Hawaii State Legislature, 2007
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Categories: Hawaii | Hawaii legislature | 2007 Hawaii State Legislature
Members of the 2007 Hawaii State Legislature
Hawaii State Legislature: Hawaii State Senate (Dem:20 Rep:5)(Wikipedia)
- District 1 (Hamakua, S. Hilo): Lorraine Inouye (D)
- District 2 (S. Hilo, Puna): Russell Kokubun (D)
- District 3 (Kohala, Kona, Ka'u): Paul Whalen (R)
- District 4 (Wailuku, Kahului, Spreckelsville-Paia): Shan Tsutsui (D)
- District 5 (W. Maui, S. Maui): Rosalyn Baker (D)
- District 6 (E. Maui, Moloka'i, Lana'i): Kalani English (D)
- District 7 (Kaua'i, Ni'ihau): Gary Hooser (D) Majority Leader.
- District 8 (Wai‘alae Iki, Hawai‘i Kai): Sam Slom (R)
- District 9 (Kaimuki, Kapahulu, Palolo, St. Louis Heights, Maunalani Heights): Les Ihara, Jr. (D)
- District 10 (McCully, Moiliili, Manoa, Makiki): Brian Taniguchi (D)
- District 11 (McCully, Tantalus, Makiki, Punchbowl): Carol Fukunaga (D)
- District 12 (Waikiki, Ala Moana, Downtown): Gordon Trimble (R)
- District 13 (Sand Island, Dowsett Highlands, Pauoa, Nuuanu, Puunui, Liliha): Suzanne Chun Oakland (D)
- District 14 (Kalihi, Kapalama, Alewa Heights, Fort Shafter, Halawa Valley): Donna Mercado Kim (D) Senate Vice-President.
- District 15 (Ford Island, Moanalua, Salt Lake, Mapunapuna, Hickam, Pearl Harbor, Foster Village): Norman Sakamoto (D)
- District 16 (Halawa Heights, Aiea Heights, Newtown, Waiau, Pacific Palisades, Waimalu): David Ige (D)
- District 17 (Mililani, Waipi'o): Ron Menor (D)
- District 18 (Pearl City, Waipahu, Manana): Clarence Nishihara (D)
- District 19 (Royal Kunia, Makakilo, Kapolei, Kalaeloa, Waipahu, Waikele): Mike Gabbard (R) => (D) changes party affiliation Aug 2007.
- District 20 (Waipahu, Honouliuli, Ewa): Willie Espero (D)
- District 21 (Nanakuli, Makaha): Colleen Hanabusa (D) Senate President.
- District 22 (Mililani Mauka, Wahiawa, Schofield Barracks, North Shore): Robert Bunda (D)
- District 23 (Kane'ohe, Kahuku): Clayton Hee (D)
- District 24 (Kaneohe, Kailua): Jill Tokuda (D)
- District 25 (Kailua, Lanikai, Waimanalo, Northwest Hawaiian Islands): Fred Hemmings (R)
During the 2006 election cycle, the following senate seats saw changes:
- District 19 (Royal Kunia, Makakilo, Kapolei, Kalaeloa, Waipahu, Waikele): Brian Kanno (D) Kanno retired.
- District 24 (Kaneohe, Kailua): Bob Hogue (R). Hogue quit his seat to run for the Hawaii congressional district 2 seat vacated by Ed Case.
Hawaii State Legislature: Hawaii State House of Representatives (Dem:43 Rep:8)(Wikipedia)
- District 1 (Hilo, Hamakua, Waimea):Dwight Takamine (D)
- District 2 (Piihonua, Kaumana):Jerry Chang (D)
- District 3 (Hilo, Kea'au, Mt. View, Glenwood):Clifton Tsuji (D)
- District 4 (Puna):Faye Hanohano (D)
- District 5 (Ka'u, S. Kona):Robert Herkes (D)
- District 6 (Kailua, Keauhou):Josh Green (D)
- District 7 (N. Kona, S. Kohala):Cindy Evans (D)
- District 8 (Wailuku, Waiehu):Joseph Souki (D)
- District 9 (Kahului, Pa'ia):Bob Nakasone (D)
- District 10 (W. Maui): Angus McKelvey (D)
- District 11 (S. Maui):Joe Bertram, III (D)
- District 12 (Upcountry Maui): Kyle Yamashita D)
- District 13 (E. Maui, Moloka'i, Lana'i): Mele Carroll (D)
- District 14 (Kapa'a, Hanalei):Hermina Morita (D)
- District 15 (Lihu'e, Koloa):James Kunane Tokioka (D)
- District 16 (Po'ipu, Waimea, Ni'ihau):Roland D. Sagum, III (D)
- District 17 (Hawai'i Kai, Kalama Valley):Gene Ward (R)
- District 18 (Kahala, 'Aina Haina, Kuli'ou'ou):Lyla Berg (D)
- District 19 (Kaimuki, Kahala, Wai'alae Iki):Barbara Marumoto (R)
- District 20 (St. Louis Hts., Palolo, Wilhelmina Rise):Calvin K. Y. Say (D) Speaker of the House of Representatives
- District 21 (Kapahulu, Diamond Head): Scott Nishimoto (D)
- District 22 (McCully, Pawa'a):Scott Saiki (D)
- District 23 (Waikiki, Ala Moana, Kaka'ako): Thomas M. Brower (D)
- District 24 (Manoa):Kirk Caldwell (D) Majority Leader
- District 25 (Makiki, Tantalus):Della Au Belatti (D)
- District 26 (Punchbowl, Pacific Hts., Nu'uanu Valley):Sylvia Luke (D)
- District 27 (Liliha, Pu'unui):Corinne Ching (R)
- District 28 (Iwilei, Downtown, Makiki):Karl Rhoads (D)
- District 29 (Kalihi, Sand Island):Joey Manahan (D)
- District 30 (Moanalua, Kalihi Valley, 'Alewa):John M. Mizuno (D)
- District 31 (Salt Lake, Tripler):Glenn Wakai (D)
- District 32 (Aliamanu, Airport, Mapunapuna):Lynn Finnegan (R)
- District 33 (Halawa, 'Aiea, Pearlridge):Blake Oshiro (D) Majority floor leader
- District 34 (Pearl City, Newtown, Royal Summit):Mark Takai (D)
- District 35 (Waipahu, Crestview):Alex Sonson (D)
- District 36 (Pearl City, Palisades):Roy Takumi (D)
- District 37 (Mililani, Waipi'o):Ryan Yamane (D)
- District 38 (Mililani/Mauka):Marilyn Lee (D)
- District 39 (Wahiawa):Marcus Oshiro (D)
- District 40 (Makakilo, Kapolei, Royal Kunia):Sharon E. Har (D)
- District 41 (Waipahu, Village Park, Waikele):Jon Riki Karamatsu (D) Vice speaker
- District 42 (Waipahu, Honouliuli, 'Ewa): Rida Cabanilla Arakawa (D) Vice Speaker of the House.
