Bill > HB298

This bill proposes a constitutional amendment to establish term limits for Hawaii state legislators, limiting them to a maximum of twelve years total across the house of representatives and senate, with terms beginning on or after the 2026 general election. The bill is based on a 2023 Pew Research study showing widespread public support for legislative term limits and notes that fifteen other states already have similar restrictions. The proposed amendment would modify the existing constitutional language to include the twelve-year limitation, while ensuring that legislators who have already served beyond twelve years would not be disqualified. The change would apply to both house of representatives members (who serve two-year terms) and senate members (who serve four-year terms), and would require voter approval through a ballot measure. The ballot question will specifically ask voters if they support limiting legislators to twelve years of service across both chambers. If approved, the amendment would take effect upon compliance with the state constitution's amendment procedures, aiming to address public concerns about career politicians and potential legislative stagnation.

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https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=298&year=2026