A contentious atmosphere during the general session lingered into a special session as legislators overrode a
record total 38 of 53 vetoed bills by Gov. Linda Lingle. Despite the budget shortfall of
over $600 million
(estimates differ) for 2010 and 2011, legislators were able to enact a
number of highly progressive reforms including a majority signup bill,
strengthening workers comp and family leave policies, requiring large
parking lots to have dedicated electric vehicle spaces with charging
stations, and reviving basic universal health insurance for children.
