Aloha,
I hope everyone’s 2026 is off to a good start. In January, I joined some of our Connect Kākou partners to announce that Hawaiʻi was awarded $149 million in federal funding to expand high-speed internet.
I also had the opportunity to partake in the Pacific Telecommunications Council (PTC) annual conference, PTC ʻ26, and visit a number of Ready Keiki classrooms across our state with legislators.
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Sylvia Luke
Lieutenant Governor
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Hawaiʻi Secures Historic Funding
for Broadband Expansion
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Since launching the Connect Kākou initiative, we’ve been committed to our goal of bringing affordable, reliable high-speed internet across every island. In a major step toward closing the digital divide, I announced alongside our partners that Hawaiʻi has received final approval for approximately $149 million in federal Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) funding.
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This approval places Hawaiʻi among the first 18 states and territories in the nation to receive approval of its BEAD Final Proposal, bringing us closer to connecting over 7,000 unserved and underserved locations across Hawaiʻi. As one of the most significant digital infrastructure investments in state history, it was only fitting to share this news at PTC ‘26, the premier global gathering of digital infrastructure and telecommunications leaders.
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We also announced progress on major internet infrastructure investments with our partners from Google and Ocean Networks Inc., focused on strengthening our interisland connectivity and reinforcing Hawaiʻi’s position as a vital digital hub for the Pacific.
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Connecting the Pacific:
Hawaiʻi’s Role in the Digital Future
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Infrastructure in Hawaiʻi: A Discussion with Leaders Driving Innovation and Advancement Panel
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I was honored to participate in the Pacific Telecommunications Council (PTC) annual conference, PTC ʻ26. At the Power Women Breakfast, I spoke to women in telecommunications about Hawaii’s growth in innovation and emerging career pathways in tech.
I also had the opportunity to speak on a panel, “Infrastructure in Hawaiʻi: A Discussion with Leaders Driving Innovation and Advancement,” alongside University of Hawaiʻi President Wendy Hensel, Hawaiian Telcom President Su Shin, and DRFortress Co-President Rosa White, where we discussed Hawaiʻi’s role as a central hub for global connectivity and the importance of digital infrastructure development.
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To close out my time at PTC’26, I met with Mayor Mikio Tanaka of Nanto City to learn about their city’s new data center project focused on improving disaster resilience. Mahalo to PTC for continuing to bring together professionals in digital infrastructure, tech, and telecommunications with this annual conference. Partnerships across sectors and regions are key to shaping our digital future.
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Meeting Mayor Mikio Tanaka of Nanto City
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Expanding Early Learning Opportunities on Kauaʻi and Beyond
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Kaumualiʻi Elementary School
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Since the launch of Ready Keiki in January 2023, we have remained focused on expanding access to preschool statewide. Through the Executive Office on Early Learning (EOEL) Public Pre-Kindergarten Program, the state has opened more than 80 classrooms to date.
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One of the newest classrooms is at King Kaumualiʻi Elementary School in Līhuʻe, Kauaʻi. I recently visited the Ready Keiki classroom there with Senate President Ronald Kouchi and had the chance to meet the pre-K students.
This classroom is particularly important as Kauaʻi families have expressed growing interest in expanding pre-K capacity, especially in Liīhuʻe, which is home to many of the island’s working families. With this addition, five of Kauaʻi’s nine public elementary schools now offer public pre-K.
This month, I also visited Heʻeia Elementary, Linapuni Elementary, Helemano Elementary, and Kaʻala Elementary Schools. It’s always encouraging to see our youngest learners excited to be in their classrooms as we continue expanding preschool across our state.
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Linapuni Elementary School
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Helemano Elementary School
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Opening Day & State of the State
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In January we celebrated Opening Day, marking the start of the 2026 legislative session, as well as the Governor’s State of the State Address. Both represent an opportunity for progress and positive change for our state. This time serves as a reminder to remain dedicated to the important work ahead, ensuring a future where every Hawaiʻi resident has the opportunity to thrive.
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Launching the Office of the Lieutenant Governor’s High School Internship Program
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Are you a high school student—or do you know one—interested in seeing how Hawaiʻi’s government works? I’m excited to launch the Office of the Lieutenant Governor High School Internship Program!
This summer internship program offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at the world of public service and civil engagement.
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Why Apply?
- Real-World Experience: See firsthand how policy and leadership happen at the State Capitol.
- Skill Building: Develop professional skills while working on a team.
- Career Exploration: Learn about career paths available within state government.
Don’t miss the chance to get a firsthand look at leadership and service in state government. We can’t wait to see the next generation of leaders in action! To learn more and apply, visit ltgov.hawaii.gov/internship
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Capitol Visitors Spotlight
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Meeting with the Hawaii Association of Realtors.
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Welcoming Airlines for America to the State Capitol.
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Welcoming ILWU to my office during their visit to the Capitol on Opening Day.
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Welcoming the Lanakila Multi-Purpose Senior Center to my office during their visit to the Capitol on Opening Day.
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Meeting with Leading Age.
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Meeting with Future Leaders Exchange Program (FLEX) and Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program students.
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Welcoming Senator Rachele Lamosao and Waipahu Intermediate School to the State Capitol.
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Commemorating the launch of Harrison’s Heroes: Pearl Harbor Virtual Reality Experience.
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Filming for PEARL (Promoting Peace, Empathy, Acceptance, Respect, and Love) to prevent bullying in our schools.
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Visiting Lanai Community Hospital.
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Attending the Hawaii United Okinawa Association’s (HUOA) 76th Installation Banquet.
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Attending the Hawaii Alliance for Retired Americans Annual Convention.
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Speaking at the HGEA Oʻahu Chapter Holiday Luncheon.
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Spending the day at the Honolulu Zoo with the amazing animals and caretakers!
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Attending the Early Head Start Consuelo Cottage for Infants & Toddlers Blessing Ceremony.
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Joining Hawaiʻi Public Radio’s The Conversation to discuss recent Connect Kākou and Ready Keiki updates.
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Visiting Kualoa Ranch and learning about their agricultural work.
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Attending the Shoots Summit Hawaii Digital Media 2026 Conference.
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Attending Guangwu Junior High School’s exchange visit at Niu Valley Middle School.
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Visiting foster keiki and parents as part of the Hawaiʻi Department of Human Service’s Kakoo Program.
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Hours
Monday to Friday
7:45 AM - 4:30 PM
(Except state holidays)
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Location
Hawaiʻi State Capitol,
415 South Beretania Street, 5th Floor
Honolulu, HI 96813
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.png "Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke and Gov. Josh Green smiling for a selfie while wearing lei.")
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.png "Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke and group smiling for a group photo with a sign saying, “Welcome to Consuelo Cottage.”")
.png "Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke, legislators, school administration, teachers, and middle school students smiling and holding up shakas for a group photo.")
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