Two measures that are part of the Hawai‘i Women’s Legislative Caucus bill package addressing violence against women were advanced by the Senate Committee on Judiciary today. SB2345 addresses the backlog on rape kits by creating a Hawai‘i Sexual Assault Team to address how sexual assault evidence collection kits are processed and tracked. The bill also informs an inventory and report of sexual assault evidence collection kits as to ensure their processing and results reporting in a timely manner and establishes a tracking system to track the kits through the criminal justice system. The Act 207 Report, released in December 2016, identified a total of 2,240 rape kits in the custody of county police departments, 1,951 of which remained untested. SB2346 increases protection for survivors of domestic abuse, sexual assault and stalking by establishes a program to help victims keep their relocation and addresses confidential. An address confidentiality program would enhance survivors’ safety and privacy and provide them security and peace of mind. If the bill becomes law, Hawaii would join thirty-six other states that already implement these protections. #karlrhoads #briantaniguchi #mikegabbard #donnamercadokim #laurathielen #SB2345 #HawaiiSeualAssaultTeam #Act207 #hawaiisenate

Lt. Governor Shan Tsutsui today was honored for his 15 years of public service by his former Legislative colleagues on the Senate Floor. Senators praised Tsutsui for the work he has done during his term as Lt. Governor including spearheading the Farm-to-School initiative and the After School All-Stars program. He was also recognized for his sacrifice of family time while serving in the Senate and at the Executive level of government. Tsutsui’s last day as Lt. Governor was today after announcing his resignation earlier this week. More Photos on our Hawai'i Senate Majority Flickr Photo Account #ShanTsutsui #BrickwoodGaluteria #mikegabbard #kaialiikahele #willespero #donnamercadokim #gilriviere #donovandelacruz #laurathielen #lorraineinouye #stanleychang #maileshimabukuro #GilbertKeithAgaran #MaileShimabukuro #breeneharimoto #LesIharaJr #karlrhoads #BrianTaniguchi #ronkouchi #michellekidani #jkalanienglish #rozbaker #jillkuramoto #jilltokuda #clarencenishihara #glennwakai #hawaiisenate #FarmtoSchool

HONOLULU, Hawai‘i – Residents of Front Street apartments on the island of Maui can finally see a glimmer of hope, as the Senate Housing Committee today advanced Senate Bill 2293 that would mandate the State to start negotiations to either keeping the units affordable, or to acquire the property. Many of the tenants were not aware of the pending threat of being homeless. The apartment owners recently opted to take out the affordability requirements, a discretion linked to the property's development. The change would let them rent the apartments at housing market rates, increasing rental costs to much more than residents can afford. If SB2293 becomes law, the tenants, surrounding community, and the island of Maui would benefit from this state intervention, according to the bill. If an agreement to either extending the affordable rents or acquire the property is not made within a reasonable time, state public and private funds would provide the financing for the acquisition. Like every community, Maui residents are the heartbeat of its character and culture. In recent years, they have fallen under the weight of the housing market. "The Front Street apartment issue is just one example of how we at the Legislature can make a difference," said Sen. Will Espero (Dist. 19 - ‘Ewa Beach, Ocean Pointe, ‘Ewa by Gentry, Iroquois Point, portion of ‘Ewa Villages), Chair of the Senate Committee on Housing. "Hawai‘i's cost of living is the highest in the nation, and it's a shame that families struggle in our communities. Passing SB 2293 will help many working-class families with affordable housing." "I have lived here for the past twelve years and expected to live here until I die," according to Kathryn Snyder, a long-time Fort Street resident, who submitted testimony for the hearing. "I am 82 years old, I retired to Maui for 23 years ago and live on the same income. I do not want to become homeless. This is very stressful not knowing what is going to happen." The Front Street apartments in Lahaina, Maui provide affordable housing to more than 250 low-income residents. They were built in 2001 as an affordable rental housing project, using state financing and tax credits. # # # #willespero #hawaiisenate #sb2293 #maui #committeeonhousing #ewabeach #kathrynsnyder #frontstreetapartments #lahaina

