Hawai‘i State Ethics Commission

Individuals paid to lobby at the state level must register with the Commission and report lobbying expenses if they meet certain lobbying activity thresholds.

“Lobbying” includes communicating with legislators or staff on legislative matters, or communicating with agency officials on state administrative rules. Lobbying also includes “grassroots lobbying” when people are asked to contact their legislators or state officials regarding legislation or an administrative rule. Beginning January 1, 2027, lobbying will also cover certain communications with department heads about obtaining a state contract.