Year: 

House District 20
Lē‘ahi, Kāhala, Wai‘alae, Kaimukī, Kapahulu
Room: 403
Phone: 808-586-6310
Fax: 808-586-6311
[email protected]

Representative Bert Kobayashi's family has deep community roots in Kaimuki, having been a part of the neighborhood since 1915. He served 16 years in the State House and Senate from 1978 to 1994 and was re-elected to the State House in 2012. As an effective legislator, he helped to enact the first "living will" law, Nursing Homes Without Walls (community-based alternative to nursing homes), first HIV confidentiality law, school community-based management (SCBM) law, and others. He also supported the establishment of Kapiolani Community College at Diamond Head, from its initial planning in 1980 to the last major CIP funding in 1993.

Representative Kobayashi graduated from Kaimuki High School and the University of Hawaii at Manoa and holds a Ph.D. in Political Science from Michigan State University. He has been an Assistant Professor of Government at American University in Washington, DC and is a former Administrator for the State of Hawaii Hospital System. He is married to Mary Lou and has a son, David.

April 26, 2023

Congratulating Calvin Hara for his 6 years of volunteering with the Alzheimer's Association



Calvin Hara brings to the Alzheimer's Association – Aloha Chapter not only his experiences as a family caregiver, but also three decades of long-term care leadership, and sharing this special insight with elected officials and other members of the Alzheimer's Association
View the resolution here.
April 25, 2023

Rep Bert Kobayashi Honors the Kaimuki Y Service Club On It's 60th Anniversary



Rep. Bert Kobayashi honored Raymond Seto with a Congratulary Certificate for the 60th Anniversary of the Kaimuki Y Service Club at a dinner reception at the Kaimuki YMCA on April 15, 2023.
View the resolution here.
April 25, 2023

Rep. Kobayashi 2023 Mid-Session Newsletter



April 25, 2023

Electric Bike and Electric Moped Rebate Program



Starting on February 28th, the Hawaii Department of Transportation will be offering rebates of up to $500 for newly purchased Electric Bicycles and Electric Mopeds to qualifying applicants.
April 25, 2023

KAHALA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 2022 U.S. Department of Education National Blue Ribbon School



Kahala Elementary School was honored as a 2022 U.S. Department of Education National Blue Ribbbon School. This is the second time Kahala Elementary was selected as a Blue Ribbon School, having also been selected in 2005. Congratulations for being a high achieving and top performing school in our community.
View the resolution here.
April 25, 2023

Rep. Bert Kobayashi's April 2023 Community Update



April 25, 2023

Rep. Bert Kobayashi's March 2023 Community Update



April 25, 2023

Rep. Bert Kobayashi's February 2023 Community Update



April 25, 2023

Rep. Bert Kobayashi's January 2023 Community Update



April 25, 2023

Rep. Bert Kobayashi's 2023 Community Survey



June 29, 2022

Rep. Bert Kobayashi June 2022 End of Session Newsletter



June 29, 2022

Rep. Bert Kobayashi Community Update May 2022



May 2, 2022

2022 World Book Day



World Book Day April 23, 2022

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) proposed World Book Day as the day of celebrating the joy of reading for enjoyment.

Rep. Bert Kobayashi's featured book is Dr. Hyde and Mr. Stevenson. The book is about the Reverend Dr. Charles Hyde, a critic of Father Damien, and author Robert Louis Stevenson, a defender of Damien. Hyde's great-grandson was Bert's Michigan State University graduate school classmate.

