HI SB2251

Reorganizes and clarifies Hawaii's campaign finance laws by consolidating piecemeal amendments made since 1973 into a new organized part of Chapter 11 with ten subparts and clearer section titles.

Establishes comprehensive definitions and procedures for candidates, candidate committees, and noncandidate committees, including registration requirements, reporting timelines, and treasurer duties.

Sets contribution limits: $2,000 per election period for two-year offices, $4,000 for four-year nonstatewide offices, $6,000 for four-year statewide offices, and $1,000 for noncandidate committees.

Creates enforcement mechanisms including subpoena powers, complaint procedures, contested case hearings, and administrative fines up to $1,000 per violation, with criminal penalties including misdemeanor charges and class C felony for falsified reports.

Establishes partial public financing system through Hawaii Election Campaign Fund with qualifying contribution requirements, voluntary expenditure limits, and matching fund provisions for eligible candidates.