Bills of Interest for Thursday, January 24th
Committee on Energy & Environmental Protection, 8:30 a.m., Room 312
HB1973 Relating to an Environmental Court. Establishes environmental courts as divisions within the circuit court to handle complaints, administrative appeals, and certain other judicial proceedings or an environmental nature. (Bertram)
HB2330 Relating to Electric Vehicles. Requires the Department of Transportation to adopt rules for the registration of electric vehicles and to issue special license plates for electric vehicles. Waives parking fees, high occupancy vehicle restrictions, and vehicle registration fees for electric vehicles. (Waters)
Committee on Human Services & Housing, 8:30 a.m., Room 329
HB2027 Relating to Children. Requires the Department of Human Services to establish a pilot project to develop or contract to develop and operate programs to provide services and support for at-risk children from low-income families. (Mizuno)
HB2140 Relating to the Violence Against Women Act. Requires the Department of Human Services to establish a pilot project to assist undocumented immigrants who are victims of domestic violence. (Mizuno)
Committee on Consumer Protection & Commerce AND Committee on Judiciary, 2:00 p.m., Room 325
HB2145 Relating to Unclaimed Property. Allows individuals attempting to claim unclaimed property from the state to assert ownership through affidavit. (Blake Oshiro)
HB2033 Relating to Crime. Creates a new criminal offense of unlawful distribution of adware or spyware if a person knowingly transmits prohibited computer software to a computer to obtain identifiable information. Makes the offense a Class B Felony. (Mizuno)
HB2123 Relating to Utilities. Establishes a utilities coordinating council to coordinate the orderly planning and installation, removal, or relocation of underground facilities. (Mizuno)
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Hawaii remembers Janel Tupuola, Cyrus Belt and other domestic violence victims
Moms, dads and kids lit candles and whispered personal prayers tonight at the Capitol in remembrance of Hawaii's domestic violence victims.
Hawaii residents joined Rep. John Mizuno, Sen. Suzanne Chun Oakland, co-chairs of the Keiki Caucus, along with Rep. Karen Awana and former Rep. Dennis Arakaki in a silent march around the Capitol, State Library and Iolani Palace, ending with a prayer and lighting ceremony.
The family and friends of Janel Tupuola and Cyrus Belt were present. Janel's father reminded those in attendance that this isn't only about the recent tragic events; it's about domestic violence in Hawaii and it needs to stop.
Hawaii residents joined Rep. John Mizuno, Sen. Suzanne Chun Oakland, co-chairs of the Keiki Caucus, along with Rep. Karen Awana and former Rep. Dennis Arakaki in a silent march around the Capitol, State Library and Iolani Palace, ending with a prayer and lighting ceremony.
The family and friends of Janel Tupuola and Cyrus Belt were present. Janel's father reminded those in attendance that this isn't only about the recent tragic events; it's about domestic violence in Hawaii and it needs to stop.
House Heritage Caucus introduces historic preservation bills
There are only 10 remaining grand Buddhist Temples featuring traditional Japanese architecture in Hawaii, and as the sun sets and rises each day, their traditional designs and intricate ornamentation will decay with little or no notice -- until it's too late.
The bipartisan Heritage Caucus, headed by Rep. Cindy Evans D7 (North Kona, South Kohala) and Rep. Corinne Ching D27 (Nuuanu, Puunui, Liliha and Alewa Heights) has introduced over 20 bills relating to identifying and protecting historic buildings, sites and other areas throughout the state.
The Heritage Caucus is preparing for a "Preservation Awareness Day" on March, 5, 2008 at the State Capitol with exhibits, presentations and special speakers.
If your organization would like to participate, pleas contact Rep. Cindy Evans office at 586-8510 or fax at 586-8514.
Photo: Preservation Awareness Day 2007
This is only one of the preservation issues that is included in the Heritage Caucus 2008 legislative package.
The bipartisan Heritage Caucus, headed by Rep. Cindy Evans D7 (North Kona, South Kohala) and Rep. Corinne Ching D27 (Nuuanu, Puunui, Liliha and Alewa Heights) has introduced over 20 bills relating to identifying and protecting historic buildings, sites and other areas throughout the state.
And one of those bills includes appropriating funds to help refurbish historic Japanese-style Buddhist Temples in Hawaii (HB#2489). Read about the remaining temples here and past efforts to preserve their cultural elegance and deep-rooted history.
The Heritage Caucus package also includes:
HB # 2534 - A bill to receive a portion of the Transient Accommodation Tax revenue for the Hawaii Preservation Fund.
HB # 2487 - A bill to establish a formal cultural heritage area around the State capitol.
HB # 2536 - A bill to establish The Hawaii Heritage Taskforce with a mission to recognize and protect sites and buildings important to Hawaii's history.
HB # 2487 - A bill to establish a formal cultural heritage area around the State capitol.
HB # 2536 - A bill to establish The Hawaii Heritage Taskforce with a mission to recognize and protect sites and buildings important to Hawaii's history.
The Heritage Caucus is preparing for a "Preservation Awareness Day" on March, 5, 2008 at the State Capitol with exhibits, presentations and special speakers.
If your organization would like to participate, pleas contact Rep. Cindy Evans office at 586-8510 or fax at 586-8514.
Photo: Preservation Awareness Day 2007
Download Heritage Caucus Package News Release HERE.
