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Bill

Bill

SB 800

RELATING TO REGULATION OF LICENSED OCCUPATIONS.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Karl Rhoads

Hawaii SB 800 modifies occupational licensing regulations, currently under committee review with implications for workforce standards and service accessibility across the state.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
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Bill Summary · SB 800

Legislative bill overview

SB 800 is a Hawaii bill relating to the regulation of licensed occupations, though specific regulatory changes are not detailed in the available legislative history. The bill was introduced on January 17, 2025, passed first reading, and was referred to the Consumer Protection and Commerce Committee (CPN) before being carried over to the 2026 legislative session.

Why is this important

Occupational licensing regulations directly affect workforce mobility, consumer access to services, and professional standards across Hawaii's economy. Changes to licensing requirements can impact job creation, cost of services, and protections for both practitioners and the public, making this a substantive policy matter for multiple stakeholder groups.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of regulatory changes: Without seeing the bill text, it's unclear whether it expands, reduces, or modifies licensing requirements—each approach raises different concerns about consumer protection versus market access
  • Professional versus consumer interests: Licensed professions may resist changes that lower barriers to entry, while consumers and business groups may push for deregulation to reduce costs and increase competition
  • Grandfather provisions and implementation: How existing licensed practitioners are affected and transition timelines could generate significant debate among affected professionals

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

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