Rep C. Lee on access to emergency contraception for sexual assault victims

Rep. Chris Lee's floor remarks in support of HB 127, which requires hospitals and emergency rooms to provide information about emergency contraception to sexual assault victims, and dispense emergency contraception upon request. Ten members voted "no", while eight voted "yes, with reservations". The measure will now be referred to the House Finance Committee.

Each year about 25,000 women become pregnant as a result of sexual assault.

 Especially in cases of assault, the American Medical Association, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and a host of others believe that medically accurate information and the option to use emergency contraception should be provided to all victims as a measure of basic medical treatment.

 Fifteen states and the District of Columbia have adopted legislation requiring the provision of information about or access to emergency contraception to victims of sexual assault in emergency rooms. As well, all military and federal hospitals make sure to have emergency contraception stocked and available.

If there are political implications to consider as we vote on this bill, rest assured that seventy-three percent of registered voters believe pharmacies should not be allowed to refuse dispensing emergency contraception based on moral or religious grounds. In hospitals and cases of assault approval is even higher. As recent as the year 2000, even among Catholic women, seventy-eight percent support emergency contraception in cases of assault.

No matter how anyone feels, passing this bill is common sense. We are a nation of multiple religions and conflicting beliefs. However, as an objective government we ought to default and defer to sound medical directives and individual choice.

For victims of sexual assault who have had their bodies and rights violated once, it is especially important that we not allow government to mandate whether or not they will be violated a second time by forcing an unwanted pregnancy upon these victims. The choice must be the individual's to make, and we must pass this bill to make sure that victims are given the opportunity to make that choice themselves, no matter which hospital they end up in.

Free Tax Clinic, Feb 4 @ State Capitol

Free Tax Clinic Feb 4 Capitol

An Update on Agriculture

David Case of the Kona Coffee Farmers Association submits testimony

Concepts like sustainability, food security, and food sovereignty have made their way into conversations throughout the state. Today's Committee on Agriculture hearing vetted several pieces of legislation aimed at channeling this new found interest in sustainable agriculture into policy. Of the 11 bills covered at the hearing, 4 dealt with overarching policy directives relating to food security.

Dean Okimoto, HFBF President/Ho'opili consultant, testifies before the committee

A great deal of testimony, both written and verbal, was submitted regarding these bills; the overwhelming majority of which was in support of the legislation. The committee unanimously adopted 3 of the 4 bills and deferred HB1947, dealing with the creation of an agricultural safety and security program, to be heard again on February 8th. Two of the adopted measures, HB2430, which will create an agricultural development and food security program within the Department of Agriculture, and HB2431, which outlines objectives and policies to support the purchase and consumption of locally grown products, were part of a policy package from the Governor's office. The final bill to be adopted, HB2703, will require the Department of Agriculture to develop a food sustainability standard to promote local food production as well as mandate doubling our locally produced food consumption by 2020, was the only time the discussion became contentious.

Board of Agriculture Chair, Russell Kokubun, submits testimony

Although they both supported the bill, Dean Okimoto, President of the Hawaii Farm Bureau Federation, and Russell Kokubun, Chairman of the Board of Agriculture, requested the punitive measure for land owners who fail to meet the goal of increased production of locally grown food be stripped from HB2703 (if landowners fail to meet the goal, they will be unable to re-designate agricultural land of 25 acres or more for other purposes until they are compliant). Hawaii Farmers Union President, Glenn Martinez, questioned the effectiveness of the legislation if its sole enforcement mechanism was removed. Without mentioning it by name, Mr. Martinez brought up the elephant in the room; Ho'opili. Mr. Martinez pointed out the fact that while both the HFBF and the DoA testified in support of doubling the amount of locally produced food to make it onto dinner tables in the state, they also stand behind the controversial planned housing development, which will uproot the state's largest produce producer, Aloun Farms, and turn 1,500 acres of prime agricultural land into 11,750 new homes.

Hawaii Farm Union President, Glenn Martinez, testifying before the Committee

The next Committee on Agriculture hearing is Friday, February 3 at 8:00am in room 312 at the Capitol. The agenda for the hearing can be found here.

"808 Boyz" Win NFL Flag Football National Championship

Speaker Say joined Governor Abercrombie in congratulating the 2012 NFL Flag Football National Champions, Palolo's "808 Boyz." This marks the first Flag Football National Championship for Hawai'i. In honor of the team's accomplishments, the governor issues a proclamation declaring January 31, 2012 "808 Boyz Day."

Despite entering the final round of tournament competition with an undefeated record, the Boyz were given the 6th seed. Battling back against continental bias, the Boyz defeated the defending national champions from Florida in the semi-finals before dismantling a team from Cincinnati to win the championship. The team members are Jayden De Laura, Andrei Iosivas, Ka'ua Nishigaya, Noali Nishigaya, Rocky Ramones, Zachary Sagayaga, and Noa Schachtel. Coaches Jacob De Laura, Myles Nishigaya, and Edgar Sagayaga helped the Boyz make history. The championship game will air April 1 on ESPN and April 15 on ESPN2. Congratulations to the "808 Boyz." Hawai'i is proud of your hard work, perseverance, and accomplishment.

   

How You Can Become More Involved in the Legislative Process

Many people feel disenfranchised by our government. They feel that our system lacks transparency, accountability, accessibility, and responsiveness. The apathy that, all too often, results doesn't improve this perception; action does. Your rights to take action and participate in the democratic process are not limited to voting in elections or donating to campaigns.

