HONOLULU, Hawai‘i – The Senate today passed 134 House bills on third reading that seek to address many issues including affordable housing, economic development, and protection from invasive species. An additional 74 House bills previously passed third reading in the Senate, for a total of 208 bills, ahead of the Second Crossover deadline of April 13. The bills passed on third reading will be transmitted to the House and many will be referred to a committee on conference where House and Senate members will meet jointly to remedy differences in House and Senate positions. To follow the actions of conference, visit the “Reports and Lists” page of the legislature’s website capitol.hawaii.gov. “These bills reflect the Senate’s focus on the priorities set forth in the Legislative Program which aim to support our communities, our environment, good governance and sustainability,” said Senate Majority Leader J. Kalani English (Dist. 7 - Hana, East and Upcountry Maui, Moloka‘i, Lana‘i, Kaho‘olawe). “The challenge will be to provide funding for all these measures and the proposed GIA in light of diminishing revenues and requirements to pay for increasing fixed costs such as pension payments.” “The passage of these measures illustrate the continued effort of the Senate to improve the lives of the people of Hawai‘i,” said Senate President Ronald D. Kouchi (Dist. 8 - Kaua'i, Ni'ihau). “However, as we head into conference, the onus continues to be on the legislature to find funding sources for measures, ensure that we meet our current financial obligations while exercising fiscal responsibility.” A few of the key measures passed today by the Senate which reflect the Senate Legislative Program: Ola Lehulehu – People and Communities Education HB957 HD1 SD2 Authorizes the Department of Education to borrow moneys interest-free from the Hawai‘i green infrastructure loan program for heat abatement measures at public schools. Requires the Department of Education to make payments on the loan from revenues saved by energy efficiency measures. HB480 HD1 SD1 Makes an appropriation to the Hawai‘i community college for the Hawai‘i community college and University of Hawai‘i at Hilo, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture and the Agribusiness Development Corporation, to study agriculture and agricultural learning opportunities on the island of Hawai‘i. Requires the Hawai‘i community college to submit a report to the legislature. Homelessness HB527 HD1 SD2 appropriates funds to purchase, staff, and operate two mobile clinics to serve the homeless population. HB1195 HD1 SD1 appropriates funds to the Department of Health and Department of Human Services, including the Office of Youth Services, to provide homeless outreach services and rental subsidies to reduce and prevent homelessness. HB530 HD2 SD2 updates the Downpayment Loan Program under the Hawai‘i Housing Finance and Development Corporation. Social Services HB615 HD1 SD1 appropriates funds for the Healthy Aging Partnership Program to further the program’s important role in improving the health and well-being of Hawai‘i’s kupuna. HB607 HD1 SD2 requires the Executive Office on Aging to establish the Kupuna Caregivers Program to assist community members in obtaining care for elders while remaining in the workforce. Clarifies the kupuna service and support options provided by area agencies on aging within the program. Makes establishment of the kupuna care program mandatory rather than discretionary. HB674 HD2 SD2 requires all child care providers subject to regulation by the Department of Human Services to obtain and maintain liability insurance as a condition of licensure, temporary permission, or registration and disclose insurance-related information to certain parents or guardians. Requires the Department of Human Services to submit a report to the legislature prior to the 2018 regular session. HB4 HD1 SD1 requires certain employers to provide a minimum amount of paid sick leave to employees to be used to care for themselves or a family member who is ill or needs medical care. Health Care HB672 HD2 SD2 formally establishes the Hawai‘i Keiki: Healthy and Ready to Learn Program within the Department of Education. Establishes a dedicated special fund and positions within the Departments of Education, Health, and Human Services to support the program. HB552 HD1 SD2 ensures that benefits of the Affordable Care Act are preserved under state law in the case of repeal of the ACA by Congress. Preserves the individual mandate, minimum essential benefit requirements, extended dependent coverage, and prohibitions on preexisting condition exclusions and gender discrimination in premiums and costs. Establishes a trust fund and procedures to reimburse insurers for unrecouped costs of providing minimum essential insurance benefits. HB1272 HD1 SD1 specifies that coverage for telehealth under the State's medicaid managed care and fee-for-service programs includes psychiatric services delivered via telehealth through a behavioral health care manager who is present in a primary health care provider's office. Food Security HB1475 HD2 SD2 Permits farmers' markets and food hubs on lands in an agricultural district. Requires that value-added products displayed and sold by agricultural-based commercial operations in agricultural districts contain an unspecified per cent of Hawai‘i-grown content. Aloha Kaiāulu Ho‘oulu – Preparedness Government Services HB1401 HD1 SD1 enacts voting by mail uniformly across all counties for all elections commencing in 2020, and allows any election to be conducted by mail prior to the 2020 primary election, in whole or in part, as determined by the chief election officer or county clerk, as appropriate. HB206 HD2 SD2 establishes a prepaid wireless E911 surcharge of 1.5 per cent of prepaid wireless service purchased at the point of sale. Allows sellers to deduct and retain 3 per cent of the surcharges collected to offset