2015 House Majority Package Focuses on Modernizing Government

Leaders of the state House of Representatives majority today announced their package of priorities for the 2015 legislative session. House majority lawmakers will focus their combined efforts on three major areas of concern to modernize government: fixing public infrastructure, facilitating business and increasing participation in government.

“There are some challenges facing our State that need to be fixed and not deferred,” said House Majority Leader Scott K. Saiki (McCully, Kaheka, Kakaako and Downtown). “This includes, for example, the Hawaii Health Connector, the public hospital system, housing, the electric grid, and our prisons. The solutions may be long-term, so we want to spend the next year setting the framework to address them. Our committee chairs are very positive and will work constructively with the Governor, the Senate, and other stakeholders.”

HOUSE DEMOCRATIC MAJORITY PACKAGE

Our State is only 55 years old. Yet, some of the most urgent needs are provided through outdated means. In the next year, we will work to set a framework to modernize government. Our work will be based on the needs of real people in our communities. Our solutions will be guided by our core Democratic principles of tolerance, equality, opportunity, and fairness. We welcome the challenge. Here are our goals.

Fix Public Infrastructure

Residents rely on public infrastructure on a daily basis to survive. Some of the infrastructure was created decades ago. We recognize that both physical and non-physical infrastructure needs to be modernized.

• Protect the public interest while modernizing the electrical grid
• Expand telecommunications capacity
• Create a sustainable public hospital system
• Modernize correctional facilities
• Expand affordable housing

Facilitate Business

Everyone benefits from a healthy economy. “Business” is comprised of risk-takers, such as small restaurant owners, farmers, and mom and pop retailers. We can support business by ensuring that government is modernized and adaptable to changing circumstances, just as business is.

• Modernize our tax collection system so that everyone pays their fair share
• Maintain the payment of unfunded long-term public liabilities
• Ensure appropriate transit-oriented development
• Increase local food production
• Protect our military bases
• Expand opportunities for pre-school and school-to-work programs to benefit students and develop our workforce

Increase Participation in Government

The most critical important check on government is an informed and involved citizenry. At minimum, residents should vote. We will work to facilitate, rather than hamper, public involvement in government.

• Standardize voting procedures
• Streamline ethics and campaign spending laws to ensure consistent standards and enforcement
• Increase technology to allow for neighbor island tele-participation

Speaker Souki Calls on House to Tackle Unfinished Business

In his opening day remarks, Speaker of the House Joseph M. Souki called on members of the House of Representatives to focus on doing the “nitty-gritty” work that will allow government to function more efficiently and for Hawaii’s families to pursue their dreams.

In a session that is expected to be business-like in its approach to tackling unfinished matters, Souki asked House members to let the rhetoric settle, roll up their sleeves and “get down to work in workman-like fashion.”

“Last year, I asked you to be bold in tackling some very difficult issues, and you answered the call by increasing minimum wage, restructuring HCDA, and taking care of the state’s unfunded liabilities,” Souki said in highlighting last year’s session.

“But that was yesterday and yesterday’s achievements. This morning, we must begin to take care of today’s business with the same determination and boldness.”

While acknowledging that Oahu’s rail system will help the state direct growth along its transit stations, Souki also raised a cautionary flag on the City’s proposal to raise the general income tax (GET) for rail saying, “We will be holding the City’s feet to the fire and closely scrutinizing its request to extend the GET tax on rail.”

He also identified three specific areas relating to healthcare that fell under the category of unfinished business.

He pointed to the Hawaii Health Connector, the state portal to health insurance under Obamacare, as one of the issues that still needs legislative attention.

“If we are to finish the job of providing universal healthcare, then all stakeholders must come to the table with an open mind and be willing to work hard for that goal,” Souki said.

Souki also called for the House to draft enabling legislation to provide the state’s public hospital the option of looking at private-public partnerships as a way to deal with its mounting financial obligations. In noting recent talks between Maui Memorial Hospital and Hawaii Pacific Health, Souki said such a partnership could save taxpayers significant money and improve healthcare on Maui.

“It behooves us to study this opportunity carefully and look at legislation for this and other potential partnerships,” Souki said.

The Speaker asked lawmakers to pass legislation to create a statewide system to dispense medical marijuana. In 2000, Hawaii became the first state to legalize the growth, possession and use of marijuana for prescribed medical purposes but did not provide for a legal and practical method of acquiring it. A task force set by the Legislature last year recently recommended the creation of dispensaries.

