants up to 90 days to secure a dwelling unit after their application is approved.
ACT 167 (08)
SB2584 SD2 HD1
Signed: June 12, 2008
RELATING TO HONEY
Defines “raw unprocessed” and “processed” honey and regulates honey as a State agricultural commodity.
ACT 168 (08)
HB2253 HD2 SD1 CD1
Signed: June 12, 2008
RELATING TO AMENDING OR REPEALING VARIOUS PROVISIONS OF CHAPTER 281, HAWAI‘I REVISED STATUTES, INTOXICATING LIQUOR, FOR THE PURPOSE OF CLARIFYING LANGUAGE, CORRECTING ERRORS, AND DELETING UNNECESSARY AND OBSOLETE PROVISIONS
Makes technical changes to the State liquor laws to accurately reflect current practices and procedures relating to the licensing and regulation of the liquor industry.
ACT 169 (08)
HB2810 HD1 SD1 CD1
Signed: June 12, 2008
RELATING TO WATER RATES
Allows the Public Utilities Commission to set differential rates for agricultural activities served by a regulated private water company.
ACT 170 (08)
SB2245 SD1 HD2 CD1
Signed: June 13, 2008
RELATING TO UNATTENDED CHILDREN IN MOTOR VEHICLES
Prohibits a person from leaving a child under the age of nine alone in a motor vehicle for five or more minutes.
ACT 171 (08)
HB3377 SD2 CD1
Signed: June 13, 2008
RELATING TO HIGHWAY SAFETY
Establishes an ignition interlock law to reduce Hawai‘i’s number of alcohol-related traffic fatalities. Creates a task force to prepare for the law's implementation.
ACT 172 (08)
SB2083 SD2 HD1 CD1
Signed: June 13, 2008
RELATING TO THE SUPERVISION OF ADULT OFFENDERS
Adds three members to the Hawai‘i State Council for Interstate Adult Offender Supervision, creates a new coordinator position, and allows the Council to assess fees of probationers and parolees transferring out of state.
ACT 173 (08)
SB2146 SD2 HD1 CD1
Signed: June 13, 2008
RELATING TO THE CENTER FOR NURSING
Adds a non-managerial nurse to the advisory board of the Center for Nursing and extends the $40 fee on nurse license renewals to 2014.
ACT 174 (08)
SB3171 SD2 HD2 CD1
Signed: June 13, 2008
RELATING TO CHARITABLE TRUSTS AND NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS
Requires charitable trusts and nonprofits to register and file annual financial reports with and be reviewed for potential violations by the Attorney General.
ACT 175 (08)
HB2920 SD1 CD1
Signed: June 13, 2008
RELATING TO FRAUD PREVENTION
Strengthens penalties against notary publics who have not verified the signer of an official document or who misuse their notary powers.
ACT 176 (08)
HB2772 HD3 SD1 CD1
Signed: June 16, 2008
RELATING TO HUMAN TRAFFICKING.
Adds six members to the Anti-Human Trafficking Task Force and extends the sunset date to complete their work to June 30, 2010.
ACT 177 (08)
HB94 HD1 SD2 CD1
Signed: June 16, 2008
RELATING TO INSURANCE.
Enacts the Life Settlements Model Act, which establishes consumer protections in life settlement transactions where the owner of a life insurance policy transfers the death benefit for compensation that is less than the expected death benefit, but more than the surrender value of the policy.
ACT 178 (08)
SB2977 SD1 HD2 CD1
Signed: June 16, 2008
RELATING TO CHILD SUPPORT ENFORCEMENT.
To comply with federal law, applies the State tax refund of a custodial parent to medical costs incurred by the State on behalf of the child.
ACT 179 (08)
SB2004 SD2 HD2 CD1
Signed: June 16, 2008
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
Extends from 90 days to 180 days the deadline for a parent to request a hearing for reimbursement of costs resulting from the placement of his or her child in a special education program outside of the Department of Education.
