Kukui Connection - Catherine Betts

Rep. Marilyn Lee is co-chair of the Women's Legislative Caucus and has been a lifelong advocate of women's rights. It's a special treat for Rep. Lee and the audience for her to host Catherine Betts, Executive Director of the Hawaii State Commission on the Status of Women (HSCSW) on the next installment of Kukui Connection.

Catherine opens the show by telling us about her background. A lawyer by trade, she has dedicated her professional life to women's rights, specifically violence prevention. In addition to giving her history, Catherine also fills the audience in on her organization. Established in 1964, the HSCSW falls under the Department of Health and Human Services and the Office of the Lieutenant Governor. The Committee is responsible for keeping women's issues relevant. They are an awareness, advocacy, and educational resource for the people of Hawaii.

Rep. Lee and Ms. Betts discuss a number of issues including the establishment of a Veteran's Court, the Justice Reinvestment Act (which assists women transitioning from incarceration), Title IX, educating young women about women's issues, and putting women on high paying/high profile career paths.

You can find out more about Catherine Betts and the HSCSW on their website, http://hawaii.gov/dhs/women/HSCSW/

The episode airs on Olelo, Channel 54 on Sunday, February 19, 2012 at 4:00 p.m. 

Jordan's Journal - Ka Wai Ola O Wai'anae

Photo courtesy of Ka Wai Ola o Wai'anae. Nanakuli Stream.

On the next Jordan's Journal, Representative Jo Jordan (District 45 - Waianae, Makaha, Makua) welcomes back Pake Salmon, Communication Coordinator for Ka Wai Ola O Wai'anae, who is joined by Richard Medeiros, Nonpoint Source Pollution Task Force Manager for Ka Wai Ola O Wai'anae.

Photo courtesy of Ka Wai Ola o Wai'anae.

Pake and Richard explain Ka Wai Ola O Wai'anae's mission: to stop illegal dumping and nonpoint source pollution along the Waianae coast. They recently received a $300,000 grant from the EPA to help achieve their goal. They also tell us a little about the organization and how we can get involved. Ka Wai Ola O Wai'anae has four task forces: Commercial, Residential - Nanakuli, Residential - Waianae, and Nonpoint Source Pollution. Members of the public are welcome to join the task force of their choice or serve on an advisory committee. 

Photo courtesy of Ka Wai Ola o Wai'anae. Makua Bay

Nonpoint source pollution generally comes from land runoff and precipitation. Rain water picks up contaminants like toxic chemicals, paint, fertilizer, and bacteria, eventually carrying them to streams and the ocean. The results can be devastating. An 8th grade boy received a staff infection in his foot that resulted in a permanent deformity due to nonpoint source pollution in Pokai Bay. 

Photo courtesy of Ka Wai Ola o Wai'anae.

Richard and Pake make it clear that it will take the entire community to put an end to illegal dumping and nonpoint source pollution in Waianae. If you would like to help, the best way to contact Ka Wai Ola O Wai'anae is through their Facebook page, here is a link.

This episode airs on Olelo, Channel 54 on Sunday, February 19, 2012, 8:30 p.m.


The show will be rebroadcast on Olelo, Channel 54 on Monday, February 20, 2012 and Monday, February 27, 2012 at 1:00 p.m.

You can also watch the full episode on Rep. Jordan's Vimeo channel here.

Honoring a Local Hero

SPC Barut and his family joined by Reps. Har, Aquino, and Cullen

The wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have resulted in more than 50,000 of our service women and men returning home after having been wounded in action. The number itself is staggering and each of these courageous Americans deserves our gratitude and appreciation for their sacrifice. Reps. Henry Aquino and Ty Cullen (Chair and Vice Chair of the Committee on Public Safety and Military Affairs) took the time to recognize and honor Waipahu native, Purple Heart and Combat Action Badge recipient SPC Edward Barut.

Rep. Aquino and Rep. Cullen presenting SPC Barut with a House Resolution

On October 26, 2011, SPC Barut's convoy was ambushed twice while traveling through Afghanistan's Tangi Valley. The complex attack by insurgents included the use of rocket propelled grenades, improvised explosive devices, and small arms fire. The 45 minute battle left 8 American soldiers, including SPC Barut, wounded.

