HB 1518: DHS; SNAP; Incarcerated Individuals; Felony Drug Offenders; Pre-Release Application Process
- Session Year: 2025-2026
- House: House
- Latest Version Date: 2026-05-01
Current Status:
Passed
(2026-05-26: Act 028, on 05/22/2026 (Gov. Msg. No. 1128).)
Introduced
In Committee
First Chamber
In Committee
Second Chamber
Final Decking
Enacted
By 1/1/2028, requires the Department of Human Services, upon obtaining a federal waiver, to establish a pre-release Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) application process for inmates nearing release. Allows all individuals convicted of an offense involving the possession, use, or distribution of a controlled substance to apply for SNAP benefits, regardless of treatment status. (CD1)
By 2/28/27, requires the Department of Human Services, upon obtaining a federal waiver, to establish a pre-release Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) application process for inmates nearing release. Allows all individuals convicted of an offense involving the possession, use, or distribution of a controlled substance to apply for SNAP benefits, regardless of treatment status. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD1)
By 1/1/2028, requires the Department of Human Services, upon obtaining a federal waiver, to establish a pre-release Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) application process for inmates nearing release. Allows all individuals convicted of an offense involving the possession, use, or distribution of a controlled substance to apply for SNAP benefits, regardless of treatment status. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
By 1/1/2028, requires the Department of Human Services, upon obtaining a federal waiver, to establish a pre-release Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) application process for inmates nearing release. Allows all individuals convicted of an offense involving the possession, use, or distribution of a controlled substance to apply for SNAP benefits, regardless of treatment status.
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HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES |
H.B. NO. |
1518 |
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THIRTY-THIRD LEGISLATURE, 2026 |
H.D. 1 |
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STATE OF HAWAII |
S.D. 1 |
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C.D. 1 |
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A BILL FOR AN ACT
RELATING TO THE SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:
SECTION 1. The legislature finds that food security is an essential part of financial stability. To strengthen the financial security of formerly incarcerated individuals, the United States Department of Agriculture established a prisoner pre-release supplemental nutrition assistance program (SNAP) administrative waiver, which allows states to process SNAP applications and conduct eligibility interviews for individuals who are about to be released from prison or jail. The purpose of the waiver is to reduce recidivism by strengthening food security for individuals reentering the community after correctional confinement. To date, thirteen states have received a waiver to accept pre-release SNAP applications, according to the United States Department of Agriculture's Food and Nutrition Service.
The legislature further finds that federal law permanently disqualifies household members convicted of a federal or state felony offense involving the possession, use, or distribution of a controlled substance after August 22, 1996. However, federal law allows state legislatures to opt out of the disqualification or modify the disqualification to impose a less severe restriction. Hawaii state law currently allows only individuals convicted of a felony offense involving the possession, use, or distribution of a controlled substance who have successfully completed or are complying with a treatment program to receive SNAP benefits, which restricts access to basic food assistance based on the availability of drug rehabilitation programs. Twenty-eight states and the District of Columbia have opted out of this requirement entirely and impose no SNAP disqualification related to controlled substances offenses.
The legislature also finds that the department of human services is in the process of updating its benefits eligibility solution to automate tasks that are currently performed manually and expand the department's capacity to address the needs of benefit program recipients. During the regular session of 2025, the department indicated a preference for accounting for the upgrade timeline in public policy changes impacting social services so that department officials have time to plan for the implementation of changes.
The purpose of this Act is to:
(1) Require the department of human services to seek a federal waiver to establish a pre-release SNAP application process for inmates nearing release and to implement the process upon obtaining the waiver by January 1, 2028; and
(2) Allow all individuals convicted of an offense involving the possession, use, or distribution of a controlled substance to apply for SNAP benefits, regardless of treatment status.
SECTION 2. Chapter 346, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to part II to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:
"§346- Supplemental nutrition assistance program; pre‑release application process. (a) In accordance with federal guidance, the department shall establish a pre-release supplemental nutrition assistance program application process for individuals who are incarcerated and scheduled for release. The department shall:
(1) Partner with correctional facilities to identify eligible individuals within a specified time frame before their release date;
(2) Facilitate the completion and submission of supplemental nutrition assistance program applications so that benefits, if approved, are available immediately upon or shortly after release;
(3) Provide information, counseling, and assistance regarding supplemental nutrition assistance program eligibility criteria to incarcerated individuals transitioning back into the community;
(4) Seek any necessary federal waivers, approvals, or clarifications to effectuate this section; and
(5) Comply with all applicable federal rules governing supplemental nutrition assistance program application and eligibility processes, ensuring that no benefits are issued to an incarcerated individual before the individual's release.
(b) The department may adopt rules pursuant to chapter 91 to effectuate the purposes of this section."
SECTION 3. Section 346-53.3, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended to read as follows:
"[[]§346-53.3[]]
Temporary assistance for needy families and [food stamps] supplemental
nutrition assistance program for individuals with a felony conviction [which]
that has as an element the possession, use, or distribution of a
controlled substance. [Section]
(a) For purposes of the temporary
assistance for needy families program, section 115(a) of Public Law 104-193
shall not apply in Hawaii to persons who are complying with treatment or who
have not refused or failed to comply with treatment.
