Bills Coming Out of Conference

Today, members of the conference committees representing the House and Senate came to agreement on various bills; some noteworthy bills that passed are listed below. The bills now go before the full House and Senate for a final reading, and, if passed, will be sent to the Governor for enactment.

HB1987 RELATING TO FIREWORKS.
Amends the definition of "import" to include fireworks that are labeled or designated as samples, even if not intended for retail sale. Establishes a cause of action to abate the illegal purchasing, selling, possession, setting off, igniting, or discharging of fireworks. Allows the court to order the closure of any place used in violation of the fireworks law. Allows for the forfeiture of property used in violation of the fireworks law. (Introduced by Rep. Marcus Oshiro)

HB2266 RELATING TO CORRECTIONS (Prison Rape)
Requires the Department of Public Safety to address sexual assault in prison. Requires the department to provide annual data regarding acts of sexual assault and sexual misconduct. Requires the department to report to the Legislature on any implementation of the federal Prison Rape Elimination Act. (Introduced by Rep. Cindy Evans)

HB1190 RELATING TO TRAFFIC ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION
Requires the police department of each county to identify roadways most critical to free movement of persons and commerce and establish protocols necessary to coordinate major accident investigations, including immediately notifying the medical examiner in fatal accident cases. (Introduced by Rep. Rida Cabanilla)

HB1684 RELATING TO INVASIVE SPECIES
Prevents and reduces the intentional introduction and spread of invasive species by establishing and revising penalties appropriate to the harm caused by the intentional introduction and spread of invasive species to the economy, natural environment, and the health and lifestyle of Hawaii's people. (Introduced by Rep. Clift Tsuji)

SB950 RELATING TO ELECTRIC GUNS
Authorizes law enforcement officers of the Department of Public Safety and conservation and resources enforcement officers of the Department of Land and Natural Resources to use electric guns and related equipment while performing their duties. (Introduced by Senator Colleen Hanabusa, By Request)

Remix

I got an email this morning from Pamela Kirkland, one of the producers of POTUS, a political news channel on Sirius XM. I was expecting the usual email - questions about a bill or a request for assistance from a reporter or blogger.

I'm glad I was wrong!

Pamela and her crew remixed Rep. Tom Brower's rap invocation with Yung Joc's original version of "It's Going Down." (You can listen to it here)

Maybe next week I'll open my inbox and find an email from someone who cut video clips of Rep. Brower's rap invocation video with Yung Joc's official music video. Heck, why not throw Alvin and the Chip Munk's version of "It's Going Down" in there too! Any takers?

Mahalo to the POTUS crew for the re-re-remix!!

Brower gets down

Each year, toward the end of session, Representative Tom Brower gives a colorful invocation in the form of an original rap on the House floor.

His rhymes last year included the "...House Blog, Coqui Frogs, Menopause, Hilo Vog, Drug sniffing dog..." and other notable words and phrases memorializing the 2009 Legislative Session.

Today, he started with a nod to the musical talents of another lawmaker before sharing a rap that highlighted several legislative, government and state issues.

"The Minority Leader isn’t the only one in this Chamber who knows how to sing. This is a song I wrote, entitled It’s Going Down," he began.

Watch the full performance on YouTube and read the lyrics below.

Don’t let civil rights… lose in a good fight
Dems need to stand up… roll call abandoned

We need to try harder…
To take people farther…

So… will… you…

Meet me in the caucus… It’s going down
Meet me in the Speaker’s office…. It’s going down
Meet me wit da dissidents… It’s going down

Anywhere a legislator… Stand up for the under-rated

Bills and Resos… Committee room schedules
Government taxes… Bruddah no can handle

Let’s get together… to do something better

So… will… you…

Meet me in the Chamber… It’s going down
Meet me at the Snack shop… It’s going down
Meet me in the elevator… It’s going down

Wherever there’s injustice… ya know I’ll be found

When it comes to makin’ good…
You know I’m around…

Cause when the doo-doo hits the fan -
It’s time to get down

So meet me on the 5th floor… It’s going down
Meet me at my back door… It’s going down
Meet Me at my Mama’s House… It’s going down
Meet me on da Superferry… It’s going down
Meet me on da Facebook… It’s going down

At Kyle’s Gas Station… It’s going down
At Isaac’s Tax Service… It’s going down
On Jerry’s Motorcycle… It’s going down
With Karl’s Briefcase… It’s going down
Donated Kidneys… It’s going down

Providing leadership… Influence to represent
Strength to do right… Fight the Good Fight
Challenge the population…
Respecting God’s creation…
Loving those around…

Cause it’s time to get down!

Mahalo.

Rep Roy Takumi guest on Island Connections

Tune in to Island Connections on 'Olelo Channel 55 tonight at 8 p.m. to watch Representative Roy Takumi discuss education issues with host Ibrahim Aoude. The series is a live broadcast from the UH Ethnic Studies Department.

Community Meeting on disaster preparedness and H1N1 flu

Elected officials from Aiea and Pearl City will be hosting a community meeting on disaster preparedness and H1N1 flu issues. The meeting is scheduled for Thursday, April 15, 2010 from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. at the Waimalu Elementary School Cafeteria.

The Department of Defense will explain how to prepare effectively for disasters such as tsunamis, earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, etc. In addition, the Department of Health will discuss issues related to the H1N1 flu, including its symptoms, outcomes, and preventive measures.

Lawmakers are holding this meeting so that community members stay informed about the types of issues and events that affect their lives; preparing for a disaster being at the top of the list given the recent tsunami scare.

On February 26, 2010, an 8.8 magnitude earthquake hit Chile's southern coast, triggering a large tsunami that potentially could have been disastrous for the Hawaiian Islands the following day. Fortunately, scientists overstated the tsunami threat and surges of small waves were the only indicators of a tsunami.

The NOAA Pacific Tsunami Warning Center in Ewa Beach quickly advised the state to prepare for a tsunami, sounding tsunami sirens and advising people to move inland and stay away from beaches and off the roads. With the help of news broadcasts and social media tools, such as Facebook and Twitter, tsunami experts and government officials encouraged people to prepare for the worst. People flooded grocery stores stocking up on water, food and other emergency kit necessities.

"Although Hawaii wasn't hit by a tsunami, it was evident that the State was sufficiently prepared for a possible disaster," said Representative Blake Oshiro. "However, we need to keep our residents informed and help them be prepared for another type of disaster alert."

Another issue affecting the community is the H1N1 flu. The potentially fatal virus is known to spread from person-to-person through close contact. According to an MSNBC report on February 12, 2010, "57 million U.S. illnesses, 257,000 hospitalizations and 11,690 deaths, including 1,180 children were recorded." Since May 3, 2009, Hawaii reportedly has around 2,220 cases and approximately 13 deaths. Because preventive measures are so crucial to stopping the spread of the virus, holding town meetings for residents to stay informed and ask questions are part of the State's awareness plan.

Sponsoring legislators include Senator David Ige, Senator Donna Mercado Kim, Senator Norman Sakamoto, Representative Blake Oshiro, Representative Roy Takumi, and Representative Mark Takai.

In Memory of Eric Maehara

Eric Maehara (1946 - 2010) and Rep. Jerry Chang

Eric Maehara, an attorney with the Legislative Reference Bureau, passed away last Thursday, April 1, 2010, after a battle with cancer. Rep. Jerry Chang, his long-time friend, presented a eulogy for Eric at a memorial service on Thursday, April 8, 2010, and submitted it for the House blog:

Eric Maehara was a very, very special man. I know you are all here because he has touched your life in a way that very few people have. I am honored that he was my best friend—my brother.

Eric spoke highly of his father with much appreciation for how he worked hard and long for the family as at one point, there were 3 kids in college with 3 college tuitions to pay. After law school Eric followed his father's interest in politics. He worked for the Senate Majority Office for Senate President, John Ushijima, drafting bills and building relationships with policy makers and staffers who would eventually work their way up to positions of influence.

