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Bill

Bill

HB 766

RELATING TO PUBLIC FINANCING OF ELECTIONS.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Terez Amato and 5 co-sponsors

Hawaii HB 766 would establish or modify public campaign finance programs to reduce private money's influence in elections through state-funded candidate support mechanisms.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
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Bill Summary · HB 766

Legislative bill overview

HB 766 proposes to establish or modify Hawaii's public financing system for elections. The bill was introduced in January 2025 and referred to the Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs Committee (JHA) and Finance Committee (FIN) for review. It was carried over to the 2026 legislative session, indicating it did not advance to a vote during the 2025 session.

Why is this important

Public financing mechanisms directly affect campaign finance dynamics, candidate accessibility to elections, and the influence of private money in politics. Hawaii's approach to election funding can shape who runs for office and how candidates interact with constituents versus donors.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding source: Public financing programs require taxpayer funding; disagreement likely exists over whether state resources should subsidize campaigns and what the annual fiscal impact would be
  • Candidate eligibility thresholds: Defining which candidates qualify for public funds (fundraising minimums, petition signatures, polling thresholds) affects who can viably run for office
  • Spending limits and freedom of speech: Public financing systems often impose spending restrictions; constitutional concerns about First Amendment protections versus campaign finance regulation may emerge

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

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