(b) For purposes of the supplemental nutrition assistance program, section 115(a) of Public Law 104-193 shall not apply in Hawaii."
SECTION 4. This Act does not affect rights and duties that matured, penalties that were incurred, and proceedings that were begun before its effective date.
SECTION 5. Statutory material to be repealed is
bracketed and stricken. New statutory
material is underscored.
SECTION 6. This Act shall take effect upon its approval; provided that section 2 shall take effect on January 1, 2028.
Report Title:
DHS; SNAP; Incarcerated Individuals; Felony Drug Offenders; Pre-Release Application Process
Description:
By 1/1/2028, requires the Department of Human Services, upon obtaining a federal waiver, to establish a pre-release Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) application process for inmates nearing release. Allows all individuals convicted of an offense involving the possession, use, or distribution of a controlled substance to apply for SNAP benefits, regardless of treatment status. (CD1)
The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.
|
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES |
H.B. NO. |
1518 |
|
THIRTY-THIRD LEGISLATURE, 2026 |
H.D. 1 |
|
|
STATE OF HAWAII |
S.D. 1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
||
|
|
||
A BILL FOR AN ACT
RELATING TO THE SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:
SECTION 1. The legislature finds that food security is an essential part of financial stability. To strengthen the financial security of formerly incarcerated individuals, the United States Department of Agriculture established a prisoner pre-release supplemental nutrition assistance program (SNAP) administrative waiver, which allows states to process SNAP applications and conduct eligibility interviews for individuals who are about to be released from prison or jail. The purpose of the waiver is to reduce recidivism by strengthening food security for individuals reentering the community after correctional confinement. To date, thirteen states have received a waiver to accept pre-release SNAP applications, according to the United States Department of Agriculture's Food and Nutrition Service.
The legislature further finds that federal law permanently disqualifies household members convicted of a federal or state felony offense involving the possession, use, or distribution of a controlled substance after August 22, 1996. However, federal law allows state legislatures to opt out of the disqualification or modify the disqualification to impose a less severe restriction. Hawaii state law currently allows only individuals convicted of a felony offense involving the possession, use, or distribution of a controlled substance who have successfully completed or are complying with a treatment program to receive SNAP benefits, which restricts access to basic food assistance based on the availability of drug rehabilitation programs. Twenty-eight states and the District of Columbia have opted out of this requirement entirely and impose no SNAP disqualification related to controlled substances offenses.
The legislature also finds that the department of human services is in the process of updating its benefits eligibility solution to automate tasks that are currently performed manually and expand the department's capacity to address the needs of benefit program recipients. During the regular session of 2025, the department indicated a preference for accounting for the upgrade timeline in public policy changes impacting social services so that department officials have time to plan for the implementation of changes.
The purpose of this Act is to:
(1) Require the department of human services to seek a federal waiver to establish a pre-release SNAP application process for inmates nearing release and to implement the process upon obtaining the waiver by February 28, 2027; and
(2) Allow all individuals convicted of an offense involving the possession, use, or distribution of a controlled substance to apply for SNAP benefits, regardless of treatment status.
SECTION 2. Chapter 346, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to part II to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:
"§346- Supplemental nutrition assistance program; pre‑release application program. (a) In accordance with federal guidance, the department shall establish a pre-release supplemental nutrition assistance program application process for individuals who are incarcerated and scheduled for release. The department shall:
(1) Partner with correctional facilities to identify eligible individuals within a specified time frame before their release date;
(2) Facilitate the completion and submission of supplemental nutrition assistance program applications so that benefits, if approved, are available immediately upon or shortly after release;
(3) Provide information, counseling, and assistance regarding supplemental nutrition assistance program eligibility criteria to incarcerated individuals transitioning back into the community;
(4) Seek any necessary federal waivers, approvals, or clarifications to effectuate this section; and
(5) Comply with all applicable federal rules governing supplemental nutrition assistance program application and eligibility processes, ensuring that no benefits are issued to an incarcerated individual before the individual's release.
(b) The department may adopt rules pursuant to chapter 91 to effectuate the purposes of this section."
SECTION 3. Section 346-53.3, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended to read as follows:
"[[]§346-53.3[]]
Temporary assistance for needy families and [food stamps] supplemental
nutrition assistance program for individuals with a felony conviction [which]
that has as an element the possession, use, or distribution of a
controlled substance. [Section]
(a) For purposes of the temporary
assistance for needy families program, section 115(a) of Public Law 104-193
shall not apply in Hawaii to persons who are complying with treatment or who
have not refused or failed to comply with treatment.
(b) For purposes of the supplemental nutrition assistance program, section 115(a) of Public Law 104-193 shall not apply in Hawaii."
SECTION 4. This Act does not affect rights and duties that matured, penalties that were incurred, and proceedings that were begun before its effective date.
SECTION 5. Statutory material to be repealed is bracketed and stricken. New statutory material is underscored.
SECTION 6. This Act shall take effect on July 1, 3000; provided that section 2 shall take effect on February 28, 2027.