Speaker Say thanking SPC Barut

SPC Barut was joined at the Capitol by his family and fiance. After Rep. Aquino presented SPC Barut with a House Resolution and Certificate recognizing his sacrifice to the nation, Speaker Say ordered a recess to allow members of the house to personally thank SPC Barut on the House Floor.

Rep. Sam Lee (May 16, 1930 – February 10, 2012)

Samuel Lee NR

Rep. Brower Judges the 2012 Miss Diamond Head Pageant

Rep. Brower brought the leather but not the lyrics this time— with Miss Hawaii 2011 Lauren Cheape.

Earlier this month, Rep. Brower accepted the invitation to be a judge for the Miss Diamond Head and Ala Moana Scholarship Program, preliminary pageants to Miss Hawaii 2012 and Miss America 2013.

Other judges included representatives of Hawaii Pacific University, Whole Foods, Halau Na Maka O Ka Laua'e and Mister Hawaii Manhunt International 2011.

Rep. Tom Brower (Waikiki/ Ala Moana) joined by panel judges at the Miss Oahu, Waikiki, Diamond Head and Ala Moana Pageants held Feb. 4 at the Japanese Cultural Center. 

The pageant contestants were judged on their readiness to represent Hawaii, ability to grow and be a team player, and whether they were up for the challenge— as exemplified in the swimsuit, evening gown, talent and platform question rounds.

 "We should have a pageant where looks don't count—oh, yeah. We have the elections." Rep. Brower

As a legislator, Representative Tom Brower is inspired by beauty pageants, which are like elections for attractive, ambitious women— without the sign-waving.

The winners:

Miss Oahu: Carissa Kitaoka (Piano/ Vocal)

Miss Waikiki: Sarah Correia (Hula)

Miss Diamond Head: Skyler Kamaka (Hula)

Miss Ala Moana: Courtney Gaddis (Piano)

To see the winners' picture or for more information: http://www.missoahu.org/index.html

Hawaiian Affairs

Leialoha “Rocky” Kaluhiwa testifies in support of HB2806

The Committee on Hawaiian Affairs and the Committee on Water, Land, & Ocean Resources reconvened yesterday to announce their decisions on several pieces of legislation, including the closely watched HB2521, which would transfer Kaka'ako Makai lands to the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. The Committees deferred the measure and will wait for the Senate version of the bill to cross over into the house before taking a vote.

The Committee on Hawaiian Affairs adopted multiple pieces of legislation designed to enhance the well-being of Native Hawaiians as well as the state as a whole. Among these bills were HB2806, establishing an aha moku advisory committee within DLNR; HB2807, requiring a comprehensive financial audit of the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands; and HB2809, designating October as "Kalo Appreciation Month."

Chair Hanohano taking the DoE to task for their lack of support of HB2875

HB2875, requiring reading, math, science, and other assessments administered to students in grades three through six of the department of education's Hawaiian language immersion program to be developed originally in the Hawaiian language, was also adopted by the Committee. The bill received a tremendous outpouring of support from individual citizens, various community organizations, and the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. The only testimony that was not in support of HB2875 came from the Department of Education, whose representative, Cara Tanimura, said, "we would support the bill provided it doesn't impact the budget." Chair Hanohano took exception to the manner in which the DoE handles Native Hawaiian Affairs and gave them a sharp rebuke which was applauded by Rep. Gene Ward.

The Senate Committee on Hawaiian Affairs will announce its decision on its version of the Kaka'ako Makai land transfer on Monday, February 13th. The announcement can be viewed here. 

Investment in Product

Leaders of the tourism industry came with clear messages to share with House lawmakers Monday at an informational briefing with the Tourism Committee: more money is needed for marketing Hawaii at more globally competitive levels and taxing complimentary hotel rooms hurts the industry.

The informational briefing was held to discuss the “Tourism Industry’s Major Pocketbook Issues”. Invited to the hearing were representatives from the Hawaii Tourism Authority, the Waikiki Improvement Association, and the hotel industry.

