HB 574 would create a $3,000 income tax credit for retired Hawaii National Guard service members, directly reducing their state tax liability. The bill provides this credit as a specific policy change to support veterans who served in the state's National Guard. It does not alter tax rates or create new obligations but offers a concrete financial benefit to eligible retired members. The legislation is currently pending in the 2026 session after being carried over from 2025.
HB 652 would regulate individuals or entities that charge fees for providing advice or assistance with veterans' benefits applications. It directly affects paid advisors (such as consultants or representatives) who help veterans navigate benefits systems. The bill would establish requirements for these advisors, likely including licensing, disclosure rules, or standards for their services. Currently, the bill is pending review after being referred to committees, with a recommendation to defer further action as of January 31, 2025. It has not yet become law.
Authorizes the Department of Education to award a high school diploma to qualified persons who did not receive a high school diploma as a result of compulsory or voluntary induction into the armed services of the United States or whose high school education was interrupted due to wartime practices during World War II, the Korean War, or the Vietnam War.
Authorizes the Adjutant General to expand the Hawaii National Guard State Tuition Assistance Program to include graduate degrees at the University of Hawaii for qualified personnel in the Hawaii National Guard. Effective 1/1/3000. (HD1)
Establishes within the Office of Veterans' Services a mental health coordinator position at Tripler Army Medical Center. Provides that the mental health coordinator is appointed by and reports directly to the Director of the Office of Veterans' Services. Appropriates moneys. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
Establishes provisions governing any person who receives compensation for advising, assisting, or consulting another person with veterans benefits. Effective 7/1/2077. (SD1)
Authorizes the issuance of general obligation bonds for capital improvement projects to rehabilitate the Waikiki War Memorial Natatorium and develop a Waikiki war memorial complex and War memorial center.
Exempts disabled veterans from the State's vehicle weight tax and repeals the exemption for disabled veterans from the State's annual vehicle registration fee.
Authorizes the Department of Education to establish a program to award a high school diploma to qualified persons who did not receive a high school diploma as a result of compulsorily or voluntarily induction into the armed services of the United States and to persons whose high school education was interrupted due to wartime practices.
Authorizes the Department of Education to award a high school diploma to qualified persons who did not receive a high school diploma as a result of compulsory or voluntary induction into the armed services of the United States or whose high school education was interrupted due to wartime practices during World War II, the Korean War, or the Vietnam War. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
