Former Hawaiʻi Department of Human Services Director Ryan Yamane is not the only top child welfare official departing the agency as lawmakers made some efforts this year to improve the system.

Teachers say lawmakers made significant progress boosting educator morale and retention this session, but debates about campus repairs and construction are ongoing.

The proposed law, which awaits the governor’s signature, would also bar youth who have been trafficked or sexually abused from being charged as adults for crimes in which their abuser is the victim.

The new bill would mandate helmets for anyone under 18, ban wheelies or stunt riding on public streets, and place other age restrictions on riding.

Lawmakers, farmers and agriculture advocates found tens of millions of dollars for key infrastructure projects this legislative session.

The state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands came away with some funds but will need to look for other revenue sources.

State leaders say the program will improve teacher retention and recruitment by providing more mentorship and financial support to prospective educators.

While fears of retaliation blocked similar bills last year, reaction to national events and realities of local enforcement eased passage of immigrant legislation in 2026.

The legislation would make Hawaiʻi one of the first states to sidestep the Citizens United U.S. Supreme Court case that allows unlimited corporate spending in local elections. 

Hawaiʻi allowed the shipping company to keep the money while awaiting a rate increase but now wants millions more in penalties and interest.