Report Title:
DHS; SNAP; Incarcerated Individuals; Felony Drug Offenders
Description:
By 2/28/27, requires the Department of Human Services, upon obtaining a federal waiver, to establish a pre-release Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) application process for inmates nearing release. Allows all individuals convicted of an offense involving the possession, use, or distribution of a controlled substance to apply for SNAP benefits, regardless of treatment status. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD1)
The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.
|
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES |
H.B. NO. |
1518 |
|
THIRTY-THIRD LEGISLATURE, 2026 |
H.D. 1 |
|
|
STATE OF HAWAII |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
||
|
|
||
A BILL FOR AN ACT
RELATING TO THE SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:
SECTION 1. The legislature finds that food security is an essential part of financial stability. To strengthen the financial security of formerly incarcerated individuals, the United States Department of Agriculture established a prisoner pre-release supplemental nutrition assistance program (SNAP) administrative waiver, which allows states to process SNAP applications and conduct eligibility interviews for individuals who are about to be released from prison or jail. The purpose of the waiver is to reduce recidivism by strengthening food security for individuals reentering the community after correctional confinement. To date, thirteen states have received a waiver to accept pre-release SNAP applications, according to the United States Department of Agriculture's Food and Nutrition Service.
The legislature further finds that federal law permanently disqualifies household members convicted of a federal or state felony offense involving the possession, use, or distribution of a controlled substance after August 22, 1996. However, federal law allows state legislatures to opt out of the disqualification or modify the disqualification to impose a less severe restriction. Hawaii state law currently allows only individuals convicted of a felony offense involving the possession, use, or distribution of a controlled substance who have successfully completed or are complying with a treatment program to receive SNAP benefits, which restricts access to basic food assistance based on the availability of drug rehabilitation programs. Twenty-eight states and the District of Columbia have opted out of this requirement entirely and impose no SNAP disqualification related to controlled substances offenses.
The legislature also finds that the department of human services is in the process of updating its benefits eligibility solution to automate tasks that are currently performed manually and expand the department's capacity to address the needs of benefit program recipients. During the regular session of 2025, the department indicated a preference for accounting for the upgrade timeline in public policy changes impacting social services so that department officials have time to plan for the implementation of changes.
The purpose of this Act is to:
(1) Require the department of human services to seek a federal waiver to establish a pre-release SNAP application process for inmates nearing release and to implement the process upon obtaining the waiver by January 1, 2028; and
(2) Allow all individuals convicted of an offense involving the possession, use, or distribution of a controlled substance to apply for SNAP benefits, regardless of treatment status.
SECTION 2. Chapter 346, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to part II to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:
"§346- Supplemental nutrition assistance program; pre‑release application program. (a) In accordance with federal guidance, the department shall establish a pre-release supplemental nutrition assistance program application process for individuals who are incarcerated and scheduled for release. The department shall:
(1) Partner with correctional facilities to identify eligible individuals within a specified time frame before their release date;
(2) Facilitate the completion and submission of supplemental nutrition assistance program applications so that benefits, if approved, are available immediately upon or shortly after release;
(3) Provide information, counseling, and assistance regarding supplemental nutrition assistance program eligibility criteria to incarcerated individuals transitioning back into the community;
(4) Seek any necessary federal waivers, approvals, or clarifications to effectuate this section; and
(5) Comply with all applicable federal rules governing supplemental nutrition assistance program application and eligibility processes, ensuring that no benefits are issued to an incarcerated individual before the individual's release.
(b) The department may adopt rules pursuant to chapter 91 to effectuate the purposes of this section."
SECTION 3. Section 346-53.3, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended to read as follows:
"[[]§346-53.3[]]
Temporary assistance for needy families and [food stamps] supplemental
nutrition assistance program for individuals with a felony conviction [which]
that has as an element the possession, use, or distribution of a
controlled substance. [Section]
(a) For purposes of the temporary
assistance for needy families program, section 115(a) of Public Law 104-193
shall not apply in Hawaii to persons who are complying with treatment or who
have not refused or failed to comply with treatment.
(b) For purposes of the supplemental nutrition assistance program, section 115(a) of Public Law 104-193 shall not apply in Hawaii."
SECTION 4. This Act does not affect rights and duties that matured, penalties that were incurred, and proceedings that were begun before its effective date.
SECTION 5. Statutory material to be repealed is
bracketed and stricken. New statutory
material is underscored.
SECTION 6. This Act shall take effect on July 1, 3000; provided that section 2 shall take effect on January 1, 2028.
Report Title:
DHS; SNAP; Incarcerated Individuals; Felony Drug Offenders
Description:
By 1/1/2028, requires the Department of Human Services, upon obtaining a federal waiver, to establish a pre-release Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) application process for inmates nearing release. Allows all individuals convicted of an offense involving the possession, use, or distribution of a controlled substance to apply for SNAP benefits, regardless of treatment status. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.
|
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES |
H.B. NO. |
1518 |
|
THIRTY-THIRD LEGISLATURE, 2026 |
|
|
|
STATE OF HAWAII |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
||
|
|
||
A BILL FOR AN ACT
RELATING TO THE SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:
SECTION 1. The legislature finds that food security is an essential part of financial stability. To strengthen the financial security of formerly incarcerated individuals, the United States Department of Agriculture established a prisoner pre-release supplemental nutrition assistance program (SNAP) administrative waiver, which allows states to process SNAP applications and conduct eligibility interviews for individuals who are about to be released from prison or jail. The purpose of the waiver is to reduce recidivism by strengthening food security for individuals reentering the community after correctional confinement. To date, thirteen states have received a waiver to accept pre-release SNAP applications, according to the United States Department of Agriculture's Food and Nutrition Service.
