Gov. Josh Green has signed a bill extending Hawaii’s statute of limitations for bribery offenses to nine years, giving state investigators and prosecutors more time to pursue corruption cases.

According to the governor’s office, Senate Bill 2494, now Act 225, addresses cases in which federal bribery investigations may continue beyond the time allowed under state law.

Under previous law, bribery offenses classified as Class B felonies generally had to be prosecuted within three years, or within six years under certain circumstances.

“This legislation represents meaningful progress toward ensuring accountability across all levels of government,” Green said in a news release. “When we provide our system the necessary tools to pursue justice, we reaffirm our commitment to leading with integrity.”

Senate Bill 2494 passed unanimously in both chambers.

The measure follows another recently signed ethics bill aimed at limiting the appearance of political influence in state contracting.

Senate Bill 2247 prohibits certain high-level executive branch employees from organizing, attending or hosting political fundraisers or soliciting campaign contributions. The law applies to compensated executive branch officials nominated or appointed by the governor and confirmed by the state Senate.

The law allows covered officials to express political opinions, make personal campaign contributions and vote as private citizens, but they may not attend political fundraising events.

The restrictions are intended to reduce the risk or appearance of “pay-to-play” practices involving officials with influence over procurement decisions and contract management.