He eventually opened up his own firm; and Jon Okudara remembers that his first office was very small, furnished with fold-out chairs and a table. Jon helped Eric celebrate his office opening with Carol Kimura and Wilma Nakashima—they had 4 plastic cups, a bottle of Stoley, and a bag of ice. That was the humble beginnings of Eric T. Maehara, Attorney-at-Law.

He would soon become a founding partner of one of the top legal firms at that time, Foley, Maehara, Nip and Chang. Eric was well-known as one of Hawaii's top land use attorneys with major clients on all major islands, as well as, on the mainland and Japan. He worked on the Makena Prince project for a number of years and he had a lot of Maui friends whom he kept close ties with over the years. Those who were special to him were the late Representative Bob Nakasone, the Sam Garcia Family, the Apanas, and Charlotte Orikasa.

I met Eric over 21 years ago when I was elected into office. He would occasionally ask his good buddies, Whitney Anderson and Calvin Say, to invite some of the House members for lunch at China House after Session. We had some great Chinese food—and true to fashion, some good refreshments.

We became close friends when I got into a motorcycle accident about 14 years ago. He was on a flight to Hilo for business and read about my accident in the paper. He postponed his meeting and came to see me in the hospital. He always likes to tell the story of walking into my hospital room, seeing me lying there with my injured foot up in the air, and I'm on the phone with a catalogue on my lap. After I hung up the phone, he asked me who I was talking to. And I tell him that I'm ordering parts for my bike…he couldn't believe that I was still going to ride again.

During Eric's other trips to Hilo and my recovery at home, he would bring me lunch and keep me company. That was Eric.

We really got along well and shared some great times. Although we both enjoyed sports and going out, we had some differences. He wasn't much of a music lover like me, but he loved singing a duet with me when he would sing Willie Nelson's part and I, Julio Iglesias, in "For All the Girls We Loved Before". He enjoyed reading. He had tons of books on his shelves—most were of historic war stories and strategies of warfare, as well as, politics.

I and others have told him he should run for office, but that was one thing he knew he didn't want to do. But he contributed so much to our Senators and Representatives because he was a master in drafting bills and policy.

Yes, Eric was quite the man—yet, humble throughout his life. He derived a lot of pleasure from simple things in life and most especially, his family.

His children were his life. They said their dad would do anything for them—at the drop of a hat, he would be there for them. Whether he was with Tasha in Australia, Elizabeth in New York, or Char and Makena in Florida. It didn't matter—he would be there for any medical problems, graduations, or to watch Makena during his football games. He was proud of Makena -- how he is growing up to be a nice young man, and glad that he found a sport that he loved playing.

Makena wanted me to say that his dad was helpful, proud and stubborn. He did not expect or accept anything in return.

Yes, Eric was a generous man. I lived with him during the Session, and he would not accept any help in the rent. He even gave his car to Ted Baker so he could teach his son to drive a stick-shift, and of course, to impress the girls.

We had fun trips together to Japan and Seattle. He often talked about taking Makena and my son, Jay Boy, to San Francisco for a 49ers game. He also wanted to go to Japan one more time. He just loved Japan and its food and culture. All of the artwork in his apartment had a "Japan" theme.

On his 60th birthday, his children planned a surprise party for him at Aku Bone. That was the happiest I have ever seen him. To be surprised by all of his children and friends—it meant so much to him.

I was with Eric the night he was having trouble swallowing, and felt something was wrong—which led to his diagnosis of cancer of the esophagus. It was quite an emotional struggle for him; and I know his main concern was for his children and how they would have to deal with this. To the end, his main concern was for his children, especially for his youngest, Makena.

During this difficult time, he mentioned that his sister, Lois and her husband, Gary, as well as, Lisa Santos, were guardian angels for helping and always being there for him. They made sure he had food, fruits, and healthy drinks. He mentioned that the only way he could thank them was if I could bring back Lychee from Hilo because he knew Gary loved Lychee. He gave his precious "girl friend, Aka" to Lisa to take care of because he knew she would take good care of her.

Eric would want me to thank some very special people who helped him during his most difficult times. They are Speaker Calvin Say, his supervisors, Ken Takayama and Charlotte Carter-Yamauchi, and the entire staff at LRB.

I believe it was fate that Eric got to spend the last 7 years of his life working at the Legislative Reference Bureau because it gave us an opportunity to spend more time with him--going to lunch and hanging out after work. These years gave the LRB staff an opportunity to get to know and appreciate this special man.

He would also want to thank all of you for being a part of his life. Even during the last stages of his illness, he "toughed it out," being more concerned about the people he loved than any discomfort he was feeling.

He will be missed -- and while it's hard right now, one day we'll cease to remember Eric with tears and instead, remember him with smiles. As for me, he will forever be a part of my heart and soul, and today I say Aloha (farewell) to a wonderful father and friend.

Responsible Leadership

Speaker Say's letter to the editor was published yesterday in the Honolulu Advertiser:

GOVERNOR WANTS TO DELAY RESPONSIBILITY

"Responsible leadership" has been raised in a letter from the governor's office ("Criticism of Lingle plan is unjustified," April 2).

The House of Representatives has been very responsible in formulating its financial plan, which maintains a delicate balance between funding essential services and minimizing negative impacts on ordinary taxpayers and businesses.

Contrary to the governor's letter, the House has not passed a general excise tax rate increase. Why has she suggested otherwise?

Rather, the House has proposed a variety of revenue measures that are targeted and intended to minimize the negative impact on the general public and economic recovery. The measures include a temporary suspension of certain general excise tax exemptions which currently benefit relatively few businesses and persons, and the curtailment of the high technology tax credits which currently benefit relatively few high-income taxpayers. In general, the House package is "anti-special interest."

The governor's financial plan defers a substantial amount of state liabilities until after she leaves office. She proposes to defer $275 million in tax refunds that are due in this current fiscal year. She also proposes to continue delaying two months of Medicaid payments to health care providers, despite her emergency appropriation request for $40 million. Is this responsible leadership?

Rep. Calvin Say
Speaker, House of Representatives

Race to the Top good for education reform, says Takumi

Representative Roy Takumi, chairman of the House Committee on Education, comments on how Race to the Top has energized state education reform agendas in an article by the National Conference of State Legislatures.

The article discusses the position of state leaders across the nation on the federal competition and its ground rules. Some believe that the application process will help create effective school reform, while others believe many states will be disappointed in the end after investing so much time and resources to apply for the funds and not receiving a penny.


This is what Takumi had to say:

"Race to the Top has forced states to be a bit more introspective, and that's a good thing. It was helpful for Hawaii to go through this process in a thoughtful way, and it seems to have changed thinking on some issues--like how to go about reconstituting low-performing schools..."

"The way we looked at it is that we want to use our application as a blueprint for reform in our state. The money definitely has the potential to accelerate what we want to accomplish. But if we don't get, we still have our blueprint and then we'll have to focus on to what degree we can implement it."

The U.S. Department of Education awarded Delaware ($100 million) and Tennessee ($500 million)on March 29, first round of Race to the Top. Applications for the second round are due June 1, 2010.

Read full article at the NCSL website.

Easter Basket Drive 2010

In Photo: Rep. Marilyn Lee passes Rep. Cynthia Thielen a creative "basket" for the Institute of Human Services (IHS).

Members of the Women's Legislative Caucus helped to load a truck full of ~160 Easter baskets filled with essential items for needy families at the chamber level turnaround of the Hawaii State Capitol on Thursday, April 1, 2010.