The legislature further finds that federal law permanently disqualifies household members convicted of a federal or state felony offense involving the possession, use, or distribution of a controlled substance after August 22, 1996. However, federal law allows state legislatures to opt out of the disqualification or modify the disqualification to impose a less severe restriction. Hawaii state law currently allows only individuals convicted of a felony offense involving the possession, use, or distribution of a controlled substance who have successfully completed or are complying with a treatment program to receive SNAP benefits, which restricts access to basic food assistance based on the availability of drug rehabilitation programs. Twenty-eight states and the District of Columbia have opted out of this requirement entirely and impose no SNAP disqualification related to controlled substances offenses.
The legislature also finds that the department of human services is in the process of updating its benefits eligibility solution to automate tasks that are currently performed manually and expand the department's capacity to address the needs of benefit program recipients. During the regular session of 2025, the department indicated a preference for accounting for the upgrade timeline in public policy changes impacting social services so that department officials have time to plan for the implementation of changes.
The purpose of this Act is to:
(1) Require the department of human services to seek a federal waiver to establish a pre-release SNAP application process for inmates nearing release and to implement the process upon obtaining the waiver by January 1, 2028; and
(2) Allow all individuals convicted of an offense involving the possession, use, or distribution of a controlled substance to apply for SNAP benefits, regardless of treatment status.
SECTION 2. Chapter 346, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to part II to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:
"§346- Supplemental nutrition assistance program; pre‑release application program. (a) In accordance with federal guidance, the department shall establish a pre-release supplemental nutrition assistance program application process for individuals who are incarcerated and scheduled for release. The department shall:
(1) Partner with correctional facilities to identify eligible individuals within a specified time frame before their release date;
(2) Facilitate the completion and submission of supplemental nutrition assistance program applications so that benefits, if approved, are available immediately upon or shortly after release;
(3) Provide information, counseling, and assistance regarding supplemental nutrition assistance program eligibility criteria to incarcerated individuals transitioning back into the community;
(4) Seek any necessary federal waivers, approvals, or clarifications to effectuate this section; and
(5) Comply with all applicable federal rules governing supplemental nutrition assistance program application and eligibility processes, ensuring that no benefits are issued to an incarcerated individual before the individual's release.
(b) The department may adopt rules pursuant to chapter 91 to effectuate the purposes of this section."
SECTION 3. Section 346-53.3, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended to read as follows:
"[[]§346-53.3[]]
Temporary assistance for needy families and [food stamps] supplemental
nutrition assistance program for individuals with a felony conviction [which]
that has as an element the possession, use, or distribution of a
controlled substance. Section 115(a)
of Public Law 104-193 shall not apply in Hawaii [to persons who are
complying with treatment or who have not refused or failed to comply with
treatment]."
SECTION 4. This Act does not affect rights and duties that matured, penalties that were incurred, and proceedings that were begun before its effective date.
SECTION 5. Statutory material to be repealed is bracketed and stricken. New statutory material is underscored.
SECTION 6. This Act shall take effect upon its approval; provided that section 2 shall take effect on January 1, 2028.
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INTRODUCED BY: |
_____________________________ |
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Report Title:
DHS; SNAP; Incarcerated Individuals; Felony Drug Offenders
Description:
By 1/1/2028, requires the Department of Human Services, upon obtaining a federal waiver, to establish a pre-release Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) application process for inmates nearing release. Allows all individuals convicted of an offense involving the possession, use, or distribution of a controlled substance to apply for SNAP benefits, regardless of treatment status.
The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.