May 2, 2022

Rep. Bert Kobayashi's April 2022 Community Update



April 7, 2022

Rep. Bert Kobayashi's Mid-Session Newsletter to District 19



April 7, 2022

Rep. Bert Kobayashi's March 2022 Community Report



April 7, 2022

Rep. Bert Kobayashi's February 2022 Community Report



April 7, 2022

Rep. Bert Kobayashi's January 2022 Community Report



April 7, 2022

Rep. Bert Kobayashi's 2022 Community Survey



March 19, 2021

Rep. Bertrand Kobayashi March 2021 Community Update

March 19, 2021

Liholiho Elementary School and Waikiki Elementary School Recognized as 2020 National Blue Ribbon Schools



Liholiho and Waikiki Elementary Schools have been named 2020 National Blue Ribbon Schools by the U.S. Department of Education. The two House District 19 schools were among 317 public school and 50 non-public school winners nationwide as announced by the U.S. Secretary of Education.

Education Week 2021 Awards and Awardees King Liholiho Elementary School
Education Week 2021 Awards and Awardees Waikiki Elementary School

March 19, 2021

Liholiho Elementary School Principal Christina Small, Special Lifetime Leadership Awardee



The U.S. Secretary of Education announced that Liholiho Elementary School Principal Christina Small is the 2020 recipient of the Terrel H. Bell Special Lifetime Award for Outstanding School Leadership.
Click here to view article

March 5, 2021

Library System To Host Five Virtual Genealogy Workshops Weekly series on Saturday mornings through April 3rd

The Hawaii State Public Library System is hosting five free virtual Genealogy Resources workshops on Saturdays at 10:00 a.m. beginning on March 6th until April 3rd. Learn about different research resources, repositories and search strategies that can help you find your family history.

Registration is required for these hour-long online presentations. Go to librarieshawaii.org to register. The five sessions are:

• March 6: How to Begin Finding Your Family Roots, presented by Kylie Flood, Nanakuli Public Library

• March 13: Genealogy Research with Nupepa 'Olelo Hawai'i, presented by Kawena Komeiji, James and Abigail Kuaihelani Campbell Library

• March 20: Genealogy Resources at the Hawaii State Library, presented by Linda Sueyoshi, Hawaii State Library

• March 27: Hawaiian Mission Houses Historic Sites and Archives, presented by Kelsey Karsin, Hawaiian Mission Houses

• April 3: Mo'oku'auhau x 'Aina (Genealogy and Land Research), presented by Keahiahi Long, Na Hawai'i 'Imi Loa

This genealogy resources series is in partnership with James & Abigail Campbell Library, Hawaiian Mission Houses and Nā Hawaiʻi ʻImi Loa, and generously supported with funding from the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

For more information or if you need an auxiliary aid/service or other accommodation due to a disability, please call 831-6878 as soon as possible prior to the program date. We will make every attempt to fulfill all requests for accommodations. All programs are subject to change.

Media Contact:
Mallory Fujitani
Special Assistant l Office of the State Librarian
Hawaii State Public Library System
44 Merchant Street, Honolulu, HI 96813 l (808) 586-3714
Email: [email protected]


Library Development Services Section
Hawaii State Public Library System
3225 Salt Lake Blvd., Suite 205, Honolulu, HI 96818 | (808) 831-6878
Email:[email protected]| Web: librarieshawaii.org
February 5, 2021

Board of Water Supply Draft Environmental Assessment For Fencing At Diamond Head

The Board of Water Supply has informed our office that a Draft Environmental Assessment (EA) for security fencing at the Diamond Head 180 Reservoir has been published in the January 23, 2021 edition of the Office of Environmental Quality Control Environmental Notice. A statutory 30-day public review and comment period has since commenced. The EA may be accessed at the following location:
http://oeqc2.doh.hawaii.gov/Doc_Library/2021-01-23-OA-DEA-Security- Fencing-at-Diamond-Head-180-Reservoir.pdf

Please submit your comments or questions by February 22, 2021 via email to [email protected], or via written correspondence to the following address:

Honolulu Board of Water Supply
630 South Beretania Street
Honolulu, Hawaii 96843
Attention: Ms. Kathleen Elliott-Pahinui
February 3, 2021

Kaimuki Municipal Metered Parking Lot Improvements Notice of Parking Lot Closure


August 9, 2017

HURRICANE SEASON IS FROM JUNE 1 TO NOVEMBER 30, 2017

View full letter

April 27, 2016

Liholiho Elementary School Teacher Alicia Chang Named 2016 Honolulu District Teacher of the Year

Liholiho Elementary School teacher Alicia Chang was named 2016 Honolulu District Teacher of the Year. The Teacher of the Year award is part of a prestigious national program that honors teaching excellence in the United States. Each year the Hawaii State Teacher of the Year is chosen from one of the seven Hawaii Department of Education district teacher winners following a rigorous selection process.

