Hawaii Cannabis Policy Voter Guide 2024 State Legislative Elections

Hawaii Cannabis Policy Voter Guide 2024 State Legislative Elections

 Hawaii Cannabis Policy Voter Guide

2024 State Legislative Election

This year, all Hawai’i state representative seats are on the ballot, as are half of the state Senate seats.

The 2024 election will impact Hawaii’s cannabis policy in 2025 and 2026, at minimum. After unusual debates on the House floor as SB 3335 passed three committees, the House Finance Committee effectively killed the measure. Subsequently, the Senate unexpectedly defeated an expansion of decriminalization, SB 2487.

The Hawai‘i Alliance for Cannabis Reform (HARC) created a voter guide that explains where the candidates stand on cannabis legalization and related issues of justice and equity. Our guide includes responses to our candidate questionnaire, information on how incumbents voted on key cannabis bills, and other publicly available information on candidates’ stances.

Start out by looking up what's on your ballot to find your state legislative districts. Then, check out your candidates’ stances below and make a plan to vote. Voter centers and ballot drop boxes are open from October 22 through November 5. If you’re not registered, it’s no problem. Voters may register online at any time or in-person at a voter service center.

If you speak to a candidate about cannabis policy or come across other information that we didn’t include, please let us know at info@LegalizeHawaii.org.

We asked candidates:

1) Twenty-four states, three U.S. territories, and several countries — including Canada — have passed laws making cannabis legal for adults’ use. States of similar sizes have brought in tens of millions in annual revenue, which they have used for after-school programs, education, supporting health and social services, and investing in communities that have been the hardest hit by the war on drugs. Do you support making cannabis legal, and taxing and regulating its sales, for adults 21 and older?

2) Criminal records make it difficult to get a job, housing, and to otherwise achieve one’s dreams. As part of legalization, many states are removing prior cannabis convictions from records, to avoid ruining lives over conduct that has been legalized. Do you support creating a state-initiated process to clear cannabis-related records, including convictions?

3) Many adult-use states have seen large multi-state operators develop a significant economic footprint in their cannabis market. Do you support policies to help ensure that local family farmers and small businesses in each county can participate in Hawaii’s emerging cannabis economy?

4) If a legalization bill would have to have specific provisions to garner your support, what are they?

Do you have any additional comments to share?


Hawai’i State House of Representatives Candidates

HACR Cannabis Policy Voter Guide — General Election 2024

 

Key: Candidates in green have been solidly supportive of legalization and other cannabis policy reforms. Candidates in orange have a mixed record or are undecided. Candidates in red have opposed legalization. We do not have information on the stances of candidates whose names are not color-coded, consider reaching out if you are in their district.

Uncontested elections will not actually appear on the ballot. We’re including them so voters in those districts will know where their lawmakers stand on cannabis policy, too.

Of note, most votes on cannabis bills were not roll calls. We’ve listed incumbents' votes as “yes” where the incumbent was not excused and did not vote “no” or “yes with reservations.” Also, we corrected misspellings in some candidates’ replies.

You can look up your Hawai’i House and Senate districts at Vote411.

House District 1 (uncontested/General Election is canceled) 

Sadly, Rep. Mark Nakashima (D) passed away. His seat is being filled by the governor, pursuant to state law.

House District 2 (uncontested/General Election is canceled)

Sue Lee Loy (D) won the primary. Because there is no other candidate in the General Election, she has been elected as a state representative. In a phone call with a member of HARC, she expressed support for cannabis legalization. — SueLeeLoy.com

House District 3

Rep. Chris Todd (D)  Cosponsored and voted in favor of legalization (SB 3335/HB 2600). Voted for expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487) and state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). — ChrisToshiroTodd.org        

Austin Dean Martin (L) — Responded “yes” to all three of HACR’s yes-or-no questions. Supports:

  • making cannabis legal, and taxing and regulating its sales for adults 21 and older
  • creating a state-initiated process to clear cannabis-related records, and
  • policies to help ensure that local family farmers and small businesses in each county can participate in Hawaii’s emerging cannabis economy

When asked what provisions would be needed for him to support legalization, he replied, “I want REAL legalization, and not just to convert cannabis users into a convenient source of regulatory revenue for the state grifters.

