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Bill

Bill

SB 1061

RELATING TO DIGITAL EQUITY.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Henry Aquino

Hawaii SB 1061 addresses digital equity to improve broadband access and digital skills statewide, advancing from committee review to budget consideration before carrying over to 2026.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
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Bill Summary · SB 1061

Legislative bill overview

SB 1061 addresses digital equity in Hawaii, though the specific provisions are not detailed in the provided legislative history. The bill passed the Education and Training (EDT) Committee with amendments in February 2025 and was referred to the Ways and Means (WAM) Committee before being carried over to the 2026 Regular Session.

Why is this important

Digital equity—ensuring all residents have access to broadband infrastructure and digital skills—is critical for economic opportunity, educational access, and civic participation. Hawaii's geographic isolation and rural areas face particular challenges in broadband connectivity, making state-level policy intervention potentially impactful for closing the digital divide.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding mechanisms: The bill's referral to WAM suggests budget implications; questions likely exist about how digital equity initiatives will be funded (general revenues, bonds, special fees) and total fiscal impact
  • Infrastructure vs. skills focus: Unclear whether the bill prioritizes broadband physical infrastructure expansion, digital literacy training, or both—each requiring different resources and approaches
  • Implementation scope: Determining which populations, geographic areas, or communities qualify for digital equity assistance and how programs will be administered across multiple islands

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

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