Ms. Chang has collaborated with her colleagues and community organizations to develop a cohesive, enriched curriculum that helps her with student growth. She has introduced and promoted the UH Stomp program, the Honolulu Museum of Arts' Art to Go, Chaminade University's "I am a Scientist," and other noteworthy programs. Chang believes that a teacher's role is finding a starting point to motivate, intrigue, and assist students on their journey of knowledge and discovery.


October 14, 2015

12th Annual Community Clean-Up at Kaimuki High School on Saturday, October 17, 2015 from 9:00am to 1:00pm

View full flyer


October 14, 2015

Open Application Period for Preschool Open Doors Program 2016 Assistance Begins October 1

View press release


October 14, 2015

Hawaii: Next 50 Contest Calls for Bright Ideas on Energy Sustainability

View event flyer


July 31, 2015

Representatives Kobayashi, Nishimoto, and Say honor Roy and Kathy Sakuma on the occasion of the 45th Annual Ukulele Festival

State Representatives Bert Kobayashi, Scott Nishimoto, and Calvin Say presented a certificate on behalf of the Hawaii State House of Representatives congratulating Roy and Kathy Sakuma on the occasion of the 45th Annual Ukulele Festival held at the Kapiolani Park Bandstand on July 19, 2015.

Because of a dream Roy Sakuma had 45 years ago of sharing and showcasing the spirit of the ukulele in a free concert as he worked as a groundskeeper at Kapiolani Park in 1970, the event has grown to become the largest ukulele festival of its kind, replicated in cities, states and countries around the world, making the four-stringed ukulele a phenomenon.

Roy and Kathy Sakuma have devoted their lives to teaching tens of thousands of children and adults how to play and to appreciate the ukulele. In 2004, the Sakumas started Ukulele Festival Hawaii, a non-profit organization dedicated to perpetuating their passion for the ukulele and Roy's vision of offering annual free ukulele concerts and free instruction, college scholarships, and donations of ukuleles to the underprivileged.


July 31, 2015

Kaimuki Middle School Performs at New York's Carnegie Hall

Congratulations to the 70 Kaimuki Middle School students on their performance at one of the most prestigious and iconic venues, Carnegie Hall, on March 10, 2015. The Kaimuki Middle School Symphonic Winds holds the distinction of being the first middle school from Hawaii ever to be formally invited to perform at Carnegie Hall in New York City.

The Kaimuki Middle School Symphonic Winds were invited to participate in the 13th Annual New York Wind Band Festival held from March 6-10, 2015. Admission into the festival is based on audition only and is limited to six high school groups and two showcase university wind ensembles. Festival activities included group workshops with festival faculty, ensemble rehearsal exchanges, and a dinner/dance cruise along the Hudson River. The Festival culminated with ensemble performances in Carnegie Hall.

Kaimuki Middle School Symphonic Winds Music Director Susan Ochi-Onishi called the student's performance a dream come true. She reported that her students survived the unusually cold weather in New York City at that time and their successful recital culminated in a gold award for their performance. At the completion of the festival, the students had time to tour and enjoy the East Coast before returning home.


December 18, 2014

Waikiki Elementary School Selected as One of 15 Public Schools for High Achievement

The Hawaii Department of Education (DOE) is awarding $230,000 to Waikiki Elementary School as one of 15 schools that demonstrated significant success or improvements in the 2013-14 school year. Waikiki Elementary reached "Recognition" status in the DOE's Strive HI Performance System, meaning their performance placed them among the top five percent of schools in the state.

