The Hawaii State Judiciary’s appropriations bill, which includes $5.8 million to purchase equipment and furniture for the new Kona courthouse, passed final reading in the Senate and House of Representatives. The bill has been sent to Gov. David Ige for his review and consideration. “On behalf of the Hawaii State Judiciary, I want to express my deep appreciation to the Hawaii State Legislature for approving the funding needed to outfit the new courthouse in Kona with equipment and furniture,” said Chief Justice Mark E. Recktenwald. “We are pleased to be able to give the West Hawaii community a full-service facility where they can take care of all court-related matters in a centralized, convenient, and secure environment.” The facility is scheduled to open in late summer 2019. The legislature previously approved a total of $90 million for construction costs in the 2014 and 2015 sessions. Groundbreaking for the project was in October 2016. “The Judiciary is extremely grateful to all of the Hawaii Island legislators, in particular Rep. Nicole Lowen and Sen. Josh Green, as well as the leadership of Senators Donovan Dela Cruz, Gil Keith-Agaran, and Brian Taniguchi, and Senate President Ron Kouchi, and Representatives Sylvia Luke, Kyle Yamashita, Scott Nishimoto, and Speaker Scott Saiki,” said Chief Justice Recktenwald. “I also want to share my aloha with the West Hawaii Bar Association, the Hawaii County Bar Association, and the Hawaii State Bar Association for their ongoing support,” Chief Justice Recktenwald said. “Retired Judge Ron Ibarra, West Hawaii Bar President Donna Payesko, and HSBA Representative from Kona Carol Kitaoka have been critical supporters as well.” “After years of conducting court business out of three separate locations, we are gratified that we will be better able to better serve the people of the west side by giving them the modern court facility they deserve,” said Third Circuit Chief Judge Greg Nakamura. “The Kona community is looking forward to having a new courthouse, which will provide safety, efficiency and convenience that the existing three makeshift facilities cannot,” said Rep. Nicole Lowen. “Securing this funding was critical to ensuring the timely completion and opening of the Courthouse.” “It was my honor to work hand-in-hand with the Chief Justice and the Judiciary to complete funding for this important project for the people of Kona,” said Sen. Josh Green. “This has been a priority for West Hawaii for a long time.” "The West Hawaii Bar Association greatly appreciates the support of the legislature, especially our Big Island Caucus, in making this needed FF&E funding a reality,” said Donna Payesko, president of the West Hawaii Bar Association. “The appropriation will ensure that the new courthouse will be fully furnished and ready to open next year. The Kona Judiciary Complex will be a great asset to the West Hawaii Community and the West Hawaii Bar Association looks forward to its opening." The courthouse will be a three-story facility with five courtrooms, a law library and self-help center open to the community, conference rooms, holding cells, witness rooms, attorney interview rooms, and a grand jury meeting room. There will also be more than 250 parking stalls for the public. # # # #hawaiisenate #Hawaiistatejudiciary #KonaCourthouse #CarolKitaoka #donnapayesko #ronibarra #westhawaiibar #SenatorGreen #JoshGreen #DonovanDelaCruz #SenatorDelaCruz #SenatorKeithAgaran #GilKeithAgaran #BrianTaniguchi #SenatorBrianTaniguchi #SenatePresidentRonKouchi #RonKouchi #Senatorkouchi #ChiefJusticeRectenwald

Hawaiʻi leads nation in committing to zero emissions clean energy Honolulu, Hawaiʻi – Community, business, and government leaders gathered today to announce the passage of House Bill 2182, a new law making Hawai‘i the first state to commit to a zero emissions clean economy and statewide carbon neutrality by 2045, and House Bill 1986, which directs the establishment of a carbon credit program to bring investment in carbon offsets to Hawaiʻi businesses and agriculture. While the federal government has deferred action on renewable energy and climate change, Hawai‘i continues to boldly lead the country and set a new precedent with the passage of HB 2182. This first-in-the-nation law will make Hawai‘i the first state committing to a zero emissions clean economy. Together with HB 1986, the bills will accelerate outside investment in the State's renewable energy and clean transportation sectors, and catalyze new investment in local agriculture as other jurisdictions begin to invest carbon credit dollars in Hawai‘i to offset their own carbon emissions. The islands already face costly impacts from climate change, with expected losses of $19 billion in coastal infrastructure to sea level rise in coming decades so taking this next step is important for the growth of our economy today and important to the future for the next generation. HB 2182 passed in a bipartisan 76-0 vote and HB 1986 passed 75-0 with one member excused at the close of the legislative session last week. Both measures now head to Governor David Ige for consideration. "Fighting climate change and building a zero emissions clean economy over the next two decades means catalyzing huge opportunities for new investment, jobs and growth in our economy today," said State Representative Chris Lee (Kailua, Waimānalo), author of HB 2182 and Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Environmental Protection. "This is the biggest step forward on climate change any state has yet taken, but we know we can do this and it's going to benefit everyone." “HB 2182 meshes nicely with our existing 100 percent renewable energy portfolio standards law that’s already on the books. By setting a target that we sequester more carbon and greenhouse gases than we produce by 2045, we’re creating economic