May

20

Governor Signs Traffic Safety Measures

Press Releases / Transportation

Honolulu- Today Governor Neil Abercrombie signed two traffic safety measures, Senate Bill (SB) 4 and House Bill (HB) 980, into law.

SB 4 requires all front and back seat passengers to be restrained by a seat belt assembly or child passenger restraint while the motor vehicle is being operated upon any public highway. According to the National Highway Safety Administration, seat belt restraints for all occupants increases the safety of all motor vehicle occupants by as much as forty-five percent. Through requiring all front seat and back seat occupants to buckle up, this measure seeks to protect the safety of Hawaii’s motor vehicle drivers and passengers.

“Seat belts save lives,” said Senator J. Kalani English, chair of the Senate Committee on Transportation and International Affairs. “The enactment of this measure reinforces what many of us already know, that the importance of seat belt use can’t be ignored. By taking a few moments to buckle up, we can each play a vital role in preventing an unnecessary tragedy.”

Distracted driving is a serious problem with growing national concern. Using cellular phones or other mobile electronic devices while driving creates preventable distractions that pose a risk of harm not just to the driver, but to others in the vehicle or on the road. HB 980 establishes a statewide law prohibiting the use of any mobile electronic device while driving.

“Studies show that mobile phone use while driving can have lethal effects,” said Senator English. “By providing consistent statewide requirements for the use of mobile electronic devices while driving, we are telling drivers that using a mobile device while driving is dangerous and unacceptable. I encourage Hawaii drivers to drive responsibly; the safety of everyone who uses our roads depends on it.”

Today’s bill signings kicked off Hawaii’s Click It or Ticket’ Mobilization enforcement campaign.

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Apr

12

Taiwan Minister to Address Senate Committee on Transportation and International Affairs

International Affairs / Press Releases

Honolulu –  Minister Jung-Tzer Lin, Taiwan Executive Yuan Minister without Portfolio and Governor of Taiwan Province, will be addressing the Senate Committee on Transportation and International Affairs at an informational briefing on Monday, April 15, 2013 at 10 a.m., in the State Capitol’s Conference Room 414.

Minister Lin will be discussing the significance of strengthening the existing sister-state relationship between Taiwan and the State of Hawai‘i, which was established in 1993.

We should continuously look for ways to strengthen our sister-state relationship with Taiwan.  With the recent addition of Taiwan to the United States Visa Waiver Program, our economy is expected to get a boost from an increased number of visitors from the region,” said Senator J. Kalani English, chair of the Senate Committee on Transportation and International Affairs.

To strengthen ties with Taiwan, the Legislature recently adopted Senate Concurrent Resolution 61.  The measure urges the Governor, Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism; Board of Regents of the University of Hawaii; Board of Education and Hawaii congressional delegation to strengthen the sister-state relationship with Taiwan in commemoration of the twentieth anniversary of the sister-state relationship between Hawai‘i and Taiwan.

Senator English will be presenting a certified copy of the resolution to Minister Lin during the informational briefing.

Hawai‘i and Taiwan benefit greatly from this sister-state relationship.  Along with the cultural exchange, ideas on the development of clean energy can be shared as well as many other important policymaking matters,” said Senator English.  “It’s a win-win relationship.”

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Apr

05

Conference Discusses Impacts of Climate Change in the Pacific Islands

International Affairs / Press Releases

((L-R): Senator J. Kalani English, Tony deBrum, Minister in Assistance to the President of the Republic of the Marshall Islands and Tarcisius Kabutaulaka, Waves of Change Conference organizer,a the conference.)

Honolulu–  A conference called, “Waves of Change” is underway at the University of Hawaii-Manoa’s East-West Center and Kamakakuokalani Center for Hawaiian Studies.  The conference, which began yesterday, discusses the environmental, social, cultural, political, economic, and legal impacts of climate change in the Pacific Islands, including Hawaii.

While the issue of climate change has been an ongoing discussion for years, this conference brings to light how the Pacific Islands are already experiencing its impact,”said Senator J. Kalani English, chair of the Senate Committee on Transportation and International Affairs.   He is among several policymakers,natural scientists, academics, university students, and community members attending the event.

Related migration and the implications of climate change for Hawaii, which is already home to many Pacific Islanders, will also be discussed.

