Members of the Hawaii State Senate today honored Mele Spencer of Hilo on the floor of the Senate chamber. Spencer was recently elected to a two-year term as Governor of Zonta International, presiding over District 9, which covers the states of Hawai‘i, California, Nevada, Utah, and Arizona. Spencer is only the second District 9 Governor from Hawai‘i in Zonta’s history. Spencer currently owns and operates J&M Farms with her husband and is involved in a number of community organizations including the Hawai‘i County Committee on the Status of Women, the American Heart Association, the Hawai‘i Island Adult Care Group, the Hui Mana Group, and the Keaukaha-Panaewa Farmers Association. Founded in 1919, Zonta International is a leading global organization of professionals empowering women worldwide through service and advocacy. The first Zonta Club in Hawai‘i was chartered in 1924, followed shortly by the Zonta Club of Hilo. District 9 represents approximately 500 members of 25 clubs within the district. Photo (L-R): Tonya Ozone, Pres. Zonta Club of Hilo, Nani Mahoe, sister of Mele Spencer, Lynn Masumoto, Leilehua Club member, Maile Lu‘uwai, Hilo Zonta member, Mele Spencer, Linda Weiland, current Area 1 Dir., Dee Sawyer, Pres. of the Leilehua Club, Barbara Hastings, former Zonta Pres. and former Area 1 Dir. #MeleSpencer #Hilo #ZontaInternational #LorraineInouye #HawaiiSenate

HONOLULU, Hawai‘i – The Hawai‘i State Senate this week will begin posting the hearing notices for two standing committees in both the English and Hawaiian language as part of the Senate’s continuing initiative recognizing the state’s official languages. The Senate Committee on Water and Land (WTL), chaired by Senator Karl Rhoads (Dist.13 - Dowsett Highlands, Pu‘unui, Nu‘uanu, Pacific Heights, Pauoa, Punchbowl, Palama, Liliha, Iwilei, Chinatown, and Downtown) and the Committee on Hawaiian Affairs (HWN), chaired by Senator Maile Shimabukuro (Dist. 21 - Kalaeloa, Honokai Hale, Ko ‘Olina, Nanakuli, Ma‘ili, Wai‘anae, Makaha, Makua) are the piloting the initiative to have the hearing notices posted in both languages. “Through our legislative materials, this project reflects the responsibility and role of the Senate in showing respect for our host culture,” said Senate President Ronald D. Kouchi. “It makes sense these two important committees would be the first to expand on our Hawaiian language initiative.” The Senate Order of the Day has been posted in dual languages along with the usage of Hawaiian diacritical markings in its public records since the Senate initiative on Hawaiian language was instituted in 2015. “Government operations were conducted in the Hawaiian language up to the 1920’s so we have an entire lexicon that is the basis for all of our laws today,” said Senate Majority Leader J. Kalani English. “This initiative proudly reflects the language revitalization in Hawai‘i.” To view all current committee hearing notices in the 2017 Legislative Session , visit www.capitol.hawaii.gov # # # #HawaiianLanguage #RonKouchi #KarlRhoads #MaileShimabukuro #JKALANIENGLISH #HawaiiSenate

CHILDREN’S HEALTH AND SAFETY, ACCESS TO HEALTHCARE AND VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN FOCUS OF WOMEN’S LEGISLATIVE CAUCUS IN 2017 Women’s marches in Hawaii and around the world show solidarity for women’s rights Honolulu, Hawaii — The health and safety of children, access to healthcare, and protecting women from violence is the focus of a House-Senate joint package of bills submitted this session by the Women’s Legislative Caucus. The caucus consists of women members from the state Senate and House and county councils. Members of the Women’s Legislative Caucus seek to promote sound legislation that represent the diverse interests of women across the state and improve the well-being of women, children and families. “I want all women in Hawaii to know that they have rights and that those rights will be protected under the law,” said Representative Della Au Belatti (Makiki, Tantalus, Papakolea, McCully, Pawaa, Manoa). “I was proud to take part in the Women’s March in Honolulu to show that we stand together and will be heard.” “By coming together as the Women’s Legislative Caucus, we’re able to focus on measures that make positive changes in our communities,” said Senator Rosalyn Baker (South and West Maui). “When we create equal access to healthcare and opportunities for the women and children of Hawaii, we create healthier and safer communities for everyone.” “This package of bills covers two main areas that continue to be important to all women in the State of Hawaii including access to health care and decreasing violence against women,” said Representative Lauren Matsumoto (Schofield, Mokuleia, Waialua, Kunia, Waipio Acres, Mililani). “We continue to propose legislation that will protect and make life better for women.” Many of the issues addressed within the caucus package reflect the concerns of women nationwide. Several