opportunities and also ensuring that we do our part to fight the impacts of climate change,” said Senator Mike Gabbard (Kapolei, Makakilo, and portions of ‘Ewa, Kalaeloa, Waipahū), Chairman of the Agriculture and Environment Committee. “The intent of HB 1986 is to take the lead in the nation on the partnership between environment and business. If this measure becomes law, our state will lead the way in sustainability,” said State Representative Ryan I. Yamane (Mililani, Waipio Gentry, Waikele), author of HB 1986 and Chairman of the House Water and Land Committee. “Moving forward on this bill will help catalyze additional investment in local businesses while helping us reach our 100% renewable energy by 2045 goal and achieve economic, social and environmental sustainability,” said Chamber of Commerce Hawai‘i President and CEO Sherry Menor McNamara. "This is an unprecedented revenue opportunity especially for farmers who want to get creative. They can have new crop lines, and have significant capital invested into their businesses, including opportunities to scale up their own organizations and be more sustainable financially and ecologically while they replenish and regenerate the soil," said James McKay of the Hawai‘i Farmers Union United. "Hawaiʻi is mastering its own destiny for the benefit of future generations by doubling down on its commitment to a truly sustainable, clean energy economy that minimizes the financial losses to residents, protects taxpayer investments in critical infrastructure, and rewards environmental stewardship. Passage of HB 2182 ensures that protecting Hawaiʻi’s environment also promotes Hawaiʻi’s economy and protects Hawaiʻi’s taxpayers," said Mari Townsend, Director Sierra Club of Hawai‘i. "Our utilities are already on track to achieve 100 percent renewable electricity by 2040 at a savings of nearly $6 billion over status quo fossil fuels," said Rep. Lee. "Our transportation sector is quickly changing with the proliferation of electric vehicles that can lower costs for commuters. This bill, directing statewide carbon neutrality by 2045, ties all our efforts together while catalyzing new investment and clean jobs in our economy." Photo Caption: State Representative Chris Lee discusses Hawai'i's effort to fight climate change and building a zero emissions clean economy over the next two decades during a press conference at Ala Moana Beach Park today. With him are Representative Ryan I. Yamane (directly behind), Senator Mike Gabbard (with lei) and other supporters. Photo by Hawai'i House of Representatives Majority Democrats ### #chrislee #mikegabbard #HB2182 #zeroemissions #carbonneutral #2045 #senatorgabbard

SENATOR INOUYE SELECTED TO JOIN NCSL SMART COMMUNITIES FOUNDATION PARTNERSHIP HONOLULU, Hawai‘i - Senator Lorraine R. Inouye was selected as the only Hawai‘i legislator to participate in a new, invitation-only partnership project on smart communities. The Smart Communities Foundation Partnership is a public-private partnership, organized through the National Conference of State Legislators (NCSL) Foundation for State Legislatures. It brings together legislators, legislative staff and the private sector to explore the policies and programs that help create smart communities, and the role that states should play in coordinating and encouraging these efforts. “I am honored and excited to be a part of this progressive thinking partnership and to be able to collaborate with lawmakers from other states on ways to improve the quality of life for our residents,” said Senator Inouye (Dist. 4 - Hilo, Hamakua, Kohala, Waimea, Waikoloa, Kona), chair of the Senate Committee on Transportation and Energy. “While our communities continue to grow and our resources are shrinking, we need to be looking at ways to use advances in transportation, energy, and information technologies to enhance our quality of life, sustainability and resilience.” The Smart Communities Foundation Partnership is a 1.5-year agreement, consisting of a steering committee of knowledgeable legislators and staff who will provide input and guidance on ways to improve the quality of life, economic opportunity and security for those who live in cities and surrounding areas. As a member of the Steering Committee, Senator Inouye will be attending the first meeting of the Smart Communities Foundation Partnership next week in Denver, Colorado. For more information on the Smart Communities Foundation Partnership: http://www.ncsl.org/aboutus/ncsl-foundation-for-state-legislatures/smart-communities-public-private-partnership.aspx # # # #hawaiisenate #senatorinouye #LorraineInouye #hilo #hamakua #kohala #waimea #waikoloa #kona

MILILANI SENATORS ANNOUNCE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT FUNDING RELEASE Mililani Middle School receives $21.375 Million for new classrooms HONOLULU, Hawai‘i – Senators Michelle N. Kidani and Donovan M. Dela Cruz are pleased to announce that the Governor recently released $21.375 million to fund the construction of a new classroom building at Mililani Middle School. Mililani Middle is 1 of 3 schools remaining on a multi-track calendar. The multi-track calendar was created as a way to optimize facility use at overcrowded campuses. While this concept may manage large student populations, it has been challenging for faculty, parents, and students. In addition, students on multi-track calendars do not receive equitable school hours. Since learning about the issue, the Legislature was proactive in providing support. Working with the Department of Education and school faculty, it was discovered that the middle school needed a minimum of 15 additional classrooms to transition to a single track calendar. To provide an immediate solution, the Legislature appropriated $23 million to design and construct classrooms at the middle school. “Many thanks