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GM 1303

Informing the Legislature that on June 9, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: HB1052 HD1 SD2 CD1 (ACT 202).

2025 Regular Session

Act 202 enhances telecommunications access for individuals with disabilities in Hawaii, ensuring essential services and information are available to the blind and visually impaired.

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Bill Summary · GM 1303

Summary of Bill GM 1303

Bill Number: GM 1303
Title: Informing the Legislature that on June 9, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: HB1052 HD1 SD2 CD1 (ACT 202).
Status: Received
Introduced: June 09, 2025
Classification: Proclamation
Subject: Act 202

Purpose and Intent

Bill GM 1303 serves as a formal notification to the legislature that the Governor of Hawaii has signed into law House Bill 1052, which is now known as Act 202. The primary intent of Act 202 is to enhance the Universal Service Program, ensuring that essential telecommunications services are accessible to individuals with disabilities, particularly those who are blind or visually impaired.

Key Provisions

Act 202 includes several significant amendments and provisions:

  1. Universal Service Program Establishment:

    • The bill reaffirms the establishment of the Universal Service Program, which aims to maintain affordable telecommunications services for all residents, especially those in high-cost areas and individuals with disabilities.

  2. Funding and Administration:

    • The bill clarifies the authority of the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) to manage the Universal Service Fund, which is essential for supporting the program.
    • It allows the PUC to use funds from the Universal Service Fund to provide free telephonic access to time-sensitive information for individuals with print disabilities, with a cap of $150,000 on expenditures for this purpose.

  3. Enhanced Accessibility:

    • Act 202 mandates that the PUC ensures access to essential telecommunications services for individuals with print disabilities, including providing information on public notices, emergency alerts, and job opportunities.

  4. Contributions to the Fund:

    • The bill specifies that contributions to the Universal Service Fund will be based on the gross operating revenues from the retail provision of intrastate telecommunications services.

  5. Implementation Timeline:

    • The Act takes effect immediately upon approval, which occurred on June 9, 2025.

Impact

The enactment of Act 202 is expected to have a positive impact on:

  • Individuals with Disabilities: The bill directly benefits individuals who are blind or visually impaired by ensuring they have access to essential telecommunications services and information.
  • Telecommunications Carriers: The bill establishes clearer guidelines for telecommunications carriers regarding their contributions to the Universal Service Fund.
  • Public Utilities Commission: The PUC gains explicit authority to manage and implement the Universal Service Program effectively.

Conclusion

Bill GM 1303 serves as an important legislative proclamation that highlights the Governor's approval of Act 202, which aims to improve telecommunications accessibility for individuals with disabilities in Hawaii. By clarifying funding mechanisms and administrative authority, the bill seeks to enhance the overall effectiveness of the Universal Service Program.

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

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