HI SB2528

Increases campaign expenditure limits per registered voter for candidates who voluntarily limit spending: governor from $2.50 to $3.00, lieutenant governor from $1.40 to $1.68, mayor from $2.00 to $2.40, and state legislators/council members from $1.40 to $1.68

Raises maximum public funds available to candidates from 10% to 20% of expenditure limits for governor, lieutenant governor, and mayors of Honolulu and Hawaii County, and from 15% to 25% for state legislators, smaller county mayors, council members, and prosecutors

Increases matching fund payments from $1 to $4 for each $1 of qualifying contributions received above the minimum threshold

Lowers minimum qualifying contribution requirements for certain offices, including Honolulu prosecuting attorney from $30,000 to $25,000, Hawaii County prosecuting attorney from $10,000 to $5,000, and Office of Hawaiian Affairs from $1,500 to $5,500

Appropriates an unspecified sum from general revenues for fiscal year 2026-2027 to be deposited into the Hawaii election campaign fund, with the appropriation taking effect July 1, 2026