“Also, the power to tax is the power to destroy. I would be very careful to not give the state new powers with regard to any proposed cannabis regulation. Any legalization scheme that turns Cannabis users into special Tax-Mules should be rejected, and the inherent right of bodily autonomy should not be infringed by the government. We need to get the government to actually respect & defend our rights, rather than offering to bribe them with our hard-earned money.“

“I am willing to support bills that increase freedom by aiming at real legalization & decriminalization. I would be very careful about bills that create a quagmire of regulations and special deals.”

When asked for additional comments, he said, “I could not easily answer many of the above questions, because they seem misleading. For example: in question #1: to me, legalization & regulation are opposite forces. Additionally, there is no actual need for special regulation nor policing of the cannabis industry. One can support legalization while opposing an oppressive regulatory scheme. I want anybody to be free to grow, buy, and sell cannabis without any government permission. The voluntary exchange of goods and services is a fundamental human right.

“I fully support the legalization of cannabis, but a regulatory framework that squeezes the life out of cannabis users is NOT legalization - it is simply another form of abuse, theft, and control. It is totally possible to ruin the budding cannabis industry through ham-fisted regulations and greedy taxation schemes. In order to enforce any such taxation scheme, tight restrictions would have to be adopted, and therefore anti-cannabis policing action will continue under any such scheme.”

Kanoa Wilson (R) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire. — FriendsOfKanoa.com

House District 4

Rep. Greggor Ilagan (D) — Voted in favor of legalization (SB 3335), expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487), and state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595).

Keikilani Ho (R) — Responded “yes” to all three of HACR’s yes-or-no questions. Supports:

  • making cannabis legal, and taxing and regulating its sales for adults 21 and older
  • creating a state-initiated process to clear cannabis-related records, and
  • policies to help ensure that local family farmers and small businesses in each county can participate in Hawaii’s emerging cannabis economy

When asked what provisions would be needed for her to support legalization, she replied, “My main concern is fentanyl laced marijuana/any type of laced marijuana. We should implement and maintain strict regulatory compliance for participating family farms and small businesses if they should participate in the cannabis economy."

House District 5

                                                

Rep. Jeanné Kapela (D)  Cosponsored and voted in favor of legalization (SB 3335/ HB 2600). Voted for expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487) and state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). Has also sponsored equitable legalization.

Responded “yes” to all three of HACR’s yes-or-no questions. Supports:

  • making cannabis legal, and taxing and regulating its sales for adults 21 and older
  • creating a state-initiated process to clear cannabis-related records, and
  • policies to help ensure that local family farmers and small businesses in each county can participate in Hawaii’s emerging cannabis economy

When asked what provisions would be needed for her to support legalization, said, "I believe a legalization bill should be based on the principle of social equity, in which marginalized communities and those who have been harmed by cannabis prohibition are prioritized in developing the new cannabis industry.

“Additionally, I strongly support strengthening restorative justice by establishing a statewide expungement program that clears low-level cannabis offenses from people's criminal records, so that they can gain employment, housing, and other personal needs. Finally, it is important to ensure cannabis revenue is directed toward schools, mental health and substance abuse programs, and other important public initiatives, rather than additional police units that will only worsen the drug war and undermine the intent of legalization." In "additional comments," she said, "It is high time to legalize cannabis in Hawai'i.” — JeanneKapela.com

Ashley Oyama (R) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire. — www.ashleyoyama.com/

Fred Fogel (L) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire.

House District 6

Rep. Kirstin Kahaloa (D) — Cosponsored and voted in favor of legalization (SB 3335/ HB 2600). Voted for expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487) and state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). Responded “yes” to all three of HACR’s yes-or-no questions. Supports:

  • making cannabis legal, and taxing and regulating its sales for adults 21 and older
  • creating a state-initiated process to clear cannabis-related records, and
  • policies to help ensure that local family farmers and small businesses in each county can participate in Hawaii’s emerging cannabis economy

When asked what provisions would be needed for her to support legalization, said, “I would like to make sure local businesses can thrive and ensure we have guardrails to allow local entrepreneurs to enter the market, including Native Hawaiian owned businesses. But this isn’t a requirement of my support, just something I would like to see included in legislation.” —  KahaloaforKona.com        

Sylvie Madison (R) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire. — LetsGoBigIsland.com

House District 7

Rep. Nicole Lowen (D) — Cosponsored and voted in favor of legalization (SB 3335). Voted for expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487), and state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). Has also sponsored equitable legalization. — NicoleLowen.com

Tim Dalhouse (R) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire. — TimDalhouse.com

