summary
Introduced
01/28/2026
01/28/2026
In Committee
02/18/2026
02/18/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
Clarifies that untaxed tobacco products are subject to forfeiture as contraband, without regard to the procedures set forth in Hawaii's asset forfeiture law in the same manner as untaxed cigarettes. Confirms the authority of the Department of Taxation and the Department of the Attorney General to inspect and seize tobacco products, including electronic smoking devices and e-liquids. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
AI Summary
This bill clarifies that untaxed tobacco products, including electronic smoking devices and e-liquids, are considered contraband and can be seized and forfeited by the State of Hawaii without needing to follow the specific procedures outlined in Hawaii's asset forfeiture law (chapter 712A, Hawaii Revised Statutes), similar to how untaxed cigarettes are already handled. It also explicitly confirms the authority of the Department of Taxation and the Department of the Attorney General to inspect and seize these tobacco products to ensure taxes are paid and laws are followed. This update is necessary to extend enforcement powers to newer tobacco products that were recently taxed by a 2023 law.
Committee Categories
Budget and Finance, Justice
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Passed Second Reading as amended in HD 1 and referred to the committee(s) on FIN with none voting aye with reservations; none voting no (0) and none excused (0). (on 02/18/2026)
Official Document
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=HB&billnumber=2256&year=2026 |
| BillText | https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/sessions/session2026/bills/HB2256_HD1_.HTM |
| Committee Report HB2256_HD1_HSCR466-26_ | https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/sessions/session2026/CommReports/HB2256_HD1_HSCR466-26_.pdf |
| HB2256_TESTIMONY_JHA_02-12-26_ | https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/sessions/session2026/Testimony/HB2256_TESTIMONY_JHA_02-12-26_.PDF |
| BillText | https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/sessions/session2026/bills/HB2256_.HTM |
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