Bill > HB2238

This bill establishes a comprehensive system of public financing for candidates running for state and county offices in Hawaii, set to begin with the 2028 general election. Known as "clean elections," this voluntary program aims to reduce the influence of private donors by providing public funds to candidates who agree to limit their fundraising and spending to these public sources, after demonstrating support from voters through a minimum number of small, qualifying contributions (exactly $5 each). Candidates who participate and are elected will also be subject to these restrictions throughout their term in office. The bill outlines specific eligibility requirements, including residency and voter registration, and details the amounts of public funding available for different offices, which will be adjusted annually for inflation. It also includes provisions for "seed money" to help candidates test their viability, reporting requirements for all campaign finances, and penalties for violations, such as repaying public funds and facing fines. The Campaign Spending Commission is tasked with administering the program, creating necessary forms, providing candidate training, and submitting progress reports to the Legislature, with a significant appropriation of over $30 million allocated to fund the program.

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https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=2238&year=2026