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GM 1318

Informing the Legislature that on June 25, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: SB1526 SD2 HD1 CD1 (ACT 216).

2025 Regular Session

Act 216 establishes a state toxicology lab for drug and alcohol testing in Hawaii, enhancing public health and safety through reliable testing services statewide.

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Bill Summary · GM 1318

Summary of GM 1318: Informing the Legislature of Act 216

Bill Information:
- Bill Number: GM 1318
- Title: Informing the Legislature that on June 25, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: SB1526 SD2 HD1 CD1 (ACT 216).
- Status: Received
- Introduced: June 25, 2025
- Classification: Proclamation
- Subject: Act 216

Purpose and Intent

GM 1318 serves as a formal notification to the Hawaii State Legislature that the Governor, Josh Green, M.D., has signed into law Senate Bill 1526 (SB 1526), which is now designated as Act 216. The primary purpose of Act 216 is to establish a state laboratory for drug and alcohol toxicology testing, which is deemed essential for ensuring the health and safety of communities across Hawaii.

Key Provisions

  1. Establishment of a Toxicology Testing Laboratory:

    • The Act mandates the creation of a state laboratory dedicated to drug and alcohol testing.
    • This facility aims to provide timely, accurate, and reliable toxicology testing services statewide.

  2. Coordination Between Agencies:

    • The Department of Health will work closely with county governments to implement the laboratory effectively.
    • The Act emphasizes the need for consistent standards and practices across the state to meet the diverse needs of all counties.

  3. Timeline Extension:

    • Act 216 extends the timeline for the establishment and maintenance of the toxicology testing laboratory.
    • This extension allows for adequate time to build, equip, and set up the necessary administrative framework for the laboratory's operations.

  4. Financial Provisions:

    • The Act amends previous appropriations related to the establishment of the laboratory, ensuring that funds allocated for this purpose do not lapse at the end of the fiscal year.
    • Specifically, unencumbered funds from the appropriations for fiscal years 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 will remain available until June 30, 2028.

Impact

  • Communities: The establishment of the toxicology testing laboratory is expected to enhance public health and safety by providing reliable testing services for drug and alcohol use.
  • Government Agencies: The collaboration between the Department of Health and county governments will facilitate better resource management and service delivery.
  • Funding: The financial provisions ensure that necessary funding remains accessible for the laboratory's establishment, thereby supporting its long-term sustainability.

Procedural Aspects

  • Effective Date: Act 216 will take effect on June 29, 2025.
  • Legislative Process: The bill was passed by both the Senate and the House of Representatives on April 30, 2025, before being signed into law by the Governor on June 25, 2025.

In summary, GM 1318 serves as a crucial communication regarding the establishment of a drug and alcohol toxicology testing laboratory in Hawaii, highlighting the importance of public health and the collaborative efforts required to achieve this goal.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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