“We must also ensure the well-being of those who have unique health issues and who require a little more compassion from us,” Souki said. “I am speaking of those who need better access to medical marijuana. Yes, it is legal in Hawaii. But there is no legal access to it. The time has come to fix this contradiction.”

Souki also called on House members to look at moving Oahu Community Correctional Center (OCCC) to Halawa by leasing the Kalihi parcel and using the funds to build a new prison or expand the current one in Halawa.

Representative Mele Carroll to resign from State House

Representative Mele Carroll delivered today letters to Governor Ige and House Speaker Souki announcing that on February 1, 2015, with the support of her family and friends, she is resigning from representing the 13th District in the Hawaii State House Representatives.

After consulting with doctors, contemplating her situation, and confirming with her husband and family, Rep. Carroll decided to resign due to her health. Complications from her previous cancer treatments have arisen in the recent months that now affect her quality of life and which may affect her ability to do her job. The time has come for her to address her health and spend quality time with her loved ones and closest friends.

“While it is with deep sadness that I accept the resignation of Rep. Carroll from the State House, I fully understand and support her priorities regarding her health,” said House Speaker Joseph M. Souki. “I speak for every member of the House in wishing her well and in expressing our gratitude for all that she has done for the people of her district, the Legislature and the State of Hawaii.

“Rep. Carroll has worked hard to call attention to the needs and wishes of the people of Maui, and I’ve personally witnessed how much she has sacrificed and seen how passionate she is about her role as their representative.”

Representative Carroll was re-elected on November 4, 2014 to begin her sixth term representing the 13th House district. The 13th District is a “canoe” district that includes East Maui, Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe and Molokini.

"Making the decision to step down has been the hardest thing I have ever had to do. It is a heartbreaking reality that I have to face," Carroll said. "Serving in the State House of Representatives has been a truly rewarding experience. I am thankful that the people of the 13th District have trusted in me to represent them as their elected legislator. Every day that I came to work was a blessing and something I never took for granted. I cannot say enough about the dedication of people I have met in my journey through the State Capitol, they and my fellow legislators have become my family.

"I want to thank Speaker Souki for his support and understanding as I made this difficult decision, as well as Speaker Emeritus Calvin Say for his support during his tenure and while I served as the Chair of the House Hawaiian Legislative Caucus. Both Speakers showed me their compassion and understanding as I was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent chemotherapy and radiation treatments during my service in the State House. I will never forget the sensitivity and compassion they bestowed upon me. They made my fight a little easier. My colleagues have been a tremendous support throughout my tenure at the Capitol and I am confident the people of Hawaii will continue to be served honorably by our state legislators," Carroll said.

Carroll served as the Chair of the House Committee on Human Services and as a member for the Committees on Health and Housing. During her tenure, she also served as the chair of the Legislative Hawaiian Caucus, and a member of the Women's Legislative Caucus, Keiki Caucus, Kupuna Caucus, as well as the Historical Preservation Caucus.

Prior to her appointment in 2005 by Gov. Linda Lingle, Carroll served as the executive assistant and the chief legislative liaison to County of Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa and was responsible for representing Maui at the Legislature by providing oral and written testimony, researching and drafting bills as well as providing community updates through public forums and meetings.

As the Mayor’s chief legislative liaison, she was also responsible for writing a federal grant proposal to the U. S. Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration for $2 million that contributed to the purchase of Muolea Point (73 acres) in Hana and worked with the community to develop a management plan to preserve Muolea Point which was known as King David Kalakaua’s summer home for the alii.

Carroll was a key leader and instrumental in helping secure funding for the new emergency medical helicopter service for Maui County. She did this by working with a bi-partisan coalition of community leaders. The Maui representative also served as chief of staff to State Senator J. Kalani English for two years, in addition to serving four years as his chief of staff at the Maui County Council. She was appointed and served on the state’s Cable Television Advisory Committee and the state’s Na Ala Hele Trails Council.

Carroll’s community service includes serving on the following boards of non-profit organizations: past president of the Waikikena Foundation; past president of the Maui AIDS Foundation; past vice president for the Friends of Maui County Health Organization; past board director of the `Aha Ali`i Kapuaiwa O Kamehameha V Royal Order of Kamehameha II; past board director for the Maui Adult Day Care Center; member of the Aloha Festivals Maui Steering Committee; past board director of the Na Po’e Kokua; and Paia Youth & Cultural Center. She also served as the head coach of the Lahainaluna High School’s girls varsity basketball team.

"Again, thank you for this honor," Rep. Carroll said in closing. "This has been an extremely rewarding experience that I will never forget."

According to state law, Governor Ige has 60 calendar days from the date of the vacancy to name a replacement for Representative Carroll’s House seat from a list of three names submitted by the Democratic Party of Hawaii.

Students Challenged to Develop Vision for Hawaii's Future

Lawmakers are inviting students across the state to participate in the Hawaii: Next 50 Contest,  which asks students the question: "What do you think needs to happen in the next 50 years for Hawaii to be the best place to work and live?" All Hawaii students in grades 4 - 12 are invited to present their vision for the future through an essay, poster, or video submission. The contest gives students the opportunity to offer their opinions about Hawaii’s future and to have a public forum to share those thoughts and ideas with decision makers and community leaders.

The recent 2014 General Election, unfortunately, presented us with a new low in civic engagement. It marked a record low voter turnout for Hawaii with just 52.3% participation by registered voters.

While this contest is not a solution to voter apathy, it is intended to encourage our youth to take ownership of their future…to have a say in what they want for Hawaii and themselves 50 years from now. If we can capture and harness the desire to make a difference among some of our young people, it might inspire them to continue to engage in civic discourse.

5th graders Rebekah Wellington and Trison Taeoalii-Kihewa speak to former Governor George Ariyoshi

The Hawaii: Next 50 Contest is inspired by former Governor George Ariyoshi's book, Hawaii: The Past Fifty Years, The Next Fifty Years, which provided a retrospective look into our islands' history as a state and prompts the next generation to think about what social, cultural, and economic roads we can take to keep Hawaii moving forward in the next century.

“I believe the future is not just for those who vote and are active today, but most importantly is for the young who are now in school. Today’s youth are smarter than when I was growing up, and it is important that we encourage participation and challenge the next generation to think of new ways to change the state for the better,” said Ariyoshi.

“When I first learned about the Hawaii: Next 50 contest, I thought it was an innovative idea that I could use as a teaching tool in the classroom. This is a great opportunity to actively engage my students to think positively and creatively to come up with ideas that will directly benefit them now and in the future,” added Carol Kim, 5th grade teacher at Lanakila Elementary School.

Lanakila Elementary School teachers Carol Kim and Camille Sismar discuss their involvement in the contest

Entries will be judged by legislators, community members, and educators throughout Hawaii. The contest is a collaboration of the Hawaii State House of Representatives, Hawaii Future Caucus, and aio Foundation.

“This concept was initiated by the forward thinking of Governor Ariyoshi, and I am proud to have been able to work towards expanding it into schools across the state,” said Representative Mark Nakashima, who spearheaded the Hawaii: Next 50 Contest. “I would like to sincerely thank the aio foundation for their support for another great cause and their continued dedication towards helping the community and our students.”

More information can be found on the contest website at www.HawaiiNext50.com and organizers can be reached at HawaiiNext50@gmail.com with any questions.

Hawaii: Next 50 Contest

WHO: Students enrolled Grades 4 – 12 are eligible to enter.

WHAT: Students are asked to read Hawaii: The Past Fifty Years, The Next Fifty Years and respond to the question: "What do you think needs to happen in the next 50 years for Hawaii to be the best place to work and live?"

Submissions will be accepted online in two categories: essay and visual arts (poster or video).

Copies of Hawaii: The Past Fifty Years, The Next Fifty Years are available by request via the Book Request Form.

WHEN: Entry deadline - January 31, 2015 at 11:59 p.m. Winners to be announced in March 2015.

WHY: To challenge the up-and-coming generation to become stakeholders in shaping our future by asking them to consider how individuals and the State as a whole can make meaningful contributions for Hawaii.

Speaker Souki Receives Distinguished Alumni Award from Woodbury University

Woodbury President Dr. Luis Maria R. Calingo presents Speaker Joseph M. Souki with the Distinguished Alumni Award.

In the early 1950’s Joseph M. Souki left the island of Maui for Southern California to attend, what was then called, Woodbury College.  He worked three jobs to pay for his tuition and living expenses and, in what might be considered his first venture into the leadership arena, also was President of Woodbury’s Hawaiian Club.  In 1954 he received a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Woodbury and returned to Maui.

For his many accomplishments and service to the people of Maui and the State, Woodbury University presented Speaker Souki with its Distinguished Alumni Award at a dinner honoring him earlier this past weekend in Honolulu.