The Strive HI Performance System was introduced by the DOE in the 2012-13 school year as its school accountability and improvement system. Schools are measured on a variety of performance metrics such as student achievement, growth, chronic absenteeism, and other key success indicators - with a focus on college- and career- readiness. Award funds must support initiatives to sustain success aligned with their school academic plans, such as professional development, investments in technology, musical instruments, science lab equipment and other improvement strategies.

Strive HI Awards Criteria
"Recognition" schools are limited to no more than five percent of all Hawaii public schools.

High-performing school criteria:

* Meet or exceed annual targets for all student groups.
* Graduation rates in the top 10 percent of all high schools.
* Current year achievement gap rate less than 30 percent.


December 18, 2014

Kaimuki Middle School's Frank Fernandes Chosen For National Governing Board

Kaimuki Middle School Principal Frank Fernandes is one of five educators appointed to the National Assessment Governing Board by U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan. He becomes the first principal from Hawaii to serve on the board, which will help set policy for the National Assessment of Education Progress (NAEP), also known as The Nation's Report Card. Their terms run from October 1, 2014 to September 30, 2018.

Fernandes, who became head of Kaimuki Middle School in August of 1986, is the longest-serving principal at a single school in the Hawaii State Department of Education (DOE). An accomplished administrator, Fernandes has twice been honored with the MetLife/National Association of Secondary School Principals' Hawaii Principal of the Year award - once in 2000, then again in 2012. He has overseen several initiatives at Kaimuki Middle, including the Hawaii Common Core, a new teacher induction and mentoring program, teacher and administrator evaluation systems, a comprehensive student support system, and full implementation of the middle school concept.


December 18, 2014

Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle Found at Diamond Head

One live adult coconut rhinoceros beetle (CRB) was found near the Diamond Head Lookout on October 16, 2014, by CRB crews checking survey traps. This is the first time that a CRB was found east of the Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam (JBPH-H) 6-mile zone where the CRB were initially found in December 2013.

CRB is a major pest of palms in India, the Philippines, the Palaus, Fuji, Wallis, Nukunono, American and Western Samoa and Guam. CRB is mainly a pest of coconut and oil palms, but may also attack other palm species. Adult CRB are dark brown in color and very large - measuring 1 1/4 to 2 1/2 inches long. CRB larvae are white in color with a brown head. The beetles damage palms by boring into the center of the crown where they injure young, growing tissue and feed on the sap. As they bore into the crown, they cut through developing leaves, causing damage to the fronds. V-shaped cuts in the fronds and holes through the midrib are visible as leaves mature and unfold.

Suspected CRB should be reported to the state's toll-free PEST HOTLINE - 643-PEST (7378). For updated information on CRB in Hawaii, go to the HDOA website at: View full article


December 18, 2014

Catherine Caine of Waikiki Elementary School Named Hawaii's 2015 State Teacher of the Year

Waikiki Elementary teacher Catherine Caine was named Hawaii's 2015 State Teacher of the Year. Caine, a national board certified educator, received the state's top teaching award during a ceremony held at the State Capitol Auditorium on November 7th. This is the second year in a row that a Waikiki Elementary School teacher has been chosen as Hawaii's State Teacher of the Year.

The honor is presented annually to a classroom teacher selected from more than 11,000 educators within the Hawaii State Department of Education. Caine was among seven District Teachers of the Year. Caine has helped lead implementation of the Hawaii Common Core standards, and made recommendations on the Educator Effectiveness System. She has presented in international conferences on topics such as Philosophy for Children and English language learners.

Caine will represent Hawaii in the National Teacher of the Year Program. Each April, the national winner is announced by the president of the United States.


September 23, 2014

Kapiolani Community College Culinary Arts School Update

The Kapiolani Community College (KCC) Culinary Institute of the Pacific at Diamond Head project will be developed in two phases. Phase I, which was hoped to be in the $10-22 million range, came in at $34 million. As a result, the scope of the project in Phase I has been reduced to include two teaching laboratories, one classroom complex, and one office complex. The other two teaching laboratories and a separate classroom building were eliminated.

