Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

Hawaii House Bill HB1613

Introduced
1/21/26  
Refer
1/26/26  
Report Pass
2/17/26  
Refer
2/17/26  
Report Pass
3/5/26  
Engrossed
3/5/26  
Refer
3/10/26  
Report Pass
3/24/26  

Caption

Relating To The Hawaii Technology Development Corporation.

Impact

The legislation will enact structural changes within the Hawaii Technology Development Corporation to support statewide initiatives. Appropriating funds will help the Corporation establish full-time positions dedicated to managing efforts in advanced manufacturing and cybersecurity, enhancing technical support for local manufacturers, and promoting workforce readiness in these essential sectors. With the pending cessation of federal funding previously facilitating such initiatives, this bill seeks to bridge the gap and support Hawaii's technological landscape effectively.

Summary

House Bill 1613 aims to strengthen Hawaii's technology ecosystem by appropriating funds to establish positions focused on advanced manufacturing and cybersecurity. It comes in response to previous recommendations for the Hawaii Technology Development Corporation to enhance its focus on these areas to bolster economic growth and diversification. The bill recognizes that advanced manufacturing and cybersecurity are critical for fostering a resilient economy, securing supply chains, and developing a skilled workforce capable of meeting the demands of modern industries.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1613 appears favorable among legislators who acknowledge the importance of strengthening the technology sector in Hawaii. Advocates cite the bill as a proactive measure toward securing high-wage job opportunities and bolstering the local economy. Nonetheless, there are underlying concerns regarding funding allocations and the effectiveness of the initiatives proposed, although specific contentions were not notably highlighted in the discussions surrounding the bill.

Contention

While unanimous support might be anticipated for initiatives enhancing workforce development and industry support, potential contention could arise regarding budget appropriations and the effectiveness of the proposed positions. Additionally, stakeholders may question how these initiatives will align with the current economic landscape and existing programs. The ongoing dialogue will determine the broader acceptance of this legislation as it impacts the interrelationship between state economic strategies and local industry needs.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

HI HB454

Relating To The Hawaii Technology Development Corporation.

HI SB992

Relating To The Hawaii Technology Development Corporation.

HI HB1011

Relating To The Hawaii Technology Development Corporation.

HI HB1176

Relating To The Hawaii Technology Development Corporation.

HI SB1330

Relating To The Hawaii Technology Development Corporation.

HI SCR40

Requesting The Hawaii Technology Development Corporation To Increase Its Focus On Advanced Manufacturing And Cybersecurity To Allow Local Manufacturers To Expand Production, Lower Costs, And Create New Products.

HI SCR35

Requesting The Hawaii Technology Development Corporation To Initiate The Planning Of A Health Care Technology Hub In Kakaako To Accelerate The Adoption Of Health Care Technology And Promote The Development And Growth Of Hawaii's Highly Skilled Health Care Workforce.

HI SR24

Requesting The Hawaii Technology Development Corporation To Increase Its Focus On Advanced Manufacturing And Cybersecurity To Allow Local Manufacturers To Expand Production, Lower Costs, And Create New Products.

HI HCR156

Requesting The Hawaii Technology Development Corporation To Increase Its Focus On Advanced Manufacturing And Cybersecurity To Build A Stronger, Diversified Economy, Create High-wage Job Opportunities, And Position Hawaii As A Leader In Innovation And National Security In The Pacific.

HI HR151

Requesting The Hawaii Technology Development Corporation To Increase Its Focus On Advanced Manufacturing And Cybersecurity To Build A Stronger, Diversified Economy, Create High-wage Job Opportunities, And Position Hawaii As A Leader In Innovation And National Security In The Pacific.

Similar Bills

HI SB3166

Relating To The Hawaii Technology Development Corporation.

HI HB449

Relating To Economic Development.

HI HB449

Relating To Economic Development.

HI SR24

Requesting The Hawaii Technology Development Corporation To Increase Its Focus On Advanced Manufacturing And Cybersecurity To Allow Local Manufacturers To Expand Production, Lower Costs, And Create New Products.

HI SCR40

Requesting The Hawaii Technology Development Corporation To Increase Its Focus On Advanced Manufacturing And Cybersecurity To Allow Local Manufacturers To Expand Production, Lower Costs, And Create New Products.

HI HR151

Requesting The Hawaii Technology Development Corporation To Increase Its Focus On Advanced Manufacturing And Cybersecurity To Build A Stronger, Diversified Economy, Create High-wage Job Opportunities, And Position Hawaii As A Leader In Innovation And National Security In The Pacific.

HI HCR156

Requesting The Hawaii Technology Development Corporation To Increase Its Focus On Advanced Manufacturing And Cybersecurity To Build A Stronger, Diversified Economy, Create High-wage Job Opportunities, And Position Hawaii As A Leader In Innovation And National Security In The Pacific.

NJ A768

Permits testing and use of autonomous vehicles on State roadways under certain circumstances.