Selected Bills of Interest - Wednesday, January 23rd
Committee on Health, 8:00 a.m., Room 329
HB1993 RELATING TO HEALTH. Appropriates funds to provide care for uninsured Hawaii residents. (Green)
HB1996 RELATING TO HEALTHCARE. Establishes Health Enterprise Zones in the state to provide incentives for health care providers to serve in health professional shortage areas of the state. (Green)
HB2025 RELATING TO TOBACCO. Prohibits the sale and distribution of flavored tobacco products. (Mizuno)
Committee on Transportation, 8:30 a.m., Room 309
HB1977 RELATING TO TRAFFIC VIOLATIONS. Establishes a $150 fine for running a red light. (Rhoads)
HB2058 RELATING TO FINES FOR DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF AN INTOXICANT. Increases fines for driving after license suspended or denied for noncompliance with an order of support. (Mizuno)
HB2056 RELATING TO PEDESTRIAN SAFETY. Appropriates funds for pedestrian safety improvements by the State and Counties. (Mizuno)
HB2034 RELATING TO UNATTENDED CHILDREN IN MOTOR VEHICLES. Makes it a violation of the statewide traffic code to leave a child unattended in a motor vehicle. (Lee)
HB1987 RELATING TO MOTOR VEHICLES. Prohibits young drivers from using a telephone while operating a motor vehicle. (Evans)
HB1993 RELATING TO HEALTH. Appropriates funds to provide care for uninsured Hawaii residents. (Green)
HB1996 RELATING TO HEALTHCARE. Establishes Health Enterprise Zones in the state to provide incentives for health care providers to serve in health professional shortage areas of the state. (Green)
HB2025 RELATING TO TOBACCO. Prohibits the sale and distribution of flavored tobacco products. (Mizuno)
Committee on Transportation, 8:30 a.m., Room 309
HB1977 RELATING TO TRAFFIC VIOLATIONS. Establishes a $150 fine for running a red light. (Rhoads)
HB2058 RELATING TO FINES FOR DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF AN INTOXICANT. Increases fines for driving after license suspended or denied for noncompliance with an order of support. (Mizuno)
HB2056 RELATING TO PEDESTRIAN SAFETY. Appropriates funds for pedestrian safety improvements by the State and Counties. (Mizuno)
HB2034 RELATING TO UNATTENDED CHILDREN IN MOTOR VEHICLES. Makes it a violation of the statewide traffic code to leave a child unattended in a motor vehicle. (Lee)
HB1987 RELATING TO MOTOR VEHICLES. Prohibits young drivers from using a telephone while operating a motor vehicle. (Evans)
Legislature 2008 - Day 4
House of Representatives Hosts Governor Lingle for the State-of-the-State Address
The House and Senate alternate every year, and this year, the House of Representatives hosted Governor Lingle for her 6th State of the State address. The House members are around the desks and the visiting Senators are seated in the well. The entire text of the speech can be found here. The item that received the most attention in the post-speech interviews was the proposal for the state to purchase Turtle Bay. House leaders generally supported the idea, as did Rep. Michael Magaoay, the representative for the district. The details of the plan, the cost of the purchase and the mix of revenue sources are still to be determined.
The House and Senate alternate every year, and this year, the House of Representatives hosted Governor Lingle for her 6th State of the State address. The House members are around the desks and the visiting Senators are seated in the well. The entire text of the speech can be found here. The item that received the most attention in the post-speech interviews was the proposal for the state to purchase Turtle Bay. House leaders generally supported the idea, as did Rep. Michael Magaoay, the representative for the district. The details of the plan, the cost of the purchase and the mix of revenue sources are still to be determined.
Monday, January 21, 2008
Silent March and Candlelight Prayer for Cyrus Belt and Janel Tupuola
Rep. John Mizuno, Sen. Suzanne Chun Oakland, co-chairs of the Keiki Caucus, along with Rep. Karen Awana and former Rep. Dennis Arakaki are organizing a silent march, followed by a candlelight prayer for Cyrus Belt and Janel Tupuola on Tuesday evening. Rep. Mizuno asks the participants to consider wearing black, black arm bands or black ribbons to remember these two victims of violence. Here are the details:
When: Tuesday, January 22, 2008. Meet at 5 p.m.
Where: Gather in front of the Father Damien statue, State Capitol, to march down Beretania Street.
Where: Gather in front of the Father Damien statue, State Capitol, to march down Beretania Street.
The victims: Cyrus Belt, 23-months-old, was thrown from an H-1 Freeway pedestrian overpass on Thursday, January 17th. According to the City Medical Examiner, Cyrus likely died from the 24-foot fall. Police have charged Matthew Higa with second degree murder of Cyrus Belt.
Janel Tupuola, 29-years-old, was bludgeoned to death by the butt of a shotgun on Wednesday, January 16th. Police have charged Janel Tupuola's former boyfriend, Alapeti Siuanu Tunoa, Jr., with second-degree murder.
Photos: Honolulu Star-Bulletin
Wisdom of Martin Luther King, Jr.
"Love is the only force capable of transforming an enemy into a friend."
First Reading, the blog of the Legislative Reference Bureau, posts the full version of the Reverend Martin Luther King's "I Have a Dream" speech, presented at the March on Washington, August 28, 1963. It remains a powerful, moving speech, and a meaningful way to spend 17:28 minutes today.
First Reading, the blog of the Legislative Reference Bureau, posts the full version of the Reverend Martin Luther King's "I Have a Dream" speech, presented at the March on Washington, August 28, 1963. It remains a powerful, moving speech, and a meaningful way to spend 17:28 minutes today.
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Happy Birthday Rep. Clift Tsuji!
Rep. Tsuji is our chair of the Agriculture committee. He hails from the Hilo area of the Big Island, representing District 3 - South Hilo, Panaewa, Puna, Keaau, Kurtistown. This session, he'll be tackling major issues such as invasive species, the future of our livestock and dairy industries, and genetically modified taro. As a freshman lawmaker elected in 2004, he quickly became known throughout the capitol as the "coqui guy" because of his ongoing battle to eliminate the coqui frog. His son, Ryan, is the team manager for the UH Wahine Volleyball team. If you run into him today, wish Clift a happy birthday.