Phase II includes the restaurant and auditorium but the administration building was eliminated. The architects have revised the bid documents to meet the reduced scope and these have been submitted to the U.S. Department of Commerce - Economic Development Administration (EDA). The EDA had some comments which required minor changes to the bid documents.

The pre-bid meeting will be held on September 29, 2014 at 1:30 p.m. in the Ohia Building, Rm. 118.


September 23, 2014

H-1 Freeway Lane Striping Demonstration Project

The Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) has started lane striping modifications on the H-1 Freeway as a demonstration project in the Kaimuki area. Three left lanes were closed on September 7th and 8th between the 2nd Avenue Pedestrian Bridge and the 6th Avenue Overpass.

The striping modifications will install black lane stripes to increase contrast between the existing white lane striping and the white concrete surface, making the lane dividers more visible. If the demonstration striping proves beneficial, the black lane striping will be installed in both directions between 2nd Avenue and the Waialae Viaduct at a future date. This technique is commonly used in other states to increase land divider visibility.

HDOT advises motorists to drive with caution through the area while familiarizing themselves with the new lane striping.


September 23, 2014

11th Annual Community Clean-Up

The public is invited to bring their recyclables to Kaimuki High School on Saturday, October 18, 2014 between 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. for the 11th Annual Community Clean-Up. Funds raised for this event will benefit Kaimuki High School, Kapahulu Center, and the Moiliili Community Center.

Residents of the Kaimuki, Kapahulu, Palolo, and St. Louis Heights neighborhoods are encouraged to bring their recyclables to the parking lot of Kaimuki High School on Saturday, October 18, 2014 between 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.

Acceptable items to recycle include: scrap metal, bicycles, appliances, 3 propane tanks, 3 fire extinguishers, computers, printers, scanners, 1 TV per car, HI-5 beverage containers, used household cooking oil, cell phones, printer cartridges, PDAs, batteries, usable clothing and household items, used eye glasses and hearing aids. They CANNOT ACCEPT: Tires, paint, microwave ovens, motor oil, hazardous fluids, cardboard, paper, plastics, wood, and bulky items.

Thank you for your continued support of recycling in the community. Please call Ed Thompson from my office at 586-6310 if you have any questions. View full article


April 11, 2014

National Take-Back Initiative

On Saturday, April 26, 2014, from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. you can turn in your unused or expired medication for safe, anonymous disposal. Please note that used needles and syringes will not be accepted. Please see the link below for locations to turn in your unused or expired medications:View full article


April 11, 2014

House Approves 2014-15 Supplemental Budget

The House of Representatives approved HB1700 HD1, which appropriates funds for operating and capital improvement costs of the Executive Branch for the supplemental year FY2014-2015, including operating monies of $6.253 billion in general funds and $12.148 billion in all means of financing. The measure now goes to the Senate for its consideration.View full article


October 17, 2013

10th ANNUAL COMMUNITY CLEAN-UP

October 4, 2013

10th Annual Community Clean-Up

The public is invited to bring their recyclables to Kaimuki High School on Saturday, October 19, 2013 between 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. for the 10th Annual Community Clean-Up. Funds raised for this event will benefit Kaimuki High School, Kapahulu Center, and the Moiliili Community Center.

Residents of the Kaimuki, Kapahulu, Palolo, St. Louis Heights, Manoa, Makiki, Ala Moana and McCully-Moiliili neighborhoods are encouraged to bring their recyclables to the parking lot of Kaimuki High School on Saturday between 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.

This would be a great time to clean out clutter while at the same time support the community, promote recycling, and divert trash from our landfills. Help Hawaii "Go Green" and turn trash into cash. Please see the list of acceptable items for recycling on the included flyer.

