Hawaii · 2026 Regular Session · Bill
SB 2678: RELATING TO CHILD WELFARE SERVICES.
In committee Official data
- Introduced
- In committee
- Passed one chamber
- Passed both chambers
- Enacted
Last official action: ·Record last updated:
Plain-language summary
SB 2678 is a bill introduced in the Hawaii Senate on January 23, 2026. According to its official title, it concerns: RELATING TO CHILD WELFARE SERVICES. Primary sponsor: Karl Rhoads (Democratic), Brandon Elefante (Democratic), Donna Kim (Democratic), Rachele Lamosao (Democratic), LEE, C., Joy San Buenaventura (Democratic). Most recent recorded action (February 20, 2026): Reported from JDC (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 2501) with recommendation of passage on Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referral to WAM.
Generated automatically from the official title, sponsor list, and status record only. It does not characterize the bill’s purpose or effects. How summaries are written
Official summary
Abstract published by the legislature (via Open States). Text as published by the legislature; reproduced verbatim.
Establishes a working group within the Judiciary to improve family court processes, including access to legal representation for youth in the child welfare system. Appropriates funds. (SD1)
Sponsors
Sponsors by party (alphabetical): Democratic 5
| Name | Role | Party | Chamber | District |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Karl Rhoads | Primary sponsor | Democratic | Senate | 13 |
| Brandon Elefante | Primary sponsor | Democratic | Senate | 16 |
| Donna Kim | Primary sponsor | Democratic | Senate | 14 |
| Rachele Lamosao | Primary sponsor | Democratic | Senate | 19 |
| LEE | Primary sponsor | Not applicable (committee) | — | — |
| C. | Primary sponsor | Not applicable (committee) | — | — |
| Joy San Buenaventura | Primary sponsor | Democratic | Senate | 2 |
“Support” is shown only as formal sponsorship recorded by the legislature. Roll-call votes are available on the official bill page.
Recent official actions
- Reported from JDC (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 2501) with recommendation of passage on Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referral to WAM.
- Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM.
- The committee(s) on JDC recommend(s) that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS. The votes in JDC were as follows: 3 Aye(s): Senator(s) Rhoads, Gabbard, Awa; Aye(s) with reservations: none ; 0 No(es): none; and 2 Excused: Senator(s) Chang, San Buenaventura.
- The committee(s) on JDC deferred the measure until 02-12-26 9:30AM; Conference Room 016 & Videoconference.
- The committee(s) on JDC has scheduled a public hearing on 02-06-26 9:00AM; Conference Room 016 & Videoconference.
- Referred to JDC, WAM.
- Passed First Reading.
- Introduced.