ACT 180 (08)
SB2218 SD1 HD2 CD1
Signed: June 16, 2008
RELATING TO ELECTRONIC MONITORING.
Allows the court to order electronic monitoring of those convicted of violating a domestic abuse temporary restraining order under a two-year pilot program.
ACT 181 (08)
HB2372 HD2 SD2 CD1
Signed: June 16, 2008
RELATING TO TIME SHARE PLANS.
Allows the sale of an additional interest in a timeshare plan to an existing Hawai‘i timeshare owner in the same timeshare plan.
ACT 182 (08)
SB2879 SD2 HD1 CD1
Signed: June 17, 2008
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
Allows disabled adult students (age 18 to 20) to execute a power of attorney or allows for the appointment of an educational representative for the student to ensure his or her educational requirements are met.
ACT 183 (08)
HB523 HD2 SD1 CD1
Signed: June 17, 2008
RELATING TO CHILDREN.
Establishes eight guiding principles for the care of Hawai‘i’s foster children.
ACT 184 (08)
SB2373 SD1 HD2 CD1
Signed: June 17, 2008
RELATING TO PSEUDOEPHEDRINE SALES.
Upgrades current record keeping requirements for the sale of over-the-counter pseudoephedrine products, such as cold and allergy medicines, by mandating all pharmacies and retailers to use an electronic log by January 1, 2010.
ACT 185 (08)
HB1153 SD1 CD1
Signed: June 17, 2008
RELATING TO PRECURSORS TO THE MANUFACTURE OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES.
Authorizes law enforcement officials to seize vehicles or money involved in the transfer, possession, or sale of precursor chemicals used in the manufacturing of illicit drugs.
ACT 186 (08)
SB1487 SD2 HD2 CD1
Signed: June 17, 2008
RELATING TO CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES.
Strengthens the Uniform Controlled Substances Act by tightening drug prescription and dispensing requirements to curb prescription fraud and dispensing violations. Also adds Embutramide, a sedative, to schedule III of the controlled substances law.
ACT 187 (08)
SB2652 SD2 HD2 CD1
Signed: June 18, 2008
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
Provides pay increases for substitute teachers that are comparable to the pay increases negotiated for regular teachers and allows the Board of Education to adjust the hours, benefits, and other terms and conditions of employment for substitute teachers.
ACT 188 (08)
HB2978 HD1 SD2 CD1
Signed: June 18, 2008
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
Requires the University of Hawai‘i to submit an annual incentive and performance report to the Legislature and creates a task force to develop a funding formula for the University of Hawai‘i system.
ACT 189 (08)
SB2876 HD2 CD1
Signed: June 18, 2008
RELATING TO EMPLOYMENT SECURITY.
Appropriates $5.5 million in special unemployment funds to the Hawai‘i and Maui County Workforce Investment Boards and to the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations to assist recently dislocated workers.
ACT 190 (08)
SB3023 SD2 HD2 CD1
Signed: June 18, 2008
RELATING TO INSURANCE.
Enhances Hawai‘i’s position as one of the world’s leading captive insurance jurisdictions by authorizing the creation of both special purpose financial captive insurance companies and sponsored captive insurance companies.
ACT 191 (08)
HB2492 HD1 SD1 CD1
Signed: June 18, 2008
RELATING TO PLANNED COMMUNITY ASSOCIATIONS.
Requires the votes of each board member of a planned community association to be recorded in the minutes of the board of directors’ meetings and requires the inclusion of property restrictions in a seller’s disclosure statement.
ACT 192 (08)
HB3002 HD1 SD1 CD1
Signed: June 18, 2008
RELATING TO PROSTITUTION.
Makes habitual solicitation of a prostitute a misdemeanor.
ACT 193 (08)
HB3383 SD1 CD1
Signed: June 18, 2008
RELATING TO HAWAI‘I PENAL CODE.
Clarifies that multiple prison terms shall run concurrently unless the court orders or the law already mandates that the terms run consecutively.