Thank you for your continued support of recycling in the community. Please call Ed Thompson from my office at 586-6310 if you have any questions.View full article


June 25, 2013

Representative Bertrand Kobayashi hosts Lawmakers Listen Community Meeting at Waialae Elementary Public Charter School

On June 5, 2013, Representative Bertrand Kobayashi hosted a Lawmakers Listen Community Meeting at the Waialae Elementary Public Charter School cafeteria. Attending the community meeting were House Speaker Joe Souki, Vice-Speaker John Mizuno, Majority Leader Scott Saiki, Majority Floor Leader Karen Awana, Finance Committee Chair Sylvia Luke, Finance Committee Vice-Chair Scott Nishimoto, and Health Committee Chair Della Au Belatti. The meeting provided residents an opportunity to engage with Representative Kobayashi and the leadership of the House of Representatives about issues impacting the community and the recently completed legislative session.

Lawmakers Listen is an ongoing series of state-wide community meetings with district Representatives and House Leadership. Please click on the attached link to view the meeting hosted by Representative Kobayashi. View full article


June 17, 2013

KCC Team Wins International Space Mission Competition

KCC Space Mission Competition


May 7, 2013

Legislature Unanimously Passes State Budget

LEGISLATURE UNANIMOUSLY PASSES STATE BUDGET

Honolulu, Hawaii - The Hawaii State Legislature today voted unanimously in both the House and Senate to approve the state budget for the upcoming FY2013-2015 biennium.
HB200 CD1 appropriates funds for operating and capital improvement costs of the Executive Branch for the biennium fiscal years FY2013-2014 and FY2014-2015.
For FY2013-2014, the bill offers $6 billion in general funds and $11.8 billion in all other means of financing. For FY2014-2015, it appropriates $6.1 billion in general funds and $12 billion in all additional financing means. It also provides over $3 billion in funding for capital improvement projects (CIP) and $30 million Grants-In-Aid for non-profit organizations.
House Finance Chair Sylvia Luke (Makiki, Punchbowl, Nuuanu, Dowsett Highlands, Pacific Heights, Pauoa) acknowledged that the fiscal outlook is looking positive but reiterated the importance of financial prudency, "our economy is recovering and while we have the money, it is now time to take a measured approach towards our State's financial plan. This means passing a budget that takes care of our current needs, while also taking care of our financial obligations and reinvests in our future," said Luke. "In this budget, we kept our promise to recapitalize the Hurricane Relief Fund and Rainy Day Funds and we have taken significant steps towards reducing our unfunded liabilities."
The financial plan includes an addition of $160 million into the Hurricane Relief Fund and $50 million into the Rainy Day Fund. Most importantly, it includes appropriations of $217 million in the next biennium to begin payments towards the State's unfunded liability and will continue to allocate funds every year ending in an allocation of $500 million in FY2019.
"We used the projected surplus to strengthen economic drivers to ensure increased revenue returns. To help the construction industry, the budget bill authorizes more than $1.3 billion in general obligation bond authorization for capital improvement projects statewide. Additionally, to support our number one industry our financial plan includes an $11 million increase to the Hawaii Tourism Authority to strengthen the marketing of Hawaii as a visitor destination. We also appropriated $6 million to assist our growing high technology industry in investment start ups and tax credits for research and development," said Luke.

Other funding highlights include:
Agriculture (AGR)
• Added $750,000 in general funds for the New Farmer Loan Program in FY14. This funding will enhance opportunities for new farmers to grow, while also supporting the State in becoming more food self-sufficient.
• Added 10 positions and nearly $1.2 million over the biennium to the Plant, Pest, and Disease Control division to support the Apiary program on Maui, Kauai, and Kona, and various other programs aimed at protecting local agriculture from invasive species, as well as the Hawaii Queen Bee industry.

Consumer Protection and Commerce (CPC)
• Added 2 temporary positions and over $300,000 in special funds each year for the Mortgage Foreclosure Dispute Resolution Program, which handles disputes between owner-occupants and lenders.
• Added $190,000 in special and trust funds over the biennium to the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs for public service campaigns aimed at educating consumers on a broad spectrum of consumer issues, including the dangers of hiring unlicensed contractors.