|
Date
|
Status
|
|---|---|
| May 26, 2026 | Act 028, on 05/22/2026 (Gov. Msg. No. 1128). |
| May 26, 2026 | Act 028, 05/22/2026 (Gov. Msg. No. 1128). |
| May 8, 2026 | Received notice of passage on Final Reading in House (Hse. Com. No. 888). |
| May 7, 2026 | Transmitted to Governor. |
| May 6, 2026 | Received notice of Final Reading (Sen. Com. No. 816). |
| May 6, 2026 | Passed Final Reading as amended in CD 1 with none voting aye with reservations; none voting no (0) and none excused (0). |
| May 6, 2026 | Passed Final Reading, as amended (CD 1). Ayes, 25; Aye(s) with reservations: none . 0 No(es): none. 0 Excused: none. |
| May 1, 2026 | 48 Hrs. Notice (as amended CD 1) 05-06-26 |
| May 1, 2026 | Reported from Conference Committee as amended CD 1 (Conf. Com. Rep. No. 112-26). |
| May 1, 2026 | Forty-eight (48) hours notice Wednesday, 05-06-26. |
| May 1, 2026 | Reported from Conference Committee (Conf Com. Rep. No. 112-26) as amended in (CD 1). |
| Apr 29, 2026 | The Conference committee recommends that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS. The votes of the Senate Conference Managers were as follows: 2 Aye(s): Senator(s) San Buenaventura, Kanuha; Aye(s) with reservations: none ; 0 No(es): none; and 1 Excused: Senator(s) Rhoads. |
| Apr 29, 2026 | The Conference Committee recommends that the measure be Passed, with Amendments. The votes were as follows: 5 Ayes: Representative(s) Marten, Belatti, Hartsfield, Iwamoto, Garcia; Ayes with reservations: none; 0 Noes: none; and 0 Excused: none. |
| Apr 28, 2026 | Conference Committee Meeting will reconvene on Wednesday 04-29-26 2:30PM in conference room 329. |
| Apr 27, 2026 | Bill scheduled for Conference Committee Meeting on Tuesday, 04-28-26 2:30PM in conference room 329. |
| Apr 27, 2026 | Received notice of Senate conferees (Sen. Com. No. 778). |
| Apr 27, 2026 | Senate Conferees Appointed: San Buenaventura Chair; Rhoads, Kanuha Co-Chairs. |
| Apr 20, 2026 | Received notice of appointment of House conferees (Hse. Com. No. 786). |
| Apr 20, 2026 | House Conferees Appointed: Marten, Belatti, Hartsfield Co-Chairs; Iwamoto, Garcia. |
| Apr 17, 2026 | Received notice of disagreement (Hse. Com. No. 780). |
| Apr 16, 2026 | House disagrees with Senate amendment (s). |
| Apr 14, 2026 | Returned from Senate (Sen. Com. No. 579) in amended form (SD 1). |
| Apr 14, 2026 | Report adopted; Passed Third Reading. Ayes, 25; Aye(s) with reservations: none . Noes, 0 (none). Excused, 0 (none). Transmitted to House. |
| Apr 10, 2026 | One Day Notice 04-14-26. |
| Apr 10, 2026 | Reported from JDC/WAM (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 3787) with recommendation of passage on Third Reading. |
| Apr 8, 2026 | The committee(s) on JDC recommend(s) that the measure be PASSED, UNAMENDED. The votes in JDC were as follows: 5 Aye(s): Senator(s) Rhoads, Gabbard, Chang, San Buenaventura, Awa; Aye(s) with reservations: none ; 0 No(es): none; and 0 Excused: none. |
| Apr 8, 2026 | The committee(s) on WAM recommend(s) that the measure be PASSED, UNAMENDED. The votes in WAM were as follows: 13 Aye(s): Senator(s) Dela Cruz, Moriwaki, DeCoite, Elefante, Hashimoto, Inouye, Kanuha, Kidani, Kim, Lee, C., Richards, Wakai, Fevella; Aye(s) with reservations: none ; 0 No(es): none; and 0 Excused: none. |
| Apr 6, 2026 | The committee(s) on JDC/WAM will hold a public decision making on 04-08-26 10:15AM; Conference Room 211 & Videoconference. |
| Mar 30, 2026 | Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to JDC/WAM. |
| Mar 30, 2026 | Reported from HHS (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 3333) with recommendation of passage on Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referral to JDC/WAM. |
| Mar 25, 2026 | The committee(s) on HHS recommend(s) that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS. The votes in HHS were as follows: 3 Aye(s): Senator(s) San Buenaventura, McKelvey, Kanuha; Aye(s) with reservations: none ; 0 No(es): none; and 2 Excused: Senator(s) Keohokalole, Fevella. |
| Mar 20, 2026 | The committee(s) on HHS has scheduled a public hearing on 03-25-26 1:40PM; Conference Room 225 & Videoconference. |
| Mar 19, 2026 | Re-Referred to HHS, JDC/WAM. |
| Mar 10, 2026 | Referred to PSM/HHS, JDC/WAM. |
| Mar 6, 2026 | Passed First Reading. |
| Mar 6, 2026 | Received from House (Hse. Com. No. 13). |
| Mar 5, 2026 | Passed Third Reading with none voting aye with reservations; none voting no (0) and Representative(s) Perruso excused (1). Transmitted to Senate. |
| Mar 5, 2026 | Reported from FIN (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 826-26), recommending passage on Third Reading. |
| Feb 26, 2026 | The committee on FIN recommend that the measure be PASSED, UNAMENDED. The votes were as follows: 16 Ayes: Representative(s) Todd, Takenouchi, Hartsfield, Hussey, Keohokapu-Lee Loy, Kitagawa, Kusch, Lee, M., Miyake, Morikawa, Perruso, Templo, Yamashita, Alcos, Gedeon, Reyes Oda; Ayes with reservations: none; Noes: none; and Excused: none. |