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Coming up - Tuesday, January 22nd
Prison Inmate Classification
Joint Committees on Public Safety will hold an informational briefing to receive an update from the Facility Assessment and Concept Development (FACD) consultants on the Department of Public Safety's plan to implement a new and more accurate inmate classification system. Invited to appear are Clayton Frank, Director, and Tommy Johnson, Deputy, of the Dept. of Public Safety; Patricia Hardyman and Camile Camp, FACD; and Judge Steven Alm, co-chair for the Interagency Council on Intermediate Sanctions (ICIS). When and Where: Tuesday, January 22nd, 1:30 p.m. in Room 225 at the State Capitol. Watch it live on Oceanic, Olelo, channel 53.
Quest and Children's Universal Health
On the Senate side, Committee on Human Services and Public Housing will hold a briefing to receive updates on QUEST, QUEST NET, QUEST EXPANDED, and the Children's Universal Health Program, which was actually spearheaded by Reps. Josh Green and John Mizuno, the House chair and vice chair of the Health Committee. When and Where: Tuesday, January 22nd, 1:30 p.m. in Room 016 at the State Capitol.
Joint Committees on Public Safety will hold an informational briefing to receive an update from the Facility Assessment and Concept Development (FACD) consultants on the Department of Public Safety's plan to implement a new and more accurate inmate classification system. Invited to appear are Clayton Frank, Director, and Tommy Johnson, Deputy, of the Dept. of Public Safety; Patricia Hardyman and Camile Camp, FACD; and Judge Steven Alm, co-chair for the Interagency Council on Intermediate Sanctions (ICIS). When and Where: Tuesday, January 22nd, 1:30 p.m. in Room 225 at the State Capitol. Watch it live on Oceanic, Olelo, channel 53.
Quest and Children's Universal Health
On the Senate side, Committee on Human Services and Public Housing will hold a briefing to receive updates on QUEST, QUEST NET, QUEST EXPANDED, and the Children's Universal Health Program, which was actually spearheaded by Reps. Josh Green and John Mizuno, the House chair and vice chair of the Health Committee. When and Where: Tuesday, January 22nd, 1:30 p.m. in Room 016 at the State Capitol.
Grants-in-aid still pending release
Credit goes to Ian Lind for pointing out the list of GIA's appropriated by the legislature that have not been released by the Governor as of 12/31/07. It was published, as required by law, in the Honolulu Star-Bulletin. You can link to the pdf on Ian's site here. The list is significant given the inevitable debate over the next 3-4 months on tax relief vs. unmet needs.
HDA Legislators of the Year
The Hawaii Dental Association honored two lawmakers this year as the HDA Legislator of the Year - Senator Brian Taniguchi and Representative Kirk Caldwell. The award was presented on January 17th at the HDA annual awards banquet. Rep Caldwell said that he was honored to be recognized. "Dentists are an important part of our health community, but we must also recognize that they are part of our business community, and I am committed to helping dentists maintain and grow their practices." Both Taniguchi and Caldwell have introduced bills relating to dentistry in the 2007 legislative session, including proposals to change the regional examinations of dentists and modify probate law relating to the estate of a dentist. The bills are still alive and have been carried over to the 2008 session.
Friday, January 18, 2008
Beautiful Son: A documentary about healing autism
WHAT:
Film screening of Beautiful Son, a Don King documentary about healing autism with
question and answer period to follow
question and answer period to follow
WHEN:
Friday, January 25th, 2008
9-11 a.m.
Hawaii State Capitol Auditorium
Hosted by Rep. Tommy Waters
R.S.V.P. contact: Don King at 262-2552
Legislature 2008 - Day 3
At 11:00 a.m., the House and Senate majorities came together in the Rotunda to hold a press conference announcing the Joint Majority package. Click here to see the news release. Photo: Rep. Maile Shimabukuro and Sen. Suzanne Chun Oakland at the podium.
The House Session began at 12 noon. Rep. Sharon Har gave the Invocation. The House received communication from the Senate transmitting Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 1 which encourages the US Postal Service to issue a stamp honoring the WWII nisei soldiers. Rep. John Mizuno, one of the co-sponsors of the effort, spoke in favor. He indicated that both the California assembly and the Illinois legislature are considering similar initiatives. Click here to see his floor speech. Reps Awana, McKelvey, Marumoto, Ward, Karamatsu, Brower and Ching also stood and spoke in support.
The House adjourned at 12:30 p.m. and will reconvene on Tuesday at 10:00 a.m. in a joint session with the Senate for the Governor's State-of-the-State address.
The House Session began at 12 noon. Rep. Sharon Har gave the Invocation. The House received communication from the Senate transmitting Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 1 which encourages the US Postal Service to issue a stamp honoring the WWII nisei soldiers. Rep. John Mizuno, one of the co-sponsors of the effort, spoke in favor. He indicated that both the California assembly and the Illinois legislature are considering similar initiatives. Click here to see his floor speech. Reps Awana, McKelvey, Marumoto, Ward, Karamatsu, Brower and Ching also stood and spoke in support.
The House adjourned at 12:30 p.m. and will reconvene on Tuesday at 10:00 a.m. in a joint session with the Senate for the Governor's State-of-the-State address.
Photo left to right: Reps Cindy Evans, Joe Bertram, Angus McKelvey and Ryan Yamane.After the session, Reps. Angus McKelvey, Cindy Evans and Ryan Yamane held a press conference to unveil their fire protection and prevention package. Included are bills that propose "no pop" zones and prohibited zones for fireworks. Read the press release that was issued here.
Rep. Har on Vehicle Ignition Interlock
Rep. Sharon Har, who was hit by a drunk driver in 2006, has been advocating for vehicle ignition interlock systems since last session. Today, The Advertiser carries her op-ed on the issue. Here's an excerpt:One of our greatest challenges in this legislative session is to dispel the many inaccuracies that have been reported during the early phases of ignition interlock.
The creativity and sophistication that offenders have shown when these programs were first introduced have allowed the interlock ignition industry to develop strategies that make the system accurate and successful. Temperature sensors make certain that fans or other compressed-air devices are not being used to cheat the system. Also, a small camera can be mounted on the steering wheel to match specific breath tests with a picture of the person giving the sample.