- District 43 ('Ewa Beach, West Loch): Kymberly Pine (R)
- District 44 (Nanakuli, Honokai Hale):Karen Awana (R)
- District 45 (Wai'anae, Makaha):Maile Shimabukuro (D)
- District 46 (Kahuku, N. Shore, Schofield):Michael Magaoay (D)
- District 47 (Ha'iku, Kahalu'u, La'ie):Colleen Meyer (R)
- District 48 (Kane'ohe):Ken Ito (D)
- District 49 (Maunawili, Enchanted Lake, Kane'ohe):Pono Chong (D)
- District 50 (Kailua, Mokapu):Cynthia Thielen (R)
- District 51 (Waimanalo, Lanikai):Tommy Waters (D)
The following representative seats changed during the 2006 election cycle. (Net loss of two seats for the Republicans.):
- District 4 (Puna):Helene Hale (D) Hale retired from the legislature.
- District 10 (W. Maui): Kam Tanaka (D) Tanaka was defeated in the 2006 primary.
- District 11 (S. Maui):Chris Halford (R) Halford retired from the legislature.
- District 15 (Lihu'e, Koloa):Ezra Kanoho (D) Kanoho retired from the legislature.
- District 16 (Po'ipu, Waimea, Ni'ihau):Bertha Kawakami (D) Kawakami retired from the legislature.
- District 17 (Hawai'i Kai, Kalama Valley):Bud Stonebraker (R) Stonebraker retired from the legislature.
- District 23 (Waikiki, Ala Moana, Kaka'ako): Anne V. Stevens (R) was defeated in the 2006 general election.
- District 25 (Makiki, Tantalus):Brian Schatz (D) Schatz quit his seat to run for the Hawaii congressional district 2 seat that was vacated by Ed Case.
- District 28 (Iwilei, Downtown, Makiki):Beverly Wolff Harbin (D) Harbin was defeated in the 2006 primary.
- District 29 (Kalihi, Sand Island):Felipe Abinsay (D) Abinsay retired from the legislature.
- District 30 (Moanalua, Kalihi Valley, 'Alewa):Dennis Arakaki (D) Arakaki retired from the legislature.
- District 40 (Makakilo, Kapolei, Royal Kunia):Mark Moses (R) Moses was defeated in the 2006 general election.
- District 44 (Nanakuli, Honokai Hale):Michael Puamamo Kahikina (D) Kahikina was defeated in the 2006 general election.
Related links
External links
- Hawaii State Legislature
- Hawaii State Legislature Legislative Reference Bureau
- Your Guide to the State House Honolulu Star-Bulletin, January 14, 2007.
- Hawaii State House of Representatives
- Your Guide to the State Senate Honolulu Star-Bulletin, January 14, 2007.
- Hawaii State Senate
Honolulu Advertiser Legislative Updates
- Advertiser staff. Legislature 2007 update -- January 28, 2007
- Advertiser staff. Legislature 2007 update -- February 4, 2007
- Advertiser staff. Legislature 2007 update -- February 11, 2007
- Advertiser staff. Legislature 2007 update -- February 18, 2007
- Advertiser staff. Legislature 2007 update -- February 18, 2007
- Advertiser staff. Legislature 2007 update -- March 4, 2007
- Advertiser staff. Legislature 2007 update -- March 18, 2007
- Advertiser staff. Legislature 2007 update -- March 25, 2007
- Advertiser staff. Legislature 2007 update -- April 1, 2007
- Advertiser staff. Legislature 2007 update -- April 8, 2007
- Advertiser staff. Legislature 2007 update -- April 15, 2007
- Advertiser staff. Legislature 2007 update -- April 22, 2007
- Advertiser staff. Legislature 2007 update -- April 29, 2007
Election 2006
- Derrick DePledge and Gordon Y.K. Pang. Parties look forward to November Honolulu Advertiser, September 25, 2006.
- Gunter, Ford. Democrats sweep Kaua‘i’s state House races Kauai Garden Island News, November 8, 2006.
- Tanji, Melissa and Sna Nicolas, Claudine. Maui County voters opt for all Democrats at Legislature Maui News, November 8, 2006.
- Kua, Crystal. Dems' control of Legislature tightens Honolulu Star-Bulletin, November 8, 2006.
- Related links:
Organization
- White, Doug. House and Senate reorganizations moving quickly Poinography, November 15, 2006.
- Borreca, Richard. Hanabusa takes over as Senate president -- 2 key committee leaders change Honolulu Star-Bulletin, November 15, 2006.
- DePledge, Derrick. State Senate has new leader Honolulu Advertiser, November 15, 2006.
- Harju, Adam. Hooser takes reins in Senate The Garden Island, November 15, 2006.
- Maui House members get leadership roles Maui News, November 19, 2006.
- White, Doug. House organization trickles out Poinography!, November 20, 2006.
- Shapiro, Treena. Newly elected get key duties Honolulu Advertiser, November 24, 2006.
- Shapiro, Treena. Women in leadership after Senate shake-up Honolulu Advertiser, January 18, 2007.
- White, Doug. Hanabusa claims to have to reigned in Chairs Poinography!, January 18, 2007.
Cost
- Borreca, Richard. Cost to run Legislature jumps by 51 percent Honolulu Star-Bulletin, January 24, 2007.
- OUR OPINION: Isle lawmakers need to rein in expenses THE ISSUE: The budget for legislative operations is up 42 percent from last year. Honolulu Star-Bulletin, January 26, 2007.