to Mayor Caldwell and the City Parks Department for their help and partnership with us. Also kudos to Mililani Middle School Principal Elynne Chung who worked with us, the City, MMS staff and families to formulate a workable transition plan,” said Senator Michelle Kidani (Dist. 18 - Mililani Town, portion of Waipi‘o Gentry, Waikele, Village Park, Royal Kunia), Chair of the Senate Committee on Education. “The Legislature was quick to support the new building and property acquisition to make the plan a reality.” Given the lack of adequate space on the current campus, the Department of Education will acquire less than one acre of the Mililani Mauka Community Park. The City & County of Honolulu is actively working with the Department of Education on the expansion of the middle school. Park users will also have weekend access to the school's new parking lot. “The Mililani community will greatly benefit from this transition,” added Senator Donovan Dela Cruz (Dist. 22 - Mililani Mauka, Waipi‘o Acres, Wheeler, Wahiawa, Whitmore Village, portion of Poamoho), Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. “Families with more than one child can now plan for one school calendar and park users will have additional parking on the weekends.” # # # #senatorkidani #MichelleKidani #DonovanDelaCruz #SenatorDelaCruz #Mililani #MililaniMiddleSchool #CapitolImprovementProjet #DepartmentofEducation #ElynneChung #hawaiisenate #hawaiilegislature

Bills protecting coral reefs, addressing homelessness, housing pass final reading in the Senate HONOLULU, Hawai‘i – Members of the Hawai‘i State Senate today passed several bills on final reading that position the Legislature to be a national leader in environment and health. In passing Senate Bill 2571 SD2 HD2 CD1, Hawai‘i is the first state in the nation to ban the sale of all sunscreens that contain oxybenzone and octinoxate, chemicals that scientific research has found to be toxic to coral. The bill delays the effective date of the ban until January 1, 2021 to allow for the reformulation of sunscreen to prevent further increase of skin cancer in Hawai‘i. This measure is a step towards preserving the state’s marine ecosystem which is both an important cultural foundation and an economic asset. Senate Bill 3095 SD1 HD1 CD1 restricts pesticide use within 100 feet of a school during instructional hours and it bans the pesticide chlorpyrifos. Hawai‘i is the first state in the nation to prohibit the use of pesticides containing chlorpyrifos. The measure protects the State’s children, elderly, and vulnerable individuals from the unintended impacts of large-scale agricultural pesticide use. These, along with the other important measures that passed final reading this Legislative Session, align with the Senate Legislative Program that was consigned to at the beginning of the 2018 Legislative Session. The program is made up of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals that provide a framework for improving the quality of life for all people of Hawai‘i. “What we’ve been able to accomplish this Session is a template for the planet. The world is watching how Hawai‘i is taking the lead in ensuring the protection and sustainability of our people, communities and natural resources while remaining economically prosperous on a global scale,” said Senate Majority Leader J. Kalani English (Dist. 7 - Hana, East and Upcountry Maui, Moloka‘i, Lana‘i, Kaho‘olawe). “The Senate worked tirelessly to introduce and pass measures that would improve the quality of life for our people and the world.” The Senate passed a number of significant measures that address other priorities in the Senate Legislative Program, including Ending Poverty, Quality Education, Gender Equality, and Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions. In addressing homelessness and affordable housing, the State Budget, HB1900 HD1 SD1 CD1, provides $15 million to fund homeless programs and services such as Housing First, Rapid Re-Housing, and Family Assessment Centers. HB2748 HD2 SD2 CD1 provides an unprecedented total of $200 million into the Rental Housing Trust Fund (RHTF), to generate approximately 1,600 affordable rental housing units for families at or below 80 percent AMI; appropriates $10 million into the Dwelling Unit Revolving Fund (DURF) for interim construction financing of affordable housing project; and appropriates $50,000 to prepare an assessment of housing needs for persons with low or no income. Additionally, HB2748 expands the general excise tax exemption for construction of 24,000 affordable rental units for families at or below 140 percent AMI. The exemption will increase from $7 million (enacted in 2017) to $30 million per year and will be extended from 2022 to 2030. This exemption is valued at $360 million over 12 years. SB2401 SD2 HD1 CD1 and SB2027 SD2 HD1 CD1 provide a total of $34.7 million to fund Ohana Zones and support medical services for the homeless statewide. SB2351 SD1 HD1 CD1 addresses gender discrimination by prohibiting employers from requesting or considering a job applicant’s wage or salary history as part of an employment application process or compensation offer. SB2990 SD2 HD1 CD1 establishes the Paid Family Leave Implementation Board to assist the Department of Human Services in establishing paid family leave for all workers in the State. HB1489 HD1 SD2 CD1 prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, including gender identity or expression, or sexual orientation, in any state educational program or activity, or in any educational program or activity that receives state financial assistance. SB2046 SD1 HD1 prohibits the manufacture, importation, sale, transfer, and possession of bump fire stocks, multi-burst trigger activators, and trigger cranks. HB2071 HD2 SD2 CD1 establishes a statewide standards board to recommend