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Bill

Bill

SB 290

RELATING TO LOBBYING.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Ron Kouchi

SB 290 modifies Hawaii's lobbying regulations to alter disclosure, registration, or restrictions on advocacy activities influencing the legislature.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
#lobbying #stateethicscommissionpackage #transparency
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Bill Summary · SB 290

Legislative bill overview

SB 290 relates to lobbying regulations in Hawaii, though the specific provisions are not detailed in the action history provided. Based on the bill number and subject matter, it likely modifies lobbying disclosure requirements, registration procedures, or restrictions on lobbying activities. The bill was introduced in January 2025 and carried over to the 2026 session after referral to the Judiciary and Civil Law (JDC) and Ways and Means (WAM) committees.

Why is this important

Lobbying regulations directly affect transparency in the legislative process and public trust in government. Changes to lobbying rules can impact how interest groups influence policy, what information the public receives about legislative advocacy, and how much money flows to support particular causes. Hawaii's lobbying framework shapes which voices get heard during the policymaking process.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition and scope of "lobbying" – Disagreement over what activities should require registration and disclosure (grassroots organizing, indirect lobbying, in-house lobbying, etc.)
  • Compliance burden vs. transparency trade-off – Stricter regulations increase transparency but may impose costs on smaller advocacy groups and nonprofits
  • Enforcement and penalties – Questions about adequate resources for enforcement and whether penalties are proportionate to violations

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

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