Every piece of legislation must pass through committee before being voted on by the legislature. Committees hold hearings which provide the people a forum to express their opinions on each bill. A schedule of the hearings can be found posted several places throughout the capitol and online. It may be impossible for you to physically attend the hearings, but it couldn't be easier to still make your voice heard. You may do so through any ONE the following options:

PAPER:  5 copies (including an original) to Room 424 in the State Capitol;

FAX:       For comments less than 5 pages in length, transmit to 586-6511(Oahu) or 1-800-535-3859 (for Neighbor Islanders without a computer to submit testimony through e-mail or the Web); or

EMAIL:  For comments less than 5 pages in length, transmit to AGRtestimony@Capitol.hawaii.gov ; or

WEB:      For comments less than 4MB in size, transmit from the Web page at http://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/submittestimony.aspx.

Screenshot for submitting testimony through the website

Technology has made our government more accessible than ever, yet people still feel powerless. Abstaining from submitting testimony, be it due to ignorance or attitude, makes you powerless. The only thing stopping you from having a say in your future, in the future of Hawai'i, is you. Squeaky wheels get attention and this is an election year. This is your government and you have more influence over legislative outcomes than you may have been aware of. If you're not content with the way things are going, or even if you are, please take advantage of the mechanisms that were put in place to keep you relevant to your future. We look forward to seeing and hearing from more of you this session. 

In the News: Funding for Organ transplant facility, JABSOM, UH Construction

House Decorum

Civil Beat ran a story today about HB2751, a bill which proposes to "create the offense of disrespect of a house of the legislature for disorderly or contemptuous behavior by a person who is not a member of the legislature.

Civil Beat's question to Speaker Calvin Say was whether the intent of the bill was a reaction to the recent complaints by Mitch Kahle, the protester who is against the legislature holding invocations (what he considers unconstitutional prayer) at the capitol.  Kahle was arrested in the Senate chamber for disorderly conduct and was acquitted.  Kahle has subsequently sued the state and the Senate.

Speaker Say responded that the bill is not directed at any particular individual and is intended to provide clarification to existing House rules on the matter of disruption caused by any person.  Here is his full response:

HB 2751 is intended to assist in the maintenance of order and decorum during legislative sessions and committee hearings.  The bill applies to the disruption caused by any person, no matter the person's reason for the disruption or viewpoint on any issue.  It is not directed at any particular individual.

HB 2751 is a product of the House leadership's discussion of disruptions that occurred in the House and Senate chambers in the recent past.  During the discussion, House leadership and staff determined that the policies and procedures for keeping order in the House chambers and committee rooms during sessions and hearings may need clarification.  HB 2571 is intended to provide the clarification.

A companion bill, SB 3026, has been introduced in the Senate.

Women's Caucus Unveils its 2012 Legislative Package

Last Thursday afternoon, the Women's Legislative Caucus was joined by constituents, community organizers, military representatives, and a special guest to announce its legislative package for the session. This year's legislation is dedicated to women veterans and a disabled female veteran, Chelsea Ann K. E. Fernandez, attended the press conference, where she was recognized for her service. 

Chelsea Ann K. E. Fernandez 

Supporting women veterans begins with ensuring women can serve our nation proudly, in an environment free from discrimination, sexual harassment, and sexual assault, but it does not stop there. Female veterans need help transitioning into the civilian workforce when they return home, medical coverage for service-related injuries, and to be made aware of what benefits are available. 

In addition to championing female veterans, this year's package proposes legislation dealing with issues that affect all women in Hawai'i. While we may be ahead of the rest of the nation when it comes to women's rights, we are certainly not where we need to be. Women represent 34% of our legislature, which is well above the national average of 23%, but still falls woefully short of reflecting the fact that half of our population is female.

Rep. Marilyn Lee served as the master of ceremonies, with Rep. Cindy Evans, Rep. Linda Ichiyama, and Rep. Cynthia Thielen sharing personal stories and explaining the proposed legislation. The comprehensive legislative package, which includes bills ranging from funding for cervical and breast cancer screenings to prohibiting medical personnel from performing a pelvic examination on an anesthetized or unconscious patient (yes, it's currently allowed), can be viewed in its entirety at the Capitol website. 

As progressive as the state may be when it comes to women's rights, the war is far from over. The Women's Caucus press conference allowed us to look at how far we have come, yet still make us aware of how much work is left to be done in the name of equality for all of the people of Hawai'i, regardless of gender. 

Rep. Roy Takumi on Race to the Top Program

Women's Legislative Caucus 2012 Legislative Package

Women's Caucus Package News Release

Brower brings the lyrics and leather

Rep. Tom Brower never disappoints when it comes to his lyrical performances. It all started in 2009…let’s take a trip down memory lane:

May 1, 2009 - “Untitled - Please bow your heads”
April 13, 2010 - “It’s Going Down”
February 15, 2011 – “Not in my House”
March 28, 2011 – “Info Brief your Ego”

This year, the Rapper turned Singer-Songwriter turned American Poet, best known to fans as the Tominator, again wowed his colleagues with a poetic invocation that created a smorgasbord of words about our favorite topic at the Hawaii House Blog, the Legislature.

His poem is a word play on the Order of the Day, which is a daily written agenda of measures being discussed during legislative session.(See lyrics below)

INTRO:
Feeling high from the momentum of his fourth place finish at last year's freshmen talent show, the artist from Waikiki, proving again he is more than a one hit wonder, brings the lyrics and leather, with a new compilation of free-verse poetry, entitled, "Rep. Brower Live: From the 3rd Floor to Your Backdoor."

The featured composition is about a legislator who feels he cannot always be himself or say the sophisticated things he really wants to. This prose is entitled, "The Order of the Day."


POEM:
Birth, death, love, hate,
Friendship, arrogance, respect, deceit:

I get used to the metamorphosis in every way.
Legislators need balance to survive the Order of the Day.

A public reception or private caucus meeting.
What's really there and if I care, people aren't always seeing.

Together we work, together we play.
None of us confuse the Order of the Day.

Read my book between the lines; you'll know the real me better.
Disregard my public persona and talking points on the cover.

