Derek Kawakami appointed to House

Photo: The Garden Island

Derek Kawakami, former Kauai County Councilmember, has been appointed as the newest member of the Hawaii House of Representatives. Kawakami was appointed by Governor Neil Abercrombie to fill the vacant seat of former Representative Hermina Morita, District 14 – Hanalei, Anahola, Kealia, Kapaa, Waipouli, with a term expiring November 6, 2012. Morita stepped down after the Governor appointed and the State Senate confirmed her as the Public Utilities Commission Chair.

"I am pleased to welcome Derek Kawakami to the House of Representatives," said Speaker of the House Calvin K.Y. Say. "Mr. Kawakami joins the legislature during a critical session, with our main focus on balancing the budget and revitalizing the economy. He has already proven his dedication to the public good through his service on the Kauai County Council.

Rep. Kawakami is scheduled to be sworn in on Wednesday by Chief Justice Recktenwald at the 12 noon floor session.