certification and de-certification requirements for state and county law enforcement officers who carry firearms and badges and have arrest authority. Voters will decide in November how to support public education with SB2922 SD1 HD1 which proposes amendments to the Constitution of the State of Hawai‘i to authorize the Legislature to establish, as provided by law, a surcharge on investment real property to support public education. Hawai‘i also joined six other states to allow a mentally capable, terminally ill adult with six months or less to live, the freedom to make their own end-of-life decisions, with the earlier passage of HB2739, that was signed into law (Act 002) on April 5, 2018. In an effort to provide immediate funding for those impacted by the recent flooding, SB192 SD1 HD1 CD1 provides $125 million in aid for the communities on Kaua‘i, East O‘ahu and Waimānalo. With the exception of SB2922 and HB2739, these bills are now enrolled to the Governor for his approval or veto. A complete list of the bills that passed in final reading is available at www.capitol.hawaii.gov. To view the 2018 Senate Legislative Program, visit www.hawaiisenatemajority.com. # # # #hawaiisenate #senatelegislativeprogram #dwellingunitrevolvingfund #paidfamilyleaveimplementationboard

Including $34.7 million for ‘Ohana Zones, medical services, and a coordinated statewide initiative Taking the lead on solving Hawai‘i's homeless crisis, the conference committee on Housing today passed SB 2401 SD2 HD1 CD1 and SB 2027 SD2 HD1 CD1 totaling $34.7 million to fund ‘Ohana Zones and support long overdue medical services for homeless populations statewide. The conference committee passed: SB 2401 SD2 HD1 CD1: $30 million for ‘Ohana Zones on three Oahu sites, and one each on Kaua‘i, Maui and Hawai‘i Island. Public lands will be selected by the Governor for the zones. $1 million for an Emergency Department Assessment pilot program. $1 million for a medical respite pilot program. $800,000 for a new family assessment center. $400,000 for two new Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion (LEAD) programs on Maui and Hawai‘i Island. SB 2027 SD2 HD1 CD1: 1.5 million for a Coordinated Statewide Homeless Initiative. Rep. Della Au Belatti (Makiki, Tantalus, Papakōlea, McCully, Pāwa‘a, Mānoa) said lawmakers this session decided to take the lead on finding homeless solutions and ‘Ohana Zones are an important part of that concept. "The $30 million for ‘Ohana Zones is a lump sum that we hope to partner with the private sector using Kahauiki Village as a model," said House Majority Leader Belatti. "This amount is our estimate of what the infrastructure and support services will cost in multiple sites across the state. The idea here is to be very flexible. What might work on O‘ahu might not be the best plan for one of the neighbor islands." Rep. Tom Brower (Waikīkī, Ala Moana) said the ‘Ohana Zones idea has been around for many years but will now become a reality. "Ten years ago we started looking into safe zones for our homeless population," said Brower, Chair of the House Housing Committee. "Many were reluctant to go into shelters or even permanent housing. This will provide a better option for many homeless people." “The measures we passed appropriate millions of dollars to help eliminate the homeless problem and build affordable rentals," said Senator Will Espero (‘Ewa Beach, Ocean Pointe, ‘Ewa by Gentry, Iroquois Point, portion of ‘Ewa Villages), Chair of the Senate Committee on Housing. "The Governor now has all the resources and tools necessary to provide housing and to assist the many homeless advocates and organizations with their programs and services that will help families and individuals rebuild their lives. This year’s funding is just the beginning of the Legislature’s commitment to end homeless,” Representative John M. Mizuno (Kalihi Valley, Kamehameha Heights, Lower Kalihi) said he is proud of the work lawmakers have done this session to support homeless initiatives. "This has been the most comprehensive year ever in funding homeless initiatives," said Mizuno, Chair Health & Human Services Committee. "We are focused on addressing our homeless crisis rather than funding more homeless sweeps. We have focused our policies to provide our people in need with stability, a place to heal, and the ability to become self-sufficient." “Thousands of homeless who are struggling on our streets will see their lives change greatly for the better through this bill. The public will also see a difference when they have their parks back, their sidewalks clear, and see much less suffering throughout our communities,” said Senator Josh Green (Kona, Ka‘u), Chair of the Senate Committee on Human Services. The total investment made by the Legislature to solve Hawai‘i's growing homeless crisis this session is about $50 million, an increase over the Governor's budget request. Lawmakers last week provided $15 million to fund existing homeless service programs, $3 million more than requested by the Governor. The funds are in a lump sum rather than restricted to a specific program to allow the State Homeless Coordinator to have the ability take decisive action and use the funds where they are most needed. They also appropriated $1 million for matching funds to the Hawaii Tourism Authority for homeless related projects. The nonprofit Hawaii Lodging and Tourism Association will distribute the money for programs in resort areas. The bills now move to a final vote in both Houses. ### #Legislature #homelessness #347Million #Ohanazones #SB2401 #SB2401SB2027 #sb2027 #joshgreen #williamespero #willespero #hawaiisenate #hawaiihomeless #homelessfunding