While courteous, what I think can be different from what I say.
Behind the scenes I'm on my knees to the Order of the Day.

Nodding yes, but inside disagreeing.
A survival skill, for or against. What's my role? Is there real meaning?

Voters' choices aren't black and white -- but sometimes gray
When I am the public servant to the Order of the Day.

A bond to common purpose, a loyalty on the surface.
Leaders, dissenters, republicans, democrats, the corruption from innocence.

A fondness of each other, at times, distrust of one another.

At some point, will God have me pay?
For becoming a political pawn to the Order of the Day

Emergency Contraception Bill moves out of Judiciary Committee

Emergency Contraception bill moves out of Judiciary Committee

Committee on Hawaiian Affairs: Hawaiian Language

It's not common to leave a committee hearing with chicken skin, but it was unavoidable to walk out of today's Committee on Hawaiian Affairs hearing regarding legislation pertaining to Hawaiian language, unmoved. Testimony was heard regarding three bills: HB1973 relating to Hawaiian language immersion programs, HB1984 which would make February "Olelo Hawaii Month," and HB1986 which deals with developing appropriate assessment tests for students enrolled in the Hawaiian language immersion program. The cultural significance and overall merit of the proposed legislation itself evokes an emotional response, but the heartfelt testimony of dozens of keiki, kapuna, and educators on behalf of their future, the future of the Hawaiian language, and the future of Hawai'i, was a force more powerful than words can express. For two hours this morning, room 329 of the Capitol was filled with pure aloha.

Hawaiian language immersion students testifying before the Committee

All of the testimony presented to the Committee was in support of the legislation, with the biggest opponent - the DOE - not sending a single representative to the hearing. Representatives from OHA, UH, the Hawaiian language schools themselves, and parents provided the committee with articulate, poignant, and compelling testimony in favor of this legislation that means so much to them; to all of us. At one point in the hearing, the students from all of the schools present joined together to perform a song in Hawaiian for the committee. Unsurprisingly, all three measures passed, but the real test will come when the legislation moves to the Finance Committee to discuss funding.

If you recognize the value of reviving, restoring, and celebrating the Hawaiian language, please contact your representative or Rep. Hanohano (Hawaiian Affairs Committee chair) and voice your support. Mahalo.

Kung Hee Fat Choy

Funding for Organ Transplant Facility advances

HB608 Organ Transplant Facility

Meeting the Press on Opening Day

Before reconvening the Hawaii Legislature, Speaker Calvin Say and Majority Leader Pono Chong met with reporters to talk about the legislative agenda this year. See what they had to say by visiting the links below:

Speaker on KITV.
Majority Leader on Hawaii News Now.

Later, after the Opening Day Session ended, Finance Chair Marcus Oshiro and Speaker Calvin Say answered reporters' questions on a variety of issues including fee increases, expediting construction projects, EUTF, unfunded liability, public workers' contracts, gambling, exemptions for procurement, reapportionment, revising the TAT, and the coffee beetle bug problem.

Watch the interviews below:

Rep. Marcus Oshiro, chair of the House Committee on Finance, fields questions from reporters on the economy, public workers contracts, EUTF, and unfunded liability. Oshiro spoke with reporters after the House opened the 2012 Legislation Session on January 18.

Rep. Marcus Oshiro tells reporters how important it is to get bills passed that will help get our construction projects underway in a timely manner. It's a win-win situation, he says. People can get back to work, business for vendors and necessary improvements can be made to our schools, our court houses, our hospitals, etc.

Speaker Calvin Say of the Hawaii House of Representatives fields question from reporters on a variety of issues including the coffee beetle bug problem, fee increases, gambling, procurement exemptions, reapportionment, and possible revisions to the Transient Accommodation Tax.

Paulette Abe: Green Champion

The House Green Champion Team (Brandon, Paulette, and Merissa)

The January/February issue of the iConserve Energy Initiative's Green Champion Newsletter spotlights Chamber Coordinator Paulette Abe of the House Sergeant-at-Arms Office as a Green Champion. The iConserve Energy Initiative is a program developed by the State Energy Office, Department of Accounting and General Services, and NORESCO that encourages state employees to take energy saving measures at work to lower the overall energy consumption of the building.

In a fashion that is typical of her 26 years of service to the State of Hawai'i, Paulette credits her accomplishments to the House Green Champion Team. Merissa Sakuda of Rep. Denny Coffman's office and Brandon Masuoka of the House Majority Staff Office helped Paulette save thousands of taxpayer dollars by making the Capitol greener.

Selfless service and being a team player reflect the values Paulette learned from her parents and grandmother while growing up in Makaha. They also taught her the importance of energy conservation and stewardship for the land. Paulette reflects on her childhood, "We were taught at an early age to always pick up after yourself and take your opala leaving a place better than you found it."

Paulette's passion for the environment and the state of Hawai'i inspire everyone who comes into contact with this amazing woman. She has certainly made the Capitol a better place than it was when she found it. Mahalo nui loa Paulette.

Fukuoka Japan - USA Friendship Committee's 30th Anniversary

A delegation from Fukuoka Japan was at the Capitol on Wednesday to commemorate the 30th anniversary of sister-statehood with Hawai'i. The event allowed leaders from both communities to reflect on three decades of economic and cultural cooperation as well as lay the groundwork for many more. Hawaiian Airlines resuming direct flights to Fukuoka later this year will bring the two states even closer.

Hawaii's Ambassador of Aloha, Danny Kaleikini opened the ceremony with a pule. This was special for the Chairman of the Fukuoka Prefecture Assembly, Mr. Kensai Haraguchi, whose fondest memory of Hawai'i was seeing Danny perform while spending his honeymoon in the islands 30 years ago.