Running retests, which randomly call for an additional test while driving, guard against drinking after the initial test. These are just some of the measures in place to safeguard the public and the offender from the hazards of driving intoxicated.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Legislature 2008 - Day 2
Kahu Curt P. Kekuna, Senior Minister at Kawaiahao Church, gave the Invocation.
The House passed three resolutions:
HR1 - Electing the Vice Speaker of the House of Representatives.
HR2 - Relating to the Caucus Leaders and the Committee Assignments.
HR3 - Amending the rules of the House of Representatives and Adopting Operating Procedures for the House Select Committee on Standards of Conduct.
The House passed three resolutions:
HR1 - Electing the Vice Speaker of the House of Representatives.
HR2 - Relating to the Caucus Leaders and the Committee Assignments.
HR3 - Amending the rules of the House of Representatives and Adopting Operating Procedures for the House Select Committee on Standards of Conduct.
Donation drive to benefit Waimanalo's homeless shelter
Photo: Rep. Tommy Waters urges community members to "help us help the homeless." Barbara Guss, a Lanikai resident, stopped by the Capitol during her lunch break to drop off a box of donation items.Rep. Tommy Waters (District 51 - Lanikai, Waimanalo) tried something different this year; something that just might become the new trend during future Opening Day festivities.
Instead of only providing a lunch buffet for his constituents after the Opening Day ceremonies, Rep. Waters used yesterday as the debut of a two-week donation drive to benefit Weinberg Village, a homeless shelter in Waimanalo.
"Opening Day for me at the Capitol has traditionally involved staff, lobbyists, and community members gathering in my office for refreshments and conversation. This year, I decided to something a little different, and look at what I could do to benefit the needy in my community," Rep. Waters said.
In letters to constituents, Rep. Waters asked community members who wanted to donate items to stop by his office between Jan. 16 – 30 at the state Capitol, Room 302.
Yesterday, Rep. Waters' office set up a large table full of colorful floral boxes and signs announcing the kick-off of their donation drive. The friends, family, lobbyists and constituents who visited Rep. Waters' office on Opening Day brought in a total of three boxes full of items, including shampoo, paper towels and canned goods.
"We were optimistic that people would feel the same way we did, and would participate in the drive. So far, the generosity of the people in my community has exceeded my expectations," said Rep. Waters.
Weinberg Village is always accepting canned goods, but currently is in need of paper goods and toiletry items such as napkins, diapers, body soap, laundry soap, shampoo, cleaning supplies, and toilet paper.
Weinberg Village provides shelter for homeless families with children under 18 years old and families at risk of becoming homeless. Some of the services provided include direct referrals, transitional housing, educational classes, counseling, on-site preschool, and food & nutrition classes.
Speaker Say on "Island Insights" tonight at 7:30 p.m.
Speaker of the House Calvin Say will be a guest this evening on the Hawaii Public Television live, call-in show, "Island Insights", 7:30 - 8:30 p.m., Channel 10. The show is moderated by veteran political observer Dan Boylan and the topic will be the 2008 Legislative Session. Speaker Say will be joined by Senate Majority Leader Gary Hooser, House Minority Leader Lynn Finnegan, and Senate Minority Leader Fred Hemmings.
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Picture slideshow of Opening Day events at the Capitol
Even if you couldn't make it to the Capitol this morning, I'm sure that you were able to hear the buoyant cheers of excited University of Hawaii sports fans from the dewy valleys of Manoa to the sweeping shores of Waianae.
Immediately following the opening-day ceremonies of the 2008 Legislative session,the Capitol became a volcano of infectious energy as lawmakers, lobbyists, staff members and community members commended the UH WAC championship teams, including the Warrior football team, Wahine volleyball and soccer teams. The UH Hilo Wahine volleyball and cross country teams also won their Pacific Athletic Conference titles.
A handful of UH Warriors were joined by recently appointed UH football coach Greg McMackin, former defensive line coach under June Jones. The University of Hawaii introduced McMackin as the new Warrior football head coach at a press conference today at the Stan Sheriff Center.
Speaker Calvin Say said in his opening day address today that a priority of the legislature is to find the money to fix unsatisfactory facilities at UH. Read more about Opening Day speeches here. Or read Speaker Say's Address here and Majority Leader Kirk Caldwell's address here.
I rounded up the best photos taken today and embedded a slide show below for your viewing pleasure. Here are a few things that happened today:
Immediately following the opening-day ceremonies of the 2008 Legislative session,the Capitol became a volcano of infectious energy as lawmakers, lobbyists, staff members and community members commended the UH WAC championship teams, including the Warrior football team, Wahine volleyball and soccer teams. The UH Hilo Wahine volleyball and cross country teams also won their Pacific Athletic Conference titles.
A handful of UH Warriors were joined by recently appointed UH football coach Greg McMackin, former defensive line coach under June Jones. The University of Hawaii introduced McMackin as the new Warrior football head coach at a press conference today at the Stan Sheriff Center.
Speaker Calvin Say said in his opening day address today that a priority of the legislature is to find the money to fix unsatisfactory facilities at UH. Read more about Opening Day speeches here. Or read Speaker Say's Address here and Majority Leader Kirk Caldwell's address here.
I rounded up the best photos taken today and embedded a slide show below for your viewing pleasure. Here are a few things that happened today:
- A rally in the Rotunda calling for legislation placing a moratorium on the genetic modification of native taro in Hawaii
- Opening Day Ceremonies
- A presentation in the Rotunda honoring UH WAC championship teams
- Lawmakers grinding a variety of 'ono food and talking story with community members, lobbyists, friends, family and colleagues
Opening Day Speech - Speaker of the House Calvin K.Y. Say
Concerns for the future of the Hawaii
This morning, I speak to you as just one of the fifty-one members of this legislative body—a father of two sons who represents a district where people continue a mounting struggle with the cost of living.