- Star Bulletin editorial wrong on budget facts -- The Honolulu Star Bulletin editorial slamming the legislature today contained a number of significant factual errors. Official Blog of Hawaii State Senator Gary L. Hooser, January 26, 2007.
- Star-Bulletin staff. Legislature OKs $27.3M for operations Honolulu Star-Bulletin, January 28, 2007.
- Reyes, B.J. House OKs $30M for Legislature -- Republicans fail in a try to cut $2 million from the House's operational budget Honolulu Star-Bulletin, February 1, 2007.
Prioritization, Bipartisanship
- State needs focus on homes, schools, health Honolulu Advertiser, November 26, 2006.
- OUR OPINION: Legislators should accept invitation to middle ground THE ISSUE: The governor has described the election results as a mandate for both her and the Legislature. Honolulu Star-Bulletin, December 6, 2006.
- Reyes, B.J. Isle politicians in conciliatory mood -- With the elections over, officials expect the Legislature and the governor to build on compromise Honolulu Star-Bulletin, January 1, 2007.
- DePledge, Derrick. What will legislators do for us this year? Honolulu Advertiser, January 14, 2007.
- Tanji, Edwin. Senators look to session’s priorities Maui News, January 16, 2007.
- Derrick DePledge, Johnny Brannon and Treena Shapiro. Housing, energy among priorities for lawmakers Honolulu Advertiser, January 21, 2007.
- Borreca, Richard. On Politics: So much for cordiality at the Capitol Honolulu Star-Bulletin, February 4, 2007.
Factions in the legislature
- Borreca, Richard. On Politics: Local scene offers ‘who’s gonna do what’ intrigue Honolulu Star-Bulletin, October 8, 2006.
- White, Doug. Scouting for possible Lege power struggles Poinography!, October 8, 2006.
- DePledge, Derrick. Inouye sorry for involving legislator in feud Honolulu Advertiser, December 10, 2006.
- Borreca, Richard. On Politics: In the House, picking sides is part of game Honolulu Star-Bulletin, December 10, 2006.
- Scott K. Saiki and Sylvia J. Luke. Gathering Place: State House needs real reform Honolulu Star-Bulletin, December 31, 2006.
- Reyes, B.J. Dissent surfaces among Democrats on opening day Honolulu Star-Bulletin, January 18, 2007.
- OUR OPINION: House dissidents might serve public's interest THE ISSUE: Three Democratic lawmakers broke with tradition in criticizing the House speaker on opening day. Honolulu Star-Bulletin, January 19, 2007.
- Borreca, Richard. Speakers' foes draw from a rich past Honolulu Star-Bulletin, January 21, 2007.
Opening Day
- DePledge, Derrick. Lawmakers target economy, housing Honolulu Advertiser, January 18, 2007.
- Hanabusa, Colleen. Challenges of Moving Hawaii Forward in the 21st Century (Legislative Opening Day Speech) Hawaii Reporter, January 17, 2007.
- Hemmings, Fred. Carpe Diem! (Legislative Opening Day Speech) Hawaii Reporter, January 17, 2007.
- Say, Calvin. Focusing on Hawaii's Biggest Challenges (Legislative Opening Day Speech) Hawaii Reporter, January 17, 2007.
- Finnegan, Lynn. Shaping the Hawaii We Live, Work and Play In (Legislative Opening Day Speech) Hawaii Reporter, January 17, 2007.
Residents hope
- Shapiro, Treena. Residents propose agenda for lawmakers Honolulu Advertiser, January 17, 2007.
Wrap-up of the 2007 legislative session
- Star-Bulletin staff. Nominees nixed, surplus spent -- Public employees get raises, Lingle's picks get rejected Honolulu Star-Bulletin, May 4, 2007.
- Borreca, Richard. Young, White and unwanted -- The finished session is notable for rejection of Lingle nominees Honolulu Star-Bulletin, May 4, 2007.
- Reyes, B.J. Squabbles spell survival for a veto -- A tax break for local airlines fails, and Lingle wins on voting Honolulu Star-Bulletin, May 4, 2007.
- Star-Bulletin staff. Tax refund, aerospace, ethanol top '07 session Honolulu Star-Bulletin, May 4, 2007.
- Leaders have little to crow about at legislative session's end Honolulu Advertiser, May 6, 2007.
- Hooser, Gary. Isle GOP should be more cooperative, not critical Honolulu Star-Bulletin, May 31, 2007.
Vetoes and Overrides
- Statements of Objection (Veto Messages) (Governor of the State of Hawai'i)
- Hogue, Bob. Governor was correct to veto bill abandoning Electoral College Honolulu Star-Bulletin, April 29, 2007.
- Derrick DePledge and Treena Shapiro. Lingle vetoes don't hold up Honolulu Advertiser, May 2, 2007.
- Caldwell, Kirk. No 'power grab' by Hawaii Democrats Honolulu Star-Bulletin, May 5, 2007.
- Niesse, Mark. 69 state laws become active July 1 Honolulu Advertiser, June 24, 2007.
- Borreca, Richard. Democrats deny governor's request to amend bills Honolulu Star-Bulletin, July 6, 2007.
- Reyes, B.J. Let Lingle have vetoes, groups ask -- Two county mayors ask lawmakers not to override the governor as she cans measures Honolulu Star-Bulletin, July 7, 2007.
- Aiona, James "Duke". Flawed bills need a fix, not a fight Honolulu Star-Bulletin, July 8, 2007.
- Treena Shapiro and Derrick DePledge. Gov. Lingle may veto task force funding Honolulu Advertiser, July 10, 2007.
- Richard Borreca and B.J. Reyes. Override session is called political show by both sides Honolulu Star-Bulletin, July 10, 2007.
- State Lawmakers Override 11 Of Lingle's 27 Vetoes -- Lingle Says She Will Not Fund Pedestrian Measure The Hawai'i Channel, July 10, 2007.
- Borreca, Richard and Reyes, B.J. 11 vetoes overridden -- Sixteen of Lingle's vetoes stand as a bill to bring back isle felons ignites a last-minute debateHonolulu Star-Bulletin, July 11, 2007.
Adult Abuse
- Perez, Rob. Adult-abuse bill advances Honolulu Advertiser, February 9, 2007.