House District 8

Rep. David Tarnas (D) — Has been a champion of legalization and other cannabis policy reforms. Voted in favor of legalization (SB 3335), expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487), and state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). Responded “yes” to all three of HACR’s yes-or-no questions. Supports:

  • making cannabis legal, and taxing and regulating its sales for adults 21 and older
  • creating a state-initiated process to clear cannabis-related records, and
  • policies to help ensure that local family farmers and small businesses in each county can participate in Hawaii’s emerging cannabis economy

When asked what provisions would be needed for her to support legalization, he said, “The legalization bill should include horizontal business model that creates opportunities for local small businesses to succeed in different sectors of the cannabis economy, including production, testing, processing, distribution, and retail, as well as strong social equity programs to ensure that at least some of the businesses created under the legalization regime would be owned and operated by people who personally experienced the detrimental impacts of the drug war. Legalization should also be paired with more comprehensive decriminalization of cannabis and with a state-initiated expungement and record clearance process.”

Chair Tarnas added, “As the Chair of the House Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs Committee, I took the lead in the House to advance numerous bills relating to cannabis policy reform including a bill to decriminalize an ounce of cannabis and lower the fine to $25, a bill to set up a state-initiated expungement process for low level cannabis offenses, and a bill to legalize cannabis for adult use in Hawaii. While we were unsuccessful in getting legislative approval for the decriminalization bill and the legalization bill, we did pass a pilot project on state-initiated expungement. I will continue to work on legislation during the interim so I can introduce cannabis reform legislation next session, including a bill to decriminalize an ounce or less of cannabis and a bill to legalize adult use of cannabis in Hawaii.” — VoteTarnas.com

Monique Cobb (R) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire. — MoniqueForHawaii.com

                        

House District 9 (uncontested/General Election is canceled)

Rep. Justin Woodson (D) — Because there is no other candidate, Rep. Woodson has been reelected. He voted against legalization on the floor (SB 3335) and was excused for the vote on state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). Rep. Woodson did vote “yes” on expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487), however.

House District 10 (uncontested/General Election is canceled)

                

Rep. Tyson Miyake (D) — Because there is no other candidate, Rep. Miyake has been reelected. He cosponsored and voted in favor of legalization (SB 3335/HB 2600). He voted for expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487) and state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). — TysonMiyake.com

House District 11

Rep. Terez Amato (D) — Cosponsored and voted in favor of legalization (HB 2600/SB 3335). Voted for expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487), and state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). Has also sponsored equitable legalization. Responded “yes” to all three of HACR’s yes-or-no questions. Supports:

  • making cannabis legal, and taxing and regulating its sales for adults 21 and older
  • creating a state-initiated process to clear cannabis-related records, and
  • policies to help ensure that local family farmers and small businesses in each county can participate in Hawaii’s emerging cannabis economy

When asked what provisions would be needed for her to support legalization, she responded, “Must be limited to recreational use for those 21 and over."

Rep. Amato also commented, “I am a strong and extremely vocal candidate for legalization.


“Marijuana is medicine and it saves lives by reducing opiate use. In Colorado after legalization, opioid deaths were reduced 6.5%, violent crime was reduced, and critical state revenue was created after legalization.

“This is about more than tax revenue arguments. We need to recognize that far too many people have been sent to jail for simple marijuana possession, at enormous cost to our society, in lost wages, family disruption, incarceration costs and loss of jobs and income tax revenue. Decriminalization was just gutted in the State Senate this session.

“The days of 1936 reefer madness propaganda are over in most of the country. Continued 1920’s style Prohibition in Hawai’i will only continue to funnel money to the black market.

“I am an ardent supporter of your goals. See some of my speeches in the House of Representatives at www.youtube.com/live/_Y-fAUqxlPI?si=wGlXy9HoLv235M7q&t=5339

and

www.youtube.com/live/LCKDo3lElKg?si=-SnhwCGyR_2kDuGm&t=3314 …” — TerezAmato.nationbuilder.com

Aileen Lily Acain (R) — Responded “yes” to all three of HACR’s yes-or-no questions. Supports:

  • making cannabis legal, and taxing and regulating its sales for adults 21 and older
  • creating a state-initiated process to clear cannabis-related records, and
  • policies to help ensure that local family farmers and small businesses in each county can participate in Hawaii’s emerging cannabis economy — VoteAileenLilyAcain.com

House District 12

Rep. Kyle Yamashita (D) — Voted in favor of legalization (SB 3335), expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487), and state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). Has also sponsored equitable legalization. — www.instagram.com/RepKyleYamashita

Dan Johnson (R) — Responded “yes” to two of HACR’s yes-or-no questions. Supports:

  • making cannabis legal, and taxing and regulating its sales for adults 21 and older, and
  • policies to help ensure that local family farmers and small businesses in each county can participate in Hawaii’s emerging cannabis economy

Responded “undecided” on creating a state-initiated process to clear cannabis-related records.

