Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SB781

Introduced
1/17/25  
Refer
1/23/25  
Report Pass
2/13/25  

Caption

Relating To The Judiciary's olelo Hawaii Initiatives.

Impact

The legislation is set to enhance the accessibility of judicial services for speakers of Ōlelo Hawaii, reflecting a broader commitment to cultural preservation within state-operated entities. This initiative will likely improve the public's interaction with the judiciary by ensuring that legal terminologies and services are available in both official languages, thus fostering inclusivity and support for the Native Hawaiian community.

Summary

SB781, also known as the Judiciary's Ōlelo Hawaii Initiatives Bill, aims to appropriate funds to bolster efforts in providing resources, interpreter, and translation services in Ōlelo Hawaii, the Hawaiian language. This initiative is in alignment with the Hawaii State Constitution, which recognizes both English and Ōlelo Hawaii as official state languages and emphasizes the need for the preservation and promotion of Native Hawaiian culture and history.

Sentiment

Overall, there appears to be a supportive sentiment surrounding SB781, especially among groups advocating for Native Hawaiian rights and cultural preservation. While some view it as a necessary step towards broader linguistic inclusivity in public services, others might question the adequacy of funding and resources allocated for implementation.

Contention

A notable point of contention may arise around funding adequacy and the efficacy of the judiciary in utilizing the appropriated funds as intended. Concerns might be voiced regarding whether the initiative will significantly impact the everyday use of Ōlelo Hawaii within legal contexts, as well as the accountability measures for the appropriated funds to ensure they serve the community’s needs efficiently.

Companion Bills

HI SB781

Carry Over Relating To The Judiciary's olelo Hawaii Initiatives.

Previously Filed As

HI SB781

Relating To The Judiciary's olelo Hawaii Initiatives.

HI HB146

Relating To The Judiciary's lelo Hawaii Initiatives.

HI SB109

Relating To The Hawaiian Language.

HI HB304

Relating To The Hawaiian Language.

HI SB613

Relating To The Hawaiian Language.

HI HB1460

Relating To The Hawaiian Language.

HI SB199

Relating To Hawaiian Culture.

HI HCR124

Encouraging The Kawaihuelani Center For Hawaiian Language Of The University Of Hawaii At Manoa To Further Provide Learning Resources And Opportunities That Promote Hawaiian Language And Culture.

HI HR120

Encouraging The Kawaihuelani Center For Hawaiian Language Of The University Of Hawaii At Manoa To Further Provide Learning Resources And Opportunities That Promote Hawaiian Language And Culture.

HI SB903

Relating To Hawaiian Affairs.

Similar Bills

HI HB146

Relating To The Judiciary's lelo Hawaii Initiatives.

HI HB146

Relating To The Judiciary's lelo Hawaii Initiatives.

HI SB173

Relating To Child Care.

HI SB173

Relating To Child Care.

HI SB2442

Relating To Purchase Of Service Contracts By The Judiciary.

HI HB2369

Relating To Purchase Of Service Contracts By The Judiciary.

HI SB781

Relating To The Judiciary's olelo Hawaii Initiatives.

HI SB861

Relating To Expungement.