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Bill

Bill

SB 418

RELATING TO REGULATORY SUNSET REVIEW IN HAWAII.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Stanley Chang and 6 co-sponsors

Hawaii SB 418 establishes regulatory sunset review requiring periodic legislative reauthorization of administrative rules to eliminate outdated regulations while potentially creating business uncertainty.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
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Bill Summary · SB 418

Legislative bill overview

SB 418 establishes or modifies a regulatory sunset review process in Hawaii, requiring periodic evaluation and reauthorization of administrative rules and regulations. The bill creates a structured timeline for agencies to justify the continued existence of their regulations, with rules expiring unless affirmatively renewed by the legislature or agency action.

Why is this important

Regulatory sunset provisions are designed to prevent regulatory accumulation and ensure rules remain necessary and effective. This mechanism can reduce outdated or burdensome regulations but also creates uncertainty for businesses and individuals who depend on existing rules, and requires significant legislative time for routine reauthorizations.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory stability vs. reform: Businesses may oppose sunset clauses that create uncertainty about rule continuation, while regulatory reform advocates support mechanisms to eliminate obsolete regulations
  • Legislative workload: The bill could substantially increase legislative burden by requiring periodic review of numerous regulations, potentially crowding out other legislative priorities
  • Implementation timeline: Depending on the sunset schedule, agencies and regulated entities may face compliance challenges during transition periods or rule lapses

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

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