The State of Hawai'i was represented by members of the House and Senate. Speaker of the House, Calvin Say, was also present for the initial partnership with Fukuoka 30 years ago and made the trip to Fukuoka in 2007 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the partnership. The meeting had personal significance for Rep. Derek Kawakami, whose family came from the Fukuoka prefecture to work in the cane fields of Kauai.

Proclamations were signed, gifts and pleasantries were exchanged, and both sides had an opportunity to talk story, reinforcing an already amicable relationship. An interpreter ensured that the goodwill - and the punchlines from jokes - were not lost in translation. Beyond the smiles and through the laughs, the event was ultimately more substance than ceremony; further bolstering a bond with a longstanding, important friend: Fukuoka, Japan.

Reliving Opening Day

Did you miss Opening Day of the 2012 Legislative Session? See what happened in these short clips from the Hawaii House Blog YouTube Page.

Rep. Ken Ito's grandson, Tyler Mizota, a Punahou student, gave the invocation in Hawaiian and then in English.

Rep. Tom Okamura was sworn in in by Chief Justice Mark Recktenwald. Okamura, a former lawmaker, was appointed by Gov. Neil Abercrombie to replace Blake Oshiro, who took a position with the administration as deputy chief of staff.

The Hawaii House of Representatives unanimously voted to pass a resolution electing CJ Leong as House Chief Clerk to fill the vacancy created by the retirement of former Chief Clerk Patricia Mau-Shimizu.

Speaker Calvin Say opens the 2012 Legislature with a speech about maintaining stability in respect to the state budget -- meaning no new taxes, and no major general fund appropriation increase for the expansion of state programs. He highlighted the importance of focusing efforts on maintaining economic recovery and promoting immediate job growth by expediting the construction of state projects and avoiding mandates on businesses. (Full speech here.)

Opening Day 2012

Like last year's Opening Day, the start of the 27th Hawai'i State Legislature was not ushered in with much fanfare. The brevity of speeches and lack of lavish food spreads and entertainment reflects the financial austerity that has resulted from the Great Recession. Despite being a low-key event taking place while the economy is still recovering, the Aloha Spirit was alive and well in the capitol. Recently appointed Rep. Tom Okamura's return to the House floor certainly added to the positive tone of the day.

In his opening remarks, Speaker Say stated the goals for the session: to maintain a steady, gradual economic recovery, while not increasing the burden on the people and businesses of Hawai'i. The Speaker conceded that while lawmakers would like to make our state energy independent and provide affordable healthcare and housing to everyone, our economic reality puts these goals out of reach for the current session. While we are fortunate not to be facing a budget crisis as we have for the past three sessions, the state's financial future is still not secure. Although it may not make for the most interesting news headline, the looming burden of funding public employees' retirement and health fund systems must be resolved to prevent catastrophe for future generations.

Despite the serious work ahead in the session, the atmosphere in the House was upbeat, positive, and convivial. Opening Day presents an opportunity for constituents - as well as lobbyists - to access Representatives, talk story, and have a bite to eat. The capitol has many new faces, including my own, and the returning members and staffers were warm, friendly, and more than welcoming.

January 18, 2012 was an Opening Day with abbreviated, but pleasantly appropriate celebration that, hopefully, is a reflection of the legislative session it convened. Budget crisis and an increased burden on taxpayers may be a thing of the past, but we are by no means out of the water yet. Building off of its realistically grounded optimism, the 27th Hawai'i State Legislature will hopefully maintain the recovery of this fragile economy while laying the foundation for a bright future for Hawai'i.

Opening Day Remarks from Speaker Calvin Say

Speaker of the House Calvin K.Y. Say
OPENING DAY REMARKS
January 18, 2012

Welcome members to the 2012 Regular Session of the Twenty-Sixth Legislature.

And a special welcome to our recently appointed member -- Representative Tom Okamura of District 33, Aiea, Halawa, and Red Hill.

I am glad -- and relieved -- to say that we will probably not have to make another extraordinary effort to balance the state budget during this session.

This situation will be a welcome departure from the past three sessions. Because of the Great Recession, we had to balance the state budget by a combination of painfully difficult expenditure reductions and targeted revenue enhancements. We maintained essential public services without increasing the general excise tax rate or the income tax on low- and moderate-income persons.

We rejected extremism and expediency in favor of reason and fortitude.

We took a balanced and responsible approach.

Hawaii is much better for our efforts. I commend you all.

The economic recovery, although still fragile, is on its way.

We, however, must remain cautious. The fragility of the economic recovery requires the continuation of our balanced and responsible approach during the 2012 regular session. For the short-term, we must maintain stability with respect to the state budget.

"Maintaining stability" means no new taxes for state government from residents and businesses.

"Maintaining stability" means no major general fund appropriation increase for the expansion of state programs.

For this session, we must focus our efforts on maintaining the economic recovery and promoting immediate job growth. We must be creative and innovative. We must make difficult choices, some of which may be opposed by segments of the community.

We must seek ways to expedite the construction of state projects, so that money flows into the community.

We also must seek ways to avoid mandates on businesses that increase their costs.

I am confident that we will make these choices using the same balanced and responsible approach of the past three sessions.

Our recovery effort depends on a strong, solid foundation. Maintaining a foundation today will enable us to pursue our dreams in the future.

Dreams such as:

--- a Hawaii powered exclusively by alternative energy resources, requiring no export of dollars.

--- a Hawaii with broadband coverage for all schools, businesses, and homes.

--- a Hawaii in which health care is universally and affordably available.

--- a Hawaii in which everyone lives in an affordable home, paying no more than one-third of their income for the rent or mortgage.

And dreams of a Hawaii with a thriving and diversified economy.

This means a Hawaii with a military presence that is fully appreciated for its importance to our nation's and Pacific allies' defense and our State's economy and social mix;

--- a Hawaii with a visitor industry that continues to be the envy of the world;

--- a Hawaii in which agriculture is a viable and sustaining enterprise that feeds our people, supports alternative energy, and exports products;

--- and a Hawaii with a public education system that produces business, professional, and governmental leaders able to effectively guide our State in the future, and even lead the world in selected areas of expertise.