He commented, "I fully support legalization of adult recreational use, support decriminalization of possession, and support the implementation of a use or sales tax on cannabis. However, I am somewhat apprehensive to support clearing records of all convictions. There may be a range of charges that could be cleared, and some that should not be cleared. Simple possession charges would be reasonable to clear, but larger offenses such as illegal commercial production or selling of restricted substances should not." Also commented, "I would also support distinctions for deregulating hemp production to allow for agricultural industry growth." — VoteDanJohnson.godaddysites.com

Rita Ryan (Green) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire.

House District 13

Rep. Mahina Poepoe (D) — Cosponsored and voted in favor of legalization (SB 3335/HB 2600). Voted for expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487) and state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). — VoteMahina.com

Scott Adam (R) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire. — facebook.com/ScottAdam4HI

House District 14

Rep. Elle Cochran (D) — Was excused during legalization vote on the floor (SB 3335), voted “yes with reservations” in committee. Voted in favor of expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487) and state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). — VoteElleCochran.com        

Kelly Armstrong (R) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire. — KellyJArmstrong.com

House District 15

Rep. Nadine Nakamura (D) — Voted in favor of legalization (SB 3335) and expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487). Excused during vote on state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). — NadineNakamura.com

David Moranz (R) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire.

House District 16

Rep. Luke Evslin (D) — Voted in favor of legalization (SB 3335), expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487), and state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). — LukeEvslin.com

Steve Yoder (R) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire.

House District 17

Rep. Dee Morikawa (D) — Voted in favor of legalization (SB 3335), expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487), and state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595).

Michael Jauch (R) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire. — MikeJauchStateRep.com

House District 18 (uncontested/General Election is canceled)

Rep. Gene Ward (R) — Because there is no other candidate, Rep. Ward has been reelected. Voted against legalization (SB 3335), expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487), and state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). Spoke against reforms in committee and on the floor. — Gene-Ward.com

House District 19 (uncontested/General Election is canceled)

Rep. Mark Hashem (D) — Because there is no other candidate, Rep. Hashem has been reelected. Voted against legalization (SB 3335) and state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). Voted for expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487).

House District 20 — Open Seat

Tina Grandinetti (D) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire. — www.TinaforHawaii.com        

Corinne Solomon (R) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire. — SolomonForhJwaii.com

House District 21

Rep. Jackson Sayama (D) — Voted in favor of expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487) and state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). Voted “yes with reservations” on legalization (SB 3335). — JacksonSayama.com

Joelle Seashell (R) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire.

House District 22

Rep. Andrew Takuya Garrett (D) — Voted against cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487) and legalization (SB 3335). Voted in favor of state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). — AndrewTakuyaGarrett.com

Jeffrey Imamura (R) — Responded “no” to two of HACR’s yes-or-no questions. Opposes:

  • making cannabis legal, and taxing and regulating its sales for adults 21 and older, and
  • policies to help ensure that local family farmers and small businesses in each county can participate in Hawaii’s emerging cannabis economy

Responded “undecided” when asked if he supports state-initiated expungements for cannabis possession.

In response to: "If a legalization bill would have to have specific provisions to garner your support, what are they?," he said, "Allocation of funds; specific entities with monthly financial statements; audits at any point throughout the year; a limit to how much one can purchase; perhaps mirroring the tobacco stance."

He also added, "I understand the attraction and allure of cannabis and its legalization in Hawaii. many would argue that so many residents already partake in it (presumptively) and thus, should not be penalized. however, despite any semantic data, the profuse use of cannabis is of concern. it is a worthwhile discussion because we also have other substances that are legal and yet equally if not more so detrimental to one's personal being e.g. alcohol, and what's to stop someone from saying then that all drugs should be legal, which they tried to do in Oregon."