state legislators joined in the Women’s March held in cities across Hawaii, the nation and around the world, in support of gender equality and civil. “It was empowering and gratifying to be a part of the historic Women’s March in Washington D.C.,” said Senator Laura Thielen (Waimanalo, Hawaii Kai). “The work we do at the state level to ensure that women’s rights are not diminished will be an important step in taking action on the message of unity and solidarity demonstrated over the weekend.” A full list of official measures in the Women’s Legislative Caucus’s package for the current biennium is available on the Capitol website at http://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/advreports/advreport.aspx?report=package&pkey=12&year=2017&name=Women%27s%20Legislative%20Caucus . The House and Senate bills submitted by the Women’s Legislative Caucus for the 2017 session include: ACCESS TO QUALITY HEALTH CARE HB663/SB501 Relating to Limited Service Pregnancy Centers Requires all limited service pregnancy centers to disclose the availability of and enrollment information for reproductive health services. Establishes privacy and disclosure requirements for individual records and information. Authorizes civil penalties and civil actions for enforcement and remedy. HB664/SB502 Relating to In Vitro Fertilization Insurance Coverage Removes discriminatory requirements for mandatory insurance coverage of in vitro fertilization procedures to create parity of coverage for same-sex couples, unmarried women, and male-female couples for whom male infertility is the relevant factor. HB665/SB503 Relating to Health Insurance for Victims of Sexual Violence Requires health insurance coverage for case management services by licensed mental health providers for victims of sexual violence. HB666/SB504 Relating to Controlled Substances Limits initial prescriptions for opioids and benzodiazepines to a maximum of seven consecutive days. HB667/SB505 Relating to Opioid Therapy Informed Consent Process Requires an opioid therapy informed consent process agreement to be executed between a patient and any prescriber of opioids within the State under certain conditions. Requires the administrator of the narcotics enforcement division to develop and make available a template of an opioid therapy informed consent process agreement for use in the State. Specifies the contents of the template. Limits initial prescriptions for opioids and benzodiazepines to a maximum of seven consecutive days. ADDRESSING AND REDUCING VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN HB668/SB506 Relating to Sexual Assault Evidence Collection Kits Requires annual reporting to the legislature by the AG of statistical data pertaining to the testing of sexual assault evidence collection kits. Provides certain rights to sexual assault survivors. Institutes mandatory testing requirements in accordance with AG guidelines. Requires AG to report to 2018 legislature on the progress of implementing AG guidelines. HB669/SB507 Relating to Domestic Abuse Removes redundant investigating and reporting requirements of the Department of Human Services and the family courts in cases where temporary restraining orders are sought for alleged domestic abuse involving a family or household member who is a minor or incapacitated person. HB670/SB508 Relating to Tax Credit Creates the Hawaii Working Family Tax Credit, a refundable credit capped at 10 percent of the federal earned income tax credit. HB671/SB509 Relating to Equal Pay Prohibits enforced wage secrecy and retaliation or discrimination against employees who disclose, discuss, or inquire about their own or co-workers' wages. CHILDREN’S HEALTH AND SAFETY HB672/SB510 Relating to Hawaii Keiki: Healthy and Ready to Learn Program Formally establishes the Hawaii keiki: healthy and ready to learn program within the department of education. Establishes a special fund and appropriates $4,000,000 to expand and sustain the program. HB673/SB511 Relating to Child Care Facilities Requires DHS to publish reports of child care facility inspections and complaint investigations on DHS's website. Creates an oversight committee for implementation of and compliance with publication requirements. Requires annual reporting to the Legislature. Makes an appropriation. HB674/SB512 Relating to Child Care Providers 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. OTHER HB675/SB513 Relating to Contraceptive Supplies Authorizes pharmacists to prescribe and dispense self-administered hormonal contraceptive supplies to patients, regardless of a previous prescription from an authorized prescriber. Specifies requirements pharmacists must meet prior to prescribing and dispensing contraceptive supplies. HB676/SB514 Relating to Human Papillomavirus Vaccine Authorizes pharmacists to prescribe and administer the human papillomavirus vaccine to persons between eleven and seventeen years of age. Specifies requirements