Bill > SCR26

This concurrent resolution urges the Hawaii State Ethics Commission to formally recognize that gifts that are culturally significant and customary, such as lei, traditional foods, or pa?akai (Hawaiian salt), should be exempt from the gift restrictions and reporting requirements outlined in Chapter 84 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, provided these gifts are not given with the intent to improperly influence official actions. The resolution emphasizes that these exchanges are deeply rooted expressions of aloha, respect, and cultural protocol, which enrich civic life and strengthen community bonds, and that treating them as commercial gifts creates confusion and discourages important cultural participation. It further encourages the Commission to issue clear guidelines to ensure these cultural practices are understood and respected within the framework of ethics laws.

Government Affairs, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SCR&billnumber=26&year=2026