Bills addressing homelessness, health, climate change mitigation now head for final vote State lawmakers have passed a number of important measures ahead of tonight’s final decking deadline that align with the Senate Legislative Program consigned to at the beginning of the 2018 Legislative Session. The Senate Legislative Program is made up of 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) that provide a framework for improving the quality of life now and for future generations. “The Senate kept its promise by passing measures to address the impact of climate change, to protect our natural resources, and to encourage economic prosperity in our state,” said Senate Majority Leader, Senator J. Kalani English (Dist. 7 - Hana, East and Upcountry Maui, Moloka‘i, Lana‘i, Kaho‘olawe). “What the Senate accomplished this Session is just one step towards creating a stronger, more sustainable island community, yet our work is not done. We will continue to strive to make our state a better place to live.” Among the most significant measures, lawmakers passed HB1900 HD1 SD1 CD1 the State Budget which provides $15 million to fund homeless services; $7.1 million to increase payments for foster caregivers; $4.5 million for three new ambulances, one each on Kaua‘i, Hawai‘i Island and Oahu; $1.2 million for the Kupuna Caregivers program; and $1.1 million for recruitment and certification of public school teachers. To aid those impacted by the devastating flooding on Kaua‘i, East Honolulu, and other parts of the state, SB192 SD1 HD1 CD1 was passed to provide $125 million in emergency funding and also deposit more than $80 million in tobacco settlement funds into the state’s rainy day fund. Other important bills that were approved by members of the Senate and House conference committees include those that address housing and homelessness (SDG No. 1 – No Poverty) including HB2748 HD2 SD2 CD1 which provides an unprecedented total of $570 million which will generate more than 25,000 affordable units by the year 2030. SB2401 SD2 HD1 CD1 and SB2027 SD2 HD1 CD1 provide a total of $34.7 million to fund ‘Ohana Zones and support medical services for the homeless statewide. SB2990 SD2 HD2 CD1 establishes the Paid Family Leave Implementation Board to assist the Department of Human Services in establishing paid family leave for all workers in the State. Authorizes DHS to adopt rules, including interim rules by January 1, 2020. (SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities) SB2351 SD1 HD1 CD1 prohibits prospective employers from requesting or considering a job applicant's wage or salary history as part of an employment application process or compensation offer. Prohibits enforced wage secrecy and retaliation or discrimination against employees who disclose, discuss, or inquire about their own or coworkers' wages. (SDG 10- Reduced Inequalities) HB1489 HD1 SD2 CD1 prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, including gender identity or expression, or sexual orientation, in any state educational program or activity, or in any educational program or activity that receives state financial assistance. (SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities) SB2046 SD1 HD1 prohibits the manufacture, importation, sale, transfer, and possession of bump fire stocks, multi-burst trigger activators, and trigger cranks. (SDG 16 – Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) SB2922 SD1 HD1 proposes amendments to the Constitution of the State of Hawai‘i to authorize the Legislature to establish, as provided by law, a surcharge on investment real property to support public education. (SDG 4 – Quality Education) SB3095 SD1 HD1 CD1 restricts pesticide use near schools, bans some pesticides completely and expands outreach for the proper use of pesticides. (SDG 15 – Life on Land) SB2939 SD2 (Act 005) requires the PUC to establish performance incentive and penalty mechanisms that directly tie electric utility revenues to the utility’s achievement on performance metrics. (SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities) SB2247 SD1 HD2 CD1 authorizes pharmacists to prescribe, dispense, and provide related education on opioid antagonists to individuals at risk of opioid overdose and to family members and caregivers of individuals at risk of opioid overdose without the need for a written, approved collaborative agreement; subject to certain conditions. (SDG 3 – Good Health and Well Being) SB508 SD1 HD1 CD1 amends the taxes withheld on the amount realized by nonresidents from the disposition of Hawai‘i real property from 5% to 7.25%. Applies to real estate dispositions that occur on or after 9/15/2018. (SDG 11- Sustainable Cities and Communities) SB2693 SD1 HD1 CD1 makes an appropriation to the temporary commission on the 13th Festival of Pacific Arts to plan for the Festival of Pacific Arts to be held in Honolulu from June 11 to June 27, 2020. (SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals) HB2739 HD1 (Act 002) establishes a regulated process under which an adult resident of the State with a medically confirmed terminal disease and less than six months to live may choose to obtain a prescription for medication to end the patient's life. Imposes criminal sanctions for tampering with a patient's request for a prescription or coercing a patient to request a prescription. (SDG 3- Good Health and Well Being) HB2071 HD2 SD2 CD1 establishes a temporary law enforcement working group to recommend certification and de-certification requirements for state and county law enforcement officers who carry firearms and badges and have arrest authority. Prohibits law enforcement officers who are terminated for misconduct by a state or county department, agency, or office in a law enforcement capacity from being hired by another state or county law enforcement department, agency, or office unless the officer is reinstated through collective bargaining or the legal process. (SDG 16 – Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) SB2571 SD2 HD2 CD1 bans the sale, offer of sale, or distribution in the State of any sunscreen that contains oxybenzone or octinoxate, or both, without a prescription issued by a licensed healthcare provider to preserve marine ecosystems. Appropriates moneys to the Department of Land and Natural Resources for outreach and education on the prohibition and environmental impacts of sunscreen containing oxybenzone and octinoxate. (SDG 14- Life Below Water) These measures now move to the full Senate and House for final reading. A complete list of the bills that have been decked for final reading is available at www.capitol.hawaii.gov. To view the 2018 Senate Legislative Program, visit www.hawaiisenatemajority.com. # # # #homelessness #health #climatechange #climatechangemitigation #SenatorMaui #SenatorHana #SenatorEnglish #HB1900 #HB1900