ACT 194 (08)
SB2826 SD2 HD1 CD1
Signed: June 19, 2008
RELATING TO PROCUREMENT
Transfers procurement training responsibilities from the Department of Human Resources Development to the State Procurement Office and requires State procurement officers to attend mandatory training.
ACT 195 (08)
SB3009 SD2 HD2 CD1
Signed: June 19, 2008
RELATING TO MONEY TRANSMITTERS
Requires criminal background checks on money transmitters, allows sharing of data with other states and federal agencies where a money transmitter is doing business, and increases fees charged to money transmitters to regulate their industry.
ACT 196 (08)
SB3008 SD2 HD1 CD1
Signed: June 19, 2008
RELATING TO THE CODE OF FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS
Increases oversight of financial institutions chartered or licensed in Hawai‘i.
ACT 197 (08)
HB931 HD1 SD1 CD1
Signed: June 19, 2008
RELATING TO MOPEDS
Allows three-wheeled mopeds to carry a passenger and to operate on roads with speed limits of 35 miles per hour and under, if they have the proper insurance.
ACT 198 (08)
HB1356 HD2 SD2 CD1
Signed: June 20, 2008
RELATING TO HIGHER EDUCATION BOARD ALLOWANCE FOR FORMER FOSTER YOUTH
Gives former foster youth additional time to apply for and receive higher education benefits.
ACT 199 (08)
SB2730 SD2 HD2 CD1
Signed: June 20, 2008
RELATING TO CHILD PROTECTION
Allows children in need of foster care an opportunity to stay with family relatives, including hānai relatives, who are willing and able to provide a safe and nurturing home environment.
ACT 200 (08)
SB3227 SD2 HD1 CD1
Signed: June 20, 2008
RELATING TO HARBORS
Expands the authority of the Aloha Tower Development Corporation to assist in the development of the Statewide Harbors Modernization Plan and authorizes the Department of Transportation to issue revenue bonds to finance the harbor improvements.
ACT 201 (08)
HB2698 HD3 SD1
Signed: June 24, 2008
RELATING TO COURT-APPOINTED COUNSEL AND GUARDIANS AD LITEM IN FAMILY COURT
Clarifies the fees for court-appointed counsel and guardians ad litem in family court cases to $90 per hour for in-court services provided by an attorney and $60 per hour for out-of-court services provided by an attorney and all services provided by a person who is not an attorney.
ACT 202 (08)
SB2838 SD2 HD1 CD1
Signed: June 24, 2008
RELATING TO TAXATION
Allows those who file their taxes electronically to designate up to three accounts for their tax refunds and requires the Department of Taxation to continue visiting the low-income community to assist taxpayers.
ACT 203 (08)
SB2825 SD1 HD2 CD1
Signed: June 24, 2008
RELATING TO PROCUREMENT
Allows the State Procurement Officer to impose daily fines on all procurement officers when they do not comply with his determinations, including those in the Legislative and Judicial Branch.
ACT 204 (08)
SB644 SD3 HD3 CD1
Signed: June 26, 2008
RELATING TO ENERGY RESOURCES
Mandates the installation of solar water heaters or demand gas water heaters in all single-family dwellings constructed after January 1, 2010.
ACT 205 (08)
HB3331 HD2 SD2 CD2
Signed: June 27, 2008
RELATING TO CONDOMINIUMS
Identifies the types of condominium disputes subject to mediation and specifies time limits when the parties may file for arbitration or request an administrative hearing.
ACT 206 (08)
SB2159 HD1
Signed: June 27, 2008
RELATING TO PROFESSIONS
Adds licensed mental health counselors to the list of mental health practitioners who may provide services covered by health insurance and repeals the sunset provision that would delete their licensing program.
ACT 207 (08)
HB2863 HD2 SD2 CD1
Signed: July 1, 2008
RELATING TO RENEWABLE ENERGY
Establishes a renewable energy facility siting process for renewable energy projects that will provide at least 200 megawatts of green electricity.
