By: Contributor, HawaiiNews HOKU

Hawaii’s 2025 legislative session quietly rolled off the stage with leis and lukewarm applause, residents are left wondering: was this session meant for governance or group therapy?

Sure, lawmakers funded wildfire prevention and gave a symbolic nod to Maui’s pain. But for all the back-patting and ceremonial hula, some of the biggest issues with economic and social weight were ghosted like a bad Tinder match.

Recreational marijuana? Dead.

Online sports betting and gambling? Dead.

Campaign finance reform? DOA.

Gun regulation? Nah.

Affordable housing help for Native Hawaiians? Lost in committee quicksand.

Despite public interest, economic incentive, and overwhelming evidence that these policies could benefit the islands, lawmakers let them die in silence — buried by so-called “time constraints” and lack of “financial release.” Translation: It’s election season, and no one wants to offend their donors.Let’s be clear: we’re not talking about fringe proposals. Legalized cannabis and regulated gambling could’ve generated tens of millions in tax revenue, created high-paying jobs, and brought oversight to industries already thriving underground. But instead of leading, legislators chose comfort over courage.Meanwhile, fireworks legislation passes. A tourist tax climbs. And the rest of us are left wondering when our leaders stopped representing us.—Enough. Hawaii deserves a Legislature that works for the people, not around them.

Here’s the Call to Action:

1. Demand Transparency:Call your representative and ask why critical bills were killed behind closed doors. If they can’t answer, they shouldn’t be in office.

2. Get Involved Early:Join public hearings. Submit testimony. Show up. The system thrives on your silence — don’t give it the satisfaction.

3. Support Reform Candidates:In 2026, back candidates who support economic modernization, individual freedom, and transparency. Don’t settle for recycled career politicians with empty platitudes.

4. Follow the Money:Track campaign donations. If your rep is taking money from big insurers, gambling opponents, or anti-cannabis PACs, vote accordingly.

5. Keep Pressure On:Use your voice. Social media, letters to the editor, town halls — stay loud and stay informed.

At Hawaii News HOKU, we believe in shining light where others hide in shadows. The North Star doesn’t bend to politics — and neither should you.We’re not here to make politicians comfortable. We’re here to make them accountable.

#CannabisReform #HawaiiPolitics #Transparency2025 #LegalizeIt