Informing the Legislature that on July 3, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: HB126 HD1 SD2 CD1 (ACT 288).

This bill (HB126, Act 288) reforms Hawaii's property forfeiture process by requiring state agencies to maintain detailed public records of seized property, including descriptions, dates, values, and possession details. It mandates that these records be made publicly accessible online and restricts agencies from transferring forfeited property to federal agencies without specific exceptions (like currency over $100,000). The law clarifies which property is subject to forfeiture (e.g., items used in crimes, proceeds from offenses) and removes a requirement that forfeiture laws be interpreted "liberally." These changes aim to increase transparency and accountability for agencies handling property forfeitures.