More mundane, but still very important, is my dream of public employees' retirement and health fund systems with no unfunded liability, so that our children and grandchildren do not have to carry the burden of increasing governmental fringe benefit contributions.

I have many such dreams, as do all of you. Fulfilling the dreams, however, would require the expenditure of substantial taxpayers' moneys -- moneys that we do not have now.

Despite this intrusion of reality, let us not abandon our dreams. Let us continue the groundwork for the achievement of the dreams. Later, when the economy and public resources return to robust growth, we will then have the opportunity for full implementation.

Let us be confident that our unselfish work of today will lead tomorrow to the Hawaii that we all dream about.

Thank you.

What we learned from Act 48 - Rep. Herkes responds to criticism of Foreclosures Act

*Note: The following opinion piece was submitted to the Honolulu Star-Advertiser, which declined to publish it.  We've decided to post it here.

Last Thursday[1], this paper reprinted old news about Act 48.  We already knew the foreclosure rate dropped 50-60%.  We already knew the banks are foreclosing through the courts to avoid penalties for fouling up the new non-judicial process.

We can only speculate why the repeat messaging; and why this paper is so intent on spinning Act 48 as a failure.  Their editorial last Monday[2] provides some clues.  Its title, “Reform law to let lenders, borrowers settle homes fairly” presumes Act 48 isn't "fair" to lenders.  What they're really talking about is a loss of privilege.  In light of all the illegality, we were obligated to limit their license to self-police. 

Remember - almost half the other states disallow non-judicial foreclosures.  Banks only started foreclosing non-judicially in Hawaii after a law was passed in 1998.  But there's a twist to the legislative history - which this paper aptly explained[3] in 2010:  the 1998 law was so defective, it went unused - only to revive an arcane law from 1874.  The Star Bulletin reported[4] the 1874 law was created to drive Native Hawaiians off their land.  Title insurers resigned to work with that law and helped lenders develop a non-judicial "practice" that was palatable to them.

After the economy tanked, the mainland banks became desperate for capital and our so-called "law" made Hawaii a perfect target.  Act 48 stopped the hemorrhaging under the 1874 law and fixed the 1998 law the banks pushed so hard for just fourteen years ago.  That's all the time it took for lenders to consider the 1874 fast-track their right.  How rude of us.

Here's another strange statement from the editorial: "While delinquent homeowners might have been helped by the resulting sharp decline in foreclosures, the change in recent months could prolong the negative effects on the housing market."   Huh? 

Let me break down the cause and effect.  Act 48 guarantees third-party oversight in owner-occupant foreclosures - in court or dispute resolution.  No more free rides on the 1874 express.  The new express train requires banks to show their legal standing to foreclose - or they're thrown off.  That frightening prospect resulted in the sharp decline of foreclosure activity.  By slowing down the rate of wrongful, fraudulent, and avoidable foreclosures, we've stopped a flood of inventory from dragging down home prices and keeping folks from going further underwater.  I doubt Hawaii's homeowners view this as a "negative." In fact, that is a "negative" our Federal Reserve[5] is trying to achieve.  The prestigious Council of State Governments also recommended that states enact their own Act 48[6].

Simply asserting there are "negative effects on the housing market" without explaining what they are is an insult to readers.  Ironically, the editorial was printed the same day Paul Brewbaker lectured the legislature on Hawaii’s economy.  He spoke at length about Hawaii's housing market, emphasizing that Oahu's prices are slowly stabilizing and that neighbor island prices are tracking the market on the mainland.  He didn't mention any "negative effects" specifically created by Hawaii's Act 48.  There are more colossal market forces at play.

I have grown tired of arguments that rely on fabrications and baseless doomsday scenarios.  We cannot ignore the rule of law because someone affected (a realtor, banker, mortgage broker?) claims it's bad for business.

Resolution to this crisis cannot rest solely on the simpleton's question to troubled homeowners: "did you pay your mortgage?" We also need to be asking the banks:  "did you cheat?"

Pay attention this legislative session.  We're going to apply what we've learned from Act 48's shake-out - and do what is best for Hawaii's people.

---

[1]http://www.staradvertiser.com/businesspremium/20120112_2011_law_has_lenders_opting_to_foreclose_in_court.html

[2] http://www.staradvertiser.com/editorialspremium/20120109_Reform_law_to_let_lenders_borrowers_settle_homes_fairly.html?c=n

[3] http://www.staradvertiser.com/news/20100725_Foreclosures.html?id=99191739

[4]  http://archives.starbulletin.com/2003/11/16/news/perez.html

[5] http://www.federalreserve.gov/newsevents/speech/raskin20120107a.htm

[6] http://ssl.csg.org/dockets/2013%20cycle/33adocmins/minutes33Aoct2011.pdf

Rep. Tom Okamura; the return of a familiar face

In the next episode of Kukui Connection, Rep. Marilyn Lee will be welcoming newly-appointed Representative Tom Okamura. Although he was recently appointed, this will not be Rep. Okamura’s first time serving in the House. He represented the 33^rd District (Aiea, Halawa Valley, Halawa Heights, Aiea heights, Red Hill) from 1980-2000, serving 9 of those years as Majority Leader.

Over the course of his discussion with Rep. Lee, Rep. Okamura reveals his lifetime passion for politics and public service which spans from growing up in a plantation community in Hilo, to the Constitutional Convention, to the House of Representatives. Rep. Okamura’s 12 year hiatus from the Legislature provides him with the fresh ideas needed to help move Hawaii forward.

As for this Legislative Session, Rep. Okamura is hoping to create high paying jobs and revamp our education system without raising taxes or fees. Rep. Okamura stresses the importance of reviving our sense of community and Aloha spirit.