administrative expenses, but requires sellers to remit the balance of surcharges collected to the Enhanced 911 fund on a specified periodic basis. Community Development HB1327 HD1 SD1 Appropriates funds for the Manufacturing Development Program. Aloha Honua – Climate Change and Energy Environment HB1339 HD1 SD2 restructures the Hawai‘i Invasive Species Council as the Hawai‘i Invasive Species Authority to coordinate implementation of the Hawai‘i Interagency Biosecurity Plan and related duties. HB904 HD1 SD1 establishes the invasive species rapid response special fund within DLNR. Establishes procedures for emergency declarations and expenditures. Pono Kaulike – Transforming Justice HB930 SD2 creates and appropriates funds for Erin's Law Task Force to review policies, programs, and curricula for educating public school students about sexual abuse and sex trafficking prevention, and report recommendations for the establishment of a program to educate public school children on sexual abuse prevention through age appropriate curricula. # # # #Hawaiisenate #SenateBills #jkalanienglish #RonKouchi

JOINT STATEMENT ON HTA AUDIT SR27 AND SCR72 After reviewing testimony submitted on SR 27 and SCR 72, it is clear to both Senator Glenn Wakai (S Dist. 15 - Kalihi, Mapunapuna, Airport, Salt Lake, Aliamanu, Foster Village, Hickam, Pearl Harbor), Chair of the Senate Committee on Economic Development, Tourism, and Technology and Representative Richard Onishi (H Dist 3 - Hilo, Keaau, Kurtistown, Volcano), Chair of the House Committee on Tourism, that there is overwhelming support for an audit of the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority (HTA), with the duplicative nature of the proposed audit and the additional cost to perform the audit being the only points of contention. By law, the Office of the Auditor is required to audit HTA “at least every five years.” The Office of the Auditor last audited HTA in 2013. “It was never my intention nor that of Chair Onishi to subject HTA to unnecessary scrutiny or to incur unreasonable costs. The resolutions were introduced to maintain public trust in HTA management and fiscal responsibility of our largest economic driver,” said Sen. Wakai. “We have asked State Auditor Les Kondo to consider reporting his audit findings and recommendations to HTA and the legislature in early 2018. The Auditor will provide an independent, objective, and nonpartisan review of HTA's performance, including its management and expenditures of state funds. Given the importance of tourism to our state, the audit will provide accountability to the legislature and the public that HTA is using its resources, including state funds, effectively, efficiently, and ethically to achieve its mission. We are confident that the Auditor’s review will address the objectives set out in SR 27 and SCR 72, making it unnecessary to pass these resolutions,” said Rep. Onishi. # # # #glennwakai #hawaiisenate #sr27 #scr72 #HTA #HawaiiTourismAutority #richardonishi #leskondo

Dr. Amy Agbayani was recognized on the Senate floor for her academic contributions and long-time service to the people of Hawai‘i. Dr. Agbayani is recently retired as the Assistant Vice Chancellor for Student Diversity and Director of the Office of Student Equity, Excellence, and Diversity (SEED) at the University of Hawai‘i, Mānoa. Besides administrative work, Dr. Agbayani conducted research and wrote papers and books about Filipinos in Hawai‘i, and cofounded Operation Manong, a program to tutor Filipino and other immigrant students in public schools. In recognition of her life’s work, Dr. Agbayani has received numerous honors for her achievements, including recognition from the YWCA, Filipino Community Center, and Honpa Hongwanji Mission as a Living Treasure. retirement, Dr. Agbayani’s work will continue through her endowed scholarship for civil rights, which will enable young people to continue to build a more equitable and inclusive society. ### More photos on our Hawai'i Senate Majority Flickr site: https://www.flickr.com/photos/hawaiisenatemajority/albums/72157678770738654 More photos on our Hawai'i Senate Majority Flickr site: https://www.flickr.com/photos/hawaiisenatemajority/albums/72157678770738654

MEDIA ADVISORY – For immediate release COACH DAVE SHOJI TO BE HONORED AT THE CAPITOL WHO: Members of State Senate and House Retired UH Wahine Volleyball Coach Dave Shoji WHAT: Floor presentations for Dave Shoji WHEN: Thursday, April 13, 2017 11:30 a.m. Senate Session 12 noon House Session WHERE: Senate and House chambers Hawai‘i State Capitol HONOLULU, Hawai‘i – In recognition of his years of dedication and devotion to the State of Hawai‘i and the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa Wahine Volleyball program, the Senate and House will celebrate “Dave Shoji Day” at the State Capitol on Thursday, April 13. "It is an honor to recognize Coach Shoji in the Senate,” said Sen. Kaiali`i Kahele, Chair of the Senate Committee on Higher Education and a former UH men’s volleyball player. “His legacy and remarkable career is undeniable. As a member of the UH Menʻs Volleyball team from 1994-1997, I will always remember how kind he treated me as well as the advice and mentorship he gave me as a student athlete. I am honored to know him and wish him the very best in retirement. My appreciation for Coach Shoji is also extended to his wife Mary and children Cobey, Kawika and Erik for sharing Coach Dave with all of Hawaiʻi." “Coach Dave Shoji not only made Hawai‘i proud of the outstanding accomplishments of the University of Hawai‘i Wahine Volleyball team, he taught his players valuable life lessons in leadership, camaraderie and honor,” said Rep. Angus McKelvey, Chair of the House Higher Education Committee. “He brought the UH into the national spotlight as a program to be reckoned with, and gave us all tremendous pride in the talent of the young athletes he mentored.” The floor presentation recognitions will be held at the beginning of the Senate and House regular sessions. # # # #daveshoji #kaikahele

