summary
Introduced
01/23/2026
01/23/2026
In Committee
02/04/2026
02/04/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
Repeals language in the State's Code of Ethics that exempts the legislative and judicial branches from prohibitions against nepotism in public employment.
AI Summary
This bill aims to strengthen ethics in government by extending prohibitions against nepotism, which is the practice of favoring relatives or friends in employment or other advantages, to all branches of the state government. Currently, while most state employees are restricted from hiring, supervising, or awarding contracts to their relatives or household members, employees in the legislative and judicial branches have been exempt from these rules. This bill removes that exemption, meaning that individuals working in the legislature and the courts will now be subject to the same ethical standards as other state employees, ensuring greater fairness and accountability across the entire government.
Committee Categories
Government Affairs, Justice
Sponsors (7)
Stanley Chang (D)*,
Troy Hashimoto (D)*,
Jarrett Keohokalole (D)*,
Michelle Kidani (D)*,
Donna Kim (D)*,
Sharon Moriwaki (D)*,
Joy San Buenaventura (D),
Last Action
The committee(s) on JDC recommend(s) that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS. The votes in JDC were as follows: 4 Aye(s): Senator(s) Rhoads, Gabbard, San Buenaventura, Awa; Aye(s) with reservations: none ; 0 No(es): none; and 1 Excused: Senator(s) Chang. (on 02/20/2026)
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=2661&year=2026 |
| SB2661_TESTIMONY_JDC_02-13-26_ | https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/sessions/session2026/Testimony/SB2661_TESTIMONY_JDC_02-13-26_.PDF |
| BillText | https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/sessions/session2026/bills/SB2661_.HTM |
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