House District 23 (uncontested/General Election is canceled)

Ikaika Olds (D) — Because there is no other candidate in the General Election, Olds has been elected state representative. Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire. — www.OldsforHawaii.com

House District 24

Rep. Adrian Tam (D) — Voted in favor of legalization (SB 3335), expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487), and state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). Responded “yes” to all three of HACR’s yes-or-no questions. Supports:

  • making cannabis legal, and taxing and regulating its sales for adults 21 and older
  • creating a state-initiated process to clear cannabis-related records, and
  • policies to help ensure that local family farmers and small businesses in each county can participate in Hawaii’s emerging cannabis economy

When asked what provisions would be needed for him to support legalization, he responded,  ”Keeping Waikiki in mind, I do share a concern that this will negatively affect the visitor industry. I would not support the usage of cannabis on our beaches, parks, or public spaces. I would also want a bill that would allow for condominiums to impose stronger cannabis rules within their condos to protect their common spaces.”

He also commented, “I have expressed my concerns about edible cannabis getting into the hands of minors. I think that when we regulate cannabis, we may want to look at how we package cannabis to make it less appealing to our youth.” — AdrianForHawaii.com

Jillian Anderson (R) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire. — JillianForHawaii.com

House District 25 (uncontested/General Election is canceled)

Kim Coco Iwamoto (D) won the primary. Because there is no other candidate in the General Election, Iwamoto has been elected state representative. Her website says: "Kim Coco supports legislation legalizing use and taxing sale of marijuana for non-medical use; she does not support taxing marijuana for medications.” Responded “yes” to all three of HACR’s yes-or-no questions. Supports:

  • making cannabis legal, and taxing and regulating its sales for adults 21 and older
  • creating a state-initiated process to clear cannabis-related records, and
  • policies to help ensure that local family farmers and small businesses in each county can participate in Hawaii’s emerging cannabis economy

When asked what provisions would be needed for her to support legalization, she responded,  ”The first licensed growers must be small local farmers who are growing produce for local consumption; if they are growing 5 acres of produce, then they get to grow half an acre of cannabis. Local farmers can use profits from cannabis to subsidize the high costs of farming: labor, water, land; this will bring the state closer to realizing our food sovereignty goals.”

She also commented, “The state must also allow farmers to build non-permanent dwellings close to their crops; these dwellings must have access to clean water and sanitary waste disposal. Lots of farm maintenance can take place during cooler evening hours and public transportation may not be available or farms may be located in areas with no public transportation. Dwellings around high value crops could deter theft.” — KimCoco.com

House District 26 (uncontested/General Election is canceled)

Rep. Della Au Belatti (D)  Because there is no other candidate in the General Election, Rep. Belatti has been reelected. Voted in favor of expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487) and state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). Voted “yes with reservations” on legalization (SB 3335).

Responded “yes” to all three of HACR’s yes-or-no questions. Supports:

  • making cannabis legal, and taxing and regulating its sales for adults 21 and older
  • creating a state-initiated process to clear cannabis-related records, and
  • policies to help ensure that local family farmers and small businesses in each county can participate in Hawaii’s emerging cannabis economy — DellaBelatti.com

House District 27

Rep. Jenna Takenouchi (D) —  Voted against legalization (SB 3335) and expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487). Voted yes on state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). — JennaTakenouchi.com

Margaret Uy Lim (R) — Responded “no” to all three of HACR’s yes-or-no questions. Opposes:

  • making cannabis legal, and taxing and regulating its sales for adults 21 and older,
  • policies to help ensure that local family farmers and small businesses in each county can participate in Hawaii’s emerging cannabis economy, and
  • state-initiated expungements for cannabis possession.

Commented “Medical marijuana is legal and obtaining a medical marijuana card is quite simple and easy; there is no need to legalize it for recreational or commercial purposes," and "If our State cannot control our current crime, violence and homelessness problems, how can they control the massive serious problems which will be ushered in by legalizing commercial/recreational marijuana?”

"THE REVENUE PROJECTED TO COME IN FROM PASSING THIS EVIL BILL WOULD NOT BE ENOUGH TO COMPENSATE FOR LIVES RUINED, RELATIONSHIPS AND FAMILIES DESTROYED, THE COST OF NEEDING MORE LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS, MORE PRISON BEDS, LEGAL FEES, AND OTHER SOCIAL NEEDS.

Since medical marijuana is already legalized, there is NO need to legalize recreational marijuana.