The show will air at 8:30 pm on Friday, January 20^th on Olelo Channel 54, and will rebroadcast at 4:00 pm on Saturday January 22^nd and Sunday, January 23^rd. 

My state, your state

The 2012 Legislative session opens next week Wednesday, January 18, 2012. Bills will be introduced, new and old ideas will be debated in hearings and in the media, and the Capitol will be aflutter with people coming and going.

Before our session starts, let’s take a look at what other state legislatures are doing or considering.

The National Conference of State Legislatures magazine touches on a few odd and some controversial issues facing state lawmakers, including prisoner food cuts for Texans, the chimichanga as Arizona's state food, giving farmers unlimited control in North Dakota, and banning campaign fundraising while the Utah legislature is in session. Read more here.

In case you're wondering, Hawaii doesn’t have a state food.

What do you think about banning campaign fundraising during the legislative session? Some lawmakers in Utah don't believe they would have enough time to raise money before an election. According to NCSL, 28 states restrict giving and receiving campaign contributions during the session.

But wait. There's more.

Will we be seeing 51 stars on the American flag?

One lawmaker in Illinois thinks that Chicago should become its own state because of the "different and firmly seated views" it has from its neighboring counties. Rep. Bill Mitchell says that the cities liberal policies are an insult to the rest of the state's traditional values. His main concerns are Chicago's higher tax rates and stricter gun laws. If the measure driving this idea passes, it will be voted on by constituents in the next election, and if successful there, it must be approved by Congress and the president.

Governor releases $2 million for Waianae drainage infrastructure

$2 million released for Waianae Coast to alleviate flooding

Next Puuhulu Stream Clean Up scheduled for January 16^th – Volunteers needed

Honolulu, Hawaii.  Governor Abercrombie has released $2 million in general obligation bond funds for the planning, design and construction of a flood alleviation project for the Waianae Coast.   The project includes drainage improvements along Puhawai Road in Waianae and involves an intergovernmental working agreement between the State Department of Land and Natural Resources and the City and County of Honolulu.

"Flooding in Waianae has become a serious issue for the area residents," said Rep. Jo Jordan, who included the project in her capital improvement project request.  The funding was included and passed by the legislature in Act 164, during the 2011 legislative session.  "Our community has worked very hard to keep our streams clear and to do as much as possible to avoid flooding and disaster, but we really need improvements to our drainage structures.  We greatly appreciate the legislature's approval and the Governor's release of funds for the health and safety of our residents."

The area called Lualualei Flats is prone to flooding, primarily due to poor drainage infrastructure, lack of stream maintenance, illegal dumping in streams and ditches, illegal grading, and filling in of streams or diversion of surface runoff.  Improvements will be made to the culverts and other related work.

Puuhulu Stream Cleanup

Rep. Jo Jordan will hold the next Puuhulu Stream clean up on Monday, January 16, 2012, Martin Luther King Day.  Volunteers are needed between the hours of 8 a.m. and 12 noon, and should wear covered shoes with thick soles, long pants, sun protection and water.  For more information, please call the Office of Rep. Jo Jordan at 586-8460.

Hashem's East Honolulu Report Jan 2012

Rep Hashem Newsletter January 2012

2012 Conference Room Schedule

2012 Conference Room Schedule

Kukui Connection Features Lorena Lorenzo

Rep. Marilyn Lee, host and producer of "Kukui Connection", welcomes Lenora Lorenzo, Doctor of Nursing Practice on the next episode which airs on Sunday, January 8, 2012, 4 p.m., Olelo Channel 54.  (This show is repeated on January 15 and 22 at the same time/channel.)

Lenora is one of a very few doctors of nursing practice in Hawaii.  She started her career as a candy striper at Wahiawa General Hospital during high school at Leilehua High School.  She always wanted to be a nurse and served for many years at Wahiawa where she knew and worked with Rep. Lee who is also a nurse.

She went on to become a nurse practitioner and worked at Haleiwa Family Health Center and the Waikiki Health Center for 10 years.  She then worked as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse and helped form a professional organization for registered nurses.

While at the family health center, she decided that she really wanted to concentrate on Hawaii's diabetes population and to help them avoid premature death and complications from dialysis.

Learn more about the Comprehensive Diabetes Management program at the Veterans Administration, Pacific Islands Health Care system.

Learn about the Diabetes epidemic in our country - 50% of Americans may be diabetic by 2020.

Many Vietnam veterans have increased rates of diabetes because of exposure to Agent Orange.

Lenora recommends: Moderation is a key to life. Stay away from processed and fast food.  Limit corn syrup and sugar. Exercise every day.  Understand your family history as heredity is a factor.

Welcome Rep. Tom Okamura

Governor Abercrombie today announced the appointment of Tom Okamura to replace former Rep. Blake Oshiro filling the vacant House seat in District 33: Aiea, Halawa Valley, Halawa Heights, Aiea Heights, Red Hill..  Last month, the governor hand picked Oshiro to be his Deputy Chief of Staff, creating the vacancy.

Rep. Okamura is no stranger to the House.  He served for 20 years as the representative in the same district up until 2000; for nine of those years he was the House Majority Leader.

Rep. Okamura's office is at the State Capitol in Room 324.

What are you doing New Year's Eve?

Happy early New Year from the House Majority Communications Staff!

What are you doing New Year's Eve?

Whatever it may, we wish you a safe and wonderful holiday weekend with family and friends. We will see you in 2012, and look forward to sharing another Legislative Session with you all.

And just for kicks, enjoy the music!

Laws effective January 1, 2012

Hawaii's civil unions law is one of ten measures that will take effect  January 1, 2012.  Nine of the measures are from Legislative Session 2011 and one is from Legislative Session 2009. You can view lists of these laws with descriptions and other detailed information compiled by the Legislative Reference Bureau by clicking here and here. (Mahalo to LRB staff!) 

