State lawmakers agreed to $19.7 million of extra funds for positions and other programs at state departments over the next two fiscal years.

The agreement reached Thursday in House Bill 116 is in addition to a $16 billion spending plan lawmakers approved in March.

“By passing the governor’s base operating budget early rather than in the dying moments of the session, we were able to engage in meaningful discussions on other critical funding requests,” Rep. Sylvia Luke, chair fo the House Finance Committee, said in a press release.

Some of those requests include $1.8 million to fund 23 positions for the Hookipa Cottage at the Women’s Community Correctional Center. There’s also $2.6 million to the state Department of Public Safety to cover pharmacy costs.

Lawmakers also approved $1 million in 2020 to hold the Festival of the Pacific Arts in Honolulu, and $2.2 million over two years for cybersecurity enhancements in the state Office of Enterprise Technology Services.

Help power essential news and information

As a local newsroom, Civil Beat has a unique public service role in times of need. Your support ensures that we can pivot when emergencies arise and get vital information out to everyone, from all communities.

Support timely and accurate breaking news stories as well as impactful coverage across the state. Donate today.

About the Author