The Legislature

The Hawaii State Legislature is the bicameral lawmaking body of the State of Hawaii, consisting of the 51-member House of Representatives and the 25-member Senate. The legislature enacts state laws, adopts the state budget, levies taxes, and has the power to confirm gubernatorial appointments and propose constitutional amendments. It convenes annually in Honolulu beginning in January for a regular session that typically runs through May.

Every state law that governs life in Hawaii — from education and housing to environmental regulation and taxation — originates in the legislature, making it the most powerful venue for changing public policy. Residents can testify on bills in person or remotely, contact their representatives directly, and vote for legislators every two or four years.