Bills regulating pesticide use, protect Hawai‘i's coral reef advance in conference committee Measures that regulate the use of pesticides and protect Hawai‘i's coral reefs were among the many bills introduced by the Senate that were agreed upon by state lawmakers ahead of today's final decking deadline. Senate Bill 2571 SD2 HD1 CD1 (Relating to Water Pollution) bans the sale, offer of sale, or distribution in the State of any sunscreen that contains oxybenzone or octinoxate, or both, without a prescription issued by a licensed healthcare provider in order to preserve the State's marine ecosystems. The bill also delays the effective date of the ban until January 1, 2021 to allow for the reformulation of sunscreen to prevent further increase of skin cancer in Hawaiʻi. Oxybenzone and octinoxate in the marine environment have been shown to increase coral bleaching and kill developing coral. This measure is a step towards preserving Hawai‘i's marine ecosystem which is both a cultural foundation and an economic investment. "Coral reefs are one of Hawaiʻi's most precious natural resources, " said Senator Gil Keith-Agaran (Dist. 5 – Central Maui). "Fishing continues to be a means of subsistence for many around the State and this measure ensures that our coral reefs are able to provide food for future generations." "Hawaiʻi continues to be a leader in the protection of our environment, " said Senator Rosalyn Baker (Dist. 6 – South and West Maui). "The delay of the effective date of the ban allows for the reformulation of sunscreen to protect Hawaiʻi's people from skin cancer." "In rural districts such as mine, the ocean continues to be a source of life and sustenance for many," said Senator J. Kalani English (Dist. 7 - Hāna, East and Upcountry Maui, Moloka‘i, Lāna‘i, Kaho‘olawe). "SB2571 directly aligns with our legislative priority to support policies that aim to reduce pollution and enhance ocean-related management." Senate Bill 3095 SD1 HD1 CD1 (Relating to Environmental Protection) addresses a concern that had parents rallying across the state by restricting pesticide use near schools, banning some pesticides completely, and expanding outreach for the proper use of pesticides. The bill would prohibit the use of pesticides within 100 feet of a school during instructional hours and it would totally ban the pesticide chlorpyrifos effective January 1, 2019. The bill appropriates $300,000 from the Pesticides Revolving Fund for expenses including staffing, education and outreach. It also provides a $300,000 appropriation from general revenues to develop a pesticide drift monitoring study to evaluate pesticide drift at three schools within the state. The bill also requires commercial agricultural entities to regularly report their pesticide use. "The Senate worked with the community to draft legislation that would ensure that the frail and young would not be overly exposed to toxic pesticides" said Sen. Baker. "We have spent many years working on this particular issue and we appreciate the community support to bring this issue to fruition." "Mandatory reporting of pesticide use by commercial agricultural entities was what many people wanted," said Sen. Keith-Agaran. "Residents have a right to know what chemicals are being sprayed near their homes, schools and in their community." "Hawaiʻi will become the first state in the nation to ban the use of chloropyrifos," said Sen. English. "The community has voiced their concern regarding this particular measure and I am glad that we were able to address it through the passage of SB3095." The Senate adopted the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals as its legislative priorities for the 2018 session. SB 2571 SD2 HD1 CD1 and SB 3095 SD1 HD1 CD1 are in direct alignment with Goals 14 (Life Below Water) and 15 (Life on Land) of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The two bills now move to both chambers for a final vote. To view the 2018 Senate Legislative Program, visit www.hawaiisenatemajority.com. # # # #hAWAIIsENATE #LegislativePriorities #SB2571 #SB2571 #jkalanienglish #rosalynbaker #Rozbaker #GilbertKeithAgaran #GilKeithAgaran #UnitedNations #UnitedNationsSustainableDevelopmentGoals #LifeBelowWater #LifeonLand #PesticidesRevolvingRund #SenatorBaker #SenatorEnglish #SenatorKeithAgaran #CoralReefs #marineenvironment