pharmacists must meet prior to administering the human papillomavirus vaccine. HB677/SB515 Relating to In Vitro Fertilization Procedure Coverage Amends insurance coverage requirements for in vitro fertilization to allow for expanded applicability. HB678/SB516 Relating to Family Leave and Domestic Violence Allows an employee to take family leave in addition to victim leave when the leave is related to domestic or sexual violence against the employee or the employee's minor child. Requires an employee to submit certification related to domestic or sexual violence of the employee or the employee's minor child. Requires employer confidentiality of information related to domestic or sexual violence against the employee or the employee's minor child. HB679/SB517 Relating to Domestic Violence Training for State and County Employees Requires any state or county agency to provide domestic abuse intervention training to their personnel whose job duties require or may require intervention in a domestic abuse situation. HB680/SB518 Relating to Intimate Partner Violence Requires licensees under the board of barbering and cosmetology to complete a one-time, one-hour training program on intimate partner violence awareness and education. HB681/SB519 Relating to Officer-involved Domestic Violence Specifies that citizen complaints against a police officer that involve allegations of domestic abuse against a family or household member on the part of the police officer shall not be required to be in writing or sworn to by the complainant. HB682/SB520 Relating to Police Commissions Amends the composition of the county police commissions to require that three commissioners on each police commission have backgrounds, including equality for women, civil rights, and law enforcement, for the benefit of the public. HB683/SB521 Relating to Paid Leave Establishes a 6-week paid maternity and paternity leave policy for government employees to ensure that Hawaii's working families are adequately supported during times of needing to provide care to a newborn or bond with a new child. HB684/SB522 Relating to Safe Sleep Policy Strengthens the safe sleep policy for child care facilities for children less than one year of age, including requiring placement of children on their backs for sleeping and establishing notice and annual training requirements; requires such facilities to report death of such a child to DHS. HB685/SB523 Relating to Civil Actions for Sexual Offenses Against Minors Allows a civil action for recovery of damages to be brought by persons subjected to sexual offenses as a minor against the person who committed the act at any time by repealing the statute of limitations. Repeals the period during which a victim of child sexual abuse may bring an otherwise time-barred civil action against the victim's abuser or an entity with a duty of care, including the State and counties. ### #RozBaker #JillTokuda #LauraThielen

Senator Rosalyn Baker, D-6th District (South and West Maui) invites the public to attend a Talk Story on Saturday, February 4, 2017, from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Kīhei Charter School campus in Lipoa Center. “At Saturday’s 'Talk Story', I look forward to sharing information about the bills currently under consideration at the Capitol with the residents of the South Maui community as well as answer questions and hear ideas and concerns,” said Senator Baker. “I know people are interested in the progress of the new high school as well as the Maui Memorial Medical Center transition,” noted Senator Baker. “I am especially interested to share information about our women’s package and healthcare initiatives in light of changes at the federal level. For further information, contact Senator Baker’s office toll free from Maui at 984-2400 extension 66070 or email, senbaker@capitol.hawaii.gov, #RozBaker #Maui

Children’s health, safety and education among the measures included in package of bills HONOLULU, Hawai‘i – Expanding the eligibility age for children to attend the preschool open doors program, support for teacher training on social and emotional learning, and funding to establish an after-school program for public middle and intermediate schools are just some of the measures included in this year’s Keiki Caucus Legislative Package. “These bills and resolutions address a variety of issues that assure Hawai‘i’s children and their families are happy, healthy and ready to learn and to succeed,” said Sen. Karl Rhoads (S Dist. 13 - Dowsett Highlands, Pu‘unui, Nu‘uanu, Pacific Heights, Pauoa, Punchbowl, Palama, Liliha, Iwilei, Chinatown, and Downtown). “The work we do together as a caucus is an investment in our future.” Sen. Rhoads and Rep. Matt LoPresti are this year’s co-conveners of the Keiki Caucus. Keiki Caucus is a bipartisan group of House and Senate members and is supported by dozens of community advocates. Since 1994, the Keiki Caucus has been working with the