HI SB3022

Establishes the Hawaii Leadership Awards Program within the state archives to honor individuals who have made considerable contributions to the State and serve as inspirations to others.

Awards will be presented annually in 12 categories: Arts, Business and Labor, Entertainment, Food and Drink, Literature, Music, Sports, Science, Community Engagement, Public Service, Friend of Hawaii, and Profile in Courage.

Recipients must have resided in Hawaii for at least seven years, except for the "Friend of Hawaii" category which requires non-residency.

A five-member selection committee will choose awardees, with appointees from the Senate President, House Speaker, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and one member from the state archives.

Awardees receive a certificate of honor and medal, with their story displayed prominently for one year before being added to a permanent archival exhibit alongside Aloha Order of Merit recipients; takes effect July 1, 2026.