| Feb 24, 2026 | Bill scheduled to be heard by FIN on Thursday, 02-26-26 2:00PM in House conference room 308 VIA VIDEOCONFERENCE. |
| Feb 19, 2026 | Report adopted; referred to the committee(s) on FIN with Representative(s) Muraoka voting aye with reservations; none voting no (0) and none excused (0). |
| Feb 19, 2026 | Reported from PBS (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 534-26), recommending referral to FIN. |
| Feb 18, 2026 | The committee on PBS recommend that the measure be PASSED, UNAMENDED. The votes were as follows: 9 Ayes: Representative(s) Belatti, Iwamoto, Hashem, Ichiyama, Morikawa, Poepoe, Woodson, Shimizu, Souza; Ayes with reservations: none; 0 Noes: none; and 0 Excused: none. |
| Feb 13, 2026 | Bill scheduled for decision making on Wednesday, 02-18-26 11:30AM in conference room 411 VIA VIDEOCONFERENCE. |
| Feb 13, 2026 | The committee(s) on PBS recommend(s) that the measure be deferred until 02-18-26 at 11:30 AM. |
| Feb 11, 2026 | Bill scheduled to be heard by PBS on Friday, 02-13-26 10:00AM in House conference room 411 VIA VIDEOCONFERENCE. |
| Feb 10, 2026 | Passed Second Reading as amended in HD 1 and referred to the committee(s) on PBS with Representative(s) Muraoka voting aye with reservations; none voting no (0) and none excused (0). |
| Feb 9, 2026 | Reported from HSH (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 63-26) as amended in HD 1, recommending passage on Second Reading and referral to PBS. |
| Feb 3, 2026 | The committee on HSH recommend that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS. The votes were as follows: 9 Ayes: Representative(s) Marten, Olds, Amato, Hartsfield, Keohokapu-Lee Loy, Takayama, Takenouchi, Alcos, Garcia; Ayes with reservations: none; Noes: none; and Excused: none. |
| Jan 29, 2026 | Bill scheduled to be heard by HSH on Tuesday, 02-03-26 9:00AM in House conference room 329 VIA VIDEOCONFERENCE. |
| Jan 26, 2026 | Referred to HSH, PBS, FIN, referral sheet 1 |
| Jan 21, 2026 | Introduced and Pass First Reading. |
| Jan 14, 2026 | Prefiled. |
|
Date
|
Description
|
Location
|
Votes
|
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| May 6, 2026 | Final Reading | House Floor |
Passed |
|
| May 6, 2026 | Final Reading | Senate Floor |
Passed |
|
| Apr 14, 2026 | Third Reading | Senate Floor |
Passed |
|
| Apr 8, 2026 | The committee(s) on JDC recommend(s) that the measure be PASSED, UNAMENDED | Senate Standing Committee on Judiciary |
Passed |
|
| Apr 8, 2026 | The committee(s) on WAM recommend(s) that the measure be PASSED, UNAMENDED | Senate Standing Committee on Ways and Means |
Passed |
|
| Mar 25, 2026 | The committee(s) on HHS recommend(s) that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS | Senate Standing Committee on Health and Human Services |
Passed |
|
| Mar 5, 2026 | Third Reading | House Floor |
Passed |
|
| Feb 26, 2026 | The committee on FIN recommend that the measure be PASSED, UNAMENDED | House Standing Committee on Finance |
Passed |
|
| Feb 18, 2026 | The committee on PBS recommend that the measure be PASSED, UNAMENDED | House Standing Committee on Public Safety |
Passed |
|
| Feb 3, 2026 | The committee on HSH recommend that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS | House Standing Committee on Human Services & Homelessness |
Passed |
This list shows positions taken on this bill by organizations on the date displayed, which is linked to the original source.
Positions by individuals are not included.
|
Organization
|
Position
|
Date
|
|---|---|---|
| ACLU of Hawaiʻi | *** Support | Apr 8, 2026 |
| Agriculture Stewardship Hawaiʻi | *** Support | Mar 25, 2026 |
| Aloha Lokahi Association | ** Support | |
| Aloha United Way | ** Support | |
| Aloha United Way | ** Support | |
| AlohaCare | *** Support | Apr 8, 2026 |
| AlohaCare | *** Support | Feb 26, 2026 |
| American Civil Liberties Union of Hawaiʻi | *** Support | Apr 8, 2026 |
| Big Island Substance Abuse Council | ** Support | |
| Big Island Substance Abuse Council (BISAC) | *** Support | Feb 3, 2026 |
| Carbon Cashback Hawaiʻi; Hawaiʻi Workers Center; Honolulu Tenants Union; Hawaiʻi Tax Fairness Coalition; Clean Elections Hawaiʻi | *** Support | Feb 26, 2026 |
| Catholic Charities Hawai‘i | *** Support | Apr 8, 2026 |
| Community Alliance on Prisons | *** Support | Apr 8, 2026 |
| County of Hawai‘i Department of Research and Development | *** Support | Apr 8, 2026 |
| Department of Research and Development of the County of Hawaiʻi | ** Support | |
| department of corrections and rehabilitation | *** Support | Apr 8, 2026 |
| Department of Research and Development of the County of Hawaiʻi | ** Support | |
| Drug Policy Forum of Hawaiʻi | ** Support | |
| Food+ Policy (intern/cohort) | *** Support | Feb 3, 2026 |