Due to the changing climate, there is potential for increased migration from the Pacific Islands to the State of Hawaii,” said Senator English.  “Islanders believe Hawaii is able to provide them the economic security and welfare they need, which has become challenging to achieve because of how climate change is impacting their home.”

The Pacific Islands Regional Climate Assessment report released in December 2012 warns that Hawaii and other Pacific Islands have experienced “higher average surface air temperature;decreased groundwater discharge to streams over the past century; more frequent and prolonged drought; and habitat changes affecting native species” as a result of climate change.

It is important that we become aware of these major shifts in our environment so that we can address the issues and take action to reduce the impact of climate change today for the future generations,” added Senator English.

Prior to elected office, Senator English worked at the United Nations (UN) in New York as an advisor to the permanent mission of the Federated States of Micronesia.  He continues to be active with the United Nations Development Programme, a global development network advocating for change and connecting countries to knowledge, experience and resources to help people build a better life. The UNDP exists in 177countries, working with them on their own solutions to global and national development challenges.

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Mar

22

Early Childhood Education Discussed Using Google+ Hangout

Press Releases / Social Media

 

Honolulu–  Early childhood education providers and stakeholders from across the State, along with lawmakers, Early Childhood Coordinator Terry Lock and Governor Neil Abercrombie, participated in a roundtable discussion on early childhood education in Hawaii today.  Stakeholders from Maui, Kauai, Waimea, Kona and Hilo participated in the discussion via Google+ Hangout, hosted by Senate Committee Education Chair Senator Jill Tokuda. U.S. Senator Mazie Hirono’s Chief of Staff Betsy Lin also linked in, via Google+ Hangout from Washington, D.C.

Participants discussed early childhood education program measures moving through the legislature.  Providing Resources Early for Kids Act (PRE-K Act), a measure introduced by Senator Hirono earlier this month was also discussed.   The PRE-K Act creates a new federal-state partnership that incentivizes states to both improve the quality of state preschool programs and expand to serve more children in need.  Under this legislation states, like Hawaii, could apply for startup funds if they submit a plan to establish a high-quality preschool program within two years.

“To do nothing for early childhood education in Hawaii is not an option,” said Tokuda.  “The bills were written to create a robust, high-quality early childhood education program implemented in our State that prepares our youngest of keiki for school and life.  Using new media to engage with stakeholders and constituents on all islands allows us to have a more dynamic discussion with many different perspectives.”

“We had an interesting discussion on the future of early education and what’s at stake for our children,” said Sen. J. Kalani English (District 7 -Hana, East and Upcountry Maui, Moloka‘i, Lana‘i, Kaho‘olawe), who participated in the Hangout.   “Using Google+ Hangout to broaden the conversation across the State and even to Washington, D.C. opens the door to a more fruitful discussion.”

Along with using Google + Hangout, the discussion utilized Twitter to receive questions from the public.

“Using communication tools such as twitter and Google+ Hangout to discuss an important initiative like early education enables people to participate in the conversation from wherever they are.  They don’t have to be in the room to listen in, or chime in,” said Sen. Gil Keith-Agaran (District 5-Wailuku, Waihe‘e, Kahului), who was tweeting information during the event.

Sen. Russell Ruderman (District 2 -Puna, Ka‘u) also attended the event.  He said, “I am excited especially for the neighbor islands residents because they were able to participate in government through the use of the technology available.”

( Senators, early childhood education stakeholders, Early Childhood Coordinator Terry Lock and Governor Neil Abercrombie participate in a roundtable discussion on early childhood education. Stakeholders from Maui, Kauai, Waimea, Kona and Hilo participated in the discussion via Google+ Hangout.)

Google+ Hangouts provides users the capability to video chat with multiple individuals at the same time. Google+ Hangouts in concert with other social media vehicles continue to be leveraged by government officials seeking new ways to engage with those they serve. This is Tokuda’s second Google+ Hangout event this legislative session. In February, Tokuda conducted the Senate’s first ever Hangout, dubbed the “Principal Hangout,” in which she sat down with principals from around the state to talk about the Weighted Student Formula.

 

To view today’s Google+ Hangout: http://youtu.be/UJ5LLwrDKl4.

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Mar

14

Maui County Senate Team Welcomes Hawaii State Council on Developmental Disabilities

In the Community / Press Releases

(Maui County Senate team, along with other legislators, welcomed the Hawaii State Council on Developmental Disabilities to the State Capitol.)

