Informing the Legislature that on July 2, 2024, the Governor signed the following bill into law: HB2070 HD1 SD2 CD1 (ACT 162).

This message from the Governor of Hawaii informs the Legislature that HB2070, known as Act 162, was signed into law on July 2, 2024. The bill modifies state procurement laws by requiring parties who initiate administrative proceedings against government contracts to post a cash or protest bond equal to one percent of the contract's estimated value. This bond is returned to the initiating party if they win the case, but it is forfeited to the state general fund if they lose and the appeal is deemed frivolous or made in bad faith. The change directly affects businesses and individuals involved in challenging contracts with the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs.