Friday, February 26, 2010

Art at the Capitol event on First Friday, Mar 5

Wheel No. 5 by Satoru Abe featured in Senator Colleen Hanabusa's office.

The Hawai‘i State Legislature will open its doors for March’s First Friday event with the 2nd Annual “Art at the Capitol,” an opportunity for the public to view over 430 works of art that are a part of the State’s Art in Public Places program. Guests can also enjoy entertainment featuring live music by the Hawai‘i Youth Symphony, take guided historical tours of the Capitol, and mingle with artists and lawmakers.

The event will be held on Friday, March 5, 2010 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., with a short program on the third floor to kick it off starting at 4:45 p.m.

“We have some outstanding art in the Capitol,” said Senator Brian Taniguchi, who has led efforts to open the Capitol on First Friday. “We wanted to make it more convenient for people to come in and see them all at once, to get the full impact of our collection.”

Ronald Yamakawa, Executive Director of the Hawai‘i State Foundation on Culture and the Arts, also sees the Art at the Capitol event as a way to expand public appreciation of art in various environments.

We have a lot of art installed at the Capitol, which not only enhances the building’s atmosphere, but also shows that the experience of art can be an everyday event,” said Yamakawa. “This is a great opportunity for the public to view these works in the context of working offices.”


Over and Under by Aaron Padilla located in Representative Blake Oshiro's office.

This marks the second year the State Capitol has participated in a First Friday event. More than 400 people attended last year's event held in April 2009. This year, 45 offices in both the House and the Senate will participate.

"This is the people's capitol and the public's art after all," said Representative Isaac Choy, who is coordinating offices in the House and welcomes the opportunity to open their doors to the public. “What a great way for members of the public to meet their lawmakers face to face, see their offices and get to know them in a different context."

The event will feature the newly restored mosaic "Aquarius" by famous local artist Tadashi Sato, and give guests an opportunity to meet and greet some of the artists whose works are on display, including renowned artists Satoru Abe, Doug Young, Aaron Padilla, Kloe Kang, Lori Uyehara, Amos Kotomori, Marianne Au, Norm Graffam, Jr., Lily Hasegawa, Yoshio Hayashi, Charlene Hughes, Anne Irons, Karen Lee, Alan Leitner, and Brett A. Uprichard.

Works of art are placed in public areas of the State Capitol as part of the State Foundation on Culture and the Arts’ “Art in Public Places” program, which seeks to
enhance the environmental quality of state public buildings and spaces for the enjoyment and enrichment of the public; cultivate the public’s awareness, understanding and appreciation of visual arts; contribute toward the development and recognition of a professional artistic community; and acquire, preserve, and display works of art expressive of the character of the Hawaiian Islands, the multicultural heritage of its people, and the various creative interests of its artists. The program was established in 1967, and was the first program of its kind in the nation.

KITV4 did a story about state art pieces and a bill advancing at the Legislature allowing the state to sell art work in this tight economy. The "Art at the Capitol" event that will allow you to see the state-owned art work, in which the bill refers, showcased in the offices of our state lawmakers. Watch the video HERE.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

Bills of interest for Wednesday, Feb. 24, 2010

COMMITTEE ON HOUSING
9:10 A.M. – ROOM 325

HB2311 RELATING TO PLANNED COMMUNITY ASSOCIATIONS
Allows for the use of flag poles to display the flag of the United States or of the State on the premises of single-family residential dwellings or townhouses that are part of a planned community. Allows reasonable restrictions on the use of flag poles for aesthetic purposes. (PINE)

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


HB2488 HD1 RELATING TO THE HOMELESS
Increases by 15% the conveyance tax on the sale of homes valued at $1,200,000 and more to finance the purchase and maintenance of parks under the jurisdiction of the counties to serve the homeless. Requires the counties to provide matching funds. (HB2488 HD1) (CABANILLA)

HB2318 HD1 RELATING TO THE HOMELESS
Establishes a 5-year housing first pilot program developed by the Hawaii Public Housing Authority, in collaboration with the Department of Human Services, to assist chronically homeless individuals. Increases the conveyance tax by fifteen percent on homes valued at $1,200,000 and over to fund the parks for homeless special fund. (HB2318 HD1) ($) (CABANILLA)

HB2280 HD1 RELATING TO THE HOMELESS
Assists the homeless in reuniting with their families. Creates the parks for homeless special fund. Increases the conveyance tax by fifteen percent on homes valued at $1,200,000 and more to be deposited into the parks for homeless special fund (HB2280 HD1) ($) (CABANILLA)

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


HB2347 RELATING TO HE MAXIMUM TERM OF COMMERCIAL USE AND OPERATOR PERMITS FOR THRILLCRAFT AND PARASAILING
Removes the twenty-year limit for state parasailing and thrill craft permits, and makes those permits renewable annually. Directs DLNR to offer for public auction permits that have been revoked for cause. (HB2347 HD1) (MCKELVEY)


COMMITTEE ON FINANCE – AGENDA #3
12:30 P.M. – ROOM 308

HB2251 HD1 RELATED TO GAMING
Establishes a gaming commission to oversee casino gaming. Allows the gaming commission to issue one 5-year license to a casino gaming operation in a county with a population of more than 500,000. Limits casino gaming to persons over 21. Creates a wagering tax on casino gaming. (HB2251 HD1) (KARAMATSU)

HB2902 HD2 RELATING TO PUBLIC EDUCATION GOVERNMENT TELEVISION
Requires the auditor to analyze the allocation of cable operator franchise fees. Requires a financial review or audit of Olelo Community Television. Appropriates unspecified funds. (HB2902 HD2) (TOKIOKA)

Public invited to Manoa Town Hall Meeting, Feb 27

What: Senator Brian T. Taniguchi (District 10) and Representative Isaac W. Choy (District 24) will hold a Manoa Legislative Town Hall Meeting for the community to share concerns, ask questions and learn about legislation introduced this session.

Call 808-586-8475 for more information.

When: Saturday, February 27, 2010
9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Where: Noelani Elementary School Library
2655 Woodlawn Drive

Monday, February 22, 2010

Bills of Interest for Tuesday, February 23, 2010

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


HB2370 HD1 RELATING TO TRANSPORTATION
Raises rental motor vehicle customer facility charge from $1/day to $4.50/day. Appropriates funds out of the Rental Motor Vehicle Customer Facility Charge Special Fund for multiple purposes. (HB2370 HD1) ($) (SOUKI)

COMMITTEE ON FINANCE AGENDA #2
11:30 A.M. – ROOM 308

HB2486 HD1 RELATING TO EDUCATION
Establishes a minimum number of instructional hours per school year for each grade beginning with the 2011-2012 school year. (HB2486 HD1) (BERG)

HB2376 HD2 PROPOSING AMENDMENTS TO THE HAWAII CONSTITUTION RELATING TO THE BOARD OF EDUCATION
Amends the Hawaii Constitution to provide for a Board of Education to be appointed by the Governor, as provided by law. Effective December 21, 2058. (HB2376 HD2) (ConAm) (TAKUMI)

HB2377 HD2 RELATING TO EDUCATION

Requires Board of Education members 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 December 21, 2058. (HB2377 HD2) (TAKUMI)


COMMITTEE ON JUDICIARY
2:00 P.M. – ROOM 325


HB2790 HD1 RELATING TO FIREWORKS
Establishes fireworks-related fines and penalties. Effective January 1, 2112. (HB2790 HD1) (HAR)

SB1059 SD2 HD1 RELATING TO FIREWORKS
Establishes an illegal fireworks task force to stop the importation of illegal fireworks and explosives. Requires the task force to report a preliminary plan to the legislature no later than January 10, 2010. Allows counties to enact ordinances or adopt rules regulating fireworks that are more restrictive than state law regulating fireworks under chapter 132D, Hawaii Revised Statutes. Effective 7/1/2050. (SB1059 HD1) (ESPERO)


HB1987 HD1 RELATING TO FIREWORKS
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. (HB1987 HD1) (MOSHIRO)

HB1019 RELATING TO THE PENAL CODE
Includes in the offense of murder in the second degree acts committed with the intent to cause serious bodily injury to another person or create the strong probability of causing death or serious bodily injury to another person, which result in the death of another person. (SAY BR)

HB1978 HD1 RELATING TO TOWING
Requires towing companies to be in operation twenty-four hours per day, 7 days a week in a county with a population greater than 500,000 persons. Requires tow companies open for twenty-four hours to offer services that include the release of vehicles in storage. Requires tow operators to maintain, at minimum, $500,000 bodily injury coverage, $200,000 property damage insurance, $175,000 hook coverage insurance, or a combined single limit of liability insurance coverage of $1,000,000. (HB1978 HD1) (SOUKI)

COMMITTEE ON FINANCE – AGENDA #5
4:30 P.M. - ROOM 308

HB2829 HD1 RELATING TO HEALTH
Requires hospitals to disclose infection rates; protects patient privacy rights. Effective December 21, 2058. (HB2829 HD1) (NISHIMOTO)

HB2667 RELATING TO FERRIES
Requires the Department of Transportation to conduct a study on the feasibility of establishing a statewide ferry system and the Hawaii State Ferry System Authority for the operation of a ferry system between the islands. (HB2667 HD1) ($) (SOUKI)

Friday, February 19, 2010

Bills of interest for Monday, Feb. 22, 2010

HAWAII HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES – MONDAY, FEB. 22, 2010

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

HB1859 HD1 RELATING TO FUNDING FOR PARKING FOR DISABLED PERSONS
Increases the annual vehicle registration fee by $1, which will be deposited into the Disability and Communication Access Board Special Fund to cover the costs of administering parking for persons with disabilities. Repeals the deposit of application fees for the credentialing of interpreters into the Special Fund, and the use of Special Fund monies to cover the costs of administering the program for their credentialing. (HB1859 HD1) (SOUKI)

HB2084 RELATING TO THE FEDERAL DISPROPORTIONATE SHARE HOSPITAL FUNDS
Appropriates moneys for fiscal year 2010-2011 to match the federal disproportionate share hospital allowance allocated to the State; authorizes some appropriated funds to be used to obtain matching federal disproportionate share hospital allowance for prior fiscal year expenditures by the State. ($) (YAMANE)

HB2774 HD1 RELATING TO HUMAN SERVICES
Directs the Department of Human Services to replace its QUEST program with the predecessor public assistance programs including the State Health Insurance Program. Effective January 1, 2050. (HB2774 HD1) (CHONG)


COMMITTEE ON FINANCE – AGENDA #3
1:00 P.M. – ROOM 308


HB2964 HD1 RELATING TO SALARIES
Increases the salary reduction for the governor, the lieutenant governor, the justices and judges of all state courts, the administrative director of the State or an equivalent position, the department heads or executive officers and the deputies or assistants of various state departments, and legislators from 5% to 8.07% for the second half of the 2009-2010 fiscal biennium. (HB2964 HD1) (M.OSHIRO)


COMMITTEE ON FINANCE – AGENDA #4
2:30 P.M. – ROOM 308


HB59 HD2 PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO THE HAWAII CONSTITUTION RELATING TO RESIDENCE REQUIREMENTS FOR MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATURE
Proposes a constitutional amendment to require candidates for the state senate or house of representatives to be residents of the senatorial or representative district from which they seek to be elected for at least twelve consecutive months prior to a general election. Effective December 21, 2058. (HB59 HD2) (ConAm) (RHOADS)


COMMITTEE ON FINANCE – AGENDA #5
4:00 P.M. – ROOM 308


HB2801 HD1 MAKING AN EMERGENCY APPROPRIATION FOR HAWAII HEALTH SYSTEMS CORPORATION FOR OPERATIONAL COSTS
Appropriates emergency funding to the Hawaii Health Systems Corporation to ensure the continuous delivery of critical health care services and for the payment of HHSC's operational costs, and establish the Big Island Rural Interdisciplinary Program in the East Hawaii region. (HB2801 HD1) ($) (YAMANE)


DECISION MAKING ONLY
COMMITTEE ON FINANCE – AGENDA #6
4:30 P.M.

HB2598 RELATING TO TRANSIENT ACCOMMODATIONS TAX
Suspends for three years, from July 1, 2010, to June 30, 2013, the distribution of transient accommodations tax revenues to the counties.

HB2737 RELATING TO THE DISPOSITION OF PUBLIC LANDS
Directs the Department of Land and Natural Resources to fund the general fund by disposing of public lands. Also directs the Department to dispose of public lands leased to not-for-profit organizations meeting certain criteria.

HB2887 RELATING TO TOBACCO SETTLEMENT MONEYS
Transfers temporarily to the general fund the portion of moneys from the Hawaii tobacco settlement special fund designated for the Hawaii tobacco prevention and control trust fund. Requires interest and earnings of the Hawaii tobacco settlement special fund to be deposited into the general fund. Reduces the portion of moneys from the Hawaii tobacco settlement special fund to be transferred to the tobacco enforcement special fund. Encourages the nonprofit entity responsible for the Hawaii tobacco prevention and control trust fund to increase its annual expenditures to assist in revitalizing the economy. Takes effect on 07/01/2010, and sunsets on 06/30/2015.

HB2850 RELATING TO THE LIQUOR TAX
Temporarily increases the liquor tax rates during the period of 7/1/10 to 6/30/15.

HB2867 RELATING TO TAXATION
Repeals various income tax credits and deductions. Takes effect upon approval and sunsets on 12/31/2015.

HB2866 RELATING TO TAXATION
Adjusts income tax rates for taxable years beginning after December 31, 2009 and ending before January 1, 2016.

HB2991 RELATING TO PUBLIC FINANCE
Creates higher income tax brackets and rates for high-income individual taxpayers. Eliminates certain corporate tax exemptions. Provides for taxation of capital gains as ordinary income. Creates commission to provide a more equitable and progressive tax system. Also provides a means to fund public education and other high priority programs.

DECISION MAKING ONLY - AGENDA #7
COMMITTEE ON FINANCE


HB2644 RELATING TO SOLID WASTE
Applies the solid waste disposal surcharge to waste that is deposited in a landfill, incinerator, or waste-to-energy facility, and applies the surcharge to waste that is shipped out of state for disposal. (HB2644 HD1)

HB2421 RELATING TO GOVERNMENT
Establishes various initiatives, and appropriates funds to promote economic development for local food and energy businesses, ensures Hawaii is energy and food self-sufficient and sustainable to the maximum extent feasible, and help Hawaii's natural resources and humankind adapt and be resilient to the inevitable challenges brought on by climate change. Provides a fuel tax exemption for commercial air transportation providers. Increases and changes the name of the environmental response tax. ($)

HB2736 RELATING TO PUBLIC PROCUREMENT
Requires at least eighty per cent of workers on public works and construction contracts to be Hawaii residents.

Free tax filing help at the Capitol, Feb 27

On Saturday February 27, 2010, from 9 am to 2 pm, IRS-certified volunteers take over Conference Room 329 of the State Capitol to assist taxpayers in filing their annual tax returns. In partnership with the Hawaii Alliance for Community-Based Economic Development (HACBED) and its partner organizations, state legislators* are hosting this special tax clinic to encourage low-to-moderate income taxpayers to save money and claim valuable tax credits. Last year alone, HACBED, its community partners, and 169 volunteers helped low-to-moderate income taxpayers claim over $3 million in tax refunds and over $1.7 million in EITC and Child Tax Credits, saving these taxpayers nearly $400,000 in tax preparation fees.

"There are many in our community who are unaware that they qualify for the EITC and need help in preparing their taxes," says Senator Suzanne Chun Oakland about this free community service for all taxpayers.

“We want to encourage Hawaii’s workers to use these free services early in the tax season to allow them to claim important tax benefits such as the EITC which can be worth from $457 and up to $5,657 for qualified taxpayers this year,” states Representative Della Au Belatti. “Tax clinics like this one at the State Capitol provide a valuable service for our hard-working taxpayers.”

As part of this special tax clinic, taxpayers will be able to file their tax returns for free and receive information about programs that may be of interest to them, including financial literacy classes and credit management. Tax preparation sessions are confidential and safe. All tax returns will be prepared by IRS-certified volunteers who volunteer at other sites coordinated by HACBED’s Family and Individual Self-Sufficiency Program.

HACBED’s Family and Individual Self-Sufficiency Program started offering these free tax assistance services to low-to-moderate income workers at four permanent sites in 2005 when it was first established under Aloha United Way. Today, this statewide Program recruits volunteers
for and coordinates the efforts of over 40 sites and clinics that are sponsored by non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and businesses. Some of the Program’s community partners include Alulike, Inc., Leeward Community College, Volunteer Legal Services Hawaii, the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement, Honolulu Community Action Program, INGDirect, Goodwill Industries, and several credit unions in Kekaha, Hickam, and Maui.

For help locating other free tax assistance sites, taxpayers can call Aloha United Way’s Helpline at 2-1-1. For a complete list of tax sites on Oahu, Big Island, Maui, and Kauai, more information about the EITC, other tax credits, and HACBED’s Family and Individual Self-Sufficiency Program, taxpayers should visit the Program’s website at www.hawaiitaxhelp.org.

For more information about the special clinic at the Hawaii State Capitol and to make an appointment, taxpayers should call 808-393-4364. Free parking will be available at the public's blue-metered stalls in the Capitol basement.

*State legislators sponsoring this first-time free tax clinic at the State Capitol are Senator Suzanne Chun Oakland, Representatives Karen Awana, Della Au Belatti, John Mizuno, Karl Rhoads, and Maile Shimabukuro.

Thursday, February 18, 2010

House passes Unemployment Insurance bill to help business with soaring rates

The state House of Representatives today passed on third reading a bill that would set new employer contribution rates for unemployment insurance. Unless legislation is passed, the rates will soar in the coming year due to the poor economy and high unemployment negatively impacting Hawaii’s businesses.

“Because of the recession, unemployment insurance rates will rise precipitously if no legislative action is taken,” said Rep. Karl Rhoads, Chair of the House Committee on Labor & Public Employment. “HB 2169 will provide significant tax relief for businesses during this tough economic time while maintaining unemployment benefits for those who have been laid off through no fault of their own. Unemployment benefits provide working families with the financial resources to keep food on the table and pay the mortgage or rent.”

HB2169, HD2 proposes 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.

· Establishes for recalculation of the adequate reserve fund beginning in 2011.

The House and Senate agreed earlier this session to fast-track unemployment insurance legislation with the goal of passing a new employer contribution rate structure to help small businesses as soon as possible.

HB2169, HD2 now crosses over to the state Senate for consideration. If the Senate makes amendments to the bill, the House and Senate will conference to work out differences in the two versions.

Wednesday, February 17, 2010

Bills of interest for Thursday, February 18, 2010

COMMITTEE ON HUMAN SERVICES
9:30 – 11:30 A.M. – ROOM 329

INFORMATIONAL BRIEFING
Impact of possible four-month delay in payments to Healthcare providers by the Department of Human Services


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


HB2817 RELATING TO ART

Allows for the disposition by public auction of works of art acquired by the State. Effective January 1, 2112. (HB2817 HD1) (AWANA)



COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY
10:00 A.M. – ROOM 309


HB415, HD1 RELATING TO PUBLIC SAFETY

Directs the auditor to conduct a financial and management audit of the Department of Public Safety's contract with the Corrections Corporation of America. (HD1) (HANOHANO)




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


HB2381, HD1 RELATING TO TAXATION

Provides a temporary tax credit for residential construction and remodeling projects. Effective July 1, 2112. (HB2381 HD1) (HAR)


HB2382 RELATING TO DIGITAL MEDIA

Establishes digital media enterprise subzones near University of Hawaii campuses and within enterprise zones; establishes tax credits for digital media infrastructure development and local workforce employment; authorizes insurance companies to invest in qualified digital media infrastructure projects in lieu of certain state taxes; renames the Hawaii Television and Film Development Special Fund the Hawaii Film Office Special Fund; sunsets on 6/30/2020; effective July 1, 2112. (HB2382 HD1) (HAR)

HB2984 RELATING TO TAX CREDITS

Extends the tax credit for research activities for 1 year. Repeals remaining tax credit provisions of Act 221, Session Laws of Hawaii 2001. (YAMASHITA)

HB2945, HD1 RELATING TO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Amends State Private Investment Fund to establish a managing board; authorize insurance company tax credits to be used as a fund guarantee; establish investment limits; require investments in successful venture capital firms with experienced managers and an ability to mentor entrepreneurs; set a target of 30% of investments in Hawaii-based businesses; direct that returns exceeding fund expenses, debts, and investor equity interests be deposited into the general fund. (HB2945 HD1) (CHONG)

HB2844 RELATING TO THE FILM INDUSTRY

Creates a Film Industry Branch Special Fund with revenues from a general exercise tax surcharge on motion picture theaters and fees charged by the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism for its film industry activities. Allows other revenues such as legislative appropriations, grants, gifts, and donations to be deposited into the special fund. Effective July 1, 2112. (SAY)



COMMITTEE ON CONSUMER PROTECTION & COMMERCE
2:00 P.M. – ROOM 325

HB2083 RELATING TO MILK LABELING

Requires milk and soy milk beverages to be labeled with the date of pasteurization or the date of packaging. Effective January 20, 2020. (YAMANE)



COMMITTEE ON FINANCE – AGENDA #3
3:00 P.M. – ROOM 308


HB2290, HD1 RELATING TO AGRICULTURE

Establishes the Agriculture Inspection and Certification Special Fund under the Department of Agriculture for the inspection, certification, weighing, or grading of agricultural commodities that are to be imported into, exported from, or shipped within the state. Deposits all fees, civil penalties, and other moneys collected by DOA into the Special Fund. Allows DOA to enter into agreements with government and private agencies to hire and pay inspectors to perform certification and audit services, maintain food safety, and establish and maintain an Internet food safety promotional and reporting system. Repeals the Certification Services Revolving Fund. Requires the establishment or increase of certain fees to cover the operation and maintenance costs of agriculture inspection and certification programs, and central services and departmental administrative expense assessments. Appropriates funds for DOA's agriculture inspection and certification program. (TSUJI)




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


HB2631, HD1 RELATING TO ENERGY INDUSTRY REPORTING

Repeals the petroleum industry information reporting requirements, the petroleum industry monitoring, analysis, and reporting program, and the PIMAR special fund. (HERKES)


HB2421, HD1 RELATING TO GOVERNMENT

Establishes various initiatives, and appropriates funds to promote economic development for local food and energy businesses, ensures Hawaii is energy and food self-sufficient and sustainable to the maximum extent feasible, and help Hawaii's natural resources and humankind adapt and be resilient to the inevitable challenges brought on by climate change. Provides a fuel tax exemption for commercial air transportation providers. Increases and changes the name of the environmental response tax. (COFFMAN)


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

HB2153 RELATING TO TAXATION

Assesses a surcharge tax on all soft drinks sold in the State. (M.LEE)

HB2736 RELATING TO PUBLIC PROCUREMENT
Requires at least eighty per cent of workers on public works and construction contracts to be Hawaii residents. (SAY)


HB2739 RELATING TO DAMS AND RESERVOIRS

Establishes standards for the permitting, inspection, and maintenance of dams, reservoirs, and their appurtenant structures. Establishes the dam rehabilitation loan revolving fund and loan program. Authorizes the issuance of revenue bonds to fund the dam rehabilitation loan program. (SAY, ITO)

Fantastic Fridays

Rep. Glenn Wakai (right) spent an afternoon on Fantastic Friday painting over graffiti on a freeway overpass.

"We are trying to turn something terrible into something positive."

That is what Representative Glenn Wakai had to say about a project in which students from Moanalua Middle School are using their Furlough Friday days to paint over graffiti defiling property in their community.

"It's embarrassing that our kids are out of schools so often," said Rep. Wakai. "While that battle continues to be waged between government workers and the Governor, I believe in turning negatives into positives. We give children lessons about civic responibility. We don't just hand them a brush, we talk to them about the importance of character and pride."

The students and other volunteers have already covered graffiti near the entrance to Moanalua Gardens Park and on the freeway overpass of in Moanalua Valley. They're known as the Fantastic Fridays Crew and was made possible through the contribution of several organizations including Totally Against Graffiti (TAG), the Painters Unions, McDonalds, the Honolulu Police Department, and the Office of Rep. Glenn Wakai.

Volunteers stand in front of freshly painted columns at the entrance to Moanalua Valley.

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Bills of interest for Wednesday, Feb. 17, 2010

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

HB2598 RELATING TO TRANSIENT ACCOMMODATIONS TAX
Suspends for three years, from July 1, 2010, to June 30, 2013, the distribution of transient accommodations tax revenues to the counties. (SAY BR)

HB2542 RELATING TO NON-GENERAL FUNDS
Addresses the fiscal year 2009-2010 budget shortfall by transferring to the general fund a total of $10,000,000 in excess balances from certain special funds. (SAY BR)

HB2737 RELATING TO THE DISPOSITION OF PUBLIC LANDS
Directs the Department of Land and Natural Resources to fund the general fund by disposing of public lands. Also directs the Department to dispose of public lands leased to not-for-profit organizations meeting certain criteria. (SAY, ITO)

HB2887 RELATING TO TOBACCO SETTLEMENT MONEYS
Transfers temporarily to the general fund the portion of moneys from the Hawaii tobacco settlement special fund designated for the Hawaii tobacco prevention and control trust fund. Requires interest and earnings of the Hawaii tobacco settlement special fund to be deposited into the general fund. Reduces the portion of moneys from the Hawaii tobacco settlement special fund to be transferred to the tobacco enforcement special fund. Encourages the nonprofit entity responsible for the Hawaii tobacco prevention and control trust fund to increase its annual expenditures to assist in revitalizing the economy. Takes effect on 07/01/2010, and sunsets on 06/30/2015. (SAY)


COMMITTEE ON HAWAIIAN AFFAIRS
10:30 A.M. – ROOM 329


INFORMATIONAL BRIEFING
DEPARTMENT OF HAWAIIN HOME LANDS
Issues: Plan for generating revenues, plan for putting more native Hawaiians on their lands, plan for decreasing the wait-list, plan to help native Hawaiians obtain access to commercial leases, strategic planning to address $600 million settlement (1995 Act 14), operating costs vs. generating revenues, etc.


COMMITTEE ON FINANCE – AGENDA #2
1:30 P.M. – ROOM 308


HB2850 RELATING TO THE LIQUOR TAX
Temporarily increases the liquor tax rates during the period of 7/1/10 to 6/30/15. (SAY)

HB2852 RELATING TO THE INSURANCE PREMIUM TAX
Temporarily makes the insurance premium tax applicable to mutual benefit societies and health maintenance organizations. Establishes a medical and health promotion tax credit. Authorizes the insurance commissioner to adjust any inadequate rates for the managed care plans of mutual benefit societies and health maintenance organizations. (SAY)


COMMITTEE ON FINANCE – AGENDA #3
3:00 P.M. - Room 308

HB2867 RELATING TO TAXATION
Repeals various income tax credits and deductions. Takes effect upon approval and sunsets on 12/31/2015. (SAY)

HB2866 RELATING TO TAXATION
Adjusts income tax rates for taxable years beginning after December 31, 2009 and ending before January 1, 2016. (SAY)

HB2991 RELATING TO PUBLIC FINANCE
Creates higher income tax brackets and rates for high-income individual taxpayers. Eliminates certain corporate tax exemptions. Provides for taxation of capital gains as ordinary income. Creates commission to provide a more equitable and progressive tax system. Also provides a means to fund public education and other high priority programs. (SAY)


COMMITTEE ON FINANCE – AGENDA #4
4:30 P.M. – ROOM 308


HB2878 RELATING TO TAXATION
Repeals certain exemptions under the general excise, use, and public service company taxes. The Act takes effect on July 1, 2010 and sunsets on June 30, 2015. (SAY)

HB2877 RELATING TO TAXATION (PROPOSED HD1)
Temporarily suspends the exemption for certain amounts of gross income or proceeds from the general excise tax and requires the payment of the tax at a one-half per cent rate. Takes effect on 7/01/2010 and is repealed on 6/30/2015. (SAY)

HB2876 RELATING TO TAXATION
Temporarily increases the general excise and use tax rates from 4% to 5%, the capital goods excise tax credit rate from 4% to 5%, and the refundable food/excise tax credit by $10 per exemption. Takes effect on 07/01/2010 and is repealed on 06/30/2015. (SAY)

HB2880 RELATING TO TAXATION
Increases the "wholesale" rates under the general excise, use, and public service company taxes to one per cent from one-half per cent. Effective 7/1/10; repealed 6/30/15. (SAY)

Monday, February 15, 2010

Bills of interest for Tuesday, February 16, 2010

COMMITTEE ON LABOR & PUBLIC EMPLOYMENT
11:00 A.M. - ROOM 309

HB1868 RELATING TO CIVIL SERVICE
Prohibits civil service employees who accept an appointed position from returning to their civil service positions more than one year later. (RHOADS)

HCR88 REQUESTING AN AUDIT OF THE EMPLOYER-UNION HEALTH BENEFITS TRUST FUND (SAGUM)


COMMITTEE ON JUDICIARY
2:00 P.M. – ROOM 325

HB2129 RELATING TO GRAFFITI
Requires a person convicted of criminal property damage involving graffiti to remove the graffiti within 30 days of sentencing, to perform community service for 2 years removing graffiti from within 100 yards of the site of the offense, and to reimburse property owners for two years for costs incurred in removing graffiti within 100 yards of the site of the offense. (AQUINO)

HB1756 RELATING TO CRIMINAL PROCEDURE
Allows for expungement of convictions for non-violent offenses that are over 5 years old. (SAY BR)

Gambling - Open for discussion in 2010


The following op-ed appeared in The Honolulu Advertiser on Sunday, February 14, 2010.

Well-run operation will enhance state's image as visitor destination
By Rep. Joe Souki

When I talk about gambling for Hawai'i, I don't mean Las Vegas, which is a gambling destination. I don't mean a state lottery, which creates few jobs and does not bring new money into the state. I don't mean a quick fix just because our economy is in poor shape right now. For all of those reasons, gambling would be a mistake.

What I do mean is a single, stand-alone casino, separate and apart from established hotels, restaurants and other facilities in Waikīkī, where visitors and residents can go for entertainment.
Hawai'i used to be a premier resort destination, but our star has become dull. If we want to recapture our first-class standing with Mainland and international visitors, we need to offer new activity as part of a long-range plan to refresh tourism development. Carefully planned, the right kind of gambling will complement our natural beauty, support the significant infrastructure already in place, and benefit Hawai'i for the future.

Here's why:

• New jobs will be created.

An economic impact analysis prepared in 2000 identified increases in construction jobs to build the casino as well as permanent jobs at the casino. The casino activity will attract more visitors to Waikīkī, and that will create more jobs at the hotels, restaurants and other businesses that support tourism. In addition, the casino will be a purchaser of goods and services, also supporting job creation. The report was based on building two casinos, creating 19,575 new jobs. Therefore, one casino may net 9,000 to 10,000 new jobs.

• A casino will generate new revenue for the state.

The same report concludes that significant revenue will come from the casino, which will pay some form of gaming tax based upon total gaming revenues, state income taxes from the jobs created and sales/excise taxes on non-gaming spending such as food, beverage and lodging. For one casino built, the report estimates that total governmental revenues generated could exceed $50 million annually.

The fear and loathing of gambling by opponents must be addressed head-on. No one wants to go forward with an activity that will be detrimental to the public.

Will there be an increase in crime? The federal government's National Gambling Impact Study cited a report which studied 10 districts with casinos and found "little documentation of a causal relationship" between casinos and crime, and that "taken as a whole, the literature shows that communities with casinos are just as safe as communities that do not have casinos."

A casino in Waikīkī should not add to crime. People turn to crime when they need money for drugs or are unemployed. By creating jobs and increasing revenue, a casino may help those who would otherwise turn to crime, and the money generated could be used for much needed social programs.

Will a casino lead to an increase in addicted gamblers? The sad reality is that those with an addiction are already finding ways to feed their gambling addiction, through frequent trips to Las Vegas or at illegal places in Hawai'i.

There is no state program that currently addresses this problem, and there should be. If the state goes forward with a casino, legislation should include a provision to fund assistance programs for gambling addiction.

Will Hawai'i's image be tarnished? The opposite is true. Done the right way, a well-run casino will help Hawai'i's image as a visitor destination. We don't aim to be a gambling destination. People come to Hawai'i for the tropical beauty and that will never change. However, repeat visitors will look for new activities and entertainment, especially in the evenings.

While Hawai'i faces a severe economic downturn, this may be the opportune time when people will be more open to the concept of allowing gambling in our state. Let me be clear that this is not a quick fix for our current budget woes.

It will take several years to plan, design and build a single casino. No one can deny that without tourism our economy will die, and our state leaders must plan now to keep Hawai'i competitive as a world-class visitor destination. A casino should be part of an overall vision for Hawai'i's future.

Rep. Joe Souki, D-8th (Wailuku, Waihe'e, Waiehu), is speaker emeritus of the House of Representatives. He wrote this commentary for The Advertiser.

Friday, February 12, 2010

Animal Lovers Meet at the Capitol

Rep. John Mizuno, Inga Gibson of the Humane Society of the United States, Rep. Tom Brower, Rep. Gene Ward, Arianne Cameros from Rep. Mizuno's office.

Rep. John Mizuno was honored today with a "Humane State Legislator" Award by the Humane Society of the United States for supporting animal-friendly legislation in Hawaii.

Mizuno took the opportunity to highlight HB730 which was stalled in conference committee last year. The bill strengthens Hawaii's dog-fighting laws by making it a crime to knowingly pay to attend or wager on a dog fighting event, or to use devices to train a dog for fighting purposes. Mizuno hopes the bill will be revived this year.

Helping homeless has many obstacles

Photo: Honolulu Star-Bulletin

Rep. Rida Cabanilla's op-ed in today's Honolulu Star-Bulletin:

Helping the homeless is not an easy matter
By Rida Cabanilla

As chairwoman of the Housing Committee in the state House of Representatives, I am responsible for seeking solutions for homeless people living in our public places.

This issue is complicated by the fact that even if government provides adequate shelter, a significant percentage of the homeless refuse to go to the shelters for various reasons. Due to the established rights of people in this country, government's hands are sometimes tied.

For example: The Disability Rights Center is a state agency that advocates for the mentally ill and disabled. A percentage of mentally ill people are also drug addicted. This agency does not provide funding for food or shelter for the homeless but protects their civil rights. It is not a simple matter of picking up the homeless and taking them to a shelter. They cannot be forced to live where society feels it is right for them to live.

In addition, homeless people can be arrested if they violate the law by littering, panhandling, urinating in public places, etc., but they also enjoy due process. Who is willing to testify that a particular individual is urinating on the corner of Hotel and River streets?

We also are faced with the NIMBY factor — "not in my backyard." The most logical places to put shelters are where the homeless gather, like Waikiki, Ala Moana or Chinatown. Unfortunately, the mayor's Riverside Project in Chinatown for the mentally ill and drug addicted homeless was killed by public opposition.

Government also must deal with liability for the homeless. Shelters are operated by nonprofit organizations. Emergency shelters charge the state an average of $42 a night per person. Only a couple of these shelters accept those with drug addiction problems. The rest do not, citing the liability issue and the safety of others. Some shelters require drug testing for their clients; understandably, homeless who are actively doing drugs shy away from these shelters.

What can government do? In 2006, Gov. Linda Lingle asked the Legislature to appropriate millions of dollars for construction of emergency and transitional shelters. Community organizations and thousands of individuals mobilized to help with housing, job placement, education, training and counseling for the homeless.

Most of the proposals before us now involve funding that we do not have. We are starting with a $725 million state deficit this legislative session; an amount that will rise to $1.18 billion dollars in 2011.

People who are temporarily homeless due to loss of employment are being helped and are the easiest to help. The chronic homeless are those who cannot be helped or do not want to be helped.

The challenge before us is to determine whether we should shift resources from other worthwhile programs or cut government services. The pie is finite, unless we raise revenue. To increase services for the chronic homeless means raising taxes or reducing services in other departments.

I know that many are unhappy to see the growing number of homeless people on our streets, but the public must be made aware of the basic choice before us.

I urge residents to consider these options and to share their opinions with their legislators.
———
State Rep. Rida Cabanilla is a Democrat representing District 42 (Waipahu, West Loch and Ewa).

Thursday, February 11, 2010

Puppet master

Representative Marilyn Lee has one talented son. Tom. The puppet master. Tom Lee, raised in Mililani, is the director of a New York puppet production that is finally coming to Kaua'i, O'ahu, Maui and the Big Island in March. The play is based on the legendary and tragic story of Kaluaiko'olau.

Haven't heard of this story? Here's a synopsis from the show's website:

"Kaluaiko’olau (hereafter Ko’olau) was a native Hawaiian from Waimea, Kaua’i. A well-respected paniolo (cowboy), Ko'olau learned that he contracted Hansen’s Disease (leprosy) in 1892, a diagnosis which meant exile to Kalaupapa, the leper colony on Moloka'i. Vowing never to be separated from his wife and child, Ko’olau took the family to the isolated valley of Kalalau on Kaua'i's rugged Na Pali coast. Here they lived until a deputy sheriff from Waimea, Louis Stoltz, attempted to arrest him. Ko’olau shot the man and two soldiers of the Provisional Government army sent to capture him, eluding fierce bombardment by the government forces. The family lived in secret in Kalalau for years until first Kaleimanu, and then Ko’olau died of their disease. Pi’ilani buried both of them in secret and returned to her home in Kekaha. In 1906, Pi’ilani recorded her story in the Hawaiian language with Kahikina Kelekona (John Sheldon). The volume was entitled "Ka Moolelo Oiaio O Kaluaikoolau" (The True Story of Kaluaiko'olau)."

Visit www.koolaupuppetplay.com for more information about Tom, the play and show dates. And be sure to say hello to Rep. Marilyn Lee if you see her at a showing. She'll probably tell you how proud she is of her son and his artistic skills. And we're sure that he gets it from his mama.

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

Bills of interest for Thursday, Feb. 11, 2010

TODAY IS FIRST LATERAL FILING DEADLINE – LAST DAY TO MOVE BILLS TO A FINAL COMMITTEE

COMMITTEE ON TOURISM, CULTURE & INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS/COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY
11:20 A.M. – ROOM 309

HB2790 RELATING TO FIREWORKS
Enhances the penalties for fireworks violations and broadens the authority of officers to enforce the fireworks law. Also prohibits fireworks sales from tents and other temporary structures. (HAR)


COMMITTEE ON JUDICIARY
2:00 P.M. – ROOM 325


HB2804, HD1 RELATING TO CHILD SUPPORT ENFORCEMENT
Authorizes the child support enforcement agency to receive and investigate complaints of the misuse of child support. Provides that complaints may be filed by the child for whom child support is ordered or by a guardian ad litem. (HB2804 HD1) (YAMANE)

HB2020, HD1 RELATING TO COUNTIES
Expands county enforcement of traffic regulations on public streets, roads, or highways whose ownership is in dispute between the State and the county, and on private streets, highways, or thoroughfares, to include laws relating to county vehicular taxes, motor vehicle safety responsibility, traffic violations, use of intoxicants while operating a vehicle, motor vehicle insurance, motorcycle and motor scooter insurance, and odometers. (HB2020 HD1) (SAY BR)

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Bills of interest for Wednesday, February 10, 2010

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

HB2280 RELATING TO THE HOMELESS
Assists the homeless in reuniting with their families. Creates the parks for homeless special fund. ($) (CABANILLA)

HB2318 RELATING TO THE HOMELESS
Establishes a 5-year housing first pilot program to be developed by the Hawaii public housing authority and the department of human services for homeless individuals who are chronically addicted or mentally ill. ($) (CABANILLA)


COMMITTEE ON FINANCE – AGENDA #2
3:00 P.M. – ROOM 308


HB1948 RELATING TO TAXATION
Requires the department of taxation to provide refunds to taxpayers within 90 days or the due date of the tax, whichever occurred first. (CHONG)

HB2313 RELATING TO TAXATION
Repeals the income tax provision that requires the reporting of gambling winnings but not losses. (CHONG)

HB2868 RELATING TO TAXATION
Places a cap on itemized deductions claimed on state income tax returns. Applies to taxable years beginning after 12/31/09 and sunsets on 12/31/15. (SAY)


COMMITTEE ON FINANCE – AGENDA #3
4:00 P.M. – ROOM 308


HB2874 RELATING TO THE TRANSIENT ACCOMMODTIONS TAX
Temporarily increases from 7/1/2010 to 6/30/2015 the transient accommodations tax rate on time share units. (SAY)

HB2699 RELATING TO TAXATION
Provides that the transient accommodation tax shall be assessed and collected at a minimum rate of $8 per day. Effective 7/1/10. (YAMASHITA)

HB2882 RELATING TO TAXATION
Imposes the general excise tax at a 4% rate on the gross income from the sale of securities. Repeals the general excise tax exemption for stock or future exchanges. Takes effect on 10/01/10 and sunsets on 06/30/15, except that the repeal of the exchange exemption shall be permanent. (SAY)

HB2884 RELATING TO TAXATION
Imposes the general excise tax at the rate of 4% on the death benefits and other gross income derived by a provider of a life settlement contract. Takes effect on 07/01/10 and sunsets on 06/30/15. (SAY)

Wok Out!

From Left: Rep. Clift Tsuji, Char Shigemura, Mayor Kenoi, Rep. Jerry Chang cooking up some Chicken Hekka. (Photo: Denna Macanas)

Last Saturday, Big Island Representatives Clift Tsuji and Jerry Chang participated in a "Chicken Wok Out" - a cooking contest for a good cause - The Food Resilience Project. There were five teams competing for the tastiest chicken dish.

Team 1 - David Fuentes and Mayor Billy Kenoi
Team 2 - Senators Russell Kokubun and Dwight Takamine
Team 3 - Representatives Clift Tsuji and Jerry Chang
Team 4 - Councilmembers Dennis Onishi and David Shiigi
Team 5 - Chef Alan Awana (Gov. Lingle's Chef) and Kaleo Iwasaki

The House team cooked up "Chicken Hekka". The Senate team made "Korean Chicken". I guess each dish was equally delicious as everyone got a blue ribbon.

Monday, February 8, 2010

Bills of interest for Tuesday, February 9, 2010

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

HB2394 RELATING TO TAXATION
Provides a refundable tax credit for purchase of respiratory equipment to protect against the effects of vog to persons whose primary care physician recommends that they create a "safe room" in their homes with the assistance of that respiratory equipment. Amends provisions of the Hawaii tobacco settlement special fund. (EVANS)

HB2917 RELATING TO NUISANCES
Requires Department of Health to order suspension of operation causing foul or noxious odor, gas, or vapor until examination determines not dangerous or injurious to health. (MANAHAN)

HB1813 RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF SPECIAL PURPOSE REVENUE BONDS TO ASSIST HAWAII MEDICAL CENTER
Amends part II of chapter 39A, HRS, to allow the issuance of special purpose revenue bonds to all corporations that provide health care facilities to the general public. Authorizes the issuance of special purpose revenue bonds to assist Hawaii Medical Center. ($) (CABANILLA)

COMMITTEE ON ENERGY & ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION/COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC REVITALIZATION, BUSINESS & MILITARY AFFAIRS
11:00 A.M. – ROOM 325


HB1975 RELATING TO THE DEPOSIT BEVERAGE CONTAINER PROGRAM
Amends the definition of "deposit beverage" to include wine and hard spirits. (MAGAOAY)

COMMITTEE ONFINANCE – DECISION MAKING ONLY
1:30 P.M. – ROOM 309

HB1901 RELATING TO PROCUREMENT OF VOTING SYSTEM EQUIPMENT
Establishes an alternative public procurement process for the procurement of voting system equipment. Effective upon approval and repealed on December 31, 2010. (HB1901 HD1) (SAY)

HB2169 RELATING TO EMPLOYMENT SECURITY (UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE BILL)
Sets, for calendar year 2010, the employer contribution rate at schedule D and the wage base at 90% of the average annual wage. Sets, for calendar year 2011, the employer contribution rate at schedule G. Retains the maximum weekly benefit rate beginning 01/01/2011 at 75% of the average weekly wage. Authorizes special assessments upon employers to pay the interest costs on loans received from the U.S. Secretary of Labor. Requires the department of labor and industrial relations to conduct rate assessments every six months beginning in 2012. Establishes for recalculation of the adequate reserve fund beginning in 2011. (HB2169 HD1) (RHOADS)

COMMITTEE ON CONSUMER PROTECTION & COMMERCE/COMMITTEE ON JUDICIARY
2:00 P.M. – ROOM 325

HB2691 RELATING TO SMOKING
Allows smoking in properly permitted liquor establishments not to include restaurants. Requires collection of smoking establishment permit fee with proceeds to go towards organ donation education. (KARAMATSU)

COMMITTEE ON JUDICIARY
2:30 P.M. – ROOM 325


HB2588 PROPOSING AMENDMENTS TO THE CONSTITUTION OF THE STATE OF HAWAII TO CREATE THE OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF STATE
Establishes the Secretary of State, an elected position, to serve as the nonpartisan administrator of elections. (SAY BR)

HB146 PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO THE HAWAII CONSTITUTION TO PERMIT GAMBLING IN THE STATE
Proposes to add a new section to article XVI of the state constitution to permit gambling in the State, in accordance with law. (ConAm) (SOUKI)

HB2250 RELATING TO THE UNIFORM CHILD ABDUCTION PREVENTION ACT
Establishes comprehensive child abduction prevention law. Lists factors to determine risk of abduction, and establishes measures courts may include in order to prevent abduction both before and after issuance of child custody decrees. Effective 01/01/2050 (HD1) (KARAMATSU)

Education Chair to appear at Shiro Amioka Lecture series

WHAT: Representative Roy Takumi, Chairman of the House Education Committee, will appear on a panel on Hawaii's public school system, sponsored by the UH College of Education's annual Shiro Amioka lecture series.

Specifically, law professor Randall Roth will start with a presentation critiquing the Hawaii school system. Chair Takumi will then join Joan Husted and Gail Awakuni to respond to his remarks. Husted served as Exec. Director of the Hawaii State Teachers Association for many years, and Awakuni is principal at Campbell High School.

WHEN: February 23, 2010 (Tuesday) at 6:00 p.m.

WHERE: University of Hawaii Law School Moot Courtroom

INFO: Call Clifton Tanabe at 956-7901. The event is free and open to the public.

The Amioka Lecture features prominent leaders in the field of education and school reform. The late Shiro Amioka served as the Superintendent of the Department of Education. He was also a UHM professor of education, chancellor of the UH Community Colleges, and associate dean of UHM Summer Session.

Friday, February 5, 2010

Bills of Interest for Monday, Feb. 8, 2010

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


HB2215 RELATING TO PUBLIC HIGHWAYS
Prohibits vending on any scenic lookout, pull-off, or turnaround area of a public highway. (McKelvey)

HB2296 RELATING TO CRIME
Amends drivers license revocation provision to require a lifetime revocation when a driver is convicted of manslaughter involving the operation of a vehicle. Requires license revocation of five to ten years when a driver is convicted for negligent homicide in the first degree. Allows for up to two years of imprisonment when a convicted defendant is sentenced to probation for manslaughter. (Souki)

HB2667 RELATING TO FERRIES
Establishes the Hawaii state ferry system and the Hawaii state ferry system special fund for the operation of a ferry system between the islands. ($) (Souki)


COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION
2:00 P.M. – ROOM 309


HB2486 RELATING TO EDUCATION
Establishes a minimum number of instructional hours per school year for each grade. (Berg)


COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION
2:05 P.M. – ROOM 309

HB2314 RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
Requires the department of education to increase fees charged for services provided by the office of school facilities and support services to cover at least 50% of the cost of those services. Exempts the school meals program from the increase in fees. (Chong)

Thursday, February 4, 2010

Paws off my foie gras


A Senate bill that proposes to ban the sale of foie gras produced using inhumane methods ticked off some people yesterday stirring up angry comments from foodies after the news of SB2170 hit the popular micro-blogging website Twitter.

Some of the comments/tweets included:


@NctrnlBst: Call your Hawaii state senator and tell the Food Nazis to stop wasting time on frivolous bills! http://ow.ly/16uQND

@hollyhadsell: Say it isn't so!! RT @NctrnlBst: Call your Hawaii state senator and tell them stop wasting time! http://ow.ly/16uQND

@LKozawa: Thats my point. Government encroachment as to what you're allowed to eat is never a good thing. Look up codex alimentarius

The ban is being proposed because of animal cruelty issues. Foie gras is a French delicacy and typically made by force-feeding ducks or geese to fatten the liver, although outside of France some producers use more humane methods.

However, the reasoning behind the bill is beside the point to those incensed by the bill. That doesn't mean they think sticking a tube in a duck is okay. The fact is that many of the food connoisseurs angered by the bill just plain don't appreciate government trying to dictate what they can and cannot eat.

Ed Morita (aka @nctrnlbst), a former pastry chef turned food writer and freelance photographer from the blog www.bakershours.com, was compelled to write an opinion piece last night on the the foie gras ban bill. He explains the way foie gras is made, makes some points that the bill has neglected to account for, and discusses a law in California that will ban force feeding in 2012.

To be fair, those in support of this bill do make some good points as well. From their perspective, animals being raised for food still deserve humane treatment and our state should not condone inhumane methods by allowing these products into our state. Visit the national ban foie gras website to learn more about their views and other proposed legislation.

The bill passed out of its first Senate committee yesterday. It will go to the Senate Judiciary Committee for further discussion.

Bills of Interest for Friday, February 5, 2010

COMMITTEE ON WATER, LAND & OCEAN RESOURCES
9:00 A.M. – ROOM 325

HB2019 RELATING TO PARKS
Allows the governor to transfer the Mauna Kea and Hapuna Beach state recreational areas from the State to the county of Hawaii. (SAY BR)

HB2582 RELATING TO VESSELS AT ALA WAI AND KEEHI BOAT HARBORS
Authorizes moorage for commercial vessels and commercial vessel activities in the Ala Wai and Keehi Boat Harbors and adjusts fees for permittees of vessels that are used for a place of principal habitation in state small boat harbors. (SAY BR)


COMMITTEE ON HEALTH
9:30 A.M. – ROOM 325

HB2652 RELATING TO MEDICAL PROCEDURES
Requires that patients be informed of the amount of radiation exposure to the patient prior to obtaining consent to an x-ray or computed tomography scan. (BELATTI BR)

HB2661 RELATING TO ANATOMICAL GIFTS
Requires organ procurement organizations and transplant hospitals to procure and transplant medically suitable organs. Imposes administrative fines and loss of accreditation for failure to comply. (YAMANE)

HB2576 RELATING TO IMMUNIZATION
Authorizes the Department of Health to establish and maintain a single repository of immunization records to be designated as the "Hawaii Immunization Registry" in order to aid, coordinate, and help promote efficient and cost-effective screening, prevention, and control of vaccine preventable diseases, including pandemic influenza. (SAY BR)


COMMITTEE ON FINANCE
1:30 P.M. – ROOM 308

HB1901, HD1 RELATING TO PROCUREMENT OF VOTING SYSTEM EQUIPMENT
Establishes an alternative public procurement process for the procurement of voting system equipment. Effective upon approval and repealed on December 31, 2010. (HB1901 HD1) (SAY)

HB2169, HD1 RELATING TO EMPLOYMENT SECURITY
Sets, for calendar year 2010, the employer contribution rate at schedule D and the wage base at 90% of the average annual wage. Sets, for calendar year 2011, the employer contribution rate at schedule G. Retains the maximum weekly benefit rate beginning 01/01/2011 at 75% of the average weekly wage. Authorizes special assessments upon employers to pay the interest costs on loans received from the U.S. Secretary of Labor. Requires the department of labor and industrial relations to conduct rate assessments every six months beginning in 2012. Establishes for recalculation of the adequate reserve fund beginning in 2011. (HB2169 HD1) (RHOADS)

House Bills introduced by Biennium

Source: House Office of the Chief Clerk

2010 - 1151
2009 - 1843

2008 - 1484
2007 - 1967

2006 - 1475
2005 - 1786

2004 - 1296
2003 - 1691

2002 - 1163
2001 - 1691

2000 - 1270
1999 - 1755

1998 - 1296 *First session that bill limit guidelines were implemented.
1997 - 2329

1996 - 1793
1995 - 2354

Wednesday, February 3, 2010

Senate Paperless Initiative Video

Hat tip to the Hawaii State Senate for the Paperless Initiative and to Searider Productions (Waianae High School students) for the excellent video on the project. If you haven't seen it, check it out here:

House bills support veterans and military servicemen and women


Photo Attached: From Left to Right, Rep. Cindy Evans, Rep. Angus McKelvey, Rep. K. Mark Takai, Dennis Egge, Rep. Barbara Marumoto

House lawmakers today presented a package of military appreciation bills that have been introduced this 2010 legislative session in the House of Representatives.

Rep. Angus McKelvey, chairman of the House Committee on Economic Revitalization, Business and Military Affairs (EBM), was joined by committee member Rep. Cindy Evans and Dennis Egge, chairman of the Oahu Veterans Council's Legislative Committee.

The package includes 14 bills and one resolution that propose to help as well as recognize veterans and military men and women currently serving their country. One bill would prevent courts from using a parent's extended absence due to military service or other public duties to alter or affect awards of child custody and visitation. Another would require that the National League of Families' prisoner of war/missing in action flag to be flown with the United States and Hawaiian flags to honor American prisoners of war and military personnel who are missing in action.

"These bills will help to strengthen the relationship that the state of Hawaii has with the military and help to stimulate more federal investment to Hawaii through the defense spending the military has committed to Hawaii," Rep. McKelvey said, noting that President Obama's proposed budget being sent to Congress has about $708 billion marked for defense spending, which will have important implications for Hawaii.

"These bills introduced on the House side bring attention to issues affecting our military, which are servicemen and their families, "said Rep. Cindy Evans. “With over 55,000 troops in Hawaii, we embrace the military as part of our ‘ohana.”

"All the bills that we are supporting benefit veterans and military personnel who live and work in our great state, and the Oahu Veterans Council sincerely thanks the legislature for offering them," said Dennis Egge.

"The spectrum of benefits from supporting the bills runs from the flying of the POW flag to the proper burial of indigent veterans,” added Egge. “One bill that I feel very strongly about is the bill that will assure voting rights for our veterans and deployed service personnel."

HB437, Relating to the Hawaii Employer-Union Health Benefits Trust Fund
Extends the maximum age for EUTF health benefits coverage for dependent beneficiaries who are unmarried full-time students and are called to active duty in federal service with the National Guard or military reserves.

HB1899, Relating to Military and Overseas Civilian Absentee Voters
Implements voting provisions for uniformed services and overseas absentee voters, as recommended by Federal Voting Assistance Program.

HB1900, Relating to Military Personnel
Recognizes the designations of prisoner of war and missing in action as valid descriptions of casualty status and category classification for military personnel.

HB1942, Relating to Veterans Court
Establishes a temporary Hawaii Veterans Court within the Judiciary to help address prison overcrowding.

HB1943, Relating to Veterans
Requires the director of the office of veterans' services to act on behalf of deceased veterans found to be indigent at the time of death and without surviving immediate family members to ensure the burial of the veteran's remains in a state veterans cemetery.

HB1945, Relating to License Plates
Requires applicants for special member plates for military service to submit proof of honorable discharge from the military.

HB2061, Relating to Children
Provides that in child custody proceedings, courts shall not give undue weight to a parent's absence away from the child, when such absence is due to service in the military. Requires courts to make a reasonable effort to expedite proceedings or use electronic communication systems to facilitate a parent's participation in a proceeding when an affected parent is a substantial distance away from the court.

HB2273, Relating to Civil Service
Specifies which veterans qualify for civil service hiring preference.

HB2348, Relating to a Veterans' Memorial
Provides for the development of veterans' memorials to honor the veterans of the Persian Gulf War, Operation Desert Storm, Afghanistan-Iraq War, as well as for women veterans of World War II.

HB2351, Relating to Veterans
Requires an applicant for a veteran's license plate to include a copy of the applicant's most recent discharge paper or separation document that indicates an honorable discharge or general (under honorable conditions) discharge from active duty.

HB2383, Relating to Flags
Recognizes and requires the prisoner of war/missing in action flag to be flown with the U.S. and Hawaiian flags.

HB2662, Relating to Commercial Driver's License
Extends the exemption from requirement to obtain a commercial driver's license to certain former military personnel no longer on active duty who previously operated commercial motor vehicles for military purposes, provided that they met relevant minimum federal requirements that meet or exceed state requirements to operate those vehicles.

HB2930, Relating to Special Number Plates
Provides that veterans of operation enduring freedom or operation Iraqi freedom may apply for special number plates.

HB2931, Relating to Special Number Plates
Provides that applicants for special number plates for military service may pay an optional fundraising fee for a military service veterans group. Makes appropriation to counties as State's share of cost of mandated program.

HCR3, Awarding the Hawaii Medal of Honor to United States Military Service Members, with Hawaii Connections, Killed in Action While Serving in Dangerous, Volatile, and Unstable Areas of the World, Including Iraq and Afghanistan.

Bills of Interest for Thursday, February 4, 2010

COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY/COMMITTEE ON HEALTH
8:30 A.M. – ROOM 309


HB2068 RELATING TO FIREWORKS
Allows the counties to enact or adopt more restrictive fireworks ordinances or rules than the state law under fireworks law. (TAKAI)

HB2114 RELATING TO FIREWORKS
Temporarily allows counties to enact ordinances or adopt rules regulating fireworks that are more restrictive than state law. Repeal and reenactment on 6/30/12. (TAKUMI)

HB2909 RELATING TO DANGEROUS WEAPONS
Prohibits any person from setting off, igniting, discharging, or otherwise causing to explode any homemade explosive device. Establishes a violation as a Class C felony. (TAKAI)


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


HB2922 RELATING TO SOLID WASTE
Prohibits the incineration or disposal of fluorescent and compact fluorescent light bulbs in landfills and waste-to-energy facilities in the State. (ITO)


COMMITTEE ON ENERGY & ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION/COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE/COMMITTEE ON WATER, LAND & OCEAN RESOURCES
10:00 A.M. – ROOM 325


HB2324 RELATING TO RENEWABLE ENERGY
Requires that by 2015 a minimum of two per cent of each utility's renewable portfolio standard be from biofuel or from agricultural producers. (MORITA)

HB2421 RELATING TO GOVERNMENT
Makes various amendments, establishes various initiatives, and appropriates funds to promote economic development for local food and energy businesses, ensure Hawaii is energy and food self-sufficient and sustainable to the maximum extent feasible, and help Hawaii's natural resources and humankind adapt and be resilient to the inevitable challenges brought on by climate change. Provides a fuel tax exemption for commercial air transportation providers. ($) (COFFMAN)

COMMITTEE ON TOURISM, CULTURE & INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS/COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY
11:00 A.M. – ROOM 309

HB2778 RELATING TO ENFORCEMENT
Increases fireworks-related fees and penalties and allocates the fees to county fire and police departments to fund enforcement fireworks laws in the State. (CHONG)

COMMITTEE ON JUDICIARY/COMMITTEE ON CONSUMER PROTECTION & COMMERCE
2:15 P.M. – ROOM 325


HB2251 RELATING TO GAMING
Establishes a gaming commission to oversee casino gaming. Allows the gaming commission to issue one 5-year license to a casino gaming operation in a county with a population of more than 500,000. Limits casino gaming to persons over 21 who are either nonresidents or have round-trip tickets with a final destination outside of Hawaii. Creates a wagering tax on casino gaming. (KARAMATSU)

COMMITTEE ON JUDICIARY
2:30 P.M. – ROOM 325

HB2397 RELATING TO PRIMARY ELECTIONS
Moves the date of the primary election to the second Saturday of August. Requires nomination papers to be filed not later than 4:30 p.m. on the first Tuesday in June. (SAY BR)

Tuesday, February 2, 2010

Pay up

When budgets are sliced and money is sparse, discussions on ways to generate more funds become ubiquitous. In an economic slump, the same services that people enjoyed in past booming economies cannot continue the same way unless new funding sources are tapped.

One House committe chairperson, Rep. Rida Cabanilla, has an idea to ease the financial burden the state has endured since the establishment of the Compact of Free Association Act of 1985 (COFA). COFA allows members of the Federated State of Micronesia to travel and legally reside in the United States.

She is proposing to allow the Hawaii Public Housing Authority to bill the Federated State of Micronesia for any homeless services rendered to Micronesians living in Hawaii under the COFA.

According to House Bill 2357, Micronesians make up a large part of the homeless population. Hawaii is the entry point for residents of the Federated State of Micronesia to the United States, but once here, many have difficulties adjusting to the high cost of living and many seek state services and assistance.

The federal government only reimburses the state ten cents for every dollar spent. With the economy in a slump, the state has had to make cuts to some COFA services, including the reduction of health insurance benefits for COFA residents. Lawmakers are looking to alternative sources of funding in order to continue to assist Micronesians in Hawaii

What do you think about House Bill 2357?

There are several questions that immediately come to mind. Is this proposal feasible? Is it legal? What are the costs in implementing the bill? We'll most likely get some of these questions answered in a hearing Wednesday, 9 a.m in conference room 325.

Bills of Interest for Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2010

COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE
8:30 A.M. – ROOM 312


HB2083 RELATING TO MILK LABELING
Requires milk and soy milk beverages to be labeled with the date of pasteurization or the date of packaging. (YAMANE)


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


HB2357 RELATING TO GOVERNMENT SERVICES
Allows the Hawaii public housing authority to bill the home nations of individuals covered under the Compact of Free Association for homeless services and assistance. (CABANILLA)


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

HB2898 RELATING TO HIGHWAY SAFETY
Requires all operators and passengers of motorcycles and motor scooters to wear safety helmets. (MAGAOAY)

HB2370 RELATING TO TRANSPORTATION
Raises rental motor vehicle customer facility charge from $1/day to $4.50/day. Appropriates funds out of the rental motor vehicle customer facility charge special fund for multiple purposes. ($) (SOUKI)

HB2602 RELATING TO HIGHWAY SAFETY
Create a new law for distracted driving for drivers who operate any mobile electronic devices while operating a motor vehicle on the highways within the State of Hawaii to further define the penalties for reckless drivers will be a deterrent and result in safer roadways. (SAY BR)

HB2693 RELATING TO CHILD PASSENGER RESTRAINTS
Amends law to prohibit the transport of a child under 8 years of age in a motor vehicle on a public highway in the State, when a parent or legal guardian is present in the motor vehicle, except under certain circumstances. Allows children under the age of 8 and under 4 feet and 9 inches in height to ride in the front seat of a motor vehicle, under certain circumstances.


COMMITTEE ON HAWAIIAN AFFAIRS/COMMITTEE ON WATER, LAND & OCEAN RESOURCES
9:00 A.M. – ROOM 329


HB2672 RELATING TO THE OFFICE OF HAWAIIAN AFFAIRS
Resolves claims and disputes relating to the portion of income and proceeds from the lands of the public land trust for use by the office of Hawaiian affairs between 11/7/1978, and 7/1/2008; requires payment of cash to the office of Hawaiian affairs. (CARROLL)

HB2241 RELATING TO PUBLIC TRUST LANDS
Provides for transfer of management, control, and title of public trust land to sovereign Hawaiian entity upon recognition by the United States and State of Hawaii. (CARROLL)


COMMITTEE ON HAWAIIAN AFFAIRS
10:30 A.M. – ROOM 329


HB2759 RELATING TO GAMING
Authorize the Hawaiian homes commission to allow gaming on Hawaiian home lands and to designate specific Hawaiian home lands for the purposes of establishing gaming operations. Creates a gaming commission to regulate all gaming on Hawaiian home lands. Imposes a wagering tax on gross receipts of casino gaming operations and provides for distribution to the general fund and Hawaiian home lands trust fund. (CARROLL)


COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION
2:00 P.M. – ROOM 309


HB2127 RELATING TO EDUCATION
Requires the department of education to provide a minimum of 190 instructional days in each school year. (NAKASHIMA)