"We should focus on making Hawaiʻi a safer, cleaner place for business to thrive and for our Japanese and Chinese, AND TOURISTS ALL OVER THE WORLD to keep coming back." — www.Lim4Hawaii.com

House District 28 (uncontested/General Election is canceled)

Rep. Daniel Holt (D) — Because there is no other candidate in the General Election, Rep. Holt has been reelected. Cosponsored and voted in favor of legalization (SB 3335). Voted for expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487) and state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). — www.VoteDanielHolt.com

        

House District 29

Ikaika Hussey (D) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire. — Ikaika.House         

Carole Kaapu (R) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire. — CaroleKaapu.org

House District 30

Shirley Templo (D) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire. — ShirleyTemplo.com        

P. M. Azinga (R) — Did not respond to our cannabis questionnaire. In a phone call with HARC, said she opposes cannabis legalization. Azinga-District30.godaddysites.com

House District 31

Nancy Valdez (R) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire.

Rep. Linda Ichiyama (D) — Voted against legalization (SB 3335), expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487), and state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). — www.LindaIchiyama.com

House District 32

Garner Shimizu (R) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire. — VoteShimizu.com

Rep. Micah Aiu (D) — Voted against legalization (SB 3335), expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487), and state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595).

House District 33 (uncontested/General Election is canceled)

Rep. Sam Kong (D) — Because there is no other candidate in the General Election, Rep. Kong has been reelected. Voted against legalization (SB 3335), expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487), and state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595).

House District 34

Gaius Dupio (R) — Responded “yes” to two of HACR’s yes-or-no questions. Supports:

  • making cannabis legal, and taxing and regulating its sales for adults 21 and older, and
  • policies to help ensure that local family farmers and small businesses in each county can participate in Hawaii’s emerging cannabis economy

Responded “undecided” to whether he supports creating a state-initiated process to clear cannabis-related records. — VoteGaiusDupio.my.canva.site

Rep. Gregg Takayama (D) — Voted for expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487) and state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). Voted against legalization (SB 3335) on March 22, 2024, although he had cosponsored the House version (HB 2600). — GreggTakayama.com

House District 35 (uncontested/General Election is canceled)

Rep. Cory Chun (D) — Because there is no other candidate in the General Election, Rep. Chun has been reelected. Voted against legalization (SB 3335) and expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487). Voted yes “with reservations” on state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). — ElectCoryChun.com        

House District 36 (uncontested/General Election is canceled)

Rep. Rachele Lamosao (D) — Because there is no other candidate in the General Election, Rep. Lamosao has been reelected. Voted against legalization (SB 3335), expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487), and state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). — RacheleLamosao.com

House District 37

Taylor Kaaumoana (R) —Responded “yes” to all three of HACR’s yes-or-no questions. Supports:

  • making cannabis legal, and taxing and regulating its sales for adults 21 and older
  • creating a state-initiated process to clear cannabis-related records, and
  • policies to help ensure that local family farmers and small businesses in each county can participate in Hawaii’s emerging cannabis economy

In response to "If a legalization bill would have to have specific provisions to garner your support, what are they?," she responded “Saying Yes to all of the above but with a cap of how much taxes can be placed on the supplies, plants, sales ect. My other main concern is in the areas of how its grown restricting pesticide uses, banning harmful poisons to be used at any point in the proceeds. Allow incentives to local families to grow organically & make sales locally. No outside investors or public share holders. Would like to minimize who profits from the legalization of cannabis. Working with the insurance(s) & Doctors who can prescribe to give benefits to cancer patients and those with physical pain to be the focus of healing.

“Many research around cannabis to heal chronic pain. I support the option for people and have seen cannabis help people.”  — VoteTaylorK.com

Rep. Trish La Chica (D) — Voted against legalization (SB 3335) and state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). Voted yes “with reservations” on expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487). — www.TrishLaChica.com        

House District 38

Alex Ozawa (D) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire. — AlexOzawa.com

Rep. Lauren Matsumoto (R) — Voted against legalization (SB 3335) and state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). Voted yes “with reservations” on expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487). — LaurenForHawaii.com

House District 39

Corey Rosenlee (D) —  Responded in support of legalization in response to the Marijuana Policy Project's 2022 candidate survey. Has not responded to HACR’s 2024 candidate questionnaire. — www.CoreyRosenlee.com         

Rep. Elijah Pierick (R) — Voted against legalization (SB 3335) and state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). Voted yes “with reservations” on expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487). — ElijahPierick.com

House District 40

Rep. Rose Martinez (D) —Voted against expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487). Excused for vote on legalization (SB 3335). Voted for state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595).