HONOLULU, Hawai‘i - The Senate today recognized the honorees of the 2016 Healthcare Hero award for the service they provide their patients and the community. The Healthcare Association of Hawai‘i (HAH) identifies outstanding healthcare providers as those who demonstrate exceptional commitment and noteworthy expertise. The healthcare providers recognized as the 2016 Healthcare Heroes are Pixie Bickel, Dr. Ian Okazaki, Phung Le Ouchi, Dr. Thomas J. Kane, and Catherine Marquette. Pixie Bickel is a radiologic mammography technician who gives her undivided attention and exceptional expertise to every one of her patients. The importance of her work in helping detect early stages of cancer is reflected through her genuine compassion and professionalism towards her patients. Dr. Ian Okazaki graduated from John A. Burns School of Medicine as an oncologist. He works with cancer patients and their families and seeks to make the tumultuous cancer journey as stress-free as possible. Dr. Okazaki believes one of his most important role is to be a good listener. Phung Le Ouchi is a licensed practical nurse and is currently working on her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She works at the Hi‘olani Care Center at Kahala Nui where she combines her expertise in long term care with her love for her patients. Dr. Thomas J. Kane graduated from the University of California, Santa Clara Medical School. He currently serves as a medical director at Queen’s Medical Center. He considers being a health care provider a privilege, and he gives his full dedication to his patients in helping to restore their quality of life. Catherine Marquette is a registered nurse and has been working at Hamakua Health Center since 1993, where she became the Medical Director in 2016. Catherine uses her heart and her expertise to provide the best care and experience possible to her patients. # # #

HONOLULU, Hawai‘i - Volcom Hawai‘i was recognized on the Senate floor for their philanthropy and deep commitment to Hawai‘i’s communities. Volcom is an international surf, skate, and snowboard brand, founded in 1991, and Volcom Hawai‘i represents this company’s leadership here in the islands. Professional surfers Dave Riddle, Dave Wassel, Tai Vandyke, Kaimana Henry, and Kawai Lindo were on hand to accept the Certificate of Recognition. For the past eight years, Volcom Hawai‘i has invested in the people with their “Hawai‘i Gives Back Program” and their Sustainability Programs, whereby a portion of the sales from Volcom Hawai‘i products and the proceeds from the Volcom Pipe Pro goes towards. This year at Volcom Pipe Pro they presented a $60,000 check to the Boys and Girls Club of Hawai‘i and a $16,000 check to the Live Like Sion Memorial Fund. To date, Volcom has donated a total of $450,000 to the Boys and Girls Club of Hawai‘i, Sunset Beach Elementary, and the Live Like Sion Foundation. Sustainability is an official part of their mission statement and Volcom participates with Sustainable Coastlines Hawai‘i to produce a Deep Blue Certified Event, which meets sustainability criteria for running a surf event. Hawai‘i is the center of surfing and the Senate commended Volcom’s contributions to the youth of Hawai‘i, and for being inspirational and representative of good stewards of our land and ocean. # # # #volcom #daveriddle #davewassel #taivandyke #kaimanahenry #kawailindo #volcomhawaii #Volcompipepro #boysandgirlsclub #boysandgirlsclubhawaii #livelikesionmemorialfund #sustainablecoastlineshawaii #deepbluecertifiedevent #hawaiisenatesurf #hawaiisenate #sydneyiaukea #jkalanienglish #senatorenglish

HONOLULU, Hawai‘i - The Senate today recognized the Small Business Administration Awards Hawai‘i recipients for their excellence in small business. The winners are both entrepreneurs and advocates and have proven that they have the creativity and drive to turn adversity into opportunity. This year’s recipients are Dr. Patrick Gesik, Terry Mullen, Maria A.F. Etrata, Reginald Baker, and Sherry Bracken. Also recognized on the Senate floor is Jane Sawyer, the Hawai‘i District Director for the Small Business Administration. Dr. Patrick Gesik is the 2017 Small Business Administration Young Entrepreneur of the Year. Gesik Physical Therapy, established in 2013, provides orthopedic physical therapy through hands on manual therapy techniques. Dr. Gesik secured a Small Business Administration Express Loan in 2014 to expand the family business, and the business continues to grow through positive referrals from physicians and patient satisfaction. The recipient of the 2017 Family Owned Small Business of the Year for the State of Hawai‘i is John Mullen & Company, a third generation kama‘aina company that operates as an insurance adjusting firm. Founded in 1959 by John and Margaret Mullen, Terry Mullen has worked in the family business for over 40 years, and currently serves as the president and CEO. His daughter, Sara, also works in the company undertaking managerial duties. Maria A.F. Etrata is the winner of the 2017 Small Business Advocate for Minorities award. Etrata founded The Primary Care Providers of Hawai‘i in 1996 to create a network for the care home industry to provide information and education to its members, and to be a voice on legislation affecting care homes. Alongside her husband Renato, the couple established the philanthropic Renato and Maria A.F. Etrata Foundation to improve communities by supporting educational, cultural, and social programs for multiple cultures and faiths from around the world. Reginald Baker is this year’s Small Business Advocate for Financial Services recipient. Baker has served as a director with the Chamber of Commerce, a leader of the Small Business Council, and has spent over 25 years promoting and assisting Hawai‘i’s small business owners through consulting, training, and other support. Sherry Bracken is the 2017 Small Business Advocate for Journalism and Media for the State of Hawai‘i. Bracken writes, hosts, and produces a daily event program and a weekly interview program for two Hawai‘i Island stations. Bracken views her role in advocating for a healthy, robust economy by educating and informing the public to empower change. #smallbusinessadministration #Hawaiisenate #patrickgesik #terrymullen #mariaetrata #reginaldbaker #sherrybracken #janesawyer #glennwakai