ACT 208 (08)
HB2505 HD2 SD2 CD1
Signed: July 1, 2008
RELATING TO ENERGY
Creates a State Renewable Energy Facilitator position to expedite the processing of federal, State, and local permits necessary to construct and operate renewable energy facilities in Hawai‘i.
ACT 209 (08)
HB2261 HD2 SD1
Signed: July 1, 2008
RELATING TO AGRICULTURAL LOANS
Expands the State‘s agricultural and aquaculture loan programs to allow farmers to develop renewable energy and food safety projects for their farms.
ACT 210 (08)
HB2557 HD1 SD1 CD1
Signed: July 2, 2008
RELATING TO EVIDENCE
Limits compelled disclosure of sources or unpublished information for journalists, newscasters, and persons participating in the collection or dissemination of news or information of substantial public interest.
ACT 211 (08)
SB2915 SD2 HD1 CD1
Line Item Vetoed: July 2, 2008
Signed: July 3, 2008
RELATING TO TARO
Sets up a Taro Security and Purity Task Force.
ACT 212 (08)
SB2459 SD2 HD1 CD1
Signed: July 3, 2008
RELATING TO REMOTE DISPENSING
Improves access to medications and pharmacy services by authorizing operation of remote pharmaceutical drug dispensing machines in the state.
ACT 213 (08)
HB2272 HD2 SD2 CD1
Signed: July 3, 2008
RELATING TO QUALIFIED COMMUNITY REHABILITATION PROGRAMS
Increases the exemption from county civil service laws for personal services contracts with qualified community rehabilitation programs from $750,000 to $850,000.
ACT 214 (08)
HB2531 HD1 SD2 CD1
Line Item Vetoed: July 3, 2008
Signed: July 7, 2008
RELATING TO THE WEST MAUI TRANSPORTATION ACCESS PLAN
Establishes a West Maui transportation access plan working group to develop a plan to address periodic road closures in that region.
ACT 215 (08)
HB3178 SD2 CD1
Signed: July 7, 2008
RELATING TO CIVIL PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS ON PUBLIC LANDS
Increases civil penalty fine amounts for first, second, and subsequent violations of trespassing on or engaging in a prohibited use of public lands.
ACT 216 (08)
SB1891 SD1 HD1 CD1
Signed: July 7, 2008
RELATING TO PUBLIC LANDS
Allows the Department of Land and Natural Resources to pursue criminal penalties, as well as civil fines, for violations against public lands.
ACT 217 (08)
HB3177 HD1 SD2 CD1
Signed: July 7, 2008
RELATING TO PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS WITHIN THE CONSERVATION DISTRICT.
Increases the maximum penalties for violations within the Conservation District from $2,000 to $15,000 per day, per violation.
ACT 218 (08)
HB2438 HD2 SD2 CD1
Signed: July 7, 2008
RELATING TO CIGARETTES
Implements a program to require only reduced ignition propensity cigarettes to be sold in Hawai‘i.
ACT 219 (08)
SB2082 SD2 HD1 CD1
Line Item Vetoed: July 7, 2008
Signed: July 7, 2008
RELATING TO PUBLIC SAFETY
Instructs the Department of Public Safety to prepare a plan by January 1, 2009 to return Hawai‘i female prisoners currently incarcerated on the mainland. Read a message from the Governor.
ACT 220 (08)
SB2830 SD2 HD2 CD1
Line Item Vetoed: July 7, 2008
Signed: July 7, 2008
RELATING TO CAREGIVING
Continues the Joint Legislative Task Force on Caregiving, establishes a Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Task Force, continues the Executive Office on Aging programs on respite care and cash and counseling, and increases payments to adult residential care homes. Read a message from the Governor.
ACT 221 (08)
HB2727 HD2 SD1 CD1
Without Signature: July 9, 2008
RELATING TO HEALTH INSURANCE
Establishes a task force to research how other states cover autism spectrum disorders in their health insurance plans and to develop a plan of autism services that health insurers should be mandated to cover. Read a message from the Governor.