Justice for all

Chief Justice Mark Recktenwald

The Hawai‘i Access to Justice Commission will host a series of community briefings in 2012 to discuss equal access to justice in Hawai‘i. What does "equal access to justice" mean?  Many people in our state are unable to afford representation in civil legal matters - such as housing, family, domestic violence, and consumer. Many people just don't know where to go for information about their legal rights. The Commission’s primary purpose is to increase access to information, representation, and essentially justice in these legal matters for low- and moderate-income residents of Hawai`i. Its goal is to create a balance that provides all people the opportunity to seek justice.

Associate Judge Daniel R. Foley

The first meeting will be held on Wednesday, January 11, 2012, 6-8 p.m. at The Parish of St. Clement, 1515 Wilder Avenue, with special guest presenters Chief Justice Mark E. Recktenwald and Associate Judge and Commission Chair Daniel R. Foley. A mini-legal fair will also be held with legal service providers available to share more information about their specific services.

Future dates include May 9, 2012, Windward Oahu, and November 14, 2012, Leeward/ Waianae Coast, locations and times to be determined. Info: (808) 586-9425

Finance Tours: DAGS

Members of the House Finance Committee recently visited the the Office of Information Management and Technology (OIMT) and the Hawaii State Record Center. The entire day was spent learning about the department and a few of its divisions. In a previous post, we shared photos taken and information learned during a tour of the Kalanimoku building to view the solar panels installed on its roof.

Following that visit, lawmakers toured the OIMT, located in the basement of the Kalanimoku building, with Chief Information Officer Sanjeev "Sonny" Bhagowalia. He later presented a powerpoint to explain the divisions plans for transforming its resources and management practices. You can view reports and assessments here. Later, the group headed to the State Records Center, facility that stores inactive non-permanent paper records and security copies of microfilms and microfiche.

Christmas Luau

Normally my before Christmas weekend blog post is on a topic related to the House of Representatives or some type of legislation or political issue that is in the news at the time. However, this year, I feel like we could all just use some great music and a reminder of how lucky we are to live in Hawaii. With that said, I give to you my favorite Christmas song through a YouTube video. Keiki Aya gives us a beautiful rendition of "Christmas Luau."  Enjoy! Be safe this holiday weekend, and Mele Kalikimaka from the House Majority Communications team. Aloha!

Communications Assistant Wanted

The House Majority Communications Office is looking to hire a Communications Assistant for the 2012 Legislative Session.  This is a paid, temporary, full-time position from January to May.

We're excited about expanding our team for the session.  This is a great opportunity for someone who possesses good writing and computer skills, is adept at digital photography and social media, and who also has a passion for public affairs.  

Interested in working with us?  Send your resume, cover and brief (preferably one-page) writing sample via email to Assistant Communications Director, Thelma Dreyer at dreyer@capitol.hawaii.gov.

We'll be reviewing the resumes and interviewing qualified candidates during the first week of January.  Ideally, I'd like to have someone on board before Opening Day, January 18th.  

"Da Night Bafo' Christmas"

Speaker Calvin Say hosted the annual House Christmas lunch yesterday, where members and staff, Democrat and Republican, come together to share Hawaiian luau. At this event, the members serve lunch and perform for the employees.  Rep. Bob Herkes (below) brought down the "House" with a rendition of Twas the Night Before Christmas, local style:

"Da Night Bafo' Christmas"

Was da night bafo' Christmas, and all ova' da place,
Not even da geckos was showin' dere face.

Da stockings was hangin' on top da TV
(Cause no mo' fireplace in Hawai'i.)

Da kids stay all crashed, my old man too.
Dey leave all da work fo' you-know-who.

So me, I stay pickin' up all dea toys,
When - boom! - outside get only big noise!

I run to da window, I open 'em up.
I stick out my head and I yell, "Eh! Whassup?!"

And den, I no can ba-lieve what I seen!
Was so unreal, you know what I mean?

Dis fat haole guy get his reindeers in my yard!
And reindeer not housebroken, you know, as' why hard!

But, nemmind, dis Christmas.  So, I cut 'em some slack.
Plus, had uku pile presents pokin' outta his sack!

So, I wait till he pau tie up his reindeer.
Den I yell out da window, "Huui! Brah, ova hea!"

An' I tell 'em first ting, when I open da door,
"Eh, hemo your shoes!  You going dirty my floor!"

He take off his boots, he tell, "You know who I am?"
I go, "Ho! From da smell, must be Mr. Toe Jam!"

He make mempachi eyes and he go, "Ho, ho, ho!"
By now, I stay thinking dis guy kinda slow!"

He look like my Tutu, but little less weight.
And his beard stay so white, mo' white than shark bait!

He stay all in red, specially his nose,
And get reindeer spit on top his nice clothes!

But him he no care; he just smile at me,
And he start fo' put presents unda-neat da tree.

I tell 'em, "Eh, brah, no need make li' dat.
And watch were you step!  You going ma-ke da cat!

Den, out from his bag, he pull one brand new computah,
Choke video games, and one motorized scootah!

He try for fill up da Christmas socks too,
But had so much pukas, all da stuff went fall troo!

When he pau, I tell 'em, "Eh Santa, try wait!
I get plenny leftovahs, I go make you one plate!"

But, he nevah like hang, he had so much fo' do.
Gotta make all dem small kids' wishes come true.

So I wave 'em goodbye, and I flash 'em da shaka,
And I tell 'em, "Mele Kalikimaka!"

When he hear dat, he stop...and I tellin' you true.
He go, "Garans, ball-barans! Merry Christmas to you!"

