New Hawaii laws ring in with the new year

Drunk drivers, political donors beware

December 21, 2010 06:05 PM

HONOLULU—The folks at the Hawaii House Blog listed some of the new laws most likely to affect Hawaii residents beginning January 1, 2011:

HB1985 Relating to Taxation
Part I of the bill is amended to repeal the deduction of political contributions from taxable income. This becomes effective on January 1, 2011 and applies to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2010.

HB2003 Relating to Campaign Financing
Corporations that contribute $1,000 or more to a candidate or candidate committee within a two-year election cycle must file a report to the Campaign Finance Commission.

HB2397 Relating to Primary Elections
Changes the date of Hawaii’s Primary Election from the second-to-the-last Saturday in September to the second Saturday of August.

HB2725 Relating to Animals
In relation to the humane treatment of animals, the new law defines primary pet enclosure to mean any kennel, cage, or structure used to restrict an animal to a limited amount of space. Redefines the term “necessary sustenance” by expanding the area of confinement, and to include veterinary care when needed to prevent suffereing.

SB2548 Relating to Information Technology
Establishes a Chief Information Officer and information technology steering committee within the Office of the Governor to develop, implement, and manage a statewide information technology strategic plan.

SB2599 Relating to Health Insurance
Requires coverage for the screening of colorectal cancer by colonoscopy and any other screening modalities that have received a grade of A or B from the U.S. Preventative Service Task Force. Beginning March 1, 2011, requires all health insurance providers to inform their insured of the risk associated with undiagnosed colorectal cancer.

SB2897 Relating to Highway Safety
Enacts recommendations of the Ignition Interlock Implementation Task Force.