Honolulu – Maui members of the Hawaii State Council on Developmental Disabilities met with their Senators and Representatives today, during its 13th annual Day at the Capitol.  Hosted by Lt. Governor Shan Tsutsui, the meeting gave caregivers and providers the opportunity to discuss budget items and bills relating to developmental disabilities with their legislators.

“Individuals with developmental disabilities have talents and abilities and it’s important that we recognize that they contribute to the community, too,” said Senator Roz Baker (District 6 – South and West Maui).

“I know that the services that we provide are important and it was good to hear them express their thoughts and concerns on these issues,” added Senator J. Kalani English (District 7-Hana, East and Upcountry Maui, Moloka‘i, Lana‘i, Kaho‘olawe).

Meanwhile, Senator Gil Keith Agaran (District 5- Wailuku, Waihe‘e, Kahului) said, “It was encouraging to hear how important the measures were to them and how it would impact their lives.”

March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month in Hawaii and is part of a nationwide campaign to raise public awareness and build understanding.  The 2013 national theme, “Look Beyond,” encourages people to get acquainted with someone who has a developmental disability, look beyond the person’s disability, and recognize that all individuals have talents and abilities to contribute.

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Nov

08

Hawaii State Senate Unveils its Leadership and Committee Chairs

Press Releases

HONOLULU — Maui State Senator Shan S. Tsutsui (Sen. District 5) has once again been elected as the President of the Senate and will preside during the 27th Hawaii State Legislature, which will convene on January 16, 2013.  Senator Donna Mercado Kim (Sen. District 14) will also continue to serve as Senate Vice President and Chair of the Senate Committee on Tourism and Government Operations and Special Committee on Accountability.  Senator David Ige (Sen. District 16) will continue as Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means, with Senator Michelle Kidani (Sen. District 18) serving as his Vice Chair.

The Senate acted quickly to organize after the November 6, 2012, General Election, with a primary goal of promoting an environment of cooperation and shared leadership and authority.  While much of leadership and committee chairmanships remained unchanged from the 26th Legislature, additional standing committees were established to provide greater scrutiny over important subject matter areas, as well as to provide a greater number of Senators the experience and authority to preside as committee chairs and vice chairs.

The Senate would like to buck the trend across the country of faction-based and partisan politics, which has too often delayed or stalled progress on important initiatives.  By sharing the power amongst more Senators, we hope to foster a more cooperative institution that can focus on and work towards the resolution of our most pressing issues,” said Senate President Tsutsui.

We are excited to have reached agreement so quickly.  This will allow us to focus our attention on the issues and begin preparations for the 2013 session,” said Senator Ige.

A complete listing of Senate Leadership and Committee Chairmanships is as follows:

President Shan S. Tsutsui
Vice President Donna Mercado Kim
Majority Leader Brickwood Galuteria
Ways and Means, Chair David Ige
Ways and Means, Vice Chair Michelle Kidani
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Sep

05

Airline Service Restored to Hana

In the Community / Press Releases

Hana–  Senator J. Kalani English applauds Mokulele Airlines’ new service from Kahului to Hana.

“I worked tirelessly over the years to have air service restored at rural airports across the State.  I appreciate Mokulele’s decision to operate out of Hana Airport, which is the first step towards restoring flights at other rural airports in the future,” said Senator J. Kalani English, who lives in Hana and serves as chair of the Hawaii State Senate Committee on Transportation and International Affairs.

Beginning October 1, 2012, Mokulele Airlines will operate twice-daily flight service from Maui’s Kahului Airport to Hana Airport. It’s been 12 years since there was flight service in Hana.  Passengers will fly aboard a nine-seat Cessna Grand Caravan 208B during the 20-minute flight.

“Mokulele’s flight service two times a day will bring a boost to the Hana community’s economy and to its resort and spa, Travaasa Hana Maui. Essential services would also become more efficient, such as mail and newspaper delivery,” added Senator English, who represents Hana, East and Upcountry Maui, Molokai, Lanai and Kahoolawe.  Hana Medical Center,  Hana School, State and County government would benefit from this new venture as well.”