Each year, the caucus holds an Easter Basket Project and puts out a call for Easter baskets or plastic storage containers filled with personal hygiene items, toiletries and non-perishable snacks to benefit clients of Institute of Human Services (IHS). This year IHS also requested supplies for their new keiki garden.

The caucus collected 210 baskets last year and 223 baskets in 2008.

IHS is Hawaii’s largest emergency shelter for people who are homeless, serving up to 200 men, 100 individual women and 23-27 families (with up to 60 keiki) every night. Through community support, IHS provides guests with toiletries, three hot nutritious meals a day, safe shelter, housing, employment, and supportive services.

Brower honors Miss Hawaii

On Friday, April 2, 2010, Pacific Home furniture store on Ward Avenue in Kakaako held a fashion show and silent auction to help the newly-crowned Miss Hawaii Renee Nobriga to raise money to compete in the Miss USA pageant coming up in Vegas.

Representative Tom Brower (Waikiki, Ala Moana, Kakaako), on behalf of the Legislature, presented certificates of appreciation to Renee Nobriga and the owners of Pacific Home.

Renee Nobriga

Winning the crown has enabled RENEE MOKIHANA NOBRIGA to become an active member in her community through such organizations as the American Heart Association, the American Lung Association, Adult Friends for Youth, The Ronald McDonald House, Helemano Plantation Wellness Center, Kamehameha Schools, Word of Life Christian Fellowship and the Hawaii Food Bank. Her future goal is to get involved in the “Read Across America” program, where she can visit schools and promote youth literacy, a key to self-sufficiency.

Just like Rep. Tom Brower, Renee won on her 3rd try and sets a positive example of perseverance. We are very proud of her accomplishments!

Pacific Home

Rep. Tom Brower also presented Pacific Home with a certificate. It is important to honor locally-owned businesses whose products spread the spirit of aloha.

PACIFIC HOME was founded in 2004 by Aubrey Morgan-Yee and Jennifer Johnson— women with strong local ties to the Island— who brought a unique combination of talent and expertise to allow the store the success it has today. Designer Jamie Smith Jackson joined PACIFIC HOME as a partner in 2006.

In Photo: Rep. Tom Brower with Miss Hawaii Renee Nobriga, owners of Pacific Home, and KHON reporter Brianne Randle.

Teacher Furloughs = March Madness

Following is Rep. Roy Takumi's op-ed which appeared in the Honolulu Advertiser today:

"Call it the political equivalent of March Madness. How else can we explain our inability to come up with a solution that ends furlough Fridays and gets our children back to school?

It's baffling why the Board of Education, the Department of Education and the Hawaii State Teachers Association on one hand and the governor on the other believes that it is better to talk at each other through press conferences rather than talking with each other face-to-face.

I was told by the governor's senior policy adviser, and since confirmed by the governor, that there would be no resolution to furloughs unless, and only if, the Legislature passes out the administration's bill calling for the abolishment of the BOE and putting the school superintendent in the governor's cabinet.

Think for a moment of how silly this appears. Forget about the fact that no governor has ever tied a collective bargaining agreement to the passage of an unrelated bill.

Indeed, not even Gov. Lingle has ever done this in her previous seven years. In essence, what the governor is saying is that even if all the parties to the contract were to agree to her proposal to end furloughs, she still wouldn't sign off unless the Legislature passes out her bill. Oh, my.
On the other hand, the proposal by the BOE, DOE and HSTA is puzzling as well.

The assertion that there will be dire consequences in the classroom unless every single DOE employee returns to work seems more about protecting jobs than it is about the welfare of our students.

Surely there is a way to decide whether every clerk-typist, administration services assistant, resource teacher, school renewal specialist, or personnel management specialist is critical to the daily operation of our schools.

But there is hope.

Although it's taken far longer than it should, the governor has moved from her original proposal of 36 furlough days to being willing to tap $62 million from special funds to pay for school-based employees. The union has agreed to exchange six planning days for classroom days.
The Legislature has also tried to do its part.

We cannot intervene in the collective bargaining process and our role is limited to funding whatever proposal is agreed upon.

But we have taken the unprecedented step of earmarking funds ranging from $50 million (HB 2200) to $62 million (SB 2124) prior to an agreement by the relevant parties.

Officials from the teachers union have indicated that the negotiations are over.

They put forth a good faith effort and this is their final and best offer.

I can understand the frustration. I do appreciate the time and energy it took to come this far.
But I would remind the union, and all of us, that one of the key lessons we teach our children is a timeless one. And that is that they should never give up no matter the odds, that reaching your goals only comes about through perseverance , dedication and commitment.

If we keep this lesson in mind, I'm confident this ongoing madness will end.

If we don't, we have only ourselves to blame."

Big Island poised to receive new Mobile Medical Van

Plans for a new mobile medical van to service the Big Island of Hawaii are advancing, with the encumbrance of $350,000 in state funds and a partnership established between Kona Community Hospital and the Hawaii Medical Service Association (HMSA).

"Kona Community Hospital is excited to move forward with this project,” said Earl Greenia, Regional Chief Executive Officer, Kona Community Hospital. “Rep Herkes’ passion for healthcare outreach is commendable! We are grateful to HMSA for providing the money to fund operations for the next two years."

Championed at the State Legislature by Rep. Robert Herkes (District 5 – Puna, Kau, South Kona, North Kona), the funding to purchase a commercial grade, mobile medical unit was approved by the 2009 Legislature. The legislation stipulated that Kona Community Hospital must operate and staff the van, find a public or private partner to fund operations for two years, that the program cover the areas of South Kona, Ka‘u and upper Puna, and work with the Department of Education to service public schools in those areas. Kona Community Hospital will manage the program and HMSA will fund operations for two years.

“The mobile medical van will greatly improve access to medical care for the people in rural areas of the Big Island,” said Rep. Herkes. “Time and mobility are critical components when you are dealing with an emergency medical situation or in a natural disaster. When needed, the mobile medical van will be able to reach people in remote areas, provide care, and indeed, save lives.”

The objectives of the mobile medical van program will be to:

· Improve child health outcomes
· Improve access to primary care services
· Create a Big Island disaster relief resource

In addition, the initiative will provide three primary services:

· Education and vaccinations to children at designated schools
· Primary health care services to geographically challenged regions of the island
· A mobile disaster relief unit

"This mobile unit can bring another dimension of care to the residents of the Big Island,” said Kathryn Harter, Chief Nurse Executive at Kona Community Hospital. “From elementary school children wellness to medical access at community events, this initiative can support many people in positive ways. We are very optimistic about the value we can offer through these expanded services.”

HMSA’s On-line Care will be a critical component of the mobile medical van. It will allow face-to-face interaction with nurses and physicians, and patients will be able to establish on-going care with a primary care physician at the local community clinic or elsewhere.

“We know that access to care is a tremendous challenge on the big island, so HMSA is very excited to partner in this effort to bring quality medical care to the communities that need care the most,” said Jennifer Diesman, Vice President of Government Relations for HMSA. “We’re especially grateful to Representative Herkes for his tireless efforts to make the medical van a reality and to the Kona Community Hospital for serving as the primary care coordinator.”

For the long-term, Kona Community Hospital is looking at other potential partnerships and opportunities that will expand coverage and keep the mobile van viable and sustainable beyond the two-year commitment.

Finance Chair Mid-Session Forum on 'Olelo

Rep. Marcus Oshiro, chair of the House Finance Committee, held a mid-session legislative forum in Wahiawa on March 16, 2010. About 60 people attended the meeting to hear an update about legislation that lawmakers are considering this legislative session, to ask questions and to share their.

If you're interested in what Rep. Oshiro had to say and the discussion that followed, you will be able to watch it on 'Olelo. See schedule below.