A bill to integrate the Hawaiian language into fundamental functions of our state was passed with amendments by a joint Senate committee on Hawaiian Affairs, Higher Education and Judiciary. Senate Bill 2687 appropriates funds to the University of Hawai‘i to translate the Hawai‘i State Constitution into the Hawaiian language. Part two of the measure requires the courts to provide Hawaiian language translation services upon request of any party to a proceeding. There was an overwhelming show of support for the bill during today’s hearing that included a Hawaiian language translator to provide translation for those who testified in Hawaiian. SB2687, SD1 now goes before the Senate Committee on Ways and Means for consideration. #SB2687 #hawaiianlanguage #universityofHawaii #jkalanienglish #kaialiikahele #BrickwoodGaluteria #michellekidani #gilriviere #GilbertKeithAgaran #maileshimabukuro #stanleychang #donnamercadokim #mikegabbard

WHO: Senate Committees on Hawaiian Affairs, Higher Education, Judiciary and Labor WHAT: Committee Hearing on Hawaiian Language Bill WHEN: Tuesday, January 30, 2018 9:00 a.m. WHERE: Conference Room 211 Hawai‘i State Capitol A bill to integrate the Hawaiian language into fundamental functions of our state is scheduled for a hearing before the Senate Committees on Hawaiian Affairs, Higher Education and Judiciary on Tuesday, January 30, 2018 at 9:00 a.m. in Conference Room 211. Senate Majority Leader, J. Kalani English (Dist. 7-Hāna, East and Upcountry Maui, Molokaʻi, Lānaʻi and Kahoʻolawe) introduced Senate Bill 2687, which would appropriate funds to the University of Hawaiʻi to translate the Hawaiʻi State Consititution into the Hawaiian language. The proposed measure includes a part two which addresses the constitutional issue of ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi as one of two official state language. It would require courts to provide Hawaiian language translation service upon request of any party to a proceeding. The Hawaiʻi State Senate has long been committed to the implementation and usage of ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi in its daily operations. Since 2015, the Senate Order of the Day has been posted in both Hawaiian and English with the usage of Hawaiian diacritical markings in its public records. The Senate Committees on Water and Land and Hawaiian Affairs also launched a Hawaiian language hearing notice pilot project in 2017 as part of the Senate’s continuing initative recognizing the state’s two official langauges. “Up until the early 20th century, government operations in Hawaiʻi were conducted almost entirely in ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi,” said Sen. English. “SB2687 is a natural progression in the revitalization and implementation of ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi in government affairs. We are committed to ensuring equal access for all to services in ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi ” #jkalanienglish #hawaiianaffairs #hawaiisenate #SenatorEnglish #Olelo #sb2687

SENATE PRESIDENT STATEMENT ON LT. GOV. RESIGNATION HONOLULU, Hawai‘i - Senate President Ronald D. Kouchi released the following statement on receiving the news that Shan Tsutsui will resign as Lieutenant Governor effective January 31, 2018: "While it was known that Lieutenant Governor Shan Tsutsui would not be seeking re-election to his current office, being informed that the effective date of his resignation is in two days leaves me with mixed emotions. While I am personally happy that Shan is able to spend more time with his family, who has sacrificed in order for Shan to serve Maui, the State Senate, and the State of Hawai‘i, I am professionally saddened because Shan's resignation leaves a gaping hole in our current political fabric. With regard to the soon to be vacant Office of the Lieutenant Governor, I am not interested in becoming the next Lieutenant Governor of the State of Hawai‘i.” #ronkouchi #RonaldKouchi #LieutenantGovernor #ShanTsutsui

