On March 1, 2025, a new presidential Executive Order declared English as the official national language. This order rescinds a previous mandate that required federal agencies and recipients of federal funding to offer language assistance to non-English speakers.
However, this change does not affect Hawaiʻi's recognition of both English and ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi as the state's official languages. The Hawaiʻi Judiciary has reaffirmed its commitment to allowing communication with the courts in either language.
"Respect for ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi is a core value of the Hawaiʻi Judiciary," stated Chief Justice Mark E. Recktenwald.
In Hawaiʻi, one in ten residents have limited English proficiency. Recognizing and accommodating these language needs is crucial for ensuring meaningful participation in the justice system for those appearing before the courts or receiving Judiciary services.
The Judiciary has invested significant resources in enhancing language access services for court users. "We are proud to provide such services, including court interpreters for all parties, witnesses, and persons with a substantial interest in a case and language services at all points of contact with the Judiciary, whether in person or over the telephone," said Recktenwald.
"We assure court users, interpreters, and the public that the Hawaiʻi State Judiciary remains fully committed to providing court interpreters to persons with limited English proficiency or speech or hearing impairments," added Recktenwald. "We continue to see this as a critical service to assure meaningful access to the courts."