Take a Stand Against Citizens United In Hawai'i
End Citizens United in Hawai‘i
Hawaii has an opportunity to take a stand against Citizens United and against the undue influence of corporations on our elections.
This bill has been scheduled for its final hearing before conference in the House Committee on Judiciary & Hawaiian Affairs on Wednesday, April 8 at 2:00 PM. Please submit written testimony in strong support as soon as possible.
Chair Tarnas has been an ally on many good government reforms, but has expressed concerns about whether this bill will withstand legal challenges. At the same time, many legal experts have affirmed that this approach is both innovative and legally sound. We need to show that there is strong public support and encourage the committee to move this forward.
Sample testimony included below.
In Solidarity
Aria
End Citizens United in Hawai‘i
Hearing in JHA on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at 2:00 PM | Conference Room 325
What Do These Bills Do?
SB2471 affirms the State’s authority to limit the powers of artificial persons and would prohibit corporations and similar entities from spending money in elections. The bill removes the power of corporations, nonprofits, labor unions, and other artificial entities to contribute funds or anything of value to influence candidates, PACs, political parties, or ballot questions. These restrictions apply broadly, including to out-of-state entities operating in Hawaiʻi, while preserving the political rights of individuals.
Why Is This Important?
Elections should reflect people, not corporate money. Artificial entities are state-created privileges, not natural rights holders. These bills reasserts that Hawaiʻi can set boundaries on the powers it grants.Even in a tough legal environment, this is a clear statement that our state should prioritize public trust and fair elections. Individuals can still donate, speak, associate, and participate politically
Sample Testimony
Personalized testimony is the most impactful way to influence lawmakers, please use this as a guide to draft your own words
Aloha Chair Tarnas, Vice Chair Poepoe and Members of the Committee,
I am in strong support of SB2471
This bill clarifies that the powers granted to artificial persons do not include spending money or anything of value to influence elections or ballot measures. This bill does not restrict any individual’s right to speak, organize, or participate in democracy. It simply defines the limits of what state-created entities may do as entities.
{Insert additional comments here}
SB2471 helps restore clarity, accountability, and confidence in our democratic system.
Mahalo,
Your Name, Town