2012 Session Calendar from the Public Access Room

2012 Session Calendar

Waianae Town Hall Meeting on Olelo

Photo: Kaupuni Park, Waianae Valley Homestead project. Office of Rep. Jo Jordan

Rep. Jo Jordan's recent Waianae Town Hall meeting, held on December 7th, will air on Olelo this week and next..  If you were unable to attend in person, catch the latest on the following dates/times:





*TONIGHT, Monday December 19th at 8:00 p.m.on VIEW Channel 54

*Wednesday, December 28th at 10:30 p.m. on FOCUS Channel 49

*Thursday, December 29th at 4:00 p.m. on FOCUS Channel 49

*Saturday, December 31st at 3:00 p.m. on VIEW Channel 54

Rep. Ryan Yamane, Health Chair - Next on Jordan's Journal

Rep. Ryan Yamane, Chair of the House Health Committee will be Rep. Jo Jordan's guest on the next episode of "Jordan's Journal".

The show airs on Olelo, Channel 54, Monday, December 19th at 1:00 p.m. and repeats on December 26th at 1:00 p.m.

Rep. Yamane represents District 37 - Waipio Gentry, Mililani.  In addition to being Health Chair, Rep. Yamane is Vice Chair of the Commerce and Consumer Protection Committee.  He has a background in social work and he obtained Master's degrees in both Social Work and Business.  He has been in office for 7 years and was elected for the first time in the 2004 election.

The legislators go into some detail on how bills are considered for hearing and the time constraints they face.  They also discuss new ways through which constituents can participate in the legislative process without having to physically come down to the state capitol.

The issues that come through the Health Committee affect almost everyone in the state. The range includes hospitals, health insurance, health epidemics, food safety, vector control, There is a certain amount of overlap with the Committee on Human Services, such as the area of medicaid.

Specific to the Waianae coast, Rep. Jordan's district, the Health Chair talks about the importance of community centers such as the Waianae Comprehensive Center.  It is one of the few in the state that has a emergency room to service the residents due to the fact that Waianae is in a relatively isolated area with a single road for egress and ingress.

Rep. Yamane can be reached by email at repyamane@capitol.hawaii.gov and by phone at 586-6150.  Rep. Jordan can be reached by email at repjordan@capitol.hawaii.gov and by phone at 586-8460.

Finance Tours: Kalanimoku Building Solar Power

I recently tagged along with members of the House Finance Committee during various tours of state sites on Oahu, including DAGS facilities, the Information and Communications Services Division, Aloha Stadium, Hawaii Film Studio, and Kuhio Park Terrace. I'll do a blog post on each site visit over the next week.

The site visits allow lawmakers to see firsthand the projects and initiatives funded (or not funded) by the state budget, and to meet and talk with departmental personnel and officials about what has been done, what needs to be done, and what the legislature can expect next session in funding requests.

On the morning of the first day I met with lawmakers and DAGS personnel at the Kalanimoku building where we were given a tour of the photovoltaic panels on the building rooftop. The installation of the 1,005 solar photovoltaic panels was completed in July 2011 as part of the State’s efforts to lead by example and lower Hawaii’s dependency on foreign oil. This project is part of the State’s Clean Energy Initiative.

An energy kiosk has been installed in the entry lobby of the building where the public can view a display of “real-time” and “historical energy usage” and snapshots of “carbon footprint data” demonstrating the PV system performance.

FACTS:

The project is part of the $33.9 million Energy Savings Performance Contracting (ESPC) project awarded by DAGS in 2009 to improve the energy efficiency for 10 office buildings, located in the downtown State Capital District, with high annual utility bills. The other buildings are the State Capitol, Kalanimoku, Ke‘elikolani, Kekauluohi (State Archives), Kekaunaoa, Keoni Ana, Kinau Hale, Queen Lili‘uokalani, No. 1 Capitol District, and Leiopapa-a-Kamehameha.

Construction started in August 2010 and the PV system has been producing power since January 2011.

The project was funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA), the $2.9 million solar installation is an educational / demonstration project reviewed by the U.S. Department of Energy.

$70-80,0000 dollars energy savings per year.

200kW (AC) of photovoltaic (PV) solar capacity produces approximately 296,849 kilowatt hours (kWh) in its first year, the equivalent of powering 40 residences in Hawai’i for one year.

Over 20 years the 200 kW of PV solar capacity will produce an estimated 5,377, 911 kWh, the equivalent of powering 726 residences in Hawai’i for one year.
Rooftop mounting is provided by a fully ballasted PV panel mounting system with no roof penetrations to anchor PV panels.

In one full year of production, 200 kW (AC) of PV solar power offsets 506, 689 ;bs of carbon dioxide equivalents. This is the equivalent of taking 83 cars off the road for one year.

The House Finance Committee is headed by chair Marcus Oshiro and co-chair Marilyn Lee. Members includeReps Chris Lee, Derek S.K. Kawakami , Pono Chong, Dee Morikawa, Isaac W. Choy, James Kunane Tokioka, Ty Cullen, Kyle T. Yamashita, Sharon E. Har, Barbara C. Marumoto, Mark J. Hashem, Gil Riviere, Linda Ichiyama, Gene Ward, and Jo Jordan.

Ignition Interlock Stats

 Hawaii's ignition interlock law, introduced by Rep. Sharon Har, is about to hit the one year anniversary.  How did it do?

The statistics are impressive, and even MADD officials are surprised it has been so successful.  Here is the KHON2 report.

Since the law started on January 1st of this year, the law has prevented drunk drivers with a blood alcohol level over .08 on 466 occasions.

983 drivers have had the ignition interlock device installed in their cars.  

Of those arrested for DUI, about 15% have participated in the program.  Compared to national statistics, that is a very good rate.

Rep. Har says she plans to introduce legislation in 2012 to improve the law.  Currently, the law allows only first time DUI offenders to participate.  Har wants to broaden participation to repeat offenders.