Archive for May, 2006

Closing Remarks for the 2006 Session

Friday, May 12th, 2006

Closing RemarksSenate President Robert Bunda ended the 2006 Legislative session on May 4 with the delivery of his Closing Day remarks. President Bunda thanked his colleagues for setting aside differences and working in a bipartisan manner to pass a number of strong bills this session for the people of Hawaii. Top legislative accomplishments included strong proposals for public education, tax reform, affordable housing, and sustainable energy programs.

Click here for the full text of the Closing Day Remarks

Sen. Espero’s Newsletter

Wednesday, May 10th, 2006

2006 Community Legislative Update Newsletter

Lawmakers Set to Approve Bill to Help Keep Kukui Gardens Affordable

Monday, May 1st, 2006

Kukui Gardens  Conference committee members advanced a bill on April 29th to help keep the Kukui Gardens housing complex in downtown Honolulu, affordable for its nearly 2,500 residents. The bill, HB 2239, directs an appropriate entity of the State to initiate negotiations to keep the units of Kukui Gardens affordable or to acquire the Kukui Gardens property. The bill will go to the full House on May 2nd for a final vote.

Click here for the full article from the 05-01-06 Honolulu Star Bulletin.

Legislators Prepared to Pass State Budget

Monday, May 1st, 2006

Bill Signing  Legislators are expected to pass a comprehensive state budget this week that includes much-needed tax reform and a substantial commitment to repair and renovate Hawaii’s public schools. Conference committee members reached an agreement on April 28th to approve the state budget, which includes $195 million in cash to repair and renovate Hawaii’s public schools and $50 million in tax relief for state taxpayers.

Click here for the full article from the 04-30-06 Honolulu Star Bulletin