ACT 222 (08)
SB2449 SD2 HD2 CD1
Without Signature: July 9, 2008
RELATING TO EDUCATION
Repeals the two-year probationary period for first-time Department of Education teachers, vice-principals, and principals. Read a message from the Governor.
ACT 223 (08)
HB2872 SD2 CD2
Without Signature: July 9, 2008
RELATING TO PUBLIC LANDS
Gives priority to former lessees of recreational-residence leases in Koke‘e and Waimea Canyon State Parks by extending these leases for another 20 years. Read a message from the Governor.
ACT 224 (08)
SB3255 SD2 HD2 CD1
Without Signature: July 9, 2008
RELATING TO LONG-TERM CARE
Establishes a Hawai‘i Long-Term Care Commission to develop a five-year comprehensive plan to ensure the availability of institutional and community-based long-term care services in the State. Read a message from the Governor.
ACT 225 (08)
SB2833 SD1 HD1 CD1
Without Signature: July 9, 2008
RELATING TO SUSTAINABILITY
Requires the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa to review the Hawai‘i 2050 Sustainability Plan and to define benchmarks for each of the major goals in the plan. Read a message from the Governor.
ACT 226 (08)
SB2365 SD1 HD1 CD1
Without Signature: July 9, 2008
RELATING TO TRANSPORTATION
Establishes a $1 per day rental vehicle charge to finance the planning and design of rental motor vehicle facilities at airports statewide. Extends the existing $3 per day surcharge on rental vehicles until 2011. Read a message from the Governor.
ACT 227 (08)
SB2314 SD1 HD2 CD1
Without Signature: July 9, 2008
RELATING TO INSURANCE
Allows insurance companies with less than 5 percent of the insurance market share to bundle health, dental, vision, and life insurance policies in a single package to be able to offer cost effective insurance to sole proprietors and small businesses. Read a message from the Governor.
ACT 228 (08)
HB2486 SD1 CD1
Without Signature: July 9, 2008
RELATING TO HISTORIC PRESERVATION
Requires owners of structures at least 50 years old and owners of properties eligible for listing on the Hawai‘i or national register of historic places to provide archival-quality photographs to the Department of Land and Natural Resources as a condition of receiving a permit or approval to demolish, construct, or otherwise alter the building, without taking into consideration the condition of the building or loss of original surroundings. Read a message from the Governor.
ACT 229 (08)
SB2041 HD1 CD1
Without Signature: July 9, 2008
RELATING TO HEALTH
Appropriates $5,774,340 in State funds to secure a federal match of $7,500,000 in funding that will support Hawai‘i hospitals that have operating losses as a result of caring for the poor. Read a message from the Governor.
ACT 230 (08)
HB2781 HD2 SD2 CD1
Without Signature: July 9, 2008
RELATING TO SMALL BUSINESS.
Requires State agencies to provide additional justification for proposing rules that are more stringent than federal, state or county laws; establishes a Small Business Bill of Rights; and creates a working group to review the process and procedures related to rulemaking. Read a message from the Governor.
ACT 231 (08)
SB1804 SD2 HD2 CD1
Without Signature: July 9, 2008
RELATING TO THE TRAUMA SYSTEM SPECIAL FUND.
Adds surcharges to 15 existing traffic violations to pay a portion of trauma care expenses incurred by hospitals. Read a message from the Governor.
ACT 232 (08)
HB357 HD2 SD1 CD1
Without Signature: July 9, 2008
RELATING TO TRAFFIC SAFETY
Appropriates $1 million in general funds to study and implement intersection safety on State and county roadways. Read a message from the Governor.
ACT 233 (08)
SB2646 SD2 HD2 CD1
Without Signature: July 9, 2008
RELATING TO IMPORTANT AGRICULTURAL LANDS
Establishes incentives to private landowners who designate their property as important agricultural lands. Read a message from the Governor.