"We scheduled this briefing to learn more about the history of tourism taxes in Hawaii and hear from some of the hotel industry leaders who often can't come to the Capitol," said Rep. Tom Brower, chair of the House Tourism Committee. "We wanted to know how our tourism laws are affecting their properties."

Compared to previous years, 2011 was a good year for tourism in Hawaii. However, despite the rise in visitors and revenues, industry leaders warned lawmakers against getting too comfortable.

“This great year we had in 2011 is fragile,” said Rick Egged, President of the Waikiki Improvement Association. He added that the next years may not be as fruitful.

Like his other colleagues mentioned in testimony, Egged said that 2011 was a good year for a variety of reasons, including uncontrollable factors that swayed in Hawaii’s favor. The first of which is the favorable exchange rate for international visitors, the second being the increase of airline destinations from Honolulu.

What can be controlled - and has been a success - is the “investment in product (infrastructure)”, the marketing efforts made by the state, and the amount of cultural and sporting events held throughout the year, he said. However, the state must constantly improve its product and marketing strategies to remain competitive.

Reiterated by many of the testifiers at the briefing was the fact that Hawaii’s infrastructure - specifically parks, beaches, and bathrooms – must be improved. A representative from HTA mentioned that in surveys of Hawaii visitors this category is always rated the lowest.

It was clear that the tourism industry representatives at the informational briefing were on a mission to educate lawmakers on the industry's financial issues and gain support for the measures currently being vetted at the Legislature.

A Senate bill (SB490) moving through the process will increase funding for HTA marketing efforts by $2 million every year until 2015. Last year HTA spent $80 million on the marketing of Hawaii. The measure advanced from the Senate Tourism Committee and will cross over to the House for consideration.

Lowell Kalapa, from the Tax Foundation of Hawaii, opined on the new law passed last session that imposes a flat $10 transient accommodation tax on complimentary rooms. This law is “not helping the industry to survive,” he said.

Hotels are known to offer complimentary room packages and promotions to entice guests to stay at their property, and sometimes offer complimentary rooms  to charity organizations. Industry leaders noted that hotels leverage their comp rooms for a substantial return on investment, but they have seen a decrease in comp rooms given since the new law was enacted.

David Carey, from the Outrigger Enterprises Group, told lawmakers that taxing complimentary rooms are not going to achieve the State’s revenue goals, but it does affect the hotel industry's bottom line.

Rep. Tom Brower said that the Tourism Committee wants to look into the complimentary room tax. "Complimentary rooms are used to promote Hawaii as a visitor destination," he stated. "If less complimentary rooms are being offered, we may be hindering the desired results the hotel industry strives for in terms of promotion. I'm also concerned about how this affects Hawaii charities. We'll be taking a good look at the measure when it is heard in committee."

Jordan's Journal - Environmental Protection

On the next Jordan's Journal, Representative Jo Jordan (District 45 - Waianae, Makaha, Makua) talks with Debbie Lowe Liang, Project Officer for the Environmental Protection Agency, based in San Francisco, and Pake Salmon, Communication Coordinator for Ka Wai Ola O Waianae.

Debbie Lowe Liang, who was in Hawaii for a few days, talks about the various grants available to community organizations, especially the Community Action for Renewed Environment (CARE).

Photo by Ka Wai Ola O Waianae.  Illegal dumping in the Waianae area.  

Waianae is a community considered "overburdened" with environmental issues, including illegal dumping, landfill, stream pollution and flooding. Pake Salmon and Ka Wai Ola O Waianae have been involved in the grant application to the EPA, through the Pacific American Foundation, which qualified as a CARE project.  It is the only CARE project in the state of Hawaii. They were granted $300,000 and narrowed their focus to two issues - illegal dumping and non-point source pollution.

You can follow Pake Salmon's organization on Facebook here.

The EPA/CARE grant process is extremely competitive.  Throughout the western region, the EPA receives about 25 applications per year and only one is given.  Waianae is now a CARE community and will be able to network with other CARE communities throughout the west, and to share knowledge and information on how to deal with various environmental issues. Learn more by viewing the full episode.

This show airs on Olelo, Channel 54 on Monday, February 13, 2012, 1:00 p.m.

You can also watch the full episode on Rep. Jordan's Vimeo channel here.