SEN. INOUYE HOLDS INFO BRIEFING ON BIOFUELS WHO: Sen. Lorraine Inouye, Chair Senate Committee on Transportation and Energy Hawai‘i Energy Policy Forum WHAT: Informational briefing on status of biofuel production in Hawai‘i WHEN: Monday, April 3, 2017 1:30 pm – 3:00 pm WHERE: Conference Room 225 Hawai‘i State Capitol The practitioners, potential and current production of biofuels in the state of Hawai‘i are among the topics to be covered in an informational briefing to be held on Monday, April 3 in Conference Room 225. Among those presenting at the info briefing: David Anton, Cellana Shaun Moss and Fabio Soller, Oceanic Institute’s Hilo Feed Mill/Aquatic Feeds Department Jenna Long, Pacific Biodiesel Joe Boivin, Hawai‘i Gas Will Kusch, Terviva Dave Robinchaux, North Shore Consultants Steve Joseph, PVT Land To view the hearing notice and agenda: http://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session2017/hearingnotices/HEARING_TRE_04-03-17_INFO_.HTM #davidanton #shaunmoss #fabiosoller #hilofeedmill #aquaticfeedsdepartment #jennalong #joeboivin #willkusch #davidrobinchaux #stevejosept #lorraineinouye #hawaiisenate

Sessions designed to deepen the understanding of nation’s most pressing energy, natural resource and climate change policy issues HONOLULU, Hawai‘i – Senator Donna Mercado Kim (Dist. 14 - Kapalama, ‘Alewa, Kalihi Valley, Ft. Shafter, Moanalua Gardens & Valley, portions of Halawa and ‘Aiea) joined the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO) Educational Fund, the nation’s preeminent Latino leadership organization, and 45 other Latino elected officials from across the country for the National Policy Institute on Energy, Natural Resources and Climate Changefrom March 24-25, 2017 in Houston, Texas. The NALEO Educational Fund’s National Policy Institute on Energy, Natural Resources and Climate Change provided Sen. Kim and other Latino policymakers with the opportunity to discuss various policy approaches for the reliable and affordable development and use of energy while also addressing the responsible stewardship of natural resources and the future vitality of our communities. “Energy has such a significant impact on not just our daily lives, but our economy and the generations to come, particularly here in Hawai‘i where we’ve committed to a bold goal of 100 percent clean energy by 2045,” stated Sen. Kim. “My take away from this conference was a greater awareness of how we can help shape the discussion on energy policy and ensure that sound decisions are being made in areas such as natural resource management and energy development now and into the future.” The Policy Institute convened state legislators and local policymakers with leading national and state experts, private sector representatives and other key stakeholders for two days of professional development. During the training, Sen. Kim and other Latino officials had the opportunity to deepen their understanding of the most pressing energy, natural resource and climate change issues, strengthen leadership and governance skills, and exchange legislative ideas and best practices with colleagues from across the country. This event was made possible through the generous support of Title Sponsors, American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers and Environmental Defense Fund. A full schedule and agenda is available at http://www.naleo.org/2017_energy. # # # #NALEO #ClimateChange #Houston #donnamercadokim #HawaiiSenate

HB100 HD1 SD1 provides conservative approach emphasizing critical community needs and reducing fixed costs HONOLULU, Hawai‘i – The Senate committee on Ways and Means today approved an amended state budget which proposes a financially prudent six-year plan to provide funding for core services and priority issues of the community while taking into account declining state revenues, rising fixed costs, and the uncertainty of the federal funding climate. HB100 HD1 SD1 proposes reducing the Governor’s budget request by $114 million in general funds over the biennium, which includes fiscal years 2017-2018 and 2018-2019. However, the WAM committee was able to provide funding for recurring program needs and essential social services along with appropriating funding for addressing infrastructure and facilities needs in critical areas. WAM members were able to do this by reviewing the details of every budget request as well as each departments’ existing base budget to consider all possible ways to reduce costs without jeopardizing services or core functions of the State. “With the downgraded report from the Council of Revenues in March, it is daunting to be looking at a deficit of some $31 million for this fiscal year and some $220 million over the next three fiscal years,” said Senate President Ronald D. Kouchi (Dist. 8 - Kaua'i, Ni'ihau). “While there are programs and areas that we would like to have funded but are unable to because of fiscal constraints, the Senate budget is at least able to address the basic needs of our most vulnerable citizens.” “What we’re presenting is a balanced approach to ensure funding for priority community needs while appropriating funds for increasing costs in retirement benefits and other fixed costs. This is the result of digging deep into the base budgets of each state department and thoroughly examining how to make cuts without impacting the basic, essential needs of our community: keeping the lights on in our schools, provide housing, protecting our natural resources, and