Economic Development and Business (EDB)
• Provided 3.69 temporary positions and $3 million in special funds over the biennium for the Hawaii State Energy Office Strategic Plan Programs to develop alternative energy resource related projects.
• Added $800,000 over the biennium to the Pacific International Space Center for Exploration Systems Program (PISCES). This supports the PISCES center on Hawaii Island to build an aerospace research and development park in cooperation with NASA and other international organizations, to be able to test aerospace robotics on a similar terrain.
• Added $1.5 million in general funds over the biennium for the Hawaii Invasive Species Council in Forestry Resource Management and Development Division of DLNR. This restores funding to support invasive species control, bringing general funding closer to historical levels.

Education (EDN)
• Added $12.9 million in general funds for the Weighted Student Formula. This funding will go directly to classrooms to support educational activities for students, teachers and principals.
• Added $8.2 million in general funds in FY14 for a pilot program relating to Common Core Instructional Materials. This is the DOE's initiative to give every child from grades 3-12 either a tablet or laptop to enhance their educational experience.
• Added $1 million in general funds in FY14 for Common Core Standards Assessment in Hawaiian. This funding creates a Hawaiian language Common Core Standards test for 350 third and fourth grade students enrolled in 14 immersion schools.
• Added $700,000 in FY14 in general funds for library books and materials. Includes funding for both physical books and e-books. Libraries have not received general funding for materials for 4 years.

Energy and Environmental Protection (EEP)
• Added 13 temporary positions to Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) for Watershed Management to continue management of watershed projects.
• Added 8 positions and $1.3 million for quality management and monitoring of environmental resources. These positions support programs for watershed and surface water quality monitoring, water reuse, greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution control, federal and state clean water regulations, solid waste permitting and monitoring.

Higher Education (HED)
• Added nearly $1.2 Million over the biennium for The Native Hawaiian Center of Excellence at the John A. Burns School of Medicine.
• Added 10 positions and $3 million in general funds in each year of the biennium to support activities and growth at the University of Hawaii at West Oahu campus.
• Added 9 positions and $3 million in general funds over the biennium for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Initiatives. This program enhances the professional development of middle school teachers in STEM subject matter areas.

Health (HLT)
• Added $1.4 million general funds each year for Aging and Disability Resource Centers.
• Added 1 position and $95,000 in the Children and Youth Services section to re-establish the Violence Prevention Coordinator position, which is responsible for statewide Domestic Violence program planning.

Human Services (HUS)
• Added $3.1 million for various social service programs including those to expand voluntary foster care to 21, increasing the clothing allowance for foster children, and developing Neighborhood drop-in Centers on Kauai.
• Added $750,000 in general funds in FY14 to expand the Housing First program to the Leeward coast of Oahu. This helps transition chronically homeless into affordable housing situations.
• Added 5 Counselors and nearly $875,000 over the biennium for the Office of Veterans Services.

Public Safety (PSD) & Judiciary (JUD)
• Added $327,000 in general funds over the biennium for the Automated Fingerprint Identification system maintenance. The system is used by the Honolulu Police Department and State Sheriffs in the field to check a suspect's criminal history. This also includes facial recognition software which allows field officers to also check a suspect's criminal records through photographs.
• Added 91 positions for the re-opening of the Kulani Facility on Hawaii Island, as part of the Justice Reinvestment Initiative to bring prisoners home.
• Added 10 Positions and $850,000 in general funds over each year of the biennium for additional security at courthouses statewide. These deputy sheriffs would provide additional security to courthouses on Oahu, Hawaii Island, and Maui.

Transportation (TRN)
• Added $161,886,000 in special funds over the biennium to highways division for special repairs and maintenance of roads statewide.
• Added 33 positions and over $2.3 million in special funds over the biennium for additional janitorial support. Positions include: 32 janitors for Honolulu International Airport and 1 janitor supervisor for Kona International Airport, who will be tasked with improving the first and last impressions and overall experience of visitors by improving the quality of services and facilities at State airports.