Julie Reyes Oda (R) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire. — JulieReyesOda.com        

Christian Ulufanua (We the People) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire. —Ulufanua4Ewa.com

House District 41

John Clark III (D) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire. — FriendsofJohnClark.com

Rep. David Alcos (R) — Voted against legalization (SB 3335), state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595), and expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487). — RepAlcos.com

House District 42

Anthony Makana Paris (D) — Responded “yes” to all three of HACR’s yes-or-no questions. Supports:

  • making cannabis legal, and taxing and regulating its sales for adults 21 and older
  • creating a state-initiated process to clear cannabis-related records, and
  • policies to help ensure that local family farmers and small businesses in each county can participate in Hawaii’s emerging cannabis economy

In response to "If a legalization bill would have to have specific provisions to garner your support, what are they?," responded "Let's explore the use of Hawaiian Home Land agricultural lots and other restorative justice efforts to compensate those who are disproportionately impacted by drug laws."

www.VoteMakana.com

Rep. Diamond Garcia (R) — Voted against legalization (SB 3335), state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595), and expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487).

 

House District 43 (uncontested/General Election is canceled)

Rep. Kanani Souza (R) — Because there is no other candidate in the General Election, Rep. Souza has been reelected. Voted against legalization (SB 3335) and expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487). Voted for state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). — www.VoteSouza.com        

House District 44 (uncontested/General Election is canceled)

        

Rep. Darius Kila (D) — Because there is no other candidate in the General Election, Rep. Kila has been reelected. Voted against legalization (SB 3335), expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487), and state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595).

House District 45

Desire Auguste DeSoto (D) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire. — DesireDeSoto.com

Chris Muraoka (R) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire.

                        

House District 46         

Rep. Amy Perruso (D) — Cosponsored and voted in favor of legalization (SB 3335/HB 2600). Voted for expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487), and state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). — VoteAmyPerruso.com

Daniel Gabriel (R) — Responded “yes” to all three of HACR’s yes-or-no questions. Supports:

  • making cannabis legal, and taxing and regulating its sales for adults 21 and older
  • creating a state-initiated process to clear cannabis-related records, and
  • policies to help ensure that local family farmers and small businesses in each county can participate in Hawaii’s emerging cannabis economy

In response to "If a legalization bill would have to have specific provisions to garner your support, what are they?," responded“ I support decriminalization of manufacturing/possession of cannabis products. The law enforcement funding freed up by the legalization of cannabis must be allocated to the education of known health risks associated with the substance. Additionally, there must be a conscious effort to discourage the industry from appealing to young demographics.

"It should be taxed in the manner as any other product i.e. general excise tax. I believe that regulation creating a barrier to entry into the market should be minimal"

Added this comment, "Education and transparency of the health risks of cannabis products must be at the forefront of our focus. Consumption of cannabis products does not come without negative side effects.

"In contrast to the messaging broadcasted by mainstream media, cannabis has potential to cause severe physiological and mental problems for predisposed individuals."

House District 47         

Rep. Sean Quinlan (D) — Voted in favor of state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). Voted “yes with reservations” on expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487). Excused from legalization vote (SB 3335). — VoteSeanQuinlan.com

John Aguirre (R) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire. — JohnnyDist47.com

House District 48         

Asheemo Daily (Green Party) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire. — TheDailyBred.com

Rep. Lisa Kitagawa (D) — Voted against legalization (SB 3335), state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595), and expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487). — LisaKitagawa.com

 

House District 49

Josiah Ubando (R) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire. — BrahKruz.com

Rep. Scot Matayoshi (D) — Voted against legalization (SB 3335), state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595), and expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487).

                                  

House District 50

Mike Lee (D) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire.           —  MikeLeeforHawaii.com        

Timothy Connelly (R) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire.                           

House District 51 (uncontested/General Election is canceled)                  

Rep. Lisa Marten (D) — Because there is no other candidate in the General Election, Rep. Marten has been reelected. Voted in favor of legalization (SB 3335), expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487), and state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595).

Responded “yes” to all three of HACR’s yes-or-no questions. Supports:

  • making cannabis legal, and taxing and regulating its sales for adults 21 and older
  • creating a state-initiated process to clear cannabis-related records, and
  • policies to help ensure that local family farmers and small businesses in each county can participate in Hawaii’s emerging cannabis economy

In response to our question about what provisions are necessary in a legalization bill to earn her support, responded, “Strict controls against access and appeal to children. Strict enforcement against use in public places.” — LisaMarten.com


 State Senate Candidates

HACR Cannabis Policy Voter Guide — General Election 2024

 

Key: Candidates in green have been solidly supportive of legalization and other cannabis policy reforms. Candidates in orange have a mixed record or are undecided. Candidates in red have opposed legalization. We do not have information on the stances of candidates whose names are not color-coded, consider reaching out if you are in their district.