ensuring health care services are available to keiki and kupuna,” said Senate WAM Chair, Jill Tokuda (Dist. 24 - Kane‘ohe, Kane‘ohe MCAB, Kailua, He‘eia, ‘‘Āhuimanu). Many of the significant appropriations in education, environment, homelessness, and health care reflect the Senate’s commitment to the Legislative Program set forth at the start of the 2017 session. The Legislative Program are the priority issues which embrace Hawaiian values and aim to improve the quality of life for the residents of Hawai‘i. In the area of education, the Senate draft of the executive budget adjusts the Department of Education’s appropriation by adding $52.1 million in general funds in FY2017-18 and $57.2 million in general funds in FY 2018-19. Although $12 million less than the Administration’s request, $2.8 million in general funds and $2.8 million in federal funds for each fiscal year will continue and expand school-based health services in Hawai‘i’s public schools. $1 million in general funds was approved for each fiscal year for the Early College High School program to support the success of the initiative and encourage more opportunities for Hawai‘i’s public high school students to earn college credits before graduating high school. At the University of Hawai‘i, $3 million in general funds was appropriated for the Cancer Center clinical trials and operational support. $1.8 million in general funds was allocated for the Hawai‘i Promise Program that allows more students to afford community college. In terms of the homeless effort, $3 million in general funds was appropriated for each fiscal year for the Housing First Program, $2.1 million in general funds in each fiscal year for operation of State Family and Elderly Housing Facility. The committee also provided $500,000 for each fiscal year in general funds that will allow for the continuation of outreach and interim case management for homeless individuals with serious and persistent mental health challenges. In the area of environment, $750,000 in general funds for each fiscal year was allocated for Rapid ‘Ō‘hia Death Response, $400,000 in general funds for each fiscal year for Fire Protection Programs, and $250,000 in general funds for each fiscal year for protection of watershed forests. To ensure Hawai‘i’s seniors are able to continue leading healthy, independent, meaningful and dignified lives, $3.9 million in general funds for each fiscal year was allocated for Kupuna Care. $600,000 for fiscal year 2017-18 in general funds was provided to support family caregivers and $1.7 million in general funds for each fiscal year is appropriated for the Aging and Disability Resource Center. HB100 HD1 SD1 also includes funding for capital improvement projects (CIP) which reflects the Senate Legislative priorities and supports many of the initiatives the Administration has been pledging such as doubling food production, addressing jail overcrowding, attending to capacity issues and new schools for growing communities, and addressing affordable housing, particularly for seniors. $35 million was allocated to address the backlog of repairs and new units for senior housing. Currently, there are over 4,100 seniors on the waitlist for senior housing. OPERATING FUNDING HIGHLIGHTS DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Add (2) positions and $226,134 in FY18 and (3) positions and $200,000 in FY19 in general funds for the Agricultural Food Safety Certification Program Add $750,000 in general funds in each FY for pesticide regulation expenses and studies Add (3) permanent positions and $79,236 in FY18 and $158,472 in FY19 in general funds for pesticides compliance DEPARTMENT OF ACCOUNTING AND GENERAL SERVICES Add $2,185,567 in FY18 and $2,210,913 in FY19 in general funds for New Payroll System and Time and Attendance System Add $937,024 in FY18 and $922,326 in FY19 in general funds for integration of Human Resources System with Payroll and Time and Attendance System Add $3,175,000 in general funds in each FY for Carrier Circuit and Collocation Costs for the Office of Enterprise Technology Services Change means of financing for (5) permanent positions and $505,585 from trust funds to general funds in each FY for Campaign Spending Commission DEPARTMENT OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL Add $38,000 in general funds in each FY for Criminal Justice Division Rent, Family Law Division Rent, Tax and Charities Division Rent Add $110,000 in general funds in each FY for Criminal Justice Information Systems Hawai‘i software licenses/renewals for the State Criminal Justice Information and ID Program Add (1) position and $50,000 in general funds in each FY for Police Review Board DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, AND TOURISM Add (1) permanent position and $25,386 in FY18 and $50,772 in FY19 in general funds for compliance with decisions and orders of Land Use Commission Add (1) temporary position and $27,618 in FY18 and $55,236 in FY19 in general funds for Special Action Team on Affordable Rental Housing Add (1) permanent positon and $29,868 in FY18 and $59,736 in FY19 in general funds for Transit-Oriented Development Projects and Interagency Transit-Oriented Development Council/Support Add (0.5) temporary position and $23,750 in FY18 and $47,500 in FY19 in special funds for Chief Operating Officer/Industry Specialist for Hi Technology Development Corporation Add (0.5) temporary position and $16,250 in FY18 and $32,500 in FY19 in special funds for Special Projects Coordinator for Hi Technology Development Corporation DEPARTMENT OF BUDGET AND FINANCE Add $30,637,298 in general funds in FY18 for severance pay and social security and Medicare payments for employees to be separated from state employment due to the upcoming transfer of the Hawai‘i Health Systems Corporation's (HHSC) Maui Region to Kaiser Permanente management Add $4,493,450 in general funds in each FY for Centralized Vacation Payout for various