HI HB2238

Establishes a comprehensive public financing program for candidates seeking state and county offices in Hawaii, beginning with the 2028 general election year.

Requires candidates to collect $5 qualifying contributions from registered voters in their district to become certified (ranging from 50 contributions for Hawaii County council to 6,250 for governor).

Provides public funding amounts varying by office, with governor candidates eligible for up to $2.5 million ($1,675,000 for primary, $825,000 for general), state senators up to $100,000, and state representatives up to $50,000.

Limits seed money for campaign viability testing to $5,000 or 5% of maximum allocated funds, whichever is greater, with individual contributions capped at $250.

Prohibits certified candidates from soliciting or accepting private contributions during their campaign and, if elected, throughout their term in office.