ACT 234 (08)
HB2293 HD1 SD2 CD2
Without Signature: July 9, 2008
RELATING TO AGRICULTURE
Requires the State to purchase or condemn lands from the Galbraith Estate, which are already agriculturally zoned lands within the Agricultural District, establishes terms for the purchase of the land which are not met by this bill, and does not address the liabilities the State would assume with acquisition of a portion of the Lake Wilson Reservoir. Read a message from the Governor.
ACT 235 (08)
HB2507 HD1 SD2 CD1
Without Signature: July 9, 2008
RELATING TO GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS REDUCTION
Appropriates $140,000 to establish two positions at the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to develop a regulatory framework for reducing Hawai‘i’s greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by 2020. Read a message from the Governor.
ACT 236 (08)
SB2850 SD2 HD2 CD1
Without Signature: July 9, 2008
RELATING TO BIOSECURITY
Increases expenditures outside of the biennium budget for plant and pest inspections, although program funding has already doubled from $5.5 million to $11 million within the past four years. Read a message from the Governor.
ACT 237 (08)
HB2661 HD2 SD2 CD1
Without Signature: July 9, 2008
RELATING TO SPECIAL PURPOSE REVENUE BONDS TO ASSIST INDUSTRIAL ENTERPRISES
Authorizes the issuance of $38 million in special purpose revenue bonds to Hui Mana ‘Oma‘o for a renewable energy project that is not well defined. Read a message from the Governor.
ACT 238 (08)
SB3030 SD2 HD2 CD1
Without Signature: July 9, 2008
RELATING TO MIXED MARTIAL ARTS
Authorizes additional fees on mixed martial arts promoters to cover the costs of State regulation of this sport. Read a message from the Governor.
ACT 239 (08)
SB69 SD2 HD3 CD1
Without Signature: July 9, 2008
RELATING TO HEALTH CARE
Temporarily expands until December 31, 2008 State-funded health insurance coverage to children who are uninsured as a result of their parent or guardian being employed by a Hawai‘i employer who filed for bankruptcy or ceased doing business in Hawai‘i between February 29, 2008 and September 30, 2008. Read a message from the Governor.
ACT 240 (08)
HB2763 HD1 SD1 CD1
Without Signature: July 9, 2008
RELATING TO THE CHILDREN OF INCARCERATED PARENTS TASK FORCE
Re-establishes the Children of Incarcerated Parents Task Force until June 30, 2012 although the Task Force has already ceased operations and submitted its report. Read a message from the Governor.
ACT 241 (08)
HB2062 HD1 SD2 CD1
Without Signature: July 9, 2008
RELATING TO LONG-TERM CARE
Reaffirms the importance of the “Going Home” Program implemented by the Department of Human Services in 2003 that has enabled more than 800 individuals to relocate from acute hospital settings to alternative residential care. Read a message from the Governor.
ACT 242 (08)
HB2519 HD2 SD2 CD1
Without Signature: July 9, 2008
RELATING TO HEALTH CARE
Establishes a working group to develop the “Hawai‘i Health Corps” program that would provide loan repayments and stipends to physicians and dentists who work in rural or medically underserved areas, raising fiscal concerns regarding how the State could sustain such a program now or in the future. Read a message from the Governor.
ACT 243 (08)
HB2520 HD3 SD2 CD1
Without Signature: July 9, 2008
RELATING TO CAREGIVERS
Establishes a working group to explore providing wage replacement benefits to employees who take time off from work to care for a family member, raising fiscal and fairness issues in the workplace. Read a message from the Governor.
ACT 244 (08)
HB661 HD1 SD3 CD1
Without Signature: July 9, 2008
RELATING TO CAMPAIGN SPENDING
Subsidizes candidates for political office with State taxpayer funds through a pilot public campaign funding project in the County of Hawai‘i, starting with the election in 2010. Read a message from the Governor.