departments Add $34,625,428 in FY18 and $70,673,178 in FY19 in general funds for additional retirement benefit payments funding for the State to reflect phase-in of employer contribution rate increases. Add (1) permanent position and $2,018,171 in FY18 and $107,552 in FY19 in other funds for Hawai‘i Domestic Relations Orders Implementation for the Employee Retirement System DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS Add (1) staff attorney and $68,145 in FY18 and $130,180 in FY19 in special funds for unfair and deceptive trade practices enforcement for Office of Consumer Protection Add $200,000 in special funds in FY18 for consultant services and training Add $303,949 in special funds in FY18 for other current expenditures for Public Utilities Commission equipment, renovation, and moving costs DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE Add $90,000 in general funds in each FY for State Active Duty continuing operations Add $768,000 in FY18 and $464,000 in FY19 in general funds for tree trimming and removal at Hawai‘i State Veterans Cemetery Add (1) permanent position and $50,772 in each FY for Veteran Services Counselor DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION Add $1,000,000 in general funds in each FY for Early College High School Initiative Add $2,800,000 in general funds and $2,800,000 in federal funds in each FY for Hawai‘i Keiki Program Add (2) permanent positions and $91,909 in FY18 and $183,818 in FY19 in general funds for School Based Behavioral Health Services for Maui and Hawai‘i Island Add (2) permanent positions and $183,818 in general funds in each FY for Hawai‘i Teachers Standards Board Add (15) permanent positions and $779,310 in FY18 and $1,434,885 in FY19 in general funds for Civil Rights Compliance Capacity Add $1,100,000 in general funds in each FY for Student Information System Enhancement and Expansion Add $670,000 in general funds in each FY for Alternative Teacher Route Programs Add $2,500,000 in FY18 and $4,000,000 in FY19 in general funds for School Service and Maintenance Add $1,500,000 in general funds in each FY for Utilities Add (4) permanent positions and $1,755,525 in FY18 and $3,711,835 in FY19 in general funds for Student Transportation Services Statewide PUBLIC LIBRARIES Add (6.5) permanent positions and $50,799 in FY18 and $203,196 in FY19 in general funds for Nanakuli Public Library Add (1) permanent position and $23,466 in FY18 and $46,932 in FY19 in general funds for Office of the State Librarian Add $250,000 in general funds in each FY for Repair and Maintenance Backlog CHARTER SCHOOLS Add $9,651,776 in FY18 and $9,944,866 in FY19 in general funds for Per Pupil Adjustment EARLY LEARNING Add (10) permanent positions and $136,688 in FY18 and $556,842 in FY19 in general funds for Pre-Kindergarten and Induction Program Add (2) permanent positions and $53,733 in FY18 and $82,317 in FY19 in general funds for Executive Office on Early Learning OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR Add $117,167 in general funds in each FY for membership fees for national and regional chief executive organizations DEPARTMENT OF HAWAIIAN HOME LANDS Add $6,865,887 in general funds in each FY for fringe benefits for general funded positions DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES Add $2,100,000 in general funds in each FY for operation of State Family and Elderly Housing Facility Add $3,000,000 in general funds in each FY for Housing First Program Add $1,500,000 in general funds in each FY for homeless outreach services Add $3,000,000 in general funds in FY18 for Rapid Re-Housing Program Add $300,000 in general funds and $100,000 in federal funds in each FY for services for child victims of sex trafficking Add $4,558,858 in general funds and $2,454,770 in federal funds in FY18 and $4,634,292 in general funds and $2,495,388 in federal funds in FY19 for settlement for foster care board rates Add $2,500,000 in general funds and $7,056,720 in federal funds in FY18 and $5,000,000 in general funds and $14,113,440 in federal funds in FY19 for adult dental benefits Add $1,886,205 in general funds and $2,309,090 in federal funds in FY18 and $4,052,472 in general funds and $4,961,033 in federal funds in FY19 for nursing facility inflation factor Add $2,947,556 in general funds and $2,691,040 in federal funds in each FY for Medicare Part B Premiums Transfer $500,000 in general funds in each FY from Office of Youth Services to School Community Services for Resources for Enrichment, Athletics, Culture, and Health (REACH) Program. DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT Add $2,396,000 in general funds in FY18 for worker's compensation claims DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH Add (2) temporary positions and $144,054 in FY18 and $208,143 in FY19 in special funds for Medical Marijuana Registry Program Add (5) temporary positions and $890,000 in non-recurring special funds in each FY for medical marijuana dispensary licensing program Add $6,507,305 in general funds in each FY for base budget funding of Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion Administration, Primary Prevention, and Chronic Disease Management per funding in Act 118, SLH 2015. Add $500,000 in general funds in each FY for services for homeless individuals with serious and persistent mental health challenges Add $800,000 in general funds in each FY for outreach and counseling services for chronically homeless individuals and families with severe substance abuse disorders Add $300,000 in general funds in each FY for clean and sober housing for chronically homeless individuals with severe substance use disorders Add $1,340,000 in FY18 and $1,613,000 in FY19 in general funds for purchase of service contracts for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Add $2,754,980 in FY18 and $7,118,914 in FY19 in general funds for rebased provider payment rates for Development Disabilities Add $3,000,000 in general funds in each FY for maintenance of effort for Healthy Start Add $799,833 in FY18 and $742,034 in FY19 in general funds for statewide emergency ambulance services Add (1) permanent position and $60,629 in FY18 and $121,259 in FY19 in general funds for investigation of suspected health clusters from environmental sources Add $3,976,435 in general funds in each FY for Kupuna Care Add $1,700,000 in general funds in each FY for Aging and Disability Resource Center Add $600,000 in general funds in FY18 for Kupuna Caregiver Program Add $150,000 in general funds in each FY for purchase of services contract for statewide telehealth pilot project Transfer $942,000 in general funds in each FY as subsidy to Wahiawa General Hospital to Subsidies HAWAII HEALTH SYSTEMS CORPORATION Add $300,000 in general funds in each FY for operations subsidy for Kahuku Hospital Add $36,486,000 in FY18 and $34,686,000 in FY19 in general funds for operations subsidy for the regions Add $5,000,000 in general funds in FY18 for Hawai‘i Health Systems Corporation – Regions or Maui Health System, a Kaiser Foundation Hospital LLC. Add $33,420,000 in general funds in each FY for operations subsidy for Maui Health System DEPARTMENT OF LABOR AND INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS Add (1) permanent position and $19,746 in FY18 and $39,492 in FY19 in general funds for Legal Support Add (1) permanent position and $515,386 in FY18 and $2,810,772 in FY19 in general funds for Disability Compensation Division Modernization DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES Add $14,047,588 in general funds in each FY for various programs’ base budgets per funding in Act 84, SLH 2015. Add $2,228,250 in special funds in FY18 for re-appropriation of lapsed Land Conservation funds Add $1,700,000 in special funds in each FY for increased Conveyance Tax revenues for Land Conservation Fund Add $4,000,000 in general funds in FY18 for Hawai‘i Invasive Species Council Add $750,000 in general funds in each FY for Rapid ‘Ō‘hia Death Response Add $400,000 in general funds in each FY for Fire Protection Program Add $250,000 in general funds in each FY for protection of watershed forests Add (15) permanent positions and $1,065,147 in FY18 and $1,097,047 in FY19 in general funds for personnel and operating funds for management and restoration of Kaho‘olawe Island Reserve DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY Add $165,000 in general funds in each FY for Malpractice Insurance. Add $3,334,801 in general funds in FY18 for Housing Inmates in Non-State Facility during Renovation of Halawa Correctional Facility Add $1,500,000 in general funds in FY18 for Lease Rent for Department of Public Safety Administration Building and Moving Costs DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION Add $59,000 in general funds in each FY for Medical Marijuana Tax Collections DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Add (7) permanent positions and $157,939 in FY18 and $303,878 in FY19 for Airside Operations Section Security Unit Pass and Identification Office Reduce $123,787 in FY19 for contracted employees in the Pass and Identification Office. Similar adjustments were made for other airports' Pass and ID Offices. Add (6) permanent positions and $162,752 in FY18 and $293,004 in FY19 for Federal Inspection Station Add (10) permanent positions and $679,152 in special funds in FY18 and $1,243,998 in special funds and $216,000 in federal funds in FY19 for Intelligent Technology Systems Branch Reduce (32) positions and $1,461,444 in special funds in both FY for long-standing and lower priority vacancies on O‘ahu in various Highways programs. Add $3,514,950 in FY18 and $1,242,000 in FY19 in special funds for information technology projects. UNIVERSITY OF HAWAI‘I Add (4) permanent positions and $3,000,000 in general funds in each FY for Cancer Center clinical trials and operational support Add $350,000 in general funds in each FY for Concussion Awareness Add $1,829,000 in general funds in each FY for Hawai‘i Promise Program Add (4) permanent positions and $820,000 in general funds in each FY for Title IX program for the Community Colleges Add (3) permanent positions and $470,000 in general funds in each FY for Title IX program for UH System-wide Support CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT (CIP) HIGHLIGHTS DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE $20,000,000 to purchase over 500 acres of agricultural land to lease to local farmers, decreasing dependence on imported agriculture products $25,000,000 in upgrades and improvements to critical water infrastructure systems and agricultural facilities, statewide DEPARTMENT OF ACCOUNTING AND GENERAL SERVICES $20,000,000 for the maintenance of existing statewide facilities for the Public Works Division DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND TOURISM $25,000,000 for an infusion to the Rental Housing Revolving Fund, and $25,000,000 for an infusion to the Dwelling Unit Revolving Fund to address infrastructure, construction and development needs of affordable housing across the State DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE $16,000,00 for upgrades and improvements to National Guard readiness centers and facilities, statewide $6,000,00 to retrofit public buildings with hurricane protective measures DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION $168,000,000 for growing student populations on both O‘ahu and Maui for new school and classroom projects $437,965,000 in total to the Department of Education; 44% of the entire general obligation bond amount awarded statewide DEPARTMENT OF HAWAIIAN HOMELANDS $15,000,000 for various improvements to existing infrastructure on Hawaiian home lands, statewide $30,000,000 for NAHASDA development projects statewide DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES $51,500,000 to Hawai‘i Public Housing Authority for the renovations