- Perez, Rob. More elder abuse won't be spotted, bill supporters say Honolulu Advertiser, May 3, 2007.
- Bill status: became law on July 1, 2007
Affordable housing, homelessness
- Kukui Gardens: $25 million appropriated.
- Permit exemptions: Establish three-year pilot program to exempt affordable housing rental projects on private or state lands from various land-use permitting requirements. This is a House Democratic proposal. [1]
- Kua, Crystal. Plan eases affordable-home laws -- Democrats propose low leases and developer exemptions Honolulu Star-Bulletin, January 19, 2007.
- Niesse, Mark. Lawmakers float ideas to address housing crisis -- The difficulty is trying to raise wages while holding down costs Honolulu Star-Bulletin, January 21, 2007.
- OUR OPINION: Housing plan should be a non-starter THE ISSUE: A proposal would exempt lower-cost rental developments from multiple regulations. Honolulu Star-Bulletin, January 22, 2007.
- Another House committee hides its actions from the public Disappeared News, February 11, 2007.
- Anti-speculation tax: Start a graduated increase in the capital gains tax on properties, depending on the length of time a property is held. This is a House Democratic proposal. [2]
- Niesse, Mark. Lawmakers float ideas to address housing crisis -- The difficulty is trying to raise wages while holding down costs Honolulu Star-Bulletin, January 21, 2007.*Hoover, Will and Perez, Rob. Affordable rentals key, Wai'anae homeless say Honolulu Advertiser, October 23, 2006.
- DePledge, Derrick. Sustainable housing would get green light Honolulu Advertiser, January 30, 2007.
Agriculture
- SB 837: Authorizes the Agribusiness Development Corp. to purchase agricultural land in Kunia and Ewa from private parties; enables the corporation to contract with banks to provide lease management services; allows corporation to lease agricultural lands in Kunia and Ewa for as long as 55 years. Vetoed by Governor Lingle.
Bills at crossover deadline
- Legislators tackle cost of living -- Key measures are still alive as the crossover deadline nears Honolulu Star-Bulletin, March 6, 2007.
- Shapiro, Treena. Make-or-break time for 3 contentious bills Honolulu Advertiser, March 6, 2007.
Uniform Building Code
- Passed into law: "Creation of a nine-member state Building Code Council to work with the counties to adopt a statewide building code that includes hurricane-resistant design standards. The law will take effect July 1." [3]
Campaign finance reform/Public financing of elections
- Borreca, Richard. Campaign finance reform bill in House proposes public funding Honolulu Star-Bulletin, February 7, 2007.
- Borreca, Richard. On Politics: Clean elections face political exorcism Honolulu Star-Bulletin, February 11, 2007.
- Senate committee breaks the rules, hijacks clean election bill Disappeared News, February 15, 2007.
- Miller, Richard S. Publicly funded campaigns put voters ahead of lobbyists Honolulu Star-Bulletin, February 18, 2007.
- Voter Owned Hawaii and others. 'Voter owned' elections would boost participation Honolulu Star-Bulletin, March 20, 2007.
Charter Schools
- Da Silva, Alexandre. Legislature focuses on charter schools -- Board members are opposing legislation giving the institutions greater autonomy Honolulu Star-Bulletin, February 15, 2007.
Civil Unions
- Borreca, Richard. Bills would allow civil unions for gays -- "I think it is past time to have the conversation," one senator says Honolulu Star-Bulletin, January 28, 2007.
- White, Doug. Civil union legislation introduced at Legislature — again Poinography!, January 28, 2007.
- White, Doug. So, where’s the problem, exactly? Poinography!, February 12, 2007.
- Shapiro, Treena. House reconsiders same-sex benefits Honolulu Advertiser, March 7, 2007.
Coffee labeling
- Consillio, Kristen. Coffee labeling dispute flares anew -- Some Big Isle farmers want at least 75 percent Kona coffee for the Kona name to be on the label Honolulu Star-Bulletin, January 31, 2007.
- Stephens Media. Accept no substitutes -- Bill eyed to stiffen regulations on Kona coffee branding Hawaii Tribune-Herald, February 8, 2007.
Counties' wish lists
- Dingeman, Robbie. Housing, healthcare on mayors' wish lists Honolulu Advertiser, January 17, 2007.
- Reyes, B.J. Counties seek state funds for health care and housing -- Mayor Mufi Hannemann says EMS funding is short $2 million Honolulu Star-Bulletin, January 17, 2007.
Death with Dignity
- Reyes, B.J. House panel to mull 'Death with Dignity' -- No further action is being scheduled for a similar Senate bill Honolulu Star-Bulletin, January 31, 2007.
- White, Doug. Death with dignity bill gets referred to Health committee Poinography!, January 31, 2007.
- Shapiro, Treena. Doctor-aided suicide back on legislative front burner Honolulu Advertiser, February 7, 2007.
Disaster preparedness
- Planning Commission: Set up a seven-member commission in the Department of Accounting and General Services to develop a disaster preparedness plan for the state. This is a House Democratic proposal. [4]
- Cook Lauer, Nancy. Lawmaker wants better response -- Planned preparations for man-made and natural disasters to be discussed Hawai'i Tribune-Herald, January 9, 2007.
- Huynh, Lisa. State disaster preparedness office is eyed Hawaii Tribune-Herald, February 10, 2007.
Education
- Huynh, Lisa. Legislators want education upgrade Hawaii Tribune-Herald, January 17, 2007.
Energy
- Biofuels Development Revolving Loan Fund - Create the Biofuels Development Revolving Loan Fund to provide seed money for commercially viable biofuel development projects. This is a House Democratic proposal. [5]
- Public Utilities Commission: Restructure the PUC to improve its operations, add appropriate staffing and provide funding for the costs. This is a House Democratic proposal. [6]
- Cook Lauer, Nancy. Energy bill gets debated -- Lawmakers discuss best way to get blended gas tax exemption to consumers Hawaii Tribune-Herald, February 7, 2007.
- DePledge, Derrick. Solar water bill shows pitfalls of legislative process Honolulu Advertiser, February 13, 2007.
- Non-ethanol fuel needs wider isle distribution Honolulu Star-Bulletin, April 19, 2007.
- OUR OPINION: Restore ethanol tax exemption and monitor gas pricing THE ISSUE: The Legislature is considering measures to reinstate a tax exemption for ethanol-blended gasoline and to monitor pricing practices. Honolulu Star-Bulletin, April 19, 2007.
Ethics
- Reyes, B.J. Proposal tightens legislative ethics rules Honolulu Star-Bulletin, January 27, 2007.
- Let's push for real ethics reform at Capitol Honolulu Advertiser, February 18, 2007.
- Bill on ethics won't reform anything Honolulu Advertiser, March 6, 2007.
- Shapiro, David. VOLCANIC ASH -- Gutting of ethics bill a display of contempt Honolulu Advertiser, March 7, 2007.
Environmental legislation
- Godvin, Tara. Enforcement tops environmentalists' agenda Honolulu Star- Bulletin, January 2, 2007.
Fireworks
- Borreca, Richard. Bill restricts July 4 fireworks -- Personal play, but not public displays, would be banned under the measure Honolulu Star-Bulletin, February 17, 2007.
Global warming
- Douglass, Danielle. Rep. Morita, Thielen Sponsor Screening of 'Inconvenient Truth' at State Capitol Hawaii Reporter, January 17, 2007.
- Leone, Diana. Rising sea levels doom beaches, geologist warns -- A scientist cites Ehukai as a site where erosion is taking a toll Honolulu Star-Bulletin, January 29, 2007.
- Leone, Diana. Hawaii passes law to cap emissions at 1990 levels -- Gov. Lingle has until July 10 to act on the bill, which wins broad bipartisan support Honolulu Star-Bulletin, May 7, 2007.
- Governor Lingle signs into law the Hawaii Global Warming Solutions Act of 2007 (see related dKosopedia article Hawaii Global Warming Solutions Act of 2007)
Health Care
- In General
- Child care law called climax of session -- Health highlights also include money for Medicaid and underfunded facilities Honolulu Star-Bulletin, May 7, 2007.
- Keiki Health Care: Establish three-year pilot program to provide health insurance for poor and low-income children who do not qualify for existing programs. This is a House Democratic bill proposal. [7]
- The Hawaii State Legislature bill to help uninsured children and youths (HB1008 HD2 SD2 CD1) was passed by the legislature and the governor signed it (Act 236) on 30 June 2007. Known as the Keiki Care bill, it will accomplish the following:
- 1. State pays monthly premiums for children enrolled in QUEST-Net (251-300% FPL);
- 2. Create newborns special fund to cover up to $10,000 of health care per eligible uninsured infant who is 0-30 days old;
- 3. Establish free Keiki Care plan for children ineligible for QUEST or Medicaid. Child must live in Hawaii and be continuously uninsured six months (with an exception for children who “income out” of Med-QUEST’s programs); and
- 4. Change Hawaii Revised Statutes so there is household income parity between Immigrant Children’s Plan and Med-QUEST’s State Children’s Health Insurance Program. [8]
- OUR OPINION: Keiki insurance bill shouldn’t be delayed THE ISSUE: The sponsor of health insurance for poor children ineligible for existing programs says flaws in last year's bill have been eliminated. Honolulu Star-Bulletin, January 22, 2007.
- Reyes, B.J. House touts revamped child health-care bill -- Democrats say they have addressed Gov. Lingle's concerns Honolulu Star-Bulletin, January 19, 2007.
- OUR OPINION: Children's health care will put Hawaii on top THE ISSUE: The Legislature has approved a bill that would ensure health coverage for all of the state's children. Honolulu Star-Bulletin, May 6, 2007.
- $100 million/year fund for critical healthcare services.
- DePledge, Derrick. $100 million fund for healthcare proposed Honolulu Advertiser, January 17, 2007.
- House Bill 833, and Senate Bill 1989, reaffirm the independent status of provider agencies and the caregivers and would allow them to continue serving the disabled. [9]
- Etrata, Maria. Gathering Place: Caregivers for disabled face legislative crisis Honolulu Star-Bulletin, February 11, 2007.
- Signed into law 7/6/2007 by Gov. Lingle. [10]
- Restoring health insurance oversight - SB-12
- Consillio, Kristen. Bills target insurance rates -- Seven measures would allow the state to deny certain increases in health insurance costs Honolulu Star-Bulletin, February 9, 2007.
- OUR OPINION: Legislature must restore oversight of health insurance THE ISSUE: Seven bills have been introduced to reinstate a law that expired last year allowing the state to monitor health insurance rates. Honolulu Star-Bulletin, February 12, 2007.
- Consillio, Kristen. Health insurance bill moves ahead Honolulu Star-Bulletin, March 22, 2007.
- OUR OPINION: Restore oversight of insurance rates THE ISSUE: The state's largest health insurer has revealed executive salaries and bonuses. Honolulu Star-Bulletin, March 25, 2007.
- OUR OPINION: Restore oversight of health insurers THE ISSUE: The Legislature is considering reinstating regulation of Hawaii health insurance rates. Honolulu Star-Bulletin, April 12, 2007.
- Miller, Richard S. Stop House from killing best version of health insurance rate oversight bill Honolulu Star-Bulletin, April 18, 2007.
- Health insurance rate regulation in jeopardy -- Isle insurers could raise premiums unchecked as a rule requiring state approval of rates ends Honolulu Star-Bulletin, May 4, 2007.
- Segal, Dave. HMSA to raise rates for 143,000 -- The latest increase, effective July 1, does not require state approval Honolulu Star-Bulletin, May 17, 2007.
- OUR OPINION: Insurance oversight can't come too soon THE ISSUE: Hawaii Medical Service Association's premiums are set to increase in July. Honolulu Star-Bulletin, May 18, 2007.
- SB-12 was passed and signed into law June 13, 2007.
- leaving an unharmed newborn at a hospital, fire station or police station, or with emergency services personnel, within 72 hours of birth
- House Bill 1830: Provides immunity for leaving an unharmed newborn at a hospital, fire station or police station, or with emergency services personnel, within 72 hours of birth. Bill was vetoed by the Governor but overidden by the Legislature. [11]
- Relating to reproductive health
- Raff, Barry. Gathering Place: Support common-sense reproductive health care Honolulu Star-Bulletin, February 12, 2007.