WHO: Sen. Clarence Nishihara, Sen. Donna Mercado Kim WHAT: Informational Briefing WHERE: Conference Room 224 Hawai‘i State Capitol WHEN: Tuesday, January 30, 2018 2:45 p.m. In light of the recent high profile suicide and suicide attempts within the state and county correctional institutions, Senators Clarence Nishihara (Dist. 17 - Waipahu, Crestview, Manana, Pearl City, Pacific Palisades) Chair of the Committee on Public Safety, Intergovernmental and Military Affairs, and Senator Donna Mercado Kim (Dist. 14 - Kapalama, ‘Alewa, Kalihi Valley, Ft. Shafter, Moanalua Gardens & Valley, portions of Halawa and ‘Aiea) Chair of the Committee on Government Operations, are convening an informational briefing on Tuesday, January 30, 2018 at 2:45 p.m. in Conference Room 224 to receive an update on protocols concerning suicide prevention and solitary confinement. The Hawai‘i State Department of Public Safety (DPS) has been asked to present to the Legislature all internal studies, reports and evaluations completed by the Research and Evaluation in Public Safety Project conducted by the Social Science Research Institute of the College of Social Sciences at the University of Hawai‘i at Manoa. The data and research collected through these studies can be important to addressing policy and protocol issues within DPS. To view the informational briefing notice: https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session2018/hearingnotices/HEARING_PSM-GVO_01-30-18_INFO_.HTM For further information or if you require auxiliary aids or services to participate in the informational briefing (i.e. ASL or foreign language interpreter, or wheelchair accessibility), please contact the Office of Sen. Nishihara at 808-586-6970 at least 24 hours prior to the hearing to make arrangements. # # # #clarencenishihara #donnamercadokim #SUICIDEpreventionprotocol #solitaryconfinement

Hawaii State Senators today honored the national-recognized work and an outstanding graduate of an innovative program that brings together industry leaders in media, music and design, and partners them with creative entrepreneurs. Creative Lab Hawai‘i is a branch of the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. More than 1,500 participants participated in the immersive programs and workshops from 2013-2017. These collaborative efforts resulted in a number of creative ventures, including three motion pictures, six options, five web-series, one app, and six licensed songs. Through their work, Creative Lab Hawai‘i is a major contributor to the $3.6 billion creative sector industry in the State of Hawai‘i. The program has become so successful, it has expanded to the neighbor islands. Recognized on the Senate floor was Creative Lab Hawai‘I Executive Director, Michael Andres Palmieri, and screenwriter and producer Amy Alohilani Bircher. Michael Andres Palmieri is a veteran writer and producer, having worked with production companies including Walt Disney, Warner Brothers, and Twentieth Century Fox. For the past 20 years, he has also been designing, facilitating, and producing training and development programs for media entrepreneurs and has been fundamental in bringing together local creative talent with Hollywood media sources. Mr. Palmieri was recognized for championing the arts and supporting Hawai‘i creatives. Amy Alohilani Bircher is Hawai‘i born and raised and found a love for writing early. She was among seven applicants selected to participate in the Creative Labs Hawai‘i Writers Immersive program last year. Through the program, she was hired to help write several screenplays. She also recently wrote a Lifetime mini-movie that aired on December 3, 2017 titled “Delivering Christmas.” The Senate applauds entrepreneurial leadership and recognizes both Mr. Palmieri and Mrs. Bircher for their work in the creative industry. #hawaiisenators #hawaiisenate #creativelabhawaii #Michaelandrespalmieri #amyBircher

Hawai‘i State Senators today were joined on the floor of the Senate Chamber by international exchange students who are part of the Future Leaders Exchange (FLEX) program. As part of this annual program, students are paired with Legislators for an opportunity to increase their knowledge of U.S. government and to share their own cultural heritage. The students’ full day at the Hawai‘i State Senate included shadowing a Senator and a group meeting with the Governor. The FLEX program provides for high school students from a number of former Soviet Union countries an opportunity to experience the important elements of a civil society. The goal of this program is democracy-building—exposing future leaders to democratic systems and the free market economy. A primary focus of the program is civic responsibility and volunteerism. Funded by U.S. Congress, this program seeks to empower students to develop leadership skills that will be useful in their countries of origin.