3/31/10 - 9:00 a.m., Wednesday on CH. 49
4/2/10 - 10:00 a.m., Friday on CH. 54
4/14/10 - 6:00 p.m., Wednesday on CH. 49
4/21/10 - 6:00 p.m., Wednesday on CH. 49

More bills of interest for Monday, March 29, 2010

COMMITTEE ON FINANCE – AGENDA #5
6:00 P.M. – ROOM 308

SB2570, SD1,HD1 PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE X, SECTION 2, OF THE HAWAII CONSTITUTION, TO CHANGE THE BOARD OF EDUCATION FROM AN ELECTED BOARD TO AN APPOINTED BOARD.
Amends the Hawaii Constitution to provide for a Board of Education whose members are to be appointed by the Governor, as provided by law, and to remove the nonvoting student member. Effective July 1, 2020. (SB2570 HD1) (ConAm)


SB2571, SD2, HD1 RELATING TO THE BOARD OF EDUCATION
Requires the members of the Board of Education to be nominated and, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, appointed by the Governor from lists of qualified candidates presented to the Governor by the Board of Education Selection Advisory Council. Effective July 1, 2020. (SB2571 HD1)


SB2559, SD2, HD1 RELATING TO ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
Requires businesses in the State to collect a 5 cent offset fee for each plastic or paper disposable checkout bag provided to a customer. Allocates the offset fee: 2 cents to the business and 3 cents to the general fund. Effective 7/1/2010.


COMMITTEE ON FINANCE – AGENDA #6
7:00 P.M. – ROOM 308

SB2626, SD1 RELATING TO PUBLIC SERVICE
PROPOSED HD1: Creates a temporary freeze on the hiring of individuals who perform work which has traditionally been done by State civil service employees by prohibiting the permanent filling, directly or indirectly, any and all positions insulated from partiality from the effective date of this Act through January 2, 2011, which positions insulated from partiality being defined as civil service positions within the State employment system which are compensated at the E.M. pay scale, and all positions in the employment system of a non-governmental employer that require the position holder to perform work that has traditionally been done by State civil service employees. Requires every state agency to report to the legislature all non-civil service, temporary employees employed by the agency for each quarterly period of the fiscal year. Establishes a definition for initial probation period, amends section 76-27(a)(1), HRS, to provide that the initial probation period for a person transferring between a position exempt under section 76-16, HRS, to a civil service position from the effective date of the act until the commencement of the 2011 legislative session.

SB2695, SD1 RELATING TO NON-GENERAL FUNDS
PROPOSED HD1: Addresses the fiscal year 2009-2010 budget shortfall transferring a total of $95,950,000 in excess balances from various non-general funds.


COMMITTEE ON FINANCE – AGENDA #7
8:00 P.M. – ROOM 308

DECISION MAKING ONLY

SB2493, SD2 RELATING TO USE OF TOBACCO SETTLEMENT FUNDS
Extends sunset date in Act 264, relating to tobacco fund settlement, for continued use by John A. Burns School of Medicine. Requires annual reporting by the University of Hawaii. Reallocates moneys in the Hawaii tobacco settlement special fund. (SD2) ($)

SB2001, SD1 RELATING TO TAXATION
Establishes a waiver program to exempt a taxpayer's wagering winnings legally acquired outside of the State during a consecutive 5-day period.

SB2405, SD2 RELATING TO TAXATION
Adopts amendments to Hawaii tax laws to implement the streamlined sales and use tax agreement. Effective 1/1/2099.

SB2543, SD2, HD1 RELATING TO TECHNOLOGY
Creates the Hawaii broadband commission and the Hawaii broadband commissioner to promote and maximize the availability of broadband services in the state. Appropriates funds. Effective July 1, 2112. (SB2543 HD1) ($)

SB2159 RELATING TO TRAFFIC ABSTRACT FEE
Increases the fee for a traffic abstract from $7 to $10 and increases the amount of the fee deposited into the general fund from $5 to $8

Bills of interest for Monday, March 29, 2010

COMMITTEE ON TOURISM, CULTURE & INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
9:30 AM – ROOM 312

HCR277/HR199 SUPPORTING THE RECOGNITION OF COCKFIGHTING AS A CULTURAL ACTIVITY


COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION
10:00 AM – ROOM 309

HCR141/HR81 SUPPORTING THE APPLICATION OF HAWAIIAN AIRLINES TO PROVIDE AIRLINE SERVICE TO HANEDA AIRPORT IN TOKYO, JAPAN


COMMITTEE ON WATER, LAND & OCEAN RESOURCES
10:45 AM – ROOM 325

SB2646 RELATING TO HAWAII SURFING RESERVES
Designates three Hawaii Surfing Reserves, comprising surf breaks off of Waikiki to Kewalo Basin, the north shore of Oahu from Ali'i Beach in Haleiwa to Sunset Beach, and Honolua Bay on the island of Maui. Effective July 1, 2040. (SB2646 HD1)


COMMITTEE ON FINANCE AGENDA #2
2:30 PM - ROOM 308

SB2469, SD2, HD1 RELATING TO THE EMERGENCY AND BUDGET RESERVE FUND
Appropriates moneys from the emergency and budget reserve fund to maintain levels of programs for education, human services, and health. Effective July 1, 2050. (SB2469 HD1) ($)

Bills of interest for Thursday, March 25th

COMMITTEE ON HUMAN SERVICES – HOUSE & SENATE
INFORMATIONAL BRIEFING
10:00 A.M.
FARRINGTON HIGH SCHOOL AUDITORIUM

The purpose of the briefing is to discuss the growing crisis of gangs and gang-related violence involving the youth in Hawaii.


COMMITTEE ON FINANCE – AGENDA #1
10:00 A.M. – ROOM 308

SB2543, SD2, HD1 RELATING TO TECHNOLOGY
Creates the Hawaii broadband commission and the Hawaii broadband commissioner to promote and maximize the availability of broadband services in the state. Appropriates funds. Effective July 1, 2112. (SB2543 HD1) ($)


SB2563, SD1,HD1 RELATING TO ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Sets the goal of using alternative fuels to meet 30 percent of highway fuel demand by 2030. Requires the Director of the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to impose and collect fees for the administration of the solar water heater system for new residences program. (SB2563 HD1)


COMMITTEE ON FINANCE – AGENDA #2
11:00 A.M. – ROOM 308

SB950, SD2, HD2 RELATING TO ELECTRIC GUNS
Authorizes law enforcement officers of the Department of Public Safety and conservation and resources enforcement officers of the Department of Land and Natural Resources to use electric guns and related equipment while performing their duties. Effective July 1, 2050. (SB950 HD2)

SB2919, SD1, HD1 RELATING TO THE HAWAII STATE HOSPITAL
Requires the department of public safety to provide security at Hawaii state hospital. Requires a report from department of health, in collaboration with department of public safety, to the legislature on the plan for the provision of short- and long-term security for the needs of the forensic population of the Hawaii state hospital. Effective July 1, 2025. (SB2919 HD1)

SB2494, SD2,HD2 RELATING TO INSURANCE
Requires EUTF health benefits plans to allow enrollees to continue the same prescription drug coverage for current enrollees, and applies this provision retroactively to the 2009 EUTF open enrollment period. Prohibits the Department of Human Services from requiring its approval for a Medicaid or QUEST health plan to deliver services through telehealth, and from requiring in-person health care visits to qualify telehealth services for coverage under these health plans.