The Hawai‘i Senate today voted to consent to the appointment of Kirstin M. Hamman to the District Court of the Second Circuit (Island of Maui). Hamman has been serving as a per diem District Court Judge in the District Court of the Second Circuit since 2014, while continuing her private law practice specializing in family law and special education law. She previously served as a Legislative Attorney in the Maui County Office of Council Services. Hamman has been actively involved in the community throughout her career, including service with the Maui County Bar Association and the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates, and has been a member of the Maui County Commission on Children and Youth since 2016. Hamman received her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Hawai‘i West Oahu. She earned her Doctorate of Jurisprudence from the William S. Richardson School of Law at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa and was admitted to the bar in 1997. “Testimony submitted in support of Kirstin Hamman commended her professionalism, expertise, and deep foundation of knowledge in her role as an attorney and judge, as well as her involvement in public service. She was also noted for her compassion and fairness in her service as a per diem judge,” said Senator Brian Taniguchi (Dist. 11 - Mānoa, Makiki, Punchbowl, Papakolea), Chair of the Senate Committee on Judiciary. “Ms. Hamman is well qualified to serve as a judge and is a solid addition to the bench of the District Court of the Second Circuit.” Hamman fills the vacancy created by the retirement of the Honorable Keith E. Tanaka. Chief Justice Mark E. Recktenwald appointed Hamman from a list of not less than six nominees submitted by the Judicial Selection Commission. Hamman will serve a term of six years. Photo courtesy: Hawai‘i Senate Communications (Hamman with son, Jaysen Giroux)

Units will be developed for struggling working families Today, Senate and House conferees agreed and voted on a comprehensive housing measure that takes a momentous step forward in addressing Hawai‘i's affordable rental housing crisis on all islands. House Bill 2748 HD2 SD2 CD1 provides a total of $570 million which will generate more than 25,000 affordable units by the year 2030. This will fulfill the goal of 22,500 affordable rental housing units set by the Legislature in 2016 via Act 127, Session Laws of Hawaiʻi 2016. "This is the largest appropriation made by the Legislature and demonstrates our relentless commitment to providing innovative solutions to meet the State's long-term housing demands" said House Housing Chair Representative Tom Brower (Waikīkī, Ala Moana). This measure supports development of affordable rental housing for a wide range of households spanning low income families to those making up to 140 percent of the area median income (AMI). "In addition to low income households, this measure targets Hawaiʻi's middle-class families," said Senate Housing Committee Chair Senator Will Espero (‘Ewa Beach, Ocean Pointe, ‘Ewa by Gentry, Iroquois Point, portion of ‘Ewa Villages). "These are working families who are not wealthy enough to afford a home in our expensive housing market, but do not qualify for public housing assistance. We must support them by providing an affordable option for housing while they save for a home of their own." House Bill 2748 HD2 SD2 CD1 contains four parts: 1. Appropriates $200 million into the Rental Housing Trust Fund to generate approximately 1,600 affordable rental housing units for families at or below 80 percent AMI. The Rental Housing Revolving Fund (RHRF) provides equity gap low-interest loans or grants to qualified owners and developers for the development, pre-development, construction, acquisition or preservation of affordable rental housing. Preference is given to projects that meet certain statutory criteria. Included is a preference for projects that provide at least 5 percent of the total number of units for persons and families with incomes at or below 30 percent of the median family income. Another preference is for projects that provide the maximum number of units for persons or families with incomes at or below 80 percent of the median family income. At the end of Fiscal Year 2017, the RHRF had a balance of $156 million. This appropriation will more than double its corpus to assist low income families and individuals, including the homeless and special needs groups, in obtaining affordable rental housing. 2. Expands the general excise tax exemption for construction of approximately 24,000 affordable rental units for families at or below 140 percent AMI. The measure increases the general excise tax exemption for the construction of affordable rental units for households at or below 140 percent AMI, with at least 20 percent of those units available for households at or below 80 percent of the AMI. The exemption will increase from $7 million (the exemption amount enacted in 2017) to $30 million per year and will be extended from the year 2022 to 2030. The total value of this expanded general excise tax exemption amounts to $360 million over 12 years. This exemption is expected to result in the construction of approximately 24,000 affordable rental units. 3. Appropriates $10 million into the Dwelling Unit Revolving Fund (DURF) DURF was established pursuant to Act 105, Session Laws of Hawaii 1970, which authorized the issuance of $125 million in general obligation bonds to carry out the purposes of the Housing Development Program. Funds may be used for the acquisition of real property; development and construction of residential, commercial and industrial properties; interim and permanent loans to developers; and any and all things necessary to carry out the purposes of the Housing Development Program, including administrative expenses. DURF provides interim construction financing of affordable housing projects. This appropriation will increase its corpus by 10 percent. 4. Appropriates $50,000 to prepare an assessment of housing needs for persons with low or no income, such as the disabled and functionally challenged populations. This appropriation commissions the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation to determine the number of persons with special needs in Hawaii, identify the supportive services they may require and inventory the providers of supportive services statewide. "Former State Senator the Rev. Bob Nakata deserves the credit for today's bill," said House Finance Chair Rep. Sylvia Luke, (Makiki, Punchbowl, Nu‘uanu, Dowset Highlands, Pacific Heights, Pauoa). "He has said that the Legislature needs to provide funding to create 22,000 units. This bill goes beyond that." “Our affordable housing crisis demands we take tangible, meaningful action. With this measure, we are responding to the needs of our community – our families, children and low-income individuals – and providing long-term solutions that are feasible within the context of our state financial plan,” said Senate Ways and Means Chair Senator Donovan Dela Cruz (Mililani Mauka, Waipi‘o Acres, Wheeler, Wahiawa, Whitmore Village, portion of Poamoho). The bill now moves to the full House and Senate for a final reading vote. #bobnakata #rentalhousing #affordablehousing #570Million #25 #000affirdable #revnakata #senatepresident #ronaldkouchi #willespero #donovandelacruz

