Senator Maile Shimabukuro (District 22, Ko ‘Olina, Nānākuli, Mā‘ili, Wai‘anae, Mākaha, Mākua) issued the following statement announcing her resignation from the Hawaiʻi State Senate, effective May 31, 2024:
"After much soul-searching, I have decided to resign from the Senate, effective May 31, 2024. It has been an amazing journey, and such a privilege, to serve as an elected official since 2003.
From the bottom of my heart, I thank all of my fellow Legislators, Capitol staff, passionate advocates, constituents, and of course my family and friends, for all the support, teamwork, mentorship, and camaraderie that you have gifted me over these past 21 years. I am so proud of the many things we have accomplished together, such as, the Nānākuli contraflow lane; MA‘O Organic Farms’ expansion; buildings for Searider Productions, LCC Wai‘anae Moku, Papahana O Kaiona, E Ala Voyaging Canoe, Nā Kama Kai, and Wai‘anae Coast Comprehensive Health Center, to name a few. Bills such as legalizing pa‘i‘ai, extending the statute of limitations for sex abuse victims, eliminating the reconstructed car inspection, transfer on death deeds, prohibiting the removal of sand from our shorelines, beach brown water testing, and requiring counties to maintain DHHL infrastructure, will have a tremendous positive impact on the generations to come.
After my departure, I look forward to tending to my mother and son, spending time with family and friends, focusing on my legal services work, volunteering for nonprofits, and enjoying the healing powers of nature and the ocean.
Thank you again for providing me with the immense privilege of serving in this august body."
Senator Shimabukuro grew up on the Wai‘anae Coast and graduated from ‘Iolani School. She completed her undergraduate studies at Colorado College and received a Juris Doctor from the University of Hawai‘i William S. Richardson School of Law.
Maile Shimabukuro was first elected to the State House of Representatives in 2002, representing Wai‘anae, Mākaha, Mākua. In 2010, Shimabukuro was appointed to replace then Senate President Colleen Hanabusa when she was elected to Congress and has served as a Senator since. Beginning in 2013, Shimabukuro has been the Chair of the Senate Committee on Hawaiian Affairs. While in the House of Representatives, Shimabukuro served as the Chair of the House Committee on Human Services and Housing from 2005-2006.
In accordance with State law, Democratic Party officers will identify three names that will be transmitted to Governor Green for consideration. The Governor will have sixty days to fill the vacancy.