"Speaker Joe Souki is the embodiment of the Woodbury alumnus that we seek. He has demonstrated his entrepreneurial skills in his profession as a realtor. He has demonstrated design thinking when he initiated the Maui Economic Opportunity wheelchair accessible bus service, the senior citizen discount card program, Meals on Wheels, and Youth Transportation Services that help young people today to have fun and be productive. His civic engagement is best evident in his advocacy for the women and children who are victims of domestic violence,” said Woodbury President Dr. Luis Maria R.Calingo.

“Representative Souki has transcended disciplinary boundaries by applying his organizational and management skills to political leadership as Speaker of the Hawaii House of Representatives. Entrepreneurship, design thinking, civic engagement, and transdisciplinarity – these are the Four Pillars of Woodbury Education, all epitomized in the Honorable Speaker Joseph M. Souki,” said President Calingo.

Speaker Joseph M. Souki with Woodbury President Dr. Luis Maria R. Calingo and University Relations Vice President Gregory S. Krikorian

“I am extremely honored to receive this award from my Alma Mater Woodbury University.  Never did I imagine when I first traveled to Los Angeles to pursue my education, that such a recognition would be possible for me.  Back then I wasn’t sure that I would even make it through,” joked Speaker Souki.

“Every phase in a person’s life begins with a significant moment and decision. For me, one of those moments began with the decision to attend Woodbury, and I am very grateful to have been given the opportunity to further my education at such a fine institution,” said Souki.

Woodbury University is one of the oldest institutions of higher education in Southern California.  Founded in 1884, Woodbury offers bachelor’s degrees from the School of Architecture, the School of Business, and the School of Media, Culture and Design.

2015 Leadership Team and Committee Chairpersons

House Speaker Joseph M. Souki today announced the appointments of the House of Representatives Majority leadership lineup for the 28^th Legislature which convenes on January 21, 2015.

“The team that we have formed represents the kind of talents and abilities that will best serve our residents and will address the issues facing our state,” said Speaker Souki. “We look forward to engaging in meaningful discussions with Governor-elect David Ige and his administration to continue to identify ideas and solutions to help Hawaii move forward.”

Members of the House Leadership are as follows:

Speaker of the House        Joseph M. Souki
Vice Speaker                     John M. Mizuno
Majority Leader                Scott K. Saiki
Majority Floor Leader      Cindy Evans
Majority Whip                  Ken Ito
Asst. Majority Leader       Chris Lee
Asst. Majority Leader       Roy M. Takumi
Speaker Emeritus             Calvin K.Y. Say

2015 House Committee Chairpersons:

Agriculture (AGR)
Clift Tsuji, Chair
Richard H.K. Onishi, Vice Chair

Economic Development & Business (EDB)
Derek S.K. Kawakami, Chair
Sam Kong, Vice Chair

Veterans, Military & International Affairs (VMI)
Romy M. Cachola, Chair
Ken Ito, Vice Chair

Tourism & Culture and the Arts (TCA)
Tom Brower, Chair
Takashi Ohno, Vice Chair

Labor & Public Employment (LAB)
Mark M. Nakashima, Chair
Jarrett Keohokalole, Vice Chair

Public Safety (PBS)
Gregg Takayama, Chair
Kyle T. Yamashita, Vice Chair

Transportation (TRN)
Henry J.C. Aquino, Chair
Matthew LoPresti, Vice Chair

Health (HLT)
Della Au Belatti, Chair
Dee Morikawa, Vice Chair

Housing (HSG)
Mark J. Hashem, Chair
Richard Creagan, Vice Chair

Human Services (HUS)
Mele Carroll, Chair
Bertrand Kobayashi, Vice Chair

Energy & Environmental Protection (EEP)
Chris Lee, Chair
Nicole E. Lowen, Vice Chair

Ocean, Marine Resources & Hawaiian Affairs (OMH)
Kaniela Ing, Chair
Nicole E. Lowen, Vice Chair

Water & Land (WAL)
Ryan I. Yamane, Chair
Ty J.K. Cullen, Vice Chair

Education (EDN)
Roy M. Takumi, Chair
Takashi Ohno, Vice Chair

Higher Education, (HED)
Isaac W. Choy, Chair
Linda Ichiyama, Vice Chair

Finance (FIN)
Sylvia Luke, Chair
Scott Y. Nishimoto, Vice Chair

Legislative Management (LMG)
Scott Y. Nishimoto, Chair
John M. Mizuno, Vice Chair

Consumer Protection & Commerce (CPC)
Angus L.K. McKelvey, Chair
Justin H. Woodson, Vice Chair

Judiciary (JUD)
Karl Rhoads, Chair
Joy San Buenaventura, Vice Chair