As I listen to these people, I realize how truly they share a deep concern for the future of our state. We must recognize their thirst for change.
In a little over ten months, we will face the voters, the people of our districts who have given us their trust. We may see the election of the first woman to hold the nation’s highest office. We may also witness the day when a native son of Hawaii is chosen as leader of the free world.
This is not because things are changing, but because we are changing.
Imagine a woman who breaks through the “glass ceiling” to take a seat in the Oval Office. On November 4th, we could break that barrier. Imagine a man of color winning a state with under three-percent black population. Two weeks ago, we broke that barrier.
These events remind us of a hard truth: the forces of change will overwhelm the status quo. The way things are is not the way they will be.
You may be surprised to hear me say that. I have sometimes been accused of representing the “old boy’s club.” People, who say that, don’t really know me.
I believe in my heart and with my whole being we can make Hawaii a better place. To do that, we must embrace change, not as a political slogan, but as a way of life.
A call for Hawaii to take charge of its own destiny
That’s why today, I am asking you, as representatives of the people of Hawaii, to help us take charge of our own destiny.
It is not my intention to offend anyone here today when I say that we are too complacent, too focused on our own individual concerns, and too accepting of the way things are. Forces beyond our state’s control will work against our shared beliefs if we do not act.
Maybe you don’t agree with me. Well, as a wise old Senator once put it, “you are entitled to your own opinion, but you are not entitled to your own facts.”
We are thousands of miles away from the resources necessary to support the lives of well over a million people. So we must significantly increase our efforts to achieve greater sustainability. Our commitment to that effort will truly help Hawaii take charge of its destiny.
Lessons from the Superferry controversy
Less than three months ago, this body was called into special session to decide whether the Superferry would sink or float.
Dozens of protestors jumped into Nawiliwili harbor to keep the vessel and her passengers from coming ashore. The governor was booed when she came to Kauai to help settle the dispute. Newspapers around the world were running front-page stories about the trouble.
This is not the time to reopen that debate, but it is the time to recognize this is not the way to solve Hawaii’s problems. Confrontation may bring temporary satisfaction to a few, but it will never bring long-term solutions for the many.
Balancing environmental and economic concerns
The Superferry debate raised important issues, but the right choice for Hawaii is to find a balance between our environmental and economic concerns, a balance that is sustainable. To take charge of our own destiny, we must recognize that good environmental policy and a sound economy should work together.
This is the middle road we can find between the unworkable extremes of no development and uncontrollable development. This middle way recognizes that a sustainable economy must first be built within a sustainable environment.
Hawaii’s energy dependency and rising fuel costs
So let me begin with what I believe is our most pressing environmental and economic concern—our total dependence on imported fossil fuels—fuels that cost us more and more each day.
The increase in their price shows up in the gas we buy, the electricity we use, and the food we eat. Last year at this time, the price of oil was just under 50-dollars a barrel. Earlier this month that price had doubled.
Hawaii is not far away from a day when the cost of jet fuel will start to play havoc with our tourist-based economy. Some say it has already started to do that.
You can be sure that many of our families are struggling with rising gas prices.
Why are we moving so slowly? Most of the energy we need can be created here at home. Are the threats to the status quo and the increasing appetites of real estate developers standing in our way?
Renewing a call for energy self-sufficiency
Hawaii’s unique environment presents us with an unparalleled opportunity to lead our nation in the development of renewable energies. Consider a few possibilities:
Ethanol from sugarcane is more than five times as energy efficient as ethanol produced from corn, and it significantly reduces green house gas emissions.
I realize there are considerable challenges surrounding the increased production of sugarcane and other bio-fuel crops. Issues of water rights and infrastructure; issues that will require us to change our land use policies.
But wouldn’t most of us rather gaze at a sugarcane field that helps power our cars, than a field of high-rise condos built for the offshore rich.
Leeward Oahu, Molokai, Lanai and western Maui have some of the best solar energy resources in the nation. And yet we have hardly begun to tap their potential.
The U.S. Department of Energy says Hawaii has wind resources consistent with utility-scale production. Every single one of our islands has potential for generating power from wind.
Lanai and Maui already have a start, but there is much we can do to accelerate the permitting of renewable energy development.
Kauai is the wettest spot on Earth and yet we have done almost nothing to develop hydropower as a potential resource. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that Kauai has hydropower resources equal to about 70-percent of its electricity needs.
Wave energy development lies just over the horizon. We sure have plenty of waves just waiting for that day.
Local renewable energy development requires significant changes
Let me be candid with you, too many of us in this chamber cling to the status quo.
All of these alternative energies will require big changes: changes in how we view our landscapes, changes in state support levels, and changes in our willingness to be energy efficient and conserve energy.
In the end, achieving better energy efficiency and practicing conservation are the two most immediate ways we can decrease our dependence on outside resources.
If we could just produce half of Hawaii’s energy, we would add at least two billion dollars to the state’s economy. And the money stays here, not in a bank somewhere in Texas or the Middle East. This is how we will begin to take charge of our own destiny.
UH professors provide a symbol of what can be done
Members, the plant on your desks is a symbol of what we can do. The pot for that plant contains a charcoal additive that has been granted a U.S. patent for its unique properties. The charcoal acts to improve soil fertility, and it also has significant potential as an alternative fuel. It is made from green waste and has the potential for wide-scale commercial use.
The man who developed this technology is here with us today. Michael Antal, distinguished professor of renewable energy resources, from the UH School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology, and his wife, Ann.
We also recognize Goro Uehara, from the university’s Department of Tropical Plant and Soil Sciences, who is working with Dr. Antal to develop agricultural applications for his patented process.
These two men are helping invent our future, and grow a sustainable economy here in Hawaii.