- Wiles, Greg. Insurance-control proposals dying Honolulu Advertiser, March 8, 2007.
- Health care system broken
- Stephens Media. Insurance, state officials discuss physician crisis Hawai'i Tribune-Herald, January 9, 2007.
- Stanton, Karin. Paradise costly for health workers Honolulu Star-Bulletin, January 4, 2007.
- Cook Lauer, Nancy. Hawaii's health care a monster -- Situation likened to a 'nine-headed hydra' Hawaii Tribune-Herald, February 7, 2007.
- Vorsino, Mary. 'Healthcare system is broken' Honolulu Advertiser, February 7, 2007.
- UH Medical School funds from Tobacco Settlement Special Fund
- The bill to help the medical school, SB1283 SD2 HD2, will allow the use of funds from the Rainy Day Fund and the Tobacco Settlement Special Fund to pay for UH Medical School operating expenses in addition to paying debt service for the new medical facility in Kaka‘ako over the next four years has become law.
- Eaton, Kim. Bill to allow doctors to train here -- Big Island residency program's first site would likely be in Hilo Hawaii Tribune-Herald, February 2, 2007.
- Altonn, Helen. Bill to split Maui hospitals raises fears Honolulu Star-Bulletin, March 21, 2007.
- Give protection to patients who need medical marijuana THE ISSUE: A bill that would have given added protection to patients treated by medical marijuana died in the House in this year's session. Honolulu Star-Bulletin, July 7, 2007.
Innovation initiative
- DePledge, Derrick. Lingle outlines initiatives to revamp economy Honolulu Advertiser, January 31, 2007.
- DePledge, Derrick. Retirement fund eyed for capital Honolulu Advertiser, February 4, 2007.
- Niesse, Mark. Lingle's plan for economy takes hits Honolulu Star-Bulletin, March 4, 2007.
Law Enforcement Coalition legislative package
- Park, Gene. Law officers' agenda targets copper theft, domestic abuse -- Stealing copper would become a felony Honolulu Star-Bulletin, January 17, 2007.
Ko Olina tax credit returned
- Kua, Crystal. Ko Olina Resort returns tax credit of $75 million -- Lingle and Hanabusa have different plans for how to use it Honolulu Star-Bulletin, January 18, 2007.
- Gomes, Andrew. Plan: Use $75M for Kaka'ako aquarium Honolulu Advertiser, February 1, 2007.
Ocean resources
- Smith, Cha. Gathering Place: Don't let bad legislation stink up ocean resources Honolulu Star-Bulletin, March 15, 2007.
- Leone, Diana. Senate weakens fishermen-backed bill -- A compromise is in the works to allow public rule-making input Honolulu Star-Bulletin, March 22, 2007.
Pedestrian Safety
- Lingle vetoed spending bills for pedestrian safety measures such as traffic lights and painted crosswalks... The Legislature overrode the vetoes and Lingle said she would not release the money. [12]
- Borreca, Richard. Public safety bills causing an uproar -- Lingle, legislators trade blame for lack of prison consensus Honolulu Star-Bulletin, July 12, 2007.
- Au, Laurie. Advocates lobbying for pedestrian safety Honolulu Star-Bulletin, July 12, 2007.
Prison related
- Dayton, Kevin. Legislation to bring inmates home advances Honolulu Advertiser, February 10, 2007.
- Borreca, Richard. Senate set to pass bill for prison study, inmates' return Honolulu Star-Bulletin, February 10, 2007.
- The prisoner return bill, SB 932, provoked a major skirmish.
- Lingle said the bill unrealistically demands that the state return prisoners from the mainland if they have less than one year before parole.
- "This bill endangers the well-being of inmates, compromises the safety of the community, exposes the state to costly litigation and provides only a single year of funding for programs with multiyear impacts," Lingle said.
- The governor said she is having the Attorney General do a legal analysis to determine whether the law is a mandate or whether she has any options. "If it's a mandate, the concern is we will need to release the people before they've served their time because we don't have the facilities here," she said.
- Hanabusa countered, "We have got to a point where we have to bring our prisoners home."
- Asked where the returning prisoners would be housed, Hanabusa said it was up to the Public Safety Department to "figure something out." [13]
- Legislators overrode the veto, saying the Lingle administration has refused to obey the will of the Legislature and build more prisons. [14]
- Borreca, Richard. Public safety bills causing an uproar -- Lingle, legislators trade blame for lack of prison consensus Honolulu Star-Bulletin, July 12, 2007.
Iwalani White cabinet nominee rejection by Senate
- Reyes, B.J. Lingle Cabinet appointee runs into opposition in subpoenaed testimony Honolulu Star-Bulletin, March 21, 2007.
- Carlisle, Peter. IN MY VIEW: Iwalani White deserves confirmation Honolulu Star-Bulletin, March 23, 2007.
- Reyes, B.J. Dispute clouds Public Safety decision -- Critics of a nominee for director say her style of management stirs ill will Honolulu Star-Bulletin, March 23, 2007.
- Borreca, Richard. Maybe White is just what DPS needs Honolulu Star-Bulletin, March 25, 2007.
- Reyes, B.J. Panel’s refusal of Cabinet appointee a first Honolulu Star-Bulletin, March 30, 2007.
- Reyes, B.J. Embattled nominee push intensifies Honolulu Star-Bulletin, March 31, 2007.
- OUR OPINION: White’s tough style needed at prisons THE ISSUE: The state Senate is scheduled to vote tomorrow on whether to confirm Iwalani White as state prisons director. Honolulu Star-Bulletin, April 1, 2007.
- Borreca, Richard. Lingle loses Cabinet fight -- Dems reject Iwalani White for head of Public Safety based on her "errors" Honolulu Star-Bulletin, April 3, 2007.
- Espero, Willie. Senate had reasons for rejecting White Honolulu Star-Bulletin, April 6, 2007.
- Borreca, Richard. Legislative lap dogs suck it up Honolulu Star-Bulletin, April 29, 2007.
- Borreca, Richard. Lingle picks prison veteran for job -- The governor expresses frustration with the rejection of her previous nominee Honolulu Star-Bulletin, May 22, 2007.
- OUR OPINION: Prison official's past not all good, but could help THE ISSUE: The governor has appointed a veteran prison administrator to head the Department of Public Safety.Honolulu Star-Bulletin, May 25, 2007.