community to develop proposals and initiatives that address the health and well-being of Hawai‘i’s youth. “There is nothing more important in Hawaii than our keiki. As lawmakers, we need to do everything we can to protect and educate them,” said Rep. LoPresti (H Dist. 41 -‘Ewa, ‘Ewa Beach, ‘Ewa Gentry, ‘Ewa Villages, Hoakalei, Ocean Pointe). “This proposed legislation is thoughtful and proactive in reaching that goal. It's never too early for social and emotional learning and anti-bullying education for our keiki – especially when children may be confused by current online rhetoric. They need better role models and we in the legislature can provide support to provide anti-bullying education this legislative session. The Senate and House bills and resolutions submitted by the Keiki Caucus for the 2017 session include: SB497/HB578 RELATING TO PRESCHOOL OPEN DOORS PROGRAM Expands the qualifying age for the preschool open doors program to children four years old and younger. SB 498/HB580 RELATING TO EDUCATION Appropriates funds for the P4C Program of the University of Hawai‘i Uehiro Academy for Philosophy and Ethics in Education and for teachers of the Department of Education to train with the P4C Program. SB496/HB579 RELATING TO SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL LEARNING Requires the Department of Education to provide training on social and emotional learning to all youth-serving educators, health care professionals and counselors, and agencies and programs, as well as parents of students enrolled in public schools or public charter schools. Appropriates funds to the Department of Education to conduct training on social and emotional learning. SB499/HB581 RELATING TO THE ZERO TO THREE COURT Appropriates funds for staff positions and various services to support the Hawai‘i zero to three court. SB500 RELATING TO AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAMS Establishes the R.E.A.C.H (resources for enrichment, athletics, culture, and health) program in the office of youth services to provide a standardized framework and funding for after-school programs in public middle and intermediate schools. Establishes that the R.E.A.C.H. program will be run by a program specialist to be appointed by the governor. Establishes a special fund to receive fees and other moneys to supplement the costs of administering and operating the R.E.A.C.H. program. Requires the office of youth services to report to the legislature. HB577 RELATING TO A NON-BINDING REFERENDUM ON STATEWIDE COMMUNITY WATER FLUORIDATION Proposes a non-binding, statewide referendum on whether the State should pursue policies and programs for community water fluoridation in order to improve the overall dental health of Hawaii's children and adults. SCR8/HCR11 ENCOURAGING THE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES MED-QUEST DIVISION TO IMPLEMENT AN INCOME DISREGARD PROGRAM FOR WORKERS WITH DISABILITIES The Med-QUEST Division of the Department of Human Services is encouraged to implement an income disregard program that will enable workers with disabilities to seek or maintain employment, while also retaining necessary Medicaid benefits and supports. SCR9/HCR9 URGING THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION TO CARRY ON ITS WORK TO BETTER ENGAGE COMMUNITY GROUPS IN THE EDUCATION OF CHILDREN AND YOUTH IN HAWAI‘I'S PUBLIC SCHOOLS The Department of Education is urged to carry on its work to better engage community groups in the education of children and youth in Hawai‘i's public schools. SCR10/HCR8 REQUESTING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A SEXUAL ABUSE PREVENTION EDUCATION TASK FORCE The Department of Education is requested to establish a Sexual Abuse Prevention Education Task Force. SCR11/HCR10 ENCOURAGING THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES, AND JUDICIARY TO PERMANENTLY ESTABLISH AND ENCOURAGE PARTICIPATION IN THE HAWAI‘I INTERAGENCY STATE YOUTH NETWORK OF CARE TO BETTER SERVE YOUTH AND FAMILIES WITH COMPLEX NEEDS IN THE STATE The Department of Education, Department of Health and Department of Human Services are encouraged to form the Hawai‘i Interagency State Youth Network of Care (HISYNC) to increase collaboration among state agencies and to develop a system of care for children, youth and families. SCR12/HCR7 URGING THE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES TO EXAMINE THE APPLICATION PROCESS FOR THE PRESCHOOL OPEN DOORS PROGRAM TO ENSURE ACCESSIBILITY FOR ALL FAMILIES The Department of Human Services (DHS) is urged to examine the application process for the preschool open doors program to ensure accessibility for all families. DHS is also encouraged to consider a paperless or other, cost-free application process that is accessible for all families. Senator Karl Rhoades