COMMITTEE ON FINANCE – AGENDA #4
2:00 P.M. – ROOM 308

SB2256, SD1 RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
Authorizes the DOE to adopt rules governing traffic and parking conditions on roadways and areas under the jurisdiction of the DOE, including rules for the assessment of parking fees. Provides that parking fees collected shall be deposited into the same fund into which fees and charges collected for the use of school facilities are deposited; provided that parking fees collected by a school shall be deposited to the credit of that school's nonappropriated local school fund account. (SD1) ($)


COMMITTEE ON FINANCE – AGENDA #5
3:30 P.M. - ROOM 308

SB2124, SD2 RELATING TO THE HURRICANE RELEF FUND
Makes an appropriation from the Hawaii hurricane relief fund to restore the remaining public school instructional days for the 2009-2010 and 2010-2011 school years; provided that the moneys shall only be released upon completion of negotiations of parties necessary to execute the restoration of instructional days. Allocates a proportionate amount of the appropriation to charter schools. Requires unexpended funds from each school year to lapse to the Hawaii hurricane relief fund. (SD2) ($)

2010 Hawaii Medal of Honor

At the end of the 2010 Medal of Honor Ceremony, lawmakers and guests stand and await the 21-Gun Salute by the Hickam Air Force Base Honor Guard in the Hawaii State Capitol Rotunda.

The Hawaii State House of Representatives and the Hawaii Senate today convened a special joint session to honor military service men and women who were killed in action while serving our country as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.

The families of 20 of the 28 service members honored today accepted the Hawaii Medal of Honor on behalf of their loved ones.

2010 HAWAII MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENTS

United States Army Specialist Christopher P. Sweet
United States Army Specialist Cwislyn K. Walter
United States Army First Lieutenant Daniel B. Hyde
United States Army Sergeant Raphael A. Futrell
United States Navy Lieutenant Junior Grade Francis L. Toner IV
United States Army Sergeant Devin C. Poche
United States Army Corporal Michael J. Anaya
United States Army Command Sergeant Major Benjamin Moore Jr.
United States Army Staff Sergeant Randy S. Agno
United States Air Force First Lieutenant Roslyn L. Schulte
United States Army Sergeant Jasper K. Obakrairur
United States Army Major Rocco M. Barnes
United States Marine Corps Lance Corporal Joshua R. Whittle
United States Army Corporal Casey L. Hills
United States Marine Corps Corporal Matthew R. Lembke
United States Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class (Hospital Corpsman) Anthony C. Garcia
United States Marine Corps Lance Corporal James D. Argentine
United States Marine Corps Lance Corporal Travis T. Babine
United States Marine Corps Sergeant Jay M. Hoskins
United States Marine Corps Corporal Christian A. Guzman Rivera
United States Marine Corps Lance Corporal Joshua M. Bernard
United States Marine Corps Lance Corporal John J. Malone
United States Marine Corps Private First Class Zachary D. TenBrook
United States Marine Corps Lance Corporal Alfonso Ochoa Jr.
United States Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Earl R. Scott III
United States Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Mathew C. Heffelfinger
United States Marine Corps Lance Corporal Mark David Juarez
United States Marine Corps Lance Corporal Jacob A. Meinert

Surfing over 60?

You can do it! This week on The Kukui Connection, Rep. Marilyn Lee speaks to Ann Frost, president of the Hawaii Chapter of the American Physical Therapy Association (HAPTA). The show airs on Sunday, March 21 (repeat April 4) on Oceanic, Olelo Channel 54 at 4 p.m.

Frost works at Queens Medical Center as a director of the physical therapy program at the Women's Health Center. On this episode, she discusses:

*How women and men may have different physical therapy needs based on the types of health issues. For example, women are more prone to osteoporosis, hormone-related conditions, and certain types of cancer.

*How physical therapy is not just for the recuperation from injury. It can help enable you to do activity that will improve the quality of life.

*How physical therapy differs from occupational therapy and massage therapy, although there are overlaps.

*How physical therapy will help you in movement, balance, and exercise - all important elements of good health.

Patsy Mink documentary nominated for EPIC Emerging Artist Award

Kimberlee Bassford, Filmmaker

Hawaii filmmaker Kimberlee Bassford's documentary, "Patsy Mink: Ahead of the Majority" has been nominated to compete for The White House Project's EPIC Emerging Artist Award.

Bassford is one of 12 nominees selected to compete for the award, which will be determined by an online vote. Voting is open now through March 31 at The White House Project’s website. Here is the link to vote.

The top three vote getters will be invited to the EPIC 2010 gala on April 7 in New York, and the winner revealed at The Secrets of Powerful Women EPIC 2010 After-Party sponsored by Lifetime Television. Special guests include actors Meryl Streep and Geena Davis and journalist Sheryl Wu Dunn.

The White House Project is a national, nonpartisan, non-profit organization that aims to advance women’s leadership in all communities and sectors, up to the U.S. presidency. Each year, it presents the EPIC Awards to celebrate those in the visual arts and media who have created powerful representations of women in their work.

This year, it created the first-ever EPIC Emerging Artist Award to recognize artists who may not yet have great exposure and are emerging on the national and international scene.

"Patsy Mink: Ahead of the Majority" is Bassford’s first feature documentary and the first film to explore the life and times of Congresswoman Mink. Mink was the first woman of color in the U.S. Congress and the co-author of Title IX, later renamed the Patsy T. Mink Equal Opportunity in Education Act, the legislation that opened up higher education and athletics for women.

“Patsy’s story captures the spirit of a generation of trailblazing women and shows that one person—armed with vision, drive, and perseverance—can make a difference,” said Bassford.

Patsy Mink was a member of the Territorial House, State Senate, Honolulu City Council and US Congress. In addition, the State of Hawaii was one of the film's funders.

In 2006, the Hawaii Women's Legislative Caucus honored Patsy Mink for her lifetime political achievements. Bassford and her film were recognized at the unveiling of the caucus' legislative package.

The documentary premiered at the 2008 Hawaii International Film Festival, where it won the Audience Award for Favorite Documentary. It aired nationally on PBS in May 2009 and has distribution through Women Make Movies.

Click here to view clips from the nominated works and to vote. Here's more information on "Patsy Mink: Ahead of the Majority."

Principals of the Year

Rep. Roy Takumi (far left), Rep. Lyla Berg (far right) and other House members congratulated Francine Honda as the 2009 Hawaii High School Principal of the Year, Tom Kurashige as the 2009 Hawaii Middle/ Elementary School Principal of the Year, and Ewa Beach Elementary School, Momilani Elementary School, and Royal Elementary School as the 2010 Hawaii Blue Ribbon Schools.

20th Anniversary of the Public Access Room

Representative Denny Coffman today congratulates Suzanne Marinelli (left) and Virginia Beck (right) of the Legislative Reference Bureau's Public Access Room (PAR) on its 20th Anniversary.

PAR serves the citizens of Hawai`i by providing facilities, services and equipment to enhance their ability to participate in the legislative process. You are welcome here to track and affect legislation pending before the Hawai`i State Legislature.

St. Louis 6th graders visit the Capitol

Speaker Calvin Say and George Okuda from Rep. Ken Ito's office talk with 6th graders from St. Louis School early this morning.

UH Sustainable Saunders

Rep. Chris Lee (left) and Rep. K. Mark Takai (right) welcomed the University of Hawaii students spearheading the award winning "Sustainable Saunders" clean energy project. The House of Representatives presented the group with a certificate of appreciation on March 15th.

Youth Speaks Hawaii

Rep. Della Au Belatti welcomes Youth Speaks Hawaii, an award winning poetry slam group, to the House of Representatives. The group was presented with a certificate of appreciation on Monday, March 15th.

Bills of Interst for Tuesday, March 16, 2010

COMMITTEE ON HEALTH
9:30 A.M. – ROOM 329

SB2188 RELATING TO DENTISTRY
Redefines the practice of dentistry to include teeth whitening.