Agriculture Update 2/8/12

Today, the Committee on Agriculture adopted several measures aimed at easing the burden on small farmers and bolstering the agriculture industry statewide.

The issue of funding for plant quarantine inspectors and support staff is critical to the agriculture industry as a whole; inadequate inspection leads to grave consequences, especially for neighbor islands. Rep. McKelvey (Lahaina, Kaanapali, Kapalua, Maalaea, Kihei) pointed out that a lack of funding may close Maui's airport inspection facility, crippling the local economy. The Committee unanimously passed HB1940, which would provide $2.4 million to fund 38 inspectors and 3 support staff positions statewide.

For decades, farmers have been struggling with the building permit process. Two bills intending to address the problem, HB1949 and HB2424, were heard by the Committee today. The bills were nearly identical and would allow farmers to build structures without requiring a county permit. HB2424 ended up being adopted and advances to be heard by the Committee on Water, Land, & Ocean Resources.

The state grades agricultural land from “A” very good to “E” not suitable. The land's grade is a key factor in determining what purpose it may be used for. During the hearing, Rep. McKelvey asked the DoA when the last time the Department graded Agricultural land in the state was. The answer: 1972. A lot can happen over the course of four decades. Rep. McKelvey went on to cite several properties that are still classified as grade "A" agricultural land, despite no longer having any water supply or infrastructure. You can expect to hear more regarding a reevaluation of land grades in the near future.

HB1948 was heard last Friday, but decision making was deferred until today. The bill, which received overwhelming support from the community, as well as state agencies, will strengthen existing laws regarding agricultural theft. The Committee unanimously adopted the measure and it will advance to the Committee on Judiciary.

Chair Tsuji announced that there is new language proposed for HB1947, so the bill will be heard again on Friday, February 10th. HB1947 proposed HD1 requires the Department of Agriculture to establish an agricultural safety and security program. Testimony should be based on the Proposed HD1. Friday's hearing announcement can be viewed here.

OHA Kaka'ako Land Bill HB2521

Gov. Abercrombie testifies in support of HB2521

HB2521 is an Administration bill aimed at resolving the State's $200 million debt to the Office of Hawaiian Affairs relating to ceded land receipts between November 7, 1978 and July 1, 2012. The bill would transfer 30 acres of land at Kaka'ako Makai to OHA, permanently settling the debt without the State paying any cash. Governor Abercrombie personally submitted testimony before the Committee on Hawaiian Affairs and the Committee on Water, Land, & Ocean Resources, who held a joint session to address HB2521.

There was overwhelming support for the measure from the administration, OHA, numerous native Hawaiian organizations, and the community at large. Despite the strong support, questions still remain regarding critical aspects of the legislation. The primary concern is whether or not the 30 acres of land at Kaka'ako Makai have a high enough value to satisfy the court decision. Environmental sensitivity led to a moratorium on residential development on the the land in question. This prohibition devalues the land by restricting potential revenue streams. In an effort to give lawmakers additional time to resolve this issue and more, decision making on the bill was deferred by Chairs Hanohano and Chang.

A standing-room only crowd attended the hearing

The Boards will make their decision and vote on HB2521 Thursday, February 8th at 11:15am in room 329 of the Capitol. The hearing notice may be viewed here.

The Kaka'ako Makai land that HB2521 would award to OHA

Agriculture Update

Hawaii Farmers Union President Glenn Martinez testifies in favor of HB2667

Three bills were adopted by the Committee on Agriculture today, all of which were heard during a joint session with the Committee on Economic Revitalization & Business. Bills HB2151, HB2317, and HB2432 represent significant steps toward developing our agriculture industry by helping local farmers.

Introduced by Rep. Chang, HB2151 will allow farmers to sell products from their farms on their farms through the establishment of farm stands. HB2317, which was introduced by Rep. McKelvey, will repeal the prohibition against overnight accommodations as part of agricultural tourism activities on farms. These two bills will provide farmers with an opportunity to bring in much needed, additional revenue, revenue that may be the difference in staying in business or not.