WHO: Sen. Mike Gabbard, Rep. Chris Lee, Sen. Karl Rhoads, Rep. Ryan Yamane, Sen. Lorraine Inouye, and Rep. Richard Creagan WHAT: Informational briefing on the Sustainable Hawai‘i Initiative, its components in the proposed state budget, and related 2017 legislative proposals WHEN: Thursday, January 26, 2017 10:00 a.m. WHERE: State Capitol, Conference Room 325 HONOLULU, Hawai‘i – State Senator Mike Gabbard (Agriculture and Environment Committee Chair) and Rep. Chris Lee (Energy & Environmental Protection Committee Chair) will be leading an informational briefing on the Sustainable Hawai‘i Initiative on Thursday, January 26, 2017 at 10 a.m. at the State Capitol, Conference Room 325. The meeting is open to the public. Governor David Ige announced the Sustainable Hawai‘i Initiative during his remarks at the Opening Ceremony at the World Conservation Conference in Honolulu on September 1, 2016. The Sustainable Hawai‘i Initiative has these important goals: 100% increase in local agricultural production by 2020; stronger invasive species policy, infrastructure, and capacity by 2027; 30% of priority watersheds protected by 2030; 30% of nearshore marine areas effectively managed by 2030; and complete transfer to clean, renewable energy by 2045. “This informational briefing will give us a good opportunity to hear from the Governor’s Administration on his plans to help us reach the goals laid out in his Sustainable Hawai‘i Initiative plan,” said Senator Gabbard. “The timing is perfect because as we kick off the 2017 legislative session, I want to make sure that sustainability is a key priority.” The informational briefing will include presentations from the following speakers: · Scott Glenn – Director, Office of Environmental Quality Control · Suzanne Case – Chairperson, Board of Land and Natural Resources · Scott Enright – Chairman, Board of Agriculture · Luis Salaveria – Director, Department of Business Economic Development, and Tourism The hearing notice can be accessed at this link: http://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session2017/hearingnotices/HEARING_AEN-EEP-WTL-WAL-TRE-AGR_01-26-17_INFO_.HTM For questions about the informational briefing, contact the office of Senator Mike Gabbard at 586-6830. # # #

KEIKI CAUCUS UNVEILS 2017 LEGISLATIVE PACKAGE WHO: Sen. Karl Rhoads, Rep. Matt LoPresti and members of the Keiki Caucus WHAT: News conference to share the legislative package of priority measures addressing the health and welfare of Hawai‘i’s children WHEN: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 10:00 a.m. WHERE: Capitol Rotunda Hawai‘i State Capitol Sen. Karl Rhoads and Rep. Matt LoPresti, this year’s co-conveners of the Keiki Caucus, together will present and discuss the legislative package of bills being introduced in the 2017 legislative session that addresses a wide variety of issues relating to children. The Keiki Caucus is a bipartisan group of House and Senate members joined by more than 100 community advocates from various non-profits, educators, businesses and parent groups. Established in 1994, the Keiki Caucus has been actively working to develop proposals and initiatives that improve the well-being of Hawai‘i’s youth. # # # #rhoads #HawaiiLegislature #HawaiiSenate #KeikiCaucus #HawaiiYouth

HONOLULU, Hawai‘i – Members of the Hawai‘i State Senate convened the 29th Biennium Legislative Session reaffirming their commitment to work collaboratively in addressing the state’s most pressing problems and ready the state to be sustainable and prepared for the future. Today’s opening session commenced with an oli by kumu hula Leina‘ala Pavao and included an invocation by Kahu Curt Kekuna, Pastor of Kawaiahao Church. The National Anthem was performed by Ms. Nalani Brun and Hawai‘i Pono‘i by Mr. Nick Castillo. The Kahaluu Ukulele Band and Na Hoku Hanohano nominee Shar Carillo and Kaua‘i artists Loke Sasil and Shay Marcello also provided entertainment during today’s program. Among the honored guests in the Senate Chamber were government officials from the Fukuoka Prefecture, Consul General Yasushi Misawa of Japan, Commander Ulysses Mullins, United States Coast Guard, Hawai‘i State Supreme Court Chief Justice Mark E. Recktenwald, Governor David Ige, Lt. Governor Shan Tsutsui, and former Governors George Ariyoshi, John Waihe‘e, Ben Cayetano, and Neil Abercrombie, and mayors from the neighbor islands. In his remarks, Senate President Ronald D. Kouchi pressed his Senate colleagues to work towards building our economy and creating educational opportunities for the younger generation in Hawai‘i. Senator Kouchi recognized Chenoa Farnsworth, managing partner of Blue Startups, a Honolulu-based startup support program, for her efforts in supporting entrepreneurship and creating jobs to build the economy in Hawai‘i. Farnsworth also manages the Hawai‘i Angels investment network, which has invested over $40 million in startup companies. She also co-founded Kolohala Ventures, a Hawai‘i-based venture capital firm that invested $50 million into Hawai‘i-based technology start-ups. In highlighting the successes