“Residents and visitors alike will enjoy the convenience of traveling in and out of Hana.  We are ecstatic over the chance to cut our travel time from Hana to Kahului significantly.  The drive from Kahului to Hana can take at least 2 hours, but by air, it will only take about twenty minutes,” he said. “It will also greatly improve the quality of life for residents who work outside of Hana.”

Ticket prices start at $59 each way.  The flight service is being launched in partnership with Travaasa Hana Maui, which is a resort and spa located at the end of the Road to Hana.

“Now Hana residents have an opportunity to connect to other parts of the State thanks to Mokulele. This service also provides an important lifeline for us,” said Senator English.

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Aug

16

Senator J. Kalani English Welcomes New Hana Ranch Ownership

In the Community / Press Releases

Honolulu- Senator J. Kalani English welcomes Bio-Logical Capital as the new owners of Hana Ranch, located on the island of Maui.  Bio-Logical Capital and Hana Ranch announced today that they have signed a purchase and sale agreement.

A land investment, development, revitalization, and conservation company, Bio-Logical Capital plans to continue sustainable cattle ranching and expand organic farming, as well as other stewardship activities.

“Bio-Logical Capital’s plan to preserve cattle ranching on H?na Ranch makes them the right fit as new owners and contributing neighbors in our community,” said Senator J. Kalani English, who is a resident of Hana.

“As an advocate of environmental preservation and sustainability, I support Bio-Logical Capital’s intent to look into other sustainable and diversified agricultural opportunities while being mindful of our culture and connection to our land,” Senator English added, who represents Hana, East and Upcountry Maui, Moloka’i, Lana’i and Kaho’olawe.

Hana Ranch, which measures 4,500 acres, consists of the land surrounding Hana, including the land between the town and the ocean. The ranch is made up of 3,000 acres of pasture land and 1,500 acres of forest preserve.

“This is a great opportunity for Bio-Logical Capital and the entire Hana community and I look forward to being part of the conversation as we continue to move forward in creating a sustainable economy and way of life.”

 

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Aug

10

Senator J. Kalani English Responds to Governor’s $900,000 for Grants-in-Aid Release to the Hana Health Medical Center

Health / In the Community / Press Releases

Honolulu- Governor Neil Abercrombie today announced the release of $900,000 for grants-in-aid to the Hana Health Medical Center.  The Hana Health Medical Center was identified earlier this year by members of the Legislature as a priority project and grant. The $900,000 is to be used for planning and construction for medical center expansion, schematic design, and construction documents.

Senator J. Kalani English, who represents Hana, issued the following statement in response to Governor Neil Abercrombie’s grants-in-aid approval:

The Hana Health Medical Center has been needing attention and improvements for a long time and I am happy to hear that the modernization of the center will finally be moving along,” said Senator J. Kalani English. “As the only medical center in the District of Hana, Hana Health Medical Center provides an integral part of the health, wellness and safety our residents and our visitors. The construction of a modern health facility will help to ensure that the current and future health care needs of Hana continue to be met.”

Senator J. Kalani English currently represents Hana, East and Upcountry Maui, Molokai, Lana‘i, and Kahoolawe.

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Jul

11

Bill to Promote Agricultural Tourism Activities Becomes Law

Agriculture / Press Releases

Honolulu- Senate Bill (SB) 2341, Relating to Land Use, became law yesterday without the Governor’s signature.  The measure allows agricultural tourism activities, including certain overnight accommodations of twenty-one days or less, in agricultural districts for any one stay within Maui County.

The intent of the SB 2341 is to enable Maui County to make their own determinations regarding the allowance of certain activities on, or uses of, land in agricultural districts.  To assist in this effort the measure provides that the county adopt ordinances setting forth procedures and requirements for the review and permitting of agricultural tourism uses and activities.

The enactment of Senate Bill 2341 provides a wealth of opportunity for Maui County farmers and ranchers as well as the greater community,” said Senator English, who introduced the measure. “Agricultural Tourism serves as a means of additional economic activity for agricultural communities as well as a learning vehicle for many people who might not otherwise have a connection to agriculture.” Senator English represents Hana, East and Upcountry Maui, Moloka’i, Lana’i and Kaho’olawe.

July 10, 2012 marked the 45th Day after adjournment and was the last day for the Governor to veto bills from his intent to veto list. Any bills not signed or vetoed by this date become law without the Governor’s signature.

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