HawaiiSenate-confirmed appointees cannot attend or organize campaign fundraisers
Since July 10, 2026, covered state appointees have been barred from campaign fundraising while keeping the right to express political views, donate personally, and vote.
What it does
Covered state appointees may not organize, attend, or host candidate fundraisers, or ask anyone for campaign donations. They may still express political views, donate personally, and vote.
Argument forKeeping covered officials away from campaign fundraisers may reduce the appearance that political donations could influence state contracts.
Argument againstThe restriction could keep covered employees from attending campaign fundraisers, limiting their participation in political events even when they do not ask for donations.
More detail
The law bars covered employees from organizing, attending, or hosting candidate fundraisers, and from directly or indirectly asking anyone for campaign donations. It covers executive branch employees nominated or appointed by the governor to paid positions that require Senate confirmation. Employees may still express political opinions, make personal political donations, and vote. The restriction applies after Senate confirmation and until the person’s employment in a covered position ends. The Act took effect upon approval on July 10, 2026.
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Where it stands
- Introduced
- Adopted
Looking ahead
No hearings or votes scheduled.
History
- 2026
- Jul 10Received.Introduced
Government & Ethics