of Hawaii’s education system, Senator Kouchi mentioned Waimea High School principal and Masayuki Tokioka Award winner, Mahina Anguay. The Senate President said Anguay represents the best of Hawai‘i’s school administrators and under her leadership, a record number of students at Waimea High School are now the first in their family to attend college. Senate President Kouchi also introduced Sarah Kern, who is currently a teacher at Wai‘anae High School. Kern was Valedictorian at Kaiser High School and graduated with a degree in Biology from Tufts University where she made the Dean’s List throughout her four years. The Senate President said Kern was a shining example of Hawai‘i’s young people who come home to pursue noble, but not necessarily high-paying careers, such as teaching. “We need to create the economy to support all of our citizens,” said Senator Kouchi. “We need to support principals like Mahina and just as importantly we need to support teachers like Sarah who are on the frontline, so that we can create the educational opportunities for our young people.” Senator Kouchi went on to say, “the only equalization that we can offer our children is a quality education to ensure that they get the tools and the skills to compete in the global market that they are going to enter.” The Senate President introduced Mr. Kevin Johnson, the former Mayor of Sacramento and professional basketball player, whom he lauded for his work in establishing award-winning after school programs, reading programs and programs for the homeless. Senate President Kouchi said he has been meeting with Johnson and hopes to work with him to address many of the concerns in Hawai‘i that mirror those of the Mayor’s hometown. “Our problems are not unique to the rest of the world. Where we have others who have found success why not find those who can help us solve our problems,” said Senator Kouchi. The Senate President also referenced the Senate Majority Legislative Program which outlines the main themes for the State Senate. “The Senate Majority Legislative Program serves as a guide as to where we will focus our work over the next sixty days and continue to build upon the work from the previous session,” said Senate Majority Leader J. Kalani English. Photos of today’s opening session can be viewed on the Hawaii Senate Majority website www.hawaiisenatemajority.com and on Flickr www.flickr.com/hawaiisenatemajority. The public can access more information on hearings and session activities on the Hawai‘i State Legislature’s website at www.capitol.hawaii.gov # # #

HONOLULU, Hawai‘i – Our communities, environment, sustainability and public safety are areas of which the Hawai‘i State Senate will focus in the 29th Legislative Biennium. The areas are incorporated under four over-arching themes that embrace Hawaiian values and collectively form the Legislative Program the Hawai‘i State Senate will use as a guide throughout the Regular Session of 2017. “On many of these issues, we’re continuing the work that had begun in the previous legislative sessions,” said Senate Majority Leader J. Kalani English. “We recognize the importance to be self-reliant and take care of our island home. There’s also a responsibility to be prepared for the future, ensuring that the next generation is not saddled with problems we can do our best to address right now.” The 2017 Legislative Program for the Hawai‘i State Senate is as follows: Ola Lehulehu – People and Communities • Education – We will collaborate with educational leaders and interested stakeholders to identify and focus on priority educational needs and opportunities. We will strive to produce workforce-ready graduates to provide opportunities to cultivate and diversify the workforce and economy of Hawai‘i. • Affordability – We acknowledge Hawai‘i's extremely high cost of living and the financial stress this places on many individuals and families. We will therefore explore options to increase affordability for residents, including avenues to better support low-income wage earners in Hawai‘i. • Social Services – We will support the State's core functions, including strengthening our social safety net to ensure our keiki, kūpuna, families, and individuals are protected. We will also continue to support the creative coordination of social service and educational strategies that address the multi-faceted nature of homelessness. • Health Care – We will support collaborative efforts to ensure that funding for Native Hawaiian health care continues. We will further support Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders by focusing on essential social and cultural determinants that improve health outcomes amongst our indigenous population. We will also encourage options to improve health care for our keiki and our residents in rural areas and will support collaborative efforts to provide better dental care for keiki and adults throughout our communities. • Food Security – We will