| Hawaii Food Industry Association | *** Support | Apr 8, 2026 |
| Hawaii Health & Harm Reduction Center | *** Support | Apr 8, 2026 |
| Hawaii Substance Abuse Coalition | *** Support | Apr 8, 2026 |
| Hawaiʻi Hunger Action Network | ** Support | |
| Hawaiʻi Children's Action Network (HCAN) Speaks! | *** Support | Feb 12, 2026 |
| Hawaiʻi Children’s Action Network (HCAN) Speaks! | *** Support | Mar 25, 2026 |
| Hawaiʻi Correctional System Oversight Commission | *** Support | Apr 8, 2026 |
| Hawaiʻi Food+ Policy | *** Support | Mar 25, 2026 |
| Hawaiʻi Hunger Action Coalition | *** Support | Mar 25, 2026 |
| Hawai‘i Appleseed Center for Law & Economic Justice | *** Support | Feb 3, 2026 |
| Hawai‘i Appleseed Center for Law and Economic Justice | *** Support | Apr 8, 2026 |
| Hawai‘i Children's Action Network (HCAN) Speaks! | *** Support | Feb 26, 2026 |
| Hawai‘i Children’s Action Network (HCAN) Speaks! | *** Support | Apr 8, 2026 |
| Hawai‘i County Council | *** Support | Feb 26, 2026 |
| Hawai‘i County Council, District 2 | *** Support | Mar 25, 2026 |
| Hawai‘i Foodbank | *** Support | Apr 8, 2026 |
| Hawai‘i Public Health Institute | *** Support | Apr 8, 2026 |
| Hawai’i Alliance for Progressive Action (HAPA) | *** Support | Apr 8, 2026 |
| HEAL Coalition | *** Support | Apr 8, 2026 |
| Health Eating, Active Living Coalition | ** Support | |
| Healthy Living, Active Living Coalition | ** Support | |
| Healthy Eating + Active Living (HEAL) Coalition | *** Support | Apr 8, 2026 |
| Hina Mauka | ** Support | |
| Individual | *** Support | Feb 3, 2026 |
| Individual (Kalaheo) | *** Support | Feb 3, 2026 |
| Individual (Lahaina) | *** Support | Feb 3, 2026 |
| Individual (Maui) | *** Support | Feb 3, 2026 |
| Individual (mental health professional) | *** Support | Feb 3, 2026 |
| Individual (Wailuku, Maui) | *** Support | Feb 3, 2026 |
| Individual / former MEO Reintegration Program Director | *** Support | Feb 3, 2026 |
| Individual / formerly incarcerated advocate | *** Support | Feb 3, 2026 |
| Individual / UH Mānoa social work student | *** Support | Feb 3, 2026 |
| Individual / UH student | *** Support | Feb 3, 2026 |
| Individual / University of Hawaii, Manoa (Instructor) | *** Support | Feb 3, 2026 |
| Individuals (East Maui) | *** Support | Feb 3, 2026 |
| Jordan Smith Consulting (Individual) | *** Support | Feb 3, 2026 |
| Kapalama Neighborhood Security Watch | ** Support | |
| Kapalama Neighborhood Security Watch | *** Support | Feb 3, 2026 |
| Kingdom of the Hawaiian Islands | *** Support | Mar 25, 2026 |
| League of Women Voters of Hawaii | *** Support | Apr 8, 2026 |
| Malama Kaua‘i | *** Support | Mar 25, 2026 |
| Office of Hawaiian Affairs | *** Support | Mar 25, 2026 |
| Ohana Unity Party | *** Support | Mar 25, 2026 |
| Pele Lani Farm LLC | ** Support | |
| Share Your Mana (Founder) / women's mentoring coordinator | *** Support | Feb 3, 2026 |
STAND. COM. REP. NO. 826-26
Honolulu, Hawaii
, 2026
RE: H.B. No. 1518
H.D. 1
Honorable Nadine K. Nakamura
Speaker, House of Representatives
Thirty-Third State Legislature
Regular Session of 2026
State of Hawaii
Madame:
Your Committee on Finance, to which was referred H.B. No. 1518, H.D. 1, entitled:
"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO THE SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM,"
begs leave to report as follows:
The purpose of this measure is to:
(1) By January 1, 2028, require the Department of Human Services, upon obtaining a federal waiver, to establish a pre-release Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) application process for inmates nearing release; and
(2) Allow all individuals convicted of an offense involving the possession, use, or distribution of a controlled substance to apply for SNAP benefits, regardless of treatment status.
Your Committee received testimony in support of this measure from the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation; Office of Hawaiian Affairs; Hawaiʻi Correctional System Oversight Commission; Department of Research and Development of the County of Hawaiʻi; one member of the Hawaiʻi County Council; American Civil Liberties Union of Hawaiʻi; Hawaiʻi Health & Harm Reduction Center; Hawaiʻi Children's Action Network Speaks!; Hawaiʻi Public Health Institute; Health Eating, Active Living Coalition; Hawaiʻi Food+ Policy; Hawaii Substance Abuse Coalition; Community Alliance on Prisons; Hawaii Appleseed Center for Law & Economic Justice; Hawaiʻi Hunger Action Network; Hawaii Food Industry Association; Hawaiʻi Alliance for Progressive Action; AlohaCare; Aloha Lokahi Association; and numerous individuals. Your Committee received comments on this measure from the Department of Human Services.
As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Finance that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of H.B. No. 1518, H.D. 1, and recommends that it pass Third Reading.
Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Finance,
|
|
|
____________________________ CHRIS TODD, Chair |
|
|
|
|
STAND. COM. REP. NO. 534-26
Honolulu, Hawaii
, 2026
RE: H.B. No. 1518
H.D. 1
Honorable Nadine K. Nakamura
Speaker, House of Representatives
Thirty-Third State Legislature
Regular Session of 2026
State of Hawaii
Madame:
Your Committee on Public Safety, to which was referred H.B. No. 1518, H.D. 1, entitled:
"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO THE SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM,"
begs leave to report as follows:
The purpose of this measure is to require the Department of Human Services, upon obtaining a federal waiver, to establish a pre-release Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) applicable process for inmates nearing release.
Your Committee received testimony in support of this measure from the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation; Hawaiʻi Correctional Oversight System Commission; Department of Research and Development of the County of Hawaiʻi; American Civil Liberties Union of Hawaiʻi; Hawaiʻi Public Health Institute; Hawaiʻi Hunger Action Network; Hawaii Food Industry Association; AlohaCare; Hawaii Children's Action Network Speaks!; Catholic Charities Hawaiʻi; Aloha United Way; Hawaii Appleseed Center for Law & Economic Justice; Hawaii Food+ Policy; Hawaii Substance Abuse Coalition; Hina Mauka; Community Alliance on Prisons; and numerous individuals. Your Committee received comments on this measure from the Department of Human Services.
Your Committee finds that individuals leaving correctional facilities face an immediate period of vulnerability, often with limited financial resources. Ensuring timely SNAP benefits at the point of release provides a critical stabilizing resource that supports lawful reintegration and eliminates gaps in support during a high-risk reentry period.
As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Public Safety that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of H.B. No. 1518, H.D. 1, and recommends that it be referred to your Committee on Finance.
Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Public Safety,
|
|
|
____________________________ DELLA AU BELATTI, Chair |
|
|
|
|
STAND. COM. REP. NO. 63-26
Honolulu, Hawaii
, 2026
RE: H.B. No. 1518
H.D. 1
Honorable Nadine K. Nakamura
Speaker, House of Representatives
Thirty-Third State Legislature
Regular Session of 2026
State of Hawaii
Madame:
Your Committee on Human Services & Homelessness, to which was referred H.B. No. 1518 entitled:
"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO THE SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM,"
begs leave to report as follows:
Your Committee received testimony in support of this measure from the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation; Hawaii Correctional System Oversight Commission; Office of Hawaiian Affairs; Department of Research and Development of the County of Hawaiʻi; Catholic Charities Hawaiʻi; Pele Lani Farm LLC; Hawaii Substance Abuse Coalition; Community Alliance on Prisons; Hina Mauka; Hawaiʻi Public Health Institute; Healthy Living, Active Living Coalition; Hawaiʻi Alliance for Progressive Action; Hawaii Appleseed Center for Law & Economic Justice; Hawaiʻi Hunger Action Network; Aloha United Way; Hawaiʻi Children's Action Network Speaks!; Hawaiʻi Food+ Policy; Hawaii Food Industry Association; AlohaCare; Big Island Substance Abuse Council; American Civil Liberties Union of Hawaiʻi; Drug Policy Forum of Hawaiʻi; Kapalama Neighborhood Security Watch; and numerous individuals. Your Committee received comments on this measure from the Department of the Attorney General and Department of Human Services.
Your Committee finds that food security is essential in helping formerly incarcerated individuals strengthen their financial stability. Your Committee further finds that reentry research consistently finds that access to basic necessities like food and housing reduces the likelihood of recidivism. Ensuring timely access to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits for individuals leaving correctional facilities provides a critical stabilizing resource that supports lawful reintegration and reduces the pressure to return to survival-based criminal activity.
Your Committee has amended this measure by:
(1) Removing language that would have allowed certain individuals to apply for both Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families benefits, to address a single-subject title concern raised by the Department of the Attorney General in testimony; and
(2) Changing its effective date to July 1, 3000, to encourage further discussion.
Your Committee respectfully requests that as this measure moves through the legislative process, consideration be given to a proposed start date of January 1, 2028, to give sufficient time to the Department of Human Services for implementation.
As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Human Services & Homelessness that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of H.B. No. 1518, as amended herein, and recommends that it pass Second Reading in the form attached hereto as H.B. No. 1518, H.D. 1, and be referred to your Committee on Public Safety.
Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Human Services & Homelessness,
|
|
|
____________________________ LISA MARTEN, Chair |
|
|
|
|
|
Date
|
Testimony PDF
|
|---|---|
| Apr 8, 2026 | HB1518_SD1_TESTIMONY_WAM-JDC_04-08-26_.PDF |
| Mar 25, 2026 | HB1518_HD1_TESTIMONY_HHS_03-25-26_.PDF |
| Feb 26, 2026 | HB1518_HD1_TESTIMONY_FIN_02-26-26_.PDF |
| Feb 12, 2026 | HB1518_HD1_TESTIMONY_PBS_02-13-26_.PDF |
| Feb 3, 2026 | HB1518_TESTIMONY_HSH_02-03-26_.PDF |
Discussed in Hearing
4MIN
Conference Committee
1MIN
Conference Committee
27SEC
Senate Standing Committee on Ways and Means
27SEC
Senate Standing Committee on Judiciary
42SEC
Senate Standing Committee on Agriculture and Environment
5MIN
Senate Standing Committee on Economic Development and Tourism
42SEC
Senate Standing Committee on Education
42SEC