An administration bill, HB2432, will exempt the purchase of fresh meats, produce, animals, and plants by the government from the Hawaii Public Procurement Code. This measure will enable school cafeterias to use local ingredients to feed our children, providing a boost to the local economy while increasing the nutritional value of school meals.

Many of the bills that were deferred received a great deal of attention and heated testimony. Introduced by Speaker Say, HB1827 included a 1 cent fee on each pound of green coffee beans grown in or imported into the state to support an effort to eradicate the coffee borer beetle as well as other provisions aimed at dealing with the potentially devastating threat posed by the insects. The bill was ultimately deferred, but money will be taken from the Barrel Tax to help fund a coffee borer beetle eradication program.

The Department of Agriculture and Hawaii Farm Bureau Federation joined together in strong opposition to HB2301 and HB2667, which were both deferred indefinitely by Chair Tsuji. HB2301, submitted by Rep. Carroll, closely mirrors HB2703 in setting a mandate to double the state's consumption of locally produced food by 2020. The DoA and HFBF agreed with the bill in theory, but opposed the prohibition measure in the bill. Their contention is that prohibiting landowners from reclassifying agricultural lands of 25 or more acres for non-agricultural purposes is not a suitable penalty if landowners fail to meet the goal of doubling our local food consumption from 10% to 20% in 7 years.

Introduced by Chair Tsuji, HB2667, would authorize the DoA to lease land under its jurisdiction to qualified farmers at a reduced rate for food production. Despite testifying several times before the Committee in favor of doubling our local food consumption, both the DoA and the HFBF, opposed this piece of legislation. Their testimony was critical of  HB2667 because it would discriminate against other forms of agriculture, which include GMO seed corn and biofuel crop production. DoA Chair Russell Kokubun went on to say that the Department "does not favor food production."

Another bill introduced by Chair Tsuji, HB1948, received unanimous support from the Committee and from testimony. The bill was deferred for decision making until February 8th to provide lawmakers time to finalize some of the language before adoption. The bill would strengthen laws concerning agricultural theft.

The next hearing for the Committee on Agriculture will be on Monday, February 6, at 11:15am in Conference Room 325 of the Capitol. The agenda can be found here.

Pro Bowl Trophy

 Football fan/ Waikiki Representative Tom Brower with Representatives Sylvia Luke and Scott Saiki, Chief Clerk CJ Leong and NFL Cheerleaders.

Rep. Tom Brower, Chair of the House Tourism committee, joined the Pro Bowl Cheerleaders at Wolfgang's Steakhouse (Waikiki), the official home of the NFL Pro Bowl Trophy on January 23, 2012.

While there, he ran into Reps. Sylvia Luke and Scott Saiki and Chief Clerk CJ Leong, who were having lunch at the restaurant.

"The Pro Bowl Trophy, which was on public display at Wolfgang’s from January 24th -28th, was a great way to kick off Sunday's NFL Pro Bowl event at Aloha Stadium," said Rep. Brower.

For more information on NFL Pro Bowl Hawaii 2012, please visit http://www.nfl.com/probowl.

George Greene to Appear on Kukui Connection

On the next edition of Kukui Connection, Rep. Marilyn Lee welcomes Healthcare Association of Hawaii President and CEO George Greene. Originally from South Carolina, Mr. Greene has been in Hawai'i representing the HAH for the last 3 years. Mr Greene gives poignant insight into the healthcare industry, which is extremely valuable now with the increase in healthcare costs looming over the state.

Mr. Greene makes it clear that the biggest problem facing the healthcare industry in Hawaii is reimbursement, particularly with Medicare and Medicaid. He goes on to assure the public that while the closing of both Hawaii Medical Center facilities has put a strain on the system (particularly concerning organ transplants), there is still adequate healthcare coverage for the state. Rep. Lee and Mr. Greene take time to discuss our having a shortage of experienced nurses while having a surplus of recent nursing degree graduates with no experience and offer a glimpse of what the future may hold when it comes to staffing nurses.

You can find out more information about the HAH, as well as what legislation they endorse for this session, on their website, www.hah.org. The episode airs on 'Olelo 54 tonight, Friday, February 3rd at 8:30pm and will be rebroadcast on Sunday, February 5 and Sunday, February 12 at 4pm. 

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.