HI HB223

Designates the month of February as "Ōlelo Hawai'i Month" to celebrate and encourage the use of the Hawaiian language.

Adds two new sections to Chapter 8 of the Hawai'i Revised Statutes establishing the official designation in both Hawaiian and English.

Clarifies that "Ōlelo Hawai'i Month" is not and shall not be construed as a state holiday.

Provides legislative context on Hawaiian language preservation efforts, including the 1896 law that prohibited Hawaiian language instruction in schools and subsequent revitalization initiatives since the 1970s.

Takes effect upon approval.