WHO: Sen. Will Espero, Rep. Tom Brower WHAT: Public Meeting on Affordable Housing WHERE: Hawai‘i State Capitol Auditorium WHEN: Monday, January 29, 2018 4:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Senator Will Espero (S Dist. 19 - ‘Ewa Beach, Ocean Pointe, ‘Ewa by Gentry, Iroquois Point, portion of ‘Ewa Villages) Chair of the Senate Committee on Housing and Representative Tom Brower (H Dist. 22- Waikiki, Ala Moana) Chair of the House Committee on Housing are hosting a public meeting on the issue of affordable housing. It is estimated that 23,000 affordable rental units are needed in Hawai‘i to meet the state’s housing needs over the next ten years. To reach this goal will require a creative and collaborative effort from the government and private sectors. The public is invited to bring their ideas and join in the discussion on finding efficient solutions to developing sustainable affordable housing across the state. The legislative proposals to be considered this Session will also be discussed. Guest presenters at the meeting will be representatives from Faith Action Community Equity (FACE), Institute for Human Services, Next Step Shelter, Partners in Care, Homeless Veteran’s Task Force, and Building Industry Association of Hawai‘i. # # # #hawaiisenate #willespero #talkstory #affordablehousing #InstituteforHumanServices

The Hawai‘i Women’s Legislative Caucus held their annual Legislative Breakfast and Panel Discussion at the YWCA Laniakea on Wednesday, January 24 where the caucus announced their 2018 Legislative Package. Included are bills that address access to quality healthcare, reducing gender violence, protecting children, increasing economic opportunities, and ensuring equal opportunity for women. The health and protection of women from domestic abuse and violence is an ongoing priority expressed by the Women’s Caucus. Protection from violence against women is introduced in SB2342 which mandates health insurance policies and includes coverage for clinical victim support services for victims of sexual violence and abuse. SB2343 expands the jurisdiction of the family court against offenses committed against family and household members, and SB2346 establishes a confidentiality program to help survivors of domestic abuse, sexual assault, and stalking. In regards to economic opportunities and equality for women, SB509 relates to pay equity and prohibits retaliation or discrimination against employees. SB2351 also prohibits enforced wage secrecy and retaliation or discrimination against employees, while SB2353 prohibits discrimination in education on the basis of gender identity or sexual orientation. There are also a number of bills that specifically addresses child care as in SB521, which establishes a six week paid maternity and paternity leave policy for government employees and SB2352 enforces protection of children from sex trafficking and prostitution. The Women’s Legislative Caucus is a bi-partisan organization comprised of women legislators in the House and Senate, as well as the County level, who support an agenda designed to improve the lives of women, children, and families in Hawai‘i. # # # #hawaiiwomenslegislativecaucus #ywcalaniakea #2018legislativepackage #donnamercadokim #laurathielen #jilltokuda #lorraineinouye

HONOLULU, Hawai‘i – Students at Waikoloa Elementary and Middle School will soon have their long-awaited classroom space with $12.4 million in Capital Improvement Project funding recently released by the Ige Administration. Waikoloa Elementary and Middle School is located on the west coast of Hawai‘i Island. It serves students from preschool to grade 8, with the current enrollment at 800 students and growing. To accommodate the large student body, the school has been using portables for classrooms, as well as open library space. They also have been staggering instructional class time to share the limited classroom space. “Providing our keiki with comfortable and quality learning spaces is a critical component to their path to success,” said Senator Lorraine Inouye (Dist. 4 - Hilo, Hamakua, Kohala, Waimea, Waikoloa, Kona) who helped secure the much needed funding during the 2016 Legislative Session. “Waikoloa Elementary and Middle School is literally bursting at the seams, so this new classroom building is going to be a tremendous asset to the students and staff. I’m grateful to my colleagues and the Governor for recognizing the needs of the Waikoloa community.” # # # #lorraineinouye #waikoloa #Waikoloaelementary