Including Hawaii’s next generation in decision making
Members, if Hawaii is to take charge of its own destiny, we must take a closer look at another change we will need to make.
The young adults of this state have virtually no seat at the table where the real decisions are made. This is wrong and it works to our disadvantage.
Generation X is now entering its late thirties and early forties. Members of this generation founded Google, Yahoo, MySpace, Dell, and YouTube. Those are billion-dollar tech companies. Should we expect less of those who follow from Generation Y?
We will never know unless we open up our institutions, our committees and boardrooms, to provide the kind of access to leadership these young people deserve. The decisions we are making now will define their future. It is our duty and responsibility to give them a say in that future.
A call to fix unsatisfactory facilities at UH
All of us are saddened by the decision of UH football coach, June Jones, to leave Hawaii. We wish him well. Regrettably, his departure draws attention to a badly neglected problem at the university: the deplorable condition of many of its facilities.
Lack of adequate attention to this problem is leading many of the best faculty members at the university to consider leaving. We cannot allow this to happen.
Regardless of the tough budget problems we face this year, we must find the money to help the university deal with this crisis. I promise you, on behalf of the fifty-one members of this chamber, we will do our share.
Stand and join us now, as a symbol of our commitment to achieve this goal, and in recognition of the many outstanding works UH has achieved in its first 100 years.
A local newspaperman forecasts a future for Hawaii
A Honolulu newspaperman known as A. A. Bud Smyser wrote a report entitled, “Hawaii’s Future in the Pacific.” Let me read you part of what he said:
“Unless growth is carefully paced, increased activity will bring with it the threat of environmental overload—destruction of view planes and beauty; air, water and noise pollution; straining transportation and utility services beyond their capacities; crowding of beaches, parks and other public facilities.”
“These developments in turn, could impose heavy corrective costs on the tax-paying public. Serious overcrowding issues already exist in many parts of Hawaii.”
Smyser wrote those words, 20 years ago.
Members of the House, we have crossed the threshold of Smyser’s prediction and we must act now to save the Hawaii we know and love.
This morning, I speak to you as just one of the fifty-one members of this legislative body—a father of two sons who represents a district where people continue a mounting struggle with the cost of living.
As I listen to these people, I realize how truly they share a deep concern for the future of our state. We must recognize their thirst for change.
In a little over ten months, we will face the voters, the people of our districts who have given us their trust. We may see the election of the first woman to hold the nation’s highest office. We may also witness the day when a native son of Hawaii is chosen as leader of the free world.
This is not because things are changing, but because we are changing.
Imagine a woman who breaks through the “glass ceiling” to take a seat in the Oval Office. On November 4th, we could break that barrier. Imagine a man of color winning a state with under three-percent black population. Two weeks ago, we broke that barrier.
These events remind us of a hard truth: the forces of change will overwhelm the status quo. The way things are is not the way they will be.
You may be surprised to hear me say that. I have sometimes been accused of representing the “old boy’s club.” People, who say that, don’t really know me.
I believe in my heart and with my whole being we can make Hawaii a better place. To do that, we must embrace change, not as a political slogan, but as a way of life.
A call for Hawaii to take charge of its own destiny
That’s why today, I am asking you, as representatives of the people of Hawaii, to help us take charge of our own destiny.
It is not my intention to offend anyone here today when I say that we are too complacent, too focused on our own individual concerns, and too accepting of the way things are. Forces beyond our state’s control will work against our shared beliefs if we do not act.
Maybe you don’t agree with me. Well, as a wise old Senator once put it, “you are entitled to your own opinion, but you are not entitled to your own facts.”
We are thousands of miles away from the resources necessary to support the lives of well over a million people. So we must significantly increase our efforts to achieve greater sustainability. Our commitment to that effort will truly help Hawaii take charge of its destiny.
Lessons from the Superferry controversy
Less than three months ago, this body was called into special session to decide whether the Superferry would sink or float.
Dozens of protestors jumped into Nawiliwili harbor to keep the vessel and her passengers from coming ashore. The governor was booed when she came to Kauai to help settle the dispute. Newspapers around the world were running front-page stories about the trouble.
This is not the time to reopen that debate, but it is the time to recognize this is not the way to solve Hawaii’s problems. Confrontation may bring temporary satisfaction to a few, but it will never bring long-term solutions for the many.
Balancing environmental and economic concerns
The Superferry debate raised important issues, but the right choice for Hawaii is to find a balance between our environmental and economic concerns, a balance that is sustainable. To take charge of our own destiny, we must recognize that good environmental policy and a sound economy should work together.
This is the middle road we can find between the unworkable extremes of no development and uncontrollable development. This middle way recognizes that a sustainable economy must first be built within a sustainable environment.
Hawaii’s energy dependency and rising fuel costs
So let me begin with what I believe is our most pressing environmental and economic concern—our total dependence on imported fossil fuels—fuels that cost us more and more each day.
The increase in their price shows up in the gas we buy, the electricity we use, and the food we eat. Last year at this time, the price of oil was just under 50-dollars a barrel. Earlier this month that price had doubled.
Hawaii is not far away from a day when the cost of jet fuel will start to play havoc with our tourist-based economy. Some say it has already started to do that.
You can be sure that many of our families are struggling with rising gas prices.
Why are we moving so slowly? Most of the energy we need can be created here at home. Are the threats to the status quo and the increasing appetites of real estate developers standing in our way?
Renewing a call for energy self-sufficiency
Hawaii’s unique environment presents us with an unparalleled opportunity to lead our nation in the development of renewable energies. Consider a few possibilities:
Ethanol from sugarcane is more than five times as energy efficient as ethanol produced from corn, and it significantly reduces green house gas emissions.
I realize there are considerable challenges surrounding the increased production of sugarcane and other bio-fuel crops. Issues of water rights and infrastructure; issues that will require us to change our land use policies.
But wouldn’t most of us rather gaze at a sugarcane field that helps power our cars, than a field of high-rise condos built for the offshore rich.