SB2491 RELATING TO TELEMEDICINE
Clarifies telehealth as a practice of medicine. Amends liability insurance provisions to allow for telehealth coverage under medical malpractice insurance. Effective 7/1/50. (SD2)

SB2811 RELATING TO PHARMACIES
Requires all pharmacies and remote dispensing pharmacies to have the capacity to accommodate electronic prescriptions. Requires all pharmacies and dispensing pharmacies to maintain prescription records electronically. Effective 7/1/50. (SD2)


COMMITTEE ON ENERGY & ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION/COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC REVITALIZATION, BUSINESS & MILITARY AFFAIRS
10:30 A.M. – ROOM 325

SB2559, SD2 PROPOSED HD1 – DECISION MAKING ONLY
Requires businesses in the State to charge and collect a 5-cent offset fee for each disposable checkout bag provided to a customer. Allocated the offset fee: 2 cents to the business and 3 cents to the general fund. Effective 7/1/2010


COMMITTEE ON HEALTH/COMMITTEE ON HUMAN SERVICES
11:15 A.M. – ROOM 329

SB2099, SD2 PROPOSED HD1 RELATING TO HEALTH
Sets requirements for obtaining a certificate of need for a proposed renal dialysis facility and the amount of health care services that must be provided by new and existing renal dialysis facilities to continue to qualify under the certificate of need process.


COMMITTEE ON JUDICIARY
2:15 A.M. – ROOM 325

SB2937 RELATING TO INFORMATION PRACTICES
Enacts an abuse of process law for vexatious requesters of public records. Effective January 1, 2050. (SD1)

SB2772 RELATING TO VETERINARY MEDICINE
Permits the board of veterinary medicine to revoke or suspend a license or fine a licensee for conduct or practice that violates recognized principles of veterinary medical ethics. (SD2)

SB950 RELATING TO ELECTRIC GUNS
Authorizes law enforcement officers of the department of public safety and conservation and resources enforcement officers of the department of land and natural resources to use electric guns and related equipment while performing their duties. Effective July 1, 2050. (HB950 HD1)

SB2081 RELATING TO LITTER CONTROL
Increases the fine for littering. Requires moneys to be deposited into the county general fund for the county that imposed the fine or if the fine is imposed by the state, into the Environmental Management Special Fund (Special Fund). Authorizes moneys in the Special Fund to be used for enforcing the litter control law and criminal littering law. (SB2081 HD1)

SB2045 RELATING TO CRIME
Establishes class A and B felony sexual human trafficking offenses, and provisions related to prosecution of the offenses. Effective July 1, 2050. (SD1)

Keith Amemiya on "Kukui Connection"

Keith Amemiya. Photo: Honolulu Star-Bulletin

Keith Amemiya, former executive director of the Hawaii High School Athletic Association, and now executive administrator for the UH Board of Regents, will be the special guest on The Kukui Connection, hosted by Rep. Marilyn Lee. The show will air on March 14th, 4:00 p.m., on Olelo channel 54. It repeats on March 28th. Amemiya is an attorney by trade and was highly regarded for improving high school athletics in the state during his 10-year tenure at HHSAA.

Leaders

Leaders. That was the word of the day. The capitol was bustling with the leaders of yesterday, today and tomorrow.

Leaders of Hawaii Past and Present

During special floor presentations in their respective chambers, Senate and House lawmakers honored the efforts and bravery of the soldiers of the Hawaii Army National Guard, the Hawaii Army Reserve, and the Airmen and Airwomen of the Hawaii Air National Guard on their recent deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Rep. K. Mark Takai and Rep. Tom Brower sponsored the resolution honoring the soldier. Takai is a major in the Hawaii Army National Guard and served with the 29th Brigade Combat Team in Kuwait for six months beginning in February of 2009.


Leaders of Hawaii Future

More than 45 middle and high school students who were selected for their winning essays shadowed state representatives and senators. The students wrote about a historic place and explained why it is significant to their community. They were also asked to propose a plan, as an elected official, to ensure the protection and preservation of that site. Over 300 essays were submitted. The event is coordinated annually by Rep. Lyla Berg and her office staff.

Kidney Day

Today, the National Kidney Foundation is sponsoring a special "Kidney Day" from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the State Capitol. There will be free kidney screenings. According to Glen Hayashida, CEO of the National Kidney Foundation of Hawaii, most diagnoses are made when the disease is at an advanced stage. Early detection increases your opportunities for prevention.

Pat and C.J. in the House Chamber. Photo: Honolulu Star-Bulletin

In today's Honolulu Star-Bulletin, House Chief Clerk Patricia Mau-Shimizu and Assistant Chief Clerk C.J. Leong are featured in a story documenting their experience with kidney donation. You can read the full story here. They agreed to go public with their story with the hope that it will convince others to consider a donation.

Here are Pat's remarks in a speech she gave for Kidney Day:

"What a difference a year makes! Last year at the kidney donor rally, I was standing behind that pole, diagnosed with stage 4 chronic kidney disease approaching stage 5, wondering what the future held for me.

This year I'm standing here with a new life.

Last year on September 24th I received a new healthy kidney from my colleague, whose office has been right next to mine for 20 years downstairs. We're not related. We were colleagues and friends. And now as the morning Star-Bulletin said, we are linked for life.

I am one of the fortunate ones. I had people who offered to donate a kidney to me. And one of those people was a match. Physically, I feel like a "normal" person again with a normal energy level. I don't have to sleep for 14 hours on weekends, and wake up still tired and unable to do my household chores. Bloating from abnormal water retention is gone.

Just as important, I have new hope for the future—if I keep the diabetes under control and continue on a healthy lifestyle, I can hope for a normal life expectancy. I can now plan to see my daughter graduate from law school next year, and hopefully be there for her as she embarks on her adult life adventures.

I am told that there are hundreds of people on Hawaii's kidney transplant waitlist—maybe someone you know, a family member, a friend, a neighbor. As an island-state, we do not have the luxury of travelling across state lines for transplant surgery. The small window of time available for transplantation once a kidney is harvested is very narrow—I believe 5-7 hours.
We must rely on people in Hawaii--on each other for help.

You can help in 2 ways:

If you know someone who has chronic kidney disease, consider becoming a LIVE donor.

If you want to help others, consider becoming a CADAVER donor, by having an organ donor designation placed on your driver's license—and notify your family of your decision, to ensure that your wishes are honored.

After surgery, someone asked me how I felt towards my donor. The word appreciative came to mind, but it's more than appreciative. The word thankful came to mind, but it's more than thankful. And the word grateful came to mind, but it's more than grateful.

I can't find a word that adequately describes my feelings."

Bills of interest for Thursday, March 11, 2010

COMMITTEE ON HUMAN SERVICES/COMMITTEE ON HEALTH
9:30 A.M. – ROOM 329

SB2469, SD2 RELATING TO THE EMERGENCY AND BUDGET RESERVE FUND
Appropriates moneys from the emergency and budget reserve fund to maintain levels of programs for education, human services, and health. Effective 7/1/2050. ($)

SB2650, SD2 RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES
Requires medicaid contracts between the department of human services and medicaid healthcare insurance plan contractors to contain provisions affecting the reimbursement obligations in the policies between the medicaid healthcare insurance plan contractors and the home and community-based case management agencies. Prohibits reductions of reimbursements of more than 10%. Effective 01/01/2050.

COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY/COMMITTEE ON WATER, LAND & OCEAN RESOURCES
10:15 A.M. – ROOM 309

SB950 RELATING TO ELECTRIC GUNS
Authorizes law enforcement officers of the department of public safety and conservation and resources enforcement officers of the department of land and natural resources to use electric guns and related equipment while performing their duties. Effective 7/1/50. (SD2)

COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY/COMMITTEE ON HEALTH
10:45 A.M. – ROOM 309

SB2213, SD2 RELATING TO COUNTIES
Provides that each county has the power to establish compassion centers for the dispensing of medical marijuana. Requires that compassion centers shall only provide service to qualified patients and primary caregivers registered with the department of public safety. Makes compassion centers subject to the general excise tax by making inapplicable the exemption for amounts received from sales of prescription drugs or prosthetic devices. Imposes a general excise tax on marijuana sales. Eff 8/7/2012. (SD1)

Bills of interest for Wednesday, March 10, 2010

COMMITTEE ON HOUSING
9:00 A.M. – ROOM 325

SB2575 RELATING TO HOUSING
Creates an anti-speculation capital gains tax on profits from the sale of real property held for less than twenty-four months, with exceptions. Directs revenues to be deposited equally in general fund and rental housing trust fund. Effective 7/1/2050.


COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION
9:00 A.M. – ROOM 309

SB2461 RELATING TO TRANSPORTATION
Raises rental motor vehicle customer facility charge from $1/day to $4.50/day. Appropriates funds out of the rental motor vehicle customer facility charge special fund for multiple purposes. (SD2) ($)


SB2942 RELATING TO THE ALOHA TOWER DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
Abolishes Aloha Tower development corporation. Transfers the ATDC to the Hawaii community development authority. Transfers harbors modernization group to the department of transportation. Places commercial harbors modernization plan under the harbors modernization group. Makes appropriation. Effective upon approval. ($)


COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION/COMMITTEE ON HIGHER EDUCATION/COMMITTEE ON LABOR & PUBLIC EMPLOYMENT
2:00 P.M. – ROOM 309

SB2124, SD2 RELATING TO THE HAWAII HURRICANE RELIEF FUND
Makes an appropriation from the Hawaii hurricane relief fund to restore the remaining public school instructional days for the 2009-2010 and 2010-2011 school years; provided that the moneys shall only be released upon completion of negotiations of parties necessary to execute the restoration of instructional days. Allocates a proportionate amount of the appropriation to charter schools. Requires unexpended funds from each school year to lapse to the Hawaii hurricane relief fund. (SD2) ($)

COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION
2:30 P.M. – ROOM 309

SB2470, SD2 RELATING TO EDUCATION
Requires all public schools, including charter schools, to implement a minimum of two hundred days of classroom instruction, or an equivalent number of instructional hours, per school year. Effective 1/1/99.

SB2570, SD1 PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE X, SECTION 2, OF THE HAWAII CONSTITUTION, TO CHANGE THE BOARD OF EDUCATION FROM AN ELECTED BOARD TO AN APPOINTED BOARD
Proposes a constitutional amendment to require voting members of the board of education to be appointed by the governor, with the advice and consent of the senate, as provided by law. (SD1) (ConAm)


SB2571, SD2 RELATING TO THE BOARD OF EDUCATION
Establishes implementing provisions, in the alternative, for constitutional amendments that (1) change the method of selection of the board of education from election to appointment by the governor, and (2) authorize the board of education student member to vote on all matters before the board, except for those matters relating to fiscal and personnel issues, and requires the Hawaii student council to hold an election, with all secondary public schools participating, to elect the student member, upon ratification of appropriate constitutional amendments. (SD2)

Bills of interest for Tuesday, March 9, 2010

COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC REVITALIZATION, BUSINESS & MILITARY AFFAIRS
8:00 A.M. – ROOM 312

SB2169, SD2 RELATING TO SHARK FINS
Prohibits the possession, sale, and distribution of shark fins in the State; repeals the ban on the practice of shark finning. Effective date 7/1/50. (SD2)

HB65, HD1 RELATING TO SIDEWALKS
Defines the downtown Honolulu business district. Prohibits use of bicycles, electric personal assistive mobility devices, skateboards, roller stakes, and other similar toys on sidewalks in the downtown Honolulu business district. Provides exceptions. (HB65 HD1)


COMMITTEE ON ENERGY & ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
9:00 A.M. – ROOM 325

SB2081, SD2 RELATING TO LITTER CONTROL
Increases the fine for littering. Requires moneys to be deposited into the county general fund for the county that imposed the fine or if the fine is imposed by the state, into a special account in the state general fund for use by the state law enforcement agency that issued the littering citation. (SD2)


COMMITTEE ON HEALTH
10:00 A.M. – ROOM 329

SB2919, SD1 RELATING TO THE HAWAII STATE HOSPITAL
Requires the department of public safety to provide security at Hawaii state hospital. Requires report from department of health, in collaboration with department of public safety, to the legislature on the plan for the provision of short and long-term security for the needs of the forensic population of the Hawaii state hospital. Effective 7/1/2050.


COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC REVITALIZATION, BUSINESS & MILITARY AFFAIRS/COMMITTEE ON TOURIM, CULTURE & INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
11:00 A.M. – ROOM 312

SB2646, SD1 RELATING TO HAWAII SURFING RESERVES
Designates Waikiki and certain area of the north shore of Oahu as Hawaii surfing reserves; effective 7/1/2040. (SD1)


COMMITTEE ON ENERGY & ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION/COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC REVITALIZATION, BUSINESS & MILITARY AFFAIRS
11:30 A.M. – ROOM 325

SB2559,SD2, PROPOSED HD1
Requires businesses in the State to charge and collect a 5-cent offset fee for each disposable checkout bag provided to a customer. Allocates the offset fee: 2 cents to the business and 3 cents to the general fund. Effective 7/1/2010.


COMMITTEE ON JUDICIARY
2:05 P.M. – ROOM 325

SB2807, SD2 PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE VII, SECTION 6, OF THE HAWAII CONSTITUTION, RELATING TO THE TAX REBATE REQUIREMENT.
Proposes a constitutional amendment to article VII, section 6 of the state constitution to authorize the legislature to determine whether excess funds should be used as tax refunds or tax credits to taxpayers of the State or diverted to the State's emergency and budget reserve fund. (SD2) ($, ConAm)

In Favor of HB2200

Floor Remarks By Representative Marilyn Lee
Vice Chair - Committee on Finance

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the measure:

On February 21, 2010, columnist Thomas Friedman wrote in the New York Times: "A small news item from Tracy, California caught my eye last week. Local station CBS reported that Tracy residents can pay a $48 voluntary fee for the year which allows them to call 911 as many times as necessary. Or, there's the option of not signing up for the annual fee. Instead, they will be charged $300 if they make a call for help. Welcome to the lean years."

Hawaii has not escaped the effect of the US and global recession, and this budget dramatically illustrates the results. This is indeed a lean year.

However, the House Finance committee, ably led by Chair Marcus Oshiro, and supported by a hardworking and research oriented staff, have turned out a responsible yet tough budget to pass over to the Senate.

Members spent many hours going line by line over the budget and were rewarded by being part of a very open and transparent process. Each member had the opportunity for input, and discussions were frank and productive.

Unlike the draft that came down from the 5th floor, the HD1 restores some essential services and does set priorities. And there is no doubt that education, health, human services and agriculture remain at the top of our concerns.

$50 million placed in the budget out of general funds, repeat -- general funds, affirms our conviction that furlough days for our public schools students need to cease. To avoid increasing the number of furlough days to address the budget crisis, the budget identifies areas in which efficiency could be improved. Your Committee has crafted a budget that would involve reductions in POS contracts to spread the burden of general fund shortfalls among those who have been benefitting from private contracts with DOE but have not experienced cuts in funding for those contracts.

Regarding the Mililani High School field turf issue, members should know that this is an example of a true health and safety need for a school that has been generous to a fault in sharing use of its facilities and staff to schools all over the island.

The budget graphically shows, hoever, the huge impact the downturn has head upon departments. Where possible, positions and funds were restored, but funds don't allow for many additions. The Governor's budget has relied on floating payments for critical services down the river -- a quick and dirty solution that families know is not the answer even in their personal finances.

Last week, we passed some creative revenue generating measures, and we look forward to the action the Senate may take, hoping that restoration of some critical programs may be possible through their implementation.

As Tom Friedman states in the New York Times article: "Unfortunately, to lead now is to tram -- services, programs, personnel."

