Bill > SR23

This resolution urges the Hawaii State Ethics Commission to officially recognize that gifts which are culturally significant and customary, such as lei, traditional foods, and Hawaiian salt (pa?akai), should be exempt from the gift restrictions and reporting requirements outlined in Chapter 84 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, provided these gifts are not intended to improperly influence official actions. The resolution emphasizes that these exchanges are deeply rooted expressions of respect, gratitude, and cultural protocol within Hawaii, enriching civic life and community relationships, and that requiring their valuation or reporting as commercial gifts creates unnecessary burdens and can deter cultural participation, which is contrary to the state's values. It further encourages the Ethics Commission to issue clear guidelines to ensure these cultural practices are understood and applied appropriately within ethics laws.

Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SR&billnumber=23&year=2026