Leeward Oahu, Molokai, Lanai and western Maui have some of the best solar energy resources in the nation. And yet we have hardly begun to tap their potential.
The U.S. Department of Energy says Hawaii has wind resources consistent with utility-scale production. Every single one of our islands has potential for generating power from wind.
Lanai and Maui already have a start, but there is much we can do to accelerate the permitting of renewable energy development.
Kauai is the wettest spot on Earth and yet we have done almost nothing to develop hydropower as a potential resource. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that Kauai has hydropower resources equal to about 70-percent of its electricity needs.
Wave energy development lies just over the horizon. We sure have plenty of waves just waiting for that day.
Local renewable energy development requires significant changes
Let me be candid with you, too many of us in this chamber cling to the status quo.
All of these alternative energies will require big changes: changes in how we view our landscapes, changes in state support levels, and changes in our willingness to be energy efficient and conserve energy.
In the end, achieving better energy efficiency and practicing conservation are the two most immediate ways we can decrease our dependence on outside resources.
If we could just produce half of Hawaii’s energy, we would add at least two billion dollars to the state’s economy. And the money stays here, not in a bank somewhere in Texas or the Middle East. This is how we will begin to take charge of our own destiny.
UH professors provide a symbol of what can be done
Members, the plant on your desks is a symbol of what we can do. The pot for that plant contains a charcoal additive that has been granted a U.S. patent for its unique properties. The charcoal acts to improve soil fertility, and it also has significant potential as an alternative fuel. It is made from green waste and has the potential for wide-scale commercial use.
The man who developed this technology is here with us today. Michael Antal, distinguished professor of renewable energy resources, from the UH School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology, and his wife, Ann.
We also recognize Goro Uehara, from the university’s Department of Tropical Plant and Soil Sciences, who is working with Dr. Antal to develop agricultural applications for his patented process.
These two men are helping invent our future, and grow a sustainable economy here in Hawaii.
Including Hawaii’s next generation in decision making
Members, if Hawaii is to take charge of its own destiny, we must take a closer look at another change we will need to make.
The young adults of this state have virtually no seat at the table where the real decisions are made. This is wrong and it works to our disadvantage.
Generation X is now entering its late thirties and early forties. Members of this generation founded Google, Yahoo, MySpace, Dell, and YouTube. Those are billion-dollar tech companies. Should we expect less of those who follow from Generation Y?
We will never know unless we open up our institutions, our committees and boardrooms, to provide the kind of access to leadership these young people deserve. The decisions we are making now will define their future. It is our duty and responsibility to give them a say in that future.
A call to fix unsatisfactory facilities at UH
All of us are saddened by the decision of UH football coach, June Jones, to leave Hawaii. We wish him well. Regrettably, his departure draws attention to a badly neglected problem at the university: the deplorable condition of many of its facilities.
Lack of adequate attention to this problem is leading many of the best faculty members at the university to consider leaving. We cannot allow this to happen.
Regardless of the tough budget problems we face this year, we must find the money to help the university deal with this crisis. I promise you, on behalf of the fifty-one members of this chamber, we will do our share.
Stand and join us now, as a symbol of our commitment to achieve this goal, and in recognition of the many outstanding works UH has achieved in its first 100 years.
A local newspaperman forecasts a future for Hawaii
A Honolulu newspaperman known as A. A. Bud Smyser wrote a report entitled, “Hawaii’s Future in the Pacific.” Let me read you part of what he said:
“Unless growth is carefully paced, increased activity will bring with it the threat of environmental overload—destruction of view planes and beauty; air, water and noise pollution; straining transportation and utility services beyond their capacities; crowding of beaches, parks and other public facilities.”
“These developments in turn, could impose heavy corrective costs on the tax-paying public. Serious overcrowding issues already exist in many parts of Hawaii.”
Smyser wrote those words, 20 years ago.
Members of the House, we have crossed the threshold of Smyser’s prediction and we must act now to save the Hawaii we know and love.
Opening Day Speech - Majority Leader Kirk Caldwell
Mr. Speaker, distinguished guests, friends and family, members of the House, we all came to public office with dreams.
I was reminded of the importance of this principle about a month ago, when Senator Nadao Yoshinaga visited my office.
From humble beginnings in Wailuku, to a local and national leader in health care reform, the Senator has a record that would make any elected official proud.
When he visited, we talked for a quite a while. At the end of our conversation, I asked him, "If you had it to do all over again, would you change anything?"
He told me: "I would have dreamed bigger."
Those words reminded me, and should remind us all, of just how critical it is to take what we believe and apply it to the way we solve problems and approach the future.
There is a forest of cynicism out there, and we cannot give in to it. Instead we must deal with it, defy it, and be guided by what is right.
Community leaders do this every day. One such person is Nanci Kriedman. She has committed herself to ending domestic violence.
Nanci has involved some of us in the annual Men's March held every October to end violence against women.
The theme of last year's march was "dispelling the myth." The message is that we must change the way we frame the problem if we are really going to solve it.
Violence against women is generally thought of as a women's issue. But it's not. It's a man's issue.
It is men who must change to solve the problem. And it is all men who must help by taking responsibility for ending something which is so innately wrong.
So Nanci's dream begins by calling on men – uncles, coaches, clergy and neighbors -- to act as good mentors. We can start early with boys and end the bad behavior before it becomes habit. Real men will champion the responsibility.
Thank you Nanci. The simple act of redefining a problem can give birth to new solutions.
We have all heard the quote from the bible which goes, "Where there is no vision, the people perish." Fortunately we have community leaders who have vision to spare.
Among them is James Koshiba, one of the founders of Kanu Hawaii. James left a successful consulting firm to lead this dynamic, new organization.
Kanu calls on all of us to fulfill our kuleana – our obligation to neighbors in need, our cultural traditions, our children and our environment.