further explore opportunities and policies that support our local farmers, encourage good agricultural practices, and increase our local food production. Efforts that support food self-sufficiency will have positive effects on our local job market and economy. Aloha Kaiāulu Ho‘oulu - Preparedness • Community Development – We will work diligently to understand and promote smart community development, in particular transit-oriented development. We recognize transit-oriented development as a unique opportunity to address many socio-economic challenges. Because land along public transportation corridors presents an opportunity for the State to maximize land development, we support collaboration with interested stakeholders, including private businesses and non-profit organizations. We are also committed to supporting affordable housing and necessary infrastructure to strengthen our community. • Government Services – We will focus on improving the efficiency and modernization of government services, including election participation. We will continue to encourage the enhancement of the State's information technology systems and incentivize the use of technology. We will also support efforts to advance innovation-oriented projects that improve living standards in Hawai‘i, while streamlining resources to most efficiently and effectively promote innovation and economic growth. • Financial Analysis – The Hawai‘i State Senate is committed to analyzing tax credit cost information provided by state agencies; assessing the viability of existing tax credits, exemptions, and exclusions; and determining whether each tax credit, exemption, or exclusion continues to be useful and beneficial to the State. Aloha Honua - Climate Change and Energy • Environment – We will protect and preserve Hawai‘i's natural resources by exploring ways to improve agricultural practices and mitigate climate change impacts. We are committed to supporting the preservation of Hawai‘i's unique geographical features, including coastlines and watersheds. In addition to supporting existing conservation and enforcement efforts, we will encourage the use of innovative technologies to combat invasive species, address biosecurity risks, conserve the State's water resources, address changing sea levels, and protect the State's fragile marine ecosystem. • Sustainability – We will continue our commitment to renewable energy alternatives that are practical and economical for the State and take into account Hawai‘i's natural environment and terrain. With recent progress and clean energy goals in mind, we will further encourage the availability of renewable energy and advance projects to improve energy efficiencies. Pono Kaulike - Transforming Justice • Rehabilitation – We will explore alternatives to incarceration and options to reduce the recidivism rate amongst our incarcerated population, through means such as strengthening community ties. We will support efforts that enable incarcerated individuals to develop useable skills that will help in their transition back into their communities. • Public Safety – In an effort to promote continued public safety, we will encourage effectiveness, transparency, and interagency collaboration, and insist on higher standards of conduct and appropriate training. It is the Hawai‘i State Senate's sincere hope that we can work collaboratively with the House of Representatives, the Governor, and the Judiciary to achieve all the goals outlined in this Program. # # #

HOUSING AND HOMELESS TASK FORCE COVENES UNDER NEW LEADERSHIP HONOLULU, Hawai‘i – Senators Sen. Will Espero and Josh Green opened their first meeting as co-chairs of the Housing and Homeless Task Force today at the State Capitol. Tackling the complex problem of homelessness in Hawai‘i will be one of the important issues they will address in the upcoming legislative session. Sen. Espero (Dist. 19 - ‘Ewa Beach, Ocean Pointe, ‘Ewa by Gentry, Iroquois Point, portion of ‘Ewa Villages) is the Chair of the Senate Housing Committee and Sen. Green (Dist. 3 - Kona, Ka‘u) is the chair of the Committee on Human Services. During the meeting, agencies from the city and State provided updates on the various ways homelessness is being combated as Hawaii struggles with the highest number of homeless people per capita in the country. “It’s a problem that is solvable and hopefully with your two new chairs, we’re going to make some significant progress because that’s what we’re all here for and we’re not here to let anybody down,” said Sen. Espero. “We think we can make a dent in the problem, with your help of course.” Sen. Green told the packed room that he was appreciative that people came out to offer their different perspectives on the issue. Green said homelessness is a priority issue for him this year and plans to propose doubling the state’s $38 million budget for addressing mental illness and drug addiction, which he says often accompany homelessness.