"We have gone from the age of boernment handouts to the age of citizen givebacks, from the age of flying fee to the age of paying for each bag."

To their credit, freshmen members have maintained a stiff upper lip. It wasn't supposed to be like this when they signed up --but they are taking it in stride, doing their homework and explaining to constituents why new programs, projects are not possible this session.

Things will improve. National unemployment figures from last month look better, and local readl estate transactions seem to be perking up. We were blessed that a possible tsunami last week produced only some unusual wave pattersn.

Speaker, this HD1 is just a beginning. The Council on Revenues meets again soon, and we have many difficult decions still to make before the end of the session.

However, I for one have confidence we will be up to the challenge. Therefore, I urge the member's support.

Bills of interest for MONDAY, March 8, 2010

COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION
9:30 A.M. – ROOM 309

SB2358 RELATING TO TRANSPORTATION ENERGY INITIATIVES
Provides that high occupancy vehicle lanes may be used by electric vehicles capable of driving at least fifty-five miles per hour, regardless of the number of occupants. (SD1)

COMMITTEE ON TOURISM, CULTURE & INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
9:30 A.M. – ROOM 312

SB2601 RELATING TO ATHLETIC TRAINERS
Requires athletic trainers to register with the department of commerce and consumer affairs. (SD1)

The King of Chairs

If you asked anyone from the House staff which representative's office they thought is the most unique, they would without question tell you room 315, the office of Representative Tom Brower, from Waikiki.

Upon entrance into the office, butterflies, birds, Tinkerbell and all of Snow White's friends ascend toward the skies from a barkless tree rooted in the corner.

Watch your head as you walk into the office. Large, colorful cranes - which Rep. Brower made himself - sway wistfully overhead.

Influenced by Verner's Panton use of geometric shapes in many of his patterns and furniture designs, Rep. Brower lines his desk walls with homemade wallpaper resembling a chessboard.

Trust me. You will feel as if you fell down a rabbit hole and landed in wonderland to have tea parties with anthropomorphic characters, and to explore the geometric kingdom ruled by the King of Chairs. (Off with her her...leg?)

Yes. King of Chairs. I'll get to that in a minute.

So, instead of blowing your money to see Johnny Depp in yet another creepy role that makes you feel like at any moment he will withdraw a musical pipe and eerily play a tune that leads rats and children to their demise, I have a better idea for a Friday night activity.

We are holding our Second Annual Art at the Capitol event tonight, March's First Friday. You will be able to explore 45 offices, including Rep. Brower's retro wonderland, and view over 430 art pieces that each lawmaker selected from the State Art in Public Places collection. It's from 5 - 7 p.m.

Like Rep. Brower, some of the lawmakers will also display some pieces from their personal "art" collection. Anything and everything can be art, right?

Rep. Brower, aka the "King of Chairs," has brought in for the event his collection of modern and classic chairs, as well as some other furniture pieces. He is a big fan of architecture and interior design, and especially fascinated by art in everyday objects.

One of the chairs, as seen in the movie Legally Blond 2 and the Barbara Walters interview of Lady Gaga, is called the King Louis Ghost Chair. Phillipe Start designed the chair in 2002 and manufactured it using transparent polycarbonate. Rep. Brower has three of them on display in his office.


The other chairs are:

Wire Chair by Charles and Ray Eames, 1951 for Vitra (Switzerland). Made of bent wire with an Eiffel Tower base. (As seen in Kimora Lee’s walk-in closet on MTV Cribs.)

Panton S Chair by Verner Panton, 1960 for Vitra (Switzerland). The world’s first cantilevered stacking chair made of a single material and a single-form mold. Among the most well designed chairs of the 20th Century. (As seen in the Woody Allen movie Sleeper.)

Plywood Side Chair by Charles and Ray Eames, 1946 for Herman Miller (Michigan). Eleven years ago Time magazine stated that this was the best design for an object made in the last 100 years (The locomotive came in second) and called the design "something elegant, light and comfortable.”



Top Photo: Office Manager Cynthia Nyross shows off the wall mural in Rep. Tom Brower's office.

Bottom Photo: Rep. Tom Brower with his collection of chairs.

Video of Rep. Takumi at education lecture series

Representative Roy Takumi, the chairman of the House Committee on Education, was a panelist during the Shiro Amioka lecture series in February where he responded to a presentation critiquing the Hawaii school system.

Watch what he had to say here (turn volume up, the audio is soft):

UI bill heads to Governor for signature

A bill that will help businesses with anticipated soaring unemployment insurance (UI) rates has cleared the Hawaii State Senate today and is now headed to the Governor to be signed into law. HB2169, HD2, introduced by Rep. Karl Rhoads (pictured at left), will provide significant tax relief for employers while maintaining unemployment benefits for those who have been laid off through no fault of their own.

“I am very pleased that the Senate approved my bill, HB 2169, lowering unemployment insurance tax rates,” said Rep. Rhoads, Chair of the House Labor and Public Employment Committee. “HB 2169 is now on its way to the Governor, and I hope she will sign it by March 12. Her prompt signature would allow the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations to include the new lower rates in employers’ first quarter statements.”

The bill sets new lower rates for the next two years. Without the legislation, unemployment rates are scheduled to increase dramatically due to the struggling economy and high state unemployment. As a result, on average, an employer would now pay, per employee, $630 instead of $1070 in the first year, and $970 instead of $1520 in the second year.

Specifically, the bill does the following:

· Sets, for calendar years 2010 and 2011, the wage base at 90% of the average annual wage.

· Sets, for calendar year 2010, the employer contribution rate at schedule D and for calendar year 2011, the employer contribution rate at schedule F.

· Retains the maximum weekly benefit rate at 75% of the average weekly wage until December 31, 2011.

· Returns the maximum weekly benefit rate to 70% of the average weekly wage on January 1, 2012.

· Authorizes special assessments upon employers to pay the principal and interest costs on loans received from the U.S. Secretary of Labor provided that the director of Labor and Industrial Relations develops a fair and equitable manner in which these payments are made.

· Mandates recalculation of the adequate reserve fund beginning in 2012.


“Lowering unemployment insurance rates was the highest priority of the Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii for this Legislative session,” added Rep. Rhoads. “Both the House and the Senate fast-tracked this important legislation. HB 2169 will defer $241 million in UI taxes over the next two years. This is an important piece of good news to the business community during these difficult economic times.”

20 for the Next 20

Hawaii Business Magazine named Rep. Marcus Oshiro as one of "20 for the Next 20" - that is, 20 Hawaii leaders to watch for the next 20 years.

Here is what they had to say:

"It is often said that the most powerful legislators are those running the money committees – Ways and Means in the state Senate and Finance in the House. That alone makes Marcus Oshiro someone to be reckoned with.

As finance chairman, Oshiro effectively decides how the money is collected and where it goes – not a happy job these days.

But Oshiro is up to it. Maybe even born for it. His father is the late,
legendary Robert Oshiro, also an attorney and legislator whose true claim to fame was his work as a grassroots organizer of many key Democratic political campaigns.

The younger Oshiro (born in the statehood year of 1959) has played a less prominent role in the party. But as a legislator since 1994, he’s been a consistent voice for core Democratic values, and particularly outspoken as a counter-voice to Republican Gov. Linda Lingle.

Lowell Kalapa, president of the Tax Foundation of Hawaii, has appeared before Oshiro and his committee more times than he can count.

“Unlike some of his colleagues, he does his homework,” says Kalapa.

Kalapa contends Oshiro combines social conscience with his father’s drive and a pragmatic recognition of changing political realities. “He is a breath of fresh air,” Kalapa said.

Oshiro disavows ambition beyond his district and legislative duties. But
many believe he is destined for an even more powerful leadership position in the Legislature when the time is right."