Using creative technology, James and the young leaders who founded Kanu have added a new twist to activism.
Kanu displays, in real-time, data on their website to show us how individual home grown actions really do make a difference and how our commitments add up.
Yet with all the high-tech, James and Kanu are still grounded in the timeless island values of respect, humility, and aloha that bind us all.
Through personal change and social action, Kanu Hawaii is helping us reach those "bigger dreams."
My daughter and I used Kanu to make new commitments to improve our world. She pledged to conserve water at home, and I committed to buying from businesses that are good stewards of their community.
With Kanu, we rediscover that the call to action comes from each of us. Because that's where change starts.
So all around us there are people who are dreaming bigger and acting on behalf of those dreams. And what do each of these leaders have in common? The status quo just isn't good enough.
And no, it is not as simple as having the right bumper sticker or motivational poster. As we all find out at one juncture or another, values only mean something when they are tested.
And the road tests can get pretty tough. In the session ahead, let's ask ourselves: are we operating from a value system that perpetuates what is best about our island home?
Or are we, slice by slice, mortgaging away the future?
Who are we building for? Not just the brick and mortar infrastructure, but the energy we produce from the islands, the foods we grow and the industries and jobs we develop.
Think about this. According to the national report card for states, between 2000-2005, Hawaii converted cropland to other uses faster than all but one of 50 states in this country.
When is enough, enough? Are we really thinking of the needs of people who will be here when we are long gone? Or is that just something on a "keep the country, country" bumper sticker?
And perhaps most importantly for us as elected officials, has it become so easy to take the cheap shot and criticize government that we are losing the all important combination of affection and guts it takes to really dig in, change government and make it better?
So let's ask ourselves: Is government fit for the future? What are we doing about it? These are real tough questions to answer. Yet all around us -- as we've seen today -- there is human inspiration.
Right now I understand we have some celebrating to do out in the rotunda with our University champions. Our capitol is filled with young people who dreamed bigger and delivered. It is alive with the hopes of tomorrow and the will to work for a better future.
Dream bigger, Senator Yoshinaga? You bet.
Thank you.
I was reminded of the importance of this principle about a month ago, when Senator Nadao Yoshinaga visited my office.
From humble beginnings in Wailuku, to a local and national leader in health care reform, the Senator has a record that would make any elected official proud.
When he visited, we talked for a quite a while. At the end of our conversation, I asked him, "If you had it to do all over again, would you change anything?"
He told me: "I would have dreamed bigger."
Those words reminded me, and should remind us all, of just how critical it is to take what we believe and apply it to the way we solve problems and approach the future.
There is a forest of cynicism out there, and we cannot give in to it. Instead we must deal with it, defy it, and be guided by what is right.
Community leaders do this every day. One such person is Nanci Kriedman. She has committed herself to ending domestic violence.
Nanci has involved some of us in the annual Men's March held every October to end violence against women.
The theme of last year's march was "dispelling the myth." The message is that we must change the way we frame the problem if we are really going to solve it.
Violence against women is generally thought of as a women's issue. But it's not. It's a man's issue.
It is men who must change to solve the problem. And it is all men who must help by taking responsibility for ending something which is so innately wrong.
So Nanci's dream begins by calling on men – uncles, coaches, clergy and neighbors -- to act as good mentors. We can start early with boys and end the bad behavior before it becomes habit. Real men will champion the responsibility.
Thank you Nanci. The simple act of redefining a problem can give birth to new solutions.
We have all heard the quote from the bible which goes, "Where there is no vision, the people perish." Fortunately we have community leaders who have vision to spare.
Among them is James Koshiba, one of the founders of Kanu Hawaii. James left a successful consulting firm to lead this dynamic, new organization.
Kanu calls on all of us to fulfill our kuleana – our obligation to neighbors in need, our cultural traditions, our children and our environment.
Using creative technology, James and the young leaders who founded Kanu have added a new twist to activism.
Kanu displays, in real-time, data on their website to show us how individual home grown actions really do make a difference and how our commitments add up.
Yet with all the high-tech, James and Kanu are still grounded in the timeless island values of respect, humility, and aloha that bind us all.
Through personal change and social action, Kanu Hawaii is helping us reach those "bigger dreams."
My daughter and I used Kanu to make new commitments to improve our world. She pledged to conserve water at home, and I committed to buying from businesses that are good stewards of their community.
With Kanu, we rediscover that the call to action comes from each of us. Because that's where change starts.
So all around us there are people who are dreaming bigger and acting on behalf of those dreams. And what do each of these leaders have in common? The status quo just isn't good enough.
And no, it is not as simple as having the right bumper sticker or motivational poster. As we all find out at one juncture or another, values only mean something when they are tested.
And the road tests can get pretty tough. In the session ahead, let's ask ourselves: are we operating from a value system that perpetuates what is best about our island home?
Or are we, slice by slice, mortgaging away the future?
Who are we building for? Not just the brick and mortar infrastructure, but the energy we produce from the islands, the foods we grow and the industries and jobs we develop.
Think about this. According to the national report card for states, between 2000-2005, Hawaii converted cropland to other uses faster than all but one of 50 states in this country.
When is enough, enough? Are we really thinking of the needs of people who will be here when we are long gone? Or is that just something on a "keep the country, country" bumper sticker?
And perhaps most importantly for us as elected officials, has it become so easy to take the cheap shot and criticize government that we are losing the all important combination of affection and guts it takes to really dig in, change government and make it better?
So let's ask ourselves: Is government fit for the future? What are we doing about it? These are real tough questions to answer. Yet all around us -- as we've seen today -- there is human inspiration.
Right now I understand we have some celebrating to do out in the rotunda with our University champions. Our capitol is filled with young people who dreamed bigger and delivered. It is alive with the hopes of tomorrow and the will to work for a better future.
Dream bigger, Senator Yoshinaga? You bet.
Thank you.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)