HONOLULU, Hawai‘i – The Hawai‘i State Senate today confirmed the Senate Standing Committee Chairs and Vice Chairs for the 29th Legislature. “These committee assignments reflect the best use of the broad experience and expertise our Senators bring to this legislative body,” said Senate President, Ronald D. Kouchi. “We’re looking forward to a synergetic and productive session.” Senate Leaders, Committee Chairs and Vice Chairs are as follows: Senate Leadership President: Sen. Ronald D. Kouchi Vice President: Sen. Michelle N. Kidani Majority Leader: Sen. J. Kalani English Majority Caucus Leader: Sen. Brickwood Galuteria Majority Floor Leader: Sen. Will Espero Majority Whip: Sen. Donovan M. Dela Cruz Assistant Majority Whip: Sen. Brian T. Taniguchi Agriculture and Environment (AEN) Chair: Sen. Mike Gabbard Vice Chair: Sen. Gil Riviere Commerce, Consumer Protection, and Health (CPH) Chair: Sen. Rosalyn H. Baker Vice Chair: Sen. Clarence K. Nishihara Economic Development, Tourism, and Technology (ETT) Chair: Sen. Glenn Wakai Vice Chair: Sen. Brian T. Taniguchi Education (EDU) Chair: Sen. Michelle N. Kidani Vice Chair: Sen. Kaiali‘i Kahele Government Operations (GVO) Chair: Sen. Donna Mercado Kim Vice Chair: Sen. Russell E. Ruderman Hawaiian Affairs (HWN) Chair: Sen. Maile S.L. Shimabukuro Vice Chair: Sen. Brickwood Galuteria Higher Education (HRE) Chair: Sen. Kaiali‘i Kahele Vice Chair: Sen. Michelle N. Kidani Housing (HOU) Chair: Sen. Will Espero Vice Chair: Sen. Breene Harimoto Human Services (HMS) Chair: Sen. Josh Green Vice Chair: Sen. Stanley Chang International Affairs and the Arts (IAA) Chair: Sen. Brian T. Taniguchi Vice Chair: Sen. J. Kalani English Judiciary and Labor (JDL) Chair: Sen. Gilbert S.C. Keith-Agaran Vice Chair: Sen. Karl Rhoads Public Safety, Intergovernmental, and Military Affairs (PSM) Chair: Sen. Clarence K. Nishihara Vice Chair: Sen. Glenn Wakai Transportation and Energy (TRE) Chair: Sen. Lorraine R. Inouye Vice Chair: Sen. Donovan M. Dela Cruz Water and Land (WTL) Chair: Sen. Karl Rhoads Vice Chair: Sen. Mike Gabbard Ways and Means (WAM) Chair: Sen. Jill N. Tokuda Vice Chair: Sen. Donovan M. Dela Cruz

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) – Senator Lorraine R. Inouye (Dist. 4 - Hilo, Hamakua, Kohala, Waimea, Waikoloa, Kona) has completed the Legislative Energy Horizon Institute’s (LEHI) course in energy policy. The institute is a 60-hour energy immersion executive course with the University of Idaho. The course is designed to increase the knowledge of the energy infrastructure and delivery system to equip legislators with the latest research and data as they make future energy policy decisions. With the 2016 class, over 200 policymakers have completed the LEHI program. Those who complete the 60-hour executive course receive a certificate from the University of Idaho in Energy Policy Planning. Sen. Inouye is the first Hawai‘i state Senator to complete the LEHI course. “It was an intense course, but definitely time well spent learning in-depth about our complex energy system. It’s even clearer to me now how we are all connected in ensuring our energy resources are used efficiently. It is also important that our decisions on energy are well thought out, not only for us today, but for generations to come,” said Sen. Inouye. “It is critical that citizen legislators get this basic knowledge of how our energy systems operate. I am impressed that Sen. Inouye took over a week of her personal time this year to better equip herself to make energy policy decisions,” said Rep. Jeff Morris of Washington State, Institute Director. The Pacific North West Economic Region (PNWER) partnered with the University of Idaho and the U.S. Department of Energy to found the Institute in 2009. In 2012, the National Conference of State Legislators (NCSL) and the federal government of Canada joined the effort to make the program nationwide and also include Canadian legislators. Photo courtesy: Sen. Lorraine Inouye (Marc Chopin, Dean and Professor of Economics, University of Idaho and Sen. Lorraine R. Inouye)