Private jet
- Da Silva, Alexandre. Bill would buy state a $1.9M private jet -- A hearing is scheduled for Wednesday on the proposal introduced by Sen. Hanabusa Honolulu Star-Bulletin, February 4, 2007.
- OUR OPINION: Plane talk crashes in Hawaii and Washington THE ISSUE: Airplane privileges became the flash point for politicians this week. Honolulu Star-Bulletin, February 10, 2007.
- Hanabusa, Colleen. Gathering Place: 'By request' bills are an important part of legislative process Honolulu Star-Bulletin, February 11, 2007.
Public Access TV channels
- The battle to save public access TV in Hawaii moves to the legislature Disappeared News, February 6, 2007.
Recycling
- Daranciang, Nelson. Bill aims to make recycling easier -- Larger stores would have to take back containers they sell Honolulu Star-Bulletin, February 17, 2007.
Small Business
- Pavlicek, Melissa. House Bill 316 Would Give Hawaii Small Businesses Badly Needed Boost -- Changing Workers’ Compensation Law Would Help Enterprise Growth and iImprove Solvency Hawaii Reporter, January 26, 2007.
- McDowell, John. Hawaii Strengthens Small Business Role In State’s Regulatory Process Hawaii Reporter, July 16, 2007.
Stadium bill
- Gomes, Andrew. West O'ahu Stadium bill would raze Aloha Honolulu Star-Bulletin, February 8, 2007.
Superferry
- Associated Press. Senators say Superferry study needed The Garden Island, January 8, 2007.
- Tanji, Melissa. Maui testifiers unanimous, want EIS for Superferry Maui News, February 13, 2007.
- Niesse, Mark. Senate bill demands Superferry review Honolulu Star-Bulletin, February 15, 2007.
- Niesse, Mark. Opponents attempt to stop Superferry -- Legislators might seek an environmental review wanted by the boats' opponents Honolulu Star-Bulletin, March 5, 2007.
- Sens. J. Kalani English, Gary L. Hooser, Russell S. Kokubun and Shan S. Tsutsui. COMMENTARY: Superferry EIS is right and legal thing to do Honolulu Advertiser, March 6, 2007.
- Richard Borreca and B.J. Reyes. Superferry study, red-light camera bills advance Honolulu Star-Bulletin, March 7, 2007.
- OUR OPINION: Compromise bill good solution for environment and ferry THE ISSUE: The state Senate has amended legislation to allow the ferry's start-up as planned while conducting an environmental review. Honolulu Star-Bulletin, March 8, 2007.
Sustainability
- Cook Lauer, Nancy. Kokubun key player in Senate maneuvers West Hawai'i Today, January 18, 2007.
- H.B. No. 1270, HD2, SD2, CD2 Appropriates $850,000 to allow the Hawaii 2050 Sustainability Plan to be completed, among other planning items. This bill has become law.
Taro
- Bernardo, Rosemarie. Critics raise voices for bill to be heard Honolulu Star-Bulletin, March 31, 2007.
Technology
- Reyes, B.J. Democrats like gov’s tech plans -- $30.7 million would go toward education and an economic shift Honolulu Star-Bulletin, January 13, 2007.
- OUR OPINION - Shifting Hawaii's economy requires investment THE ISSUE: The governor has proposed a bundle of programs to turn the state's economy toward science and technology. Honolulu Star-Bulletin, January 14, 2007.
Tax Credit/Tax Refund/Budget
- Reyes, B.J. Isle Dems focus on cutting price of paradise -- A form of tax credit or refund is on the way, although lawmakers have yet to determine how much Honolulu Star- Bulletin, January 14, 2007.
- Borreca, Richard. Lingle unveils tax plan -- House Speaker Calvin Say says the proposal for $346 million in tax reductions is too much Honolulu Star-Bulletin, January 19, 2007.
- Burris, Jerry. Lingle's plan for tax relief has appeal Honolulu Advertiser, January 21, 2007.
- Borreca, Richard. Budget battle lies ahead -- Gov. Linda Lingle is expected to call for tax cuts again Honolulu Star-Bulletin, January 22, 2007.
- Shapiro, David. VOLCANIC ASH: The tug-o-war over budget surplus begins Honolulu Advertiser, January 24, 2007.
- Lawmakers face tough decisions on gov's funding plans THE ISSUE: Tax cuts and technology initiatives top Lingle's to-do list for the legislative session Honolulu Star-Bulletin, January 23, 2007.
- Fernandes, Alfred B. GATHERING PLACE: Simple change in law can help isle taxpayers Honolulu Star-Bulletin, March 22, 2007.
- Borreca, Richard. Lawmakers hope to ease tax on poor Honolulu Star-Bulletin, March 28, 2007.
- Borreca, Richard. SURPLUS IS GONE -- Hopes that much of the state's extra $700 million would be returned to taxpayers evaporate Honolulu Star-Bulletin, May 3, 2007.
Traffic
- Cabanilla, Rida. What crisis? Senate must think isle traffic is moving just fine Honolulu Star-Bulletin, March 8, 2007.
- HB 70 -- Toll roads. Passed in the House. Referred to Senate committee.
- Berg, Tom. Gathering Place: Toll road bill offers options to gridlock Honolulu Star-Bulletin, March 8, 2007. [15]
- HB 1547, HD 3 -- Hawaii intent host second International Symposium on Tollways and Highways, with a $50,000 investment as seed money to host the event. Passed in the House. Senate removed language for the seed money. [16]
- HB 724, HD 1, "which would have reduced the amount of money (10 percent) that the state retains upon the one-half-cent general excise tax increase meant for the rail project. The state's role was to collect the tax and deposit the funds into the City and County of Honolulu's treasury. Rep. Marcus Oshiro, chairman of the House Finance Committee, amended the bill beautifully to see that only the actual monetary amount needed to process the GET collection be withheld and that all money left over be provided to the city as was originally intended for the transit endeavor." [17]
- HB 1549, HD 2, SD 1 -- bill relating to traffic accident investigations. "we could reduce the duration of lane closures associated from investigating a traffic accident from a six-hour ordeal to an hour or two, like many other states are doing. It's about time our state started utilizing the latest technology to expedite traffic accident investigations and minimize the amount of time roads are closed." House bill was killed in Senate. [18]
- HB 70 -- Toll roads. Passed in the House. Referred to Senate committee.
