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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 172

Legislative bill overview

SB 172 is a Hawaiian liquor-related bill introduced by Senators Karl Rhoads, Sharon Moriwaki, and Carol Fukunaga. The bill was introduced in January 2025 and has been referred to the Economic and Workforce Development Committee (EIG/CPN) and Judiciary Committee (JDC) for consideration. It was carried over to the 2026 Regular Session, meaning it did not advance to a vote during the 2025 session.

Why is this important

Liquor legislation affects public health policy, local business regulation, tax revenue, and consumer access. The specific provisions of SB 172 would shape how alcohol is licensed, distributed, taxed, or regulated in Hawaii—impacting everything from small retailers to hospitality businesses and community safety standards.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory scope uncertainty – Without the bill's full text, key questions remain about whether it expands or restricts alcohol licensing, which could benefit or burden existing businesses and new market entrants
  • Tax and revenue implications – Changes to liquor regulation often affect state and county tax collection, creating potential conflicts between revenue needs and business competitiveness
  • Public health vs. commerce – Liquor bills frequently balance reducing harmful consumption against supporting the alcohol industry and hospitality sector, two goals that can conflict

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

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