Bill > HB2

This bill amends existing Hawaii law to expand the ability of local communities to protest liquor license renewals near schools or parks. Currently, the law allows registered voters within 500 feet of a liquor establishment to protest the initial issuance of a new liquor license, but not its renewal. The bill changes this by modifying Section 281-39.5 of Hawaii Revised Statutes to apply the protest provisions to both new license issuances and license renewals. The legislature's reasoning is that residents might become more aware of an establishment's impact over time and may want to protest its continued operation after observing its effects. By allowing protests during license renewal, the bill gives communities an additional opportunity to potentially prevent liquor licenses from being automatically renewed if they believe the establishment is causing problems or negatively impacting the surrounding neighborhood. The bill does not affect any rights, penalties, or proceedings that occurred before its effective date and will take effect immediately upon approval.

Business and Industry

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=2&year=2026