UH Regent selection process
- Gima, Craig. Battle looms over UH regents -- Lawmakers are speeding the creation of a council to select board candidates Honolulu Star-Bulletin, January 27, 2007.
- Sakamoto, Norman. Real change is needed in selection process for UH regents Honolulu Star-Bulletin, February 25, 2007.
- McClain, David. Regents' selection: An inconvenient truth Honolulu Star-Bulletin, March 4, 2007.
- Reyes, B.J. Dems to alter UH regents selection Honolulu Star-Bulletin, March 28, 2007.
- Aiona, James R. "Duke". Gathering Place: Bills improperly curtail governor’s authority Honolulu Star-Bulletin, March 29, 2007.
- OUR OPINION: Lawmakers insert rule where it’s not needed THE ISSUE: A bill to change the nomination process for the University of Hawaii's Board of Regents is expected to win approval. Honolulu Star-Bulletin, March 30, 2007.
- Reyes, B.J. Override of vetoed UH bill likely -- Voters had OK'd the change to the regent selection process Honolulu Star-Bulletin, April 19, 2007.
- Borreca, Richard. Lingle and Hanabusa argue over UH regents bill -- At issue is the makeup of the proposed selection committee Honolulu Star-Bulletin, April 20, 2007.
- Caldwell, Kirk. No 'power grab' by Hawaii Democrats Honolulu Star-Bulletin, May 5, 2007.
- Governor Lingle's veto of the bill was overridden. [19]
Voter turnout boost
- Eligible adults would be allowed to register and vote on the same day as an election — instead of signing up at least 30 days in advance. Referred to committee.
- Voters who sign up once to vote by mail, can vote by mail in all future elections, rather than request mail ballots separately each time. Referred to committee.
- Brannon, Johnny. Bills aim to boost Isle voter turnout Honolulu Advertiser, February 5, 2007.
Workforce development
- HB916
- Lifelong Learning Account -- pretax monies through payroll deductions into an account to be matched by employers for job training and education. [20] Referred to committee. [21]
- Kama'aina Come Home -- An effort to attract former Hawai'i residents back to the Islands. [22] Referred to committee. [23]
- Arakawa, Lynda. Bills seek stronger workforce Honolulu Advertiser, February 13, 2007.
- HB1280
- Rapid Response Training -- Develop customized training programs for companies that need workers with specific skill sets that cannot be adequately provided by existing training programs. [24] Measure deferred in committee. [25]
- Arakawa, Lynda. Bills seek stronger workforce Honolulu Advertiser, February 13, 2007.
Worker's Comp
- Lum, Curtis. Bill would limit workers' comp Honolulu Advertiser, February 17, 2007. Bill vetoed.
Peter Young
- Cook Lauer, Nancy. Young on hot seat -- DLNR chairman position debated in Senate Hawaii Tribune-Herald, February 3, 2007.
- OUR OPINION: Senate panel should reconfirm Young THE ISSUE: A Senate committee will consider the land and naturalresources director's reappointment. Honolulu Star-Bulletin, April 8, 2007.
- Leone, Diana. DLNR director faces fight for job - Peter Young's hearing before a Senate panel also involves 13 subpoenaed witnesses Honoluu Star-Bulletin, April 8, 2007.
- Leone, Diana. DLNR chief's hearing takes unusual turn Honolulu Star-Bulletin, April 12, 2007.
- Leone, Diana. DLNR staff hit Young over harbors budget Honolulu Star-Bulletin, April 13, 2007.
- Leone, Diana. Hearing on Young held in private -- The DLNR director is expected to talk next week about his tenure Honolulu Star-Bulletin, April 14, 2007.
- Leone, Diana. Gov blasts panel as hearing drags -- No confirmation is yet in sight for DLNR Director Peter Young Honolulu Star-Bulletin, April 18, 2007.
- Borreca, Richard. Senate sorts appointees -- Support for Cabinet member Peter Young surprised lawmakers, Gov. Lingle asserts Honolulu Star-Bulletin, April 19, 2007.
- OUR OPINION: Senators should not use rubber stamps -- or rubber hoses THE ISSUE: DLNR director Peter Young's reappointment has dragged through five days of hearings. Honolulu Star-Bulletin, April 22, 2007.
- Borreca, Richard. Senate panel turns down Young for DLNR director -- Gov. Lingle's pick is criticized for performance as head of DLNR Honolulu Star-Bulletin, April 24, 2007.
- Leone, Diane. Young backers say Senate ignored wishes of public Honolulu Star-Bulletin, April 25, 2007.
- DLNR's Young ousted -- State senators reject support by native and environmental groups Honolulu Star-Bulletin, April 25, 2007.
- Borreca, Richard. Lingle says jobs will be hard to fill -- Young's dismissal alerts candidates and detractors, she says Honolulu Star-Bulletin, April 25, 2007.
- Daranciang, Nelson. Ethics panel hire is ripped on ethics -- Hilton Lui is accused of bias for his part in Peter Young's failure to win reappointment Honolulu Star-Bulletin, July 2, 2007.
- Investigator lobbied on day of DLNR vote -- Hilton Lui approached Sen. Lorraine Inouye to tell her to oppose the DLNR's director Honolulu Star-Bulletin, July 7, 2007.
- OUR OPINION: Let attorney general investigate Bureau of Conveyances THE ISSUE: The director of the state Ethics Committee said he will not forward a report on the state Bureau of Conveyances because of the investigator's bias. Honolulu Star-Bulletin, July 3, 2007.
Hawai'i Island
- Cook Lauer, Nancy. Lawmakers assemble wish lists Hawaii Tribune-Herald, January 13, 2007.
- Bishop, Hunter. Poi oh poi, what a wish list hunterbishop.com, January 14, 2007.
- Cook Lauer, Nancy. Keeping campaign promises -- Isle lawmakers have a clean slate to steer the state in legislative session Hawaii Tribune-Herald, January 18, 2007.
Kaua'i
- Chang, Lester. Kaua‘i contingent at capitol The Garden Island, January 18, 2007.