Senate communications director Richard Rapoza says if people watched more closely how the chamber functions, they might be impressed.

Dozens of bills introduced by the state House and Senate augur well for major improvements if lawmakers can actually seal the deals.

The measure that now goes to the Senate would apply to having 3 grams of marijuana or less, which still could result in a $200 fine.

The measure would form a task force to find ways to make emergency mental health admissions more efficient, and better protect the public.

At the session’s halfway point, several new measures have support. But some current initiatives will expire if action isn’t taken.

Proposed legislation would repeal the requirement for more audits. But added scrutiny has already led state finance officials to withhold $40 million from HART.

The measure increasing the statewide general excise tax by 0.5 percent was one of many bills clearing their first chamber as the session’s midpoint nears.

The Hawaii House and Senate are also voting on separate proposals to eliminate the statute of limitations for child sex abuse claims.

Despite passing the Hawaii House with unanimous support, the bill may face a rockier time in the Senate.

A guide to selfies, all-age rages and swiping left for aging pols.