of their public housing facilities, statewide $35,000,000 for a senior housing project on O‘ahu that will provide an additional 200 to 250 units for senior living public housing facilities to accommodate an underserved elderly population DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH $20,000,000 for improvements and renovations to existing facilities within the Hawai‘i Health Systems Corporation $10,000,000 for an infusion to the Safe Drinking Water Revolving Fund. $15,000,000 for an infusion to the Wastewater Treatment Revolving Fund DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES $9,000,000 for Kaanapali Beach restoration and berm enhancement $15,000,000 for watershed protection, management and administration $10,000,000 for State parks infrastructure and facility improvements, statewide DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY $60,000,000 to end the search and debate of a prospective jail site by solidifying a Halawa location and allowing the Department of Public Safety to begin the process to design a new jail. $6,000,000 to begin the process of adding beds to the current Halawa prison site to bring home prisoners from the mainland SUBSIDIES $13,000,000 for the design and construction of pedestrian walkways for the City and County of Honolulu $2,500,000 for site improvements to the Bryan J. Baptiste Sports Complex on Kauai County. DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION $500,000 for infrastructure and equipment for the safety and security of Department of Taxation facilities, statewide DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION $150,000,000 for ticket lobby improvements to the Honolulu International Airport, O‘ahu. $50,000,000 for the construction of a new federal inspection station at the Kona International Airport at Keahole, Hawai‘i $75,000,000 for an extension of the Lahaina Bypass Road on Maui $22,000,000 for various programs and projects to facilitate highway planning, statewide $47,000,000 for shoreline protection improvements of existing state highway facilities UNIVERSITY OF HAWAI‘I $6,000,000 for site improvements and repairs to Hawai‘i Hall on the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa campus $6,000,000 for site and infrastructure improvements to research stations, statewide # # # #hawaiisenate #hawaiistatebudget #departmentofeducation #Jilltokuda #DonovanDelaCruz #HB100HD1SD1 #HawaiiDepartmentofAgriculture

HONOLULU, Hawai’i - As part of day focused on industrial hemp, the Senate honored Dr. Harry Ako and his team for their extensive work in hemp research and propagation. Dr. Ako was the lead investigator in the Industrial Hemp Research Project, a two-year study authorized by SB 2175, Act 56, which directed the College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources (CTAHR) at the University of Hawai‘i, Mānoa, to analyze the potential of industrial hemp production in Hawai‘i’s agriculture industry. Recognized on the Senate floor along with Dr. Ako were associates Melody Heidel, Alan Yoshimoto, and Shauna McHugh. Prior to leading the hemp study, Dr. Ako was a professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biosciences and Bioengineering departments at UH Mānoa from 1976-2015. The first seeds were planted on April 10, 2015 at the test plot in Waimānalo. After a successful harvest, the findings were reported to the Legislature in December 2015. It was concluded in the study that “Hemp seed production may be a lucrative activity for farmers. There is significant potential for a successful hemp agricultural industry in Hawai‘i based on the preliminary findings of the 2015 Industrial Hemp Research Project.” Products made from hemp include food, clothing, medicine, cosmetics, biofuel, animal feed, and many other items. As the Chair of the Senate committee on Agriculture and Environment, Senator Mike Gabbard foresees Hawai‘i as the hemp seed capital of the world. “My vision is to see farmers growing hemp in Hawai‘i as a cottage industry and the unique branding that comes with that,” said Sen. Gabbard. “We are indebted to Dr. Ako for sharing a lifetime of expertise and mana‘o and mahalo nui loa for confirming that industrial hemp is viable and valuable for a sustainable Hawai‘i.” Following the floor presentation recognition, an informational briefing was held on the status of industrial hemp production in Hawai‘i. #hawaiisenate #harryako #makegabbard #hemp #DrHarryako #sb2175

The Senate honored the founders of the inaugural Honolulu Biennial Festival for supporting Hawaii’s art industry and helping to promote creativity and innovation globally. Precursor to the Honolulu Biennial Festival, the Honolulu Biennial Foundation was founded in 2014 to bring contemporary art to the forefront. This festival demonstrates the State’s growing reputation as an international crossroads for culture, entertainment, and the arts. The central exhibition area is located at The Hub at Ward Village, with additional sites situated throughout downtown Honolulu. This community-based, non-commercial eight-week exhibition offers complimentary public programs so that the vast work on show by both local and international artists can be widely appreciated. Present for the floor recognition was co-founder Katherine Anne Leilani Tuider, co-founder Isabella Hughes, vice president of the board Gloria Lau, board member Taiji Terasaki, curator Ngahiraka Mason, and board member Li Lundin. In recognizing the founders, Senator Will Espero said that “entwined in art is a reflection of the world around us, capturing both its beauty and despair” and the festival “seeks to link the hearts and minds of the Pacific with presentations and exhibitions of contemporary art. It also highlights both cultural diversity and commonality that emboldens the human spirit.” # # # #HonoluluBiennial #KatherineAnneLeilaniTuider #IsabellaHughes #gloriaLau #TaijiTerasaki #NgahirakaMason #LiLundin #WillEspero #HawaiiSenate