Measure requires PUC to establish framework tying electric utility revenues to performance Gov. David Ige signed SB 2939 SD2 (Act 005), which requires the Hawai‘i Public Utilities Commission to create the framework that will tie electric utility revenues to performance metrics. The bill, also known as the Hawai‘i Ratepayer Protection Act, establishes performance metrics that the PUC will consider while establishing performance incentives and penalty mechanisms. They include: affordability of electric rates and customer electric bills; service reliability; customer engagement and satisfaction, including customer options for managing electricity costs; access to utility system information; rapid integration of renewable energy sources; timely execution of competitive procurement. “The bottom line is that SB 2939 is a victory for Hawai‘i’s energy consumers who will see more value for their hard-earned dollars. Through its expertise and oversight, the PUC will ensure that we move aggressively toward our renewable energy and consumer protection goals while maintaining a safe, reliable and resilient electric grid operated by a financially stable utility,” said Gov. Ige. "By aligning the utility's incentives with the consumer's incentives, everyone wins. Electricity bills will be based on performance: bringing renewable power sources online, upgrading the electric grid, ensuring reliability of the power supply, and even customer satisfaction. That's good for consumers, good for businesses, good for the environment, good for the state, and good for the utilities," said Sen. Stanley Chang, who introduced the bill. "This bill aligns the interests of utilities and our communities they serve. It is a big win for local consumers who will get improved electric services with more options for innovative renewables and batteries, and it is a responsible step forward helping our utilities transition to a sustainable business model that can survive disruption in the energy market,” said Rep. Chris Lee, chair of the Committee on Energy and Environmental Protection. “The Legislature has worked hard to establish regulatory policy that will better align electric utility incentives with customer needs and the State's energy policy. The Legislature is confident that the Public Utilities Commission, as already demonstrated through the release of its April 18, 2018 docket related to performance-based regulation, will appropriately incorporate stakeholder input in identifying incentives that make sense and implementing these incentives that will minimize unproductive disruption and not result in unintended consequences. Through this collaborative, deliberative, and balanced process, the State will achieve the necessary update to our regulatory framework that ensures a safe, reliable, and resilient electric grid for all of our residents from our rural, agricultural communities to our most densely, populated urban areas,” said Rep. Della Belatti. Act 005 takes effect on July 1, 2018. The PUC is required to create the framework by Jan. 1, 2020. ### #lorraineinouye #stanleychang #hawaiisenate #SB2939 #sb2939 #PUC #HawaiiPublicUtilitiesCommission #Act005 #GovernorIge #RussellRuderman

Senate President Ronald Kouchi (Dist. 8 - Kaua‘i, Ni‘ihau) along with Senators Michelle Kidani (Dist. 18 - Mililani Town, portion of Waipi‘o Gentry, Waikele, Village Park, Royal Kunia), and Mike Gabbard (Dist. 20 - Kapolei, Makakilo, and portions of ‘Ewa, Kalaeloa, and Waipahu) were on hand to welcome the innovative initiative, ‘Aina Pono Hawai‘i State Farm-to-School program, at Mililani High School on March 29. Launched previously in the Kohala School complex on Hawai‘i Island, Mililani High School enthusiastically joins this program to spearhead the serving of fresh, locally grown food to the Hawai‘i Department of Education’s (HIDOE) second largest food production site—providing 2,500 school lunches to 1,000 high school students and an additional 1,500 students at Mililani Uka Elementary and Mililani Waena Elementary. The original Farm-to-School initiative was introduced by the Lieutenant Governor’s Office in 2015 after SB376 was signed into law as Act 218. The rebranded name and new logo of ‘Aina Pono is designed to unite all of the programs operated by HIDOE School Food Services Branch. The Hawaiian word ‘aina, without the kahakō, refers to eating or meal. Pono is righteousness. Eating well and living in right harmony is reflected in all areas of life. This program is pivotal in reinforcing not only healthy eating, but in producing harmonious relationships with the environment and one another for Hawai‘i’s students, teachers, and families. The ‘Aina Pono Harvest of the month program will also highlight a new local product in student meals, and ‘ulu (breadfruit) is the featured food for March and April 2018. #ainapono #michellekidani #RonaldKouchi #adriankamalii #jaysonwatts #mililanihighschool #kohalaschool #HIDOE #MililaniUkaElementary #MililaniWaenaElementary