Uncontested elections will not actually appear on the ballot. We’re including them so voters in those districts will know where their lawmakers stand on cannabis policy, too.

Of note, most votes on cannabis bills were not roll calls. We’ve listed incumbents' votes as “yes” where the incumbent was not excused and did not vote “no” or “yes with reservations.” Also, we corrected misspellings in some candidates’ replies.

You can look up your Hawai’i Senate district at Vote411.

Senate District 1 (uncontested/General Election is canceled)

Sen. Lorraine Inouye (D) — Because there is no other candidate, Sen. Inouye has been reelected. Voted against legalization (SB 3335) and expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487). Voted for state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession arrests records that did not result in conviction (HB 1595). www.LorraineInouye.com        

Senate District 3

Sen. Dru Kanuha (D) — Cosponsored and voted for legalization (SB 3335). Voted for state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). Voted against expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487). — DruKanuha.com

Kurt Sullivan (R) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire.                   

Senate District 4 (uncontested/General Election is canceled)

Tim Richards (D)  Because there is no other candidate in the General Election, Richards has been elected to serve in the Hawai’i Senate. Voted for legalization (SB 3335). Voted for state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). Voted against expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487). — VoteTimRichards.com

Senate District 5 (uncontested/General Election is canceled)

Troy Hashimoto (D) Because there is no other candidate in the General Election, Hashimoto has been elected to serve in the Hawai’i Senate. Voted for legalization (SB 3335) and state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). Voted against expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487). — TroyHashimoto.com

Senate District 6

Sen. Angus McKelvey (D) Voted “yes with reservations” on legalization (SB 3335) and state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). Voted against expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487).

Sheila Walker (R) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire. — VoteSheilaWalker.com

Senate District 7

Sen. Lynn DeCoite (D) — Voted “yes with reservations” on legalization (SB 3335) and “yes” on state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). Voted against expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487). — LynnDeCoite.org

Gabby Macaraeg (R) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire.

Senate District 12

Sen. Sharon Moriwaki (D) — Voted for legalization (SB 3335) and state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). Voted against expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487). — SharonMoriwaki.com

Shotaro Dabbs (R) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire. — ShotaroDabbs.com

Senate District 16

Pat Beekman (R) — Responded “yes” to all three of HACR’s yes-or-no questions. Supports:

  • making cannabis legal, and taxing and regulating its sales for adults 21 and older
  • creating a state-initiated process to clear cannabis-related records, and
  • policies to help ensure that local family farmers and small businesses in each county can participate in Hawaii’s emerging cannabis economy

— PatBeekman.com

Sen. Brandon Elefante (D) — Voted against legalization (SB 3335) and expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487). Voted for state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595).  

Senate District 18

Sen. Michelle Kidani (D) — Voted “yes with reservations” on legalization (SB 3335) and “yes” on state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). Voted against expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487). — MNKidani.com

Emil Svrcina (R) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire. — EmilClearChoice.com

Senate District 19 (uncontested/General Election is canceled)

Sen. Henry Aquino (D) — Because there is no other candidate in the General Election. Sen. Aquino has been reelected. Voted “yes with reservations” on legalization (SB 3335) and “yes” on state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). Voted against expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487).

Senate District 22

Rep. Cedric Gates — Vocal proponent of legalization. Cosponsored and voted in favor of legalization (SB 3335/HB 2600). Voted for expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487) and state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595). — CedricforHawaii.com                        

Samantha DeCorte — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire.  —  www.SamanthaDeCorte.com        

Senate District 23

Sen. Brenton Awa (R) — Cosponsored and voted for legalization (SB 3335). Voted for expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487). Voted against state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595).

Ben Shafer (D) — Position unknown. Has not responded to our candidate questionnaire. — www.BenShafer.org

Senate District 24 (uncontested/General Election is canceled)

Sen. Jarrett Keohokalole (D) — Because there is no other candidate, Sen. Keohokalole has been reelected. Sponsored and voted for legalization (SB 3335) and expanding cannabis decriminalization (SB 2487). Voted against state-initiated expungement of cannabis possession records (HB 1595).