Also approved today were the budgets for the Judiciary Branch and the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.
HB197 appropriates funds for operating and capital improvement costs of the Judicial Branch for the next biennium. The bill offers in general funding $145 million for FY2013-FY2014 and $144 million for FY2014-FY2015.
HB222 appropriates $3.1 million in FY2014 and $2.7 million in FY2015 in operating funds for the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. View full article


April 30, 2013

Governor Abercrombie Releases CIP Funds for Leahi Hospital

On April 5, 2013, Governor Abercrombie released Capital Improvement Project (CIP) funds to renovate Leahi Hospital. The funds will be used to remodel second floor space previously occupied by Kapiolani Community College for hospital use, replace lobby flooring, renovate the second floor men's restroom for accessibility, repair damaged sewer lines, and reroof the porte cochere roof.


April 30, 2013

Leilehua, Baldwin, & Kalani High Schools Finish FIRST in State Robotics Competition

In only its second year of robotics competition, Leilehua High School spearheaded a public school triumvirate to victory at the FIRST Robotics Competition at the University of Hawaii recently. Baldwin and Kalani High Schools teamed with Leilehua to topple the top-seeded team of Waialua High, Punahou, and Sacred Hearts and earn a spot at the FIRST Robotics Championships in St. Louis, MO., April 25-27.

The FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Competition is a multinational competition that teams students with industry professionals to solve an engineering design problem in an intense, competitive atmosphere. The weekend event, themed the "Ultimate Ascent," challenged teams to build a robot that would fling a Frisbee, and then later, scale a pyramid.

The FIRST Championship is the culmination of the season's FIRST programs, bringing together three separate robotics competitions for the ultimate Sport for the Mind. The event includes the FIRST Robotics Competition Championship, the FIRST Tech Challenge World Championship, and the FIRST LEGO League World Festival. Also featured is the Junior FIRST LEGO League World Festival Expo.


April 4, 2013

Representatives Receive Game Balls From Kalani High School Soccer Team

REPRESENTATIVES RECEIVE GAME BALLS FROM KALANI HIGH SCHOOL SOCCER TEAM

Honolulu, Hawaii - Rep. Bertrand Kobayashi (Waialae, Kahala, Diamond Head, Kaimuki, Kapahulu) and Rep. Mark Hashem (Hahaione, Kuliouou, Niu Valley, Aina Haina, Kapahulu) both received game balls signed by all the members of the Kalani High School Soccer Team, the reigning Division I State champion, at the State Legislature.

The entire team, composed of 30 players, head coach Michael Ching, assistant coaches, trainers and managers, were present at the House Chamber to be congratulated on their state championship. Five Kalani players were named to the HHSAA (Hawaii High School Athletic Association) 11 -member All-Tournament Team including Leo Klink (Most Outstanding Player) along with Noa Maxilom, Steven Teshima, Michael Stafford and Kazuto Moribe.

"After last year's heartbreaking loss in the title game, it was exciting to watch the team come back more determined than ever this year and win the championship in an overtime shootout" said Rep. Bert Kobayashi who co-sponsored the resolution presented to the team.

"Although individuals were recognized for their outstanding effort," said Rep. Mark Hashem who co-sponsored the resolution. "it was the combined effort of the whole team that ultimately contributed to their success."
View full article
View KHON article

2024 Committee Member of
 2024 Allowance Report
Expenditure Report
 Measures Introduced in 2024
Measure and Title
HB84 HD1
RELATING TO COUNTIES.
HB246
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
HB324
RELATING TO TOBACCO SALES.
HB325
RELATING TO FIREWORKS.
HB326
RELATING TO PLASTIC STRAWS.
HB337 HD1
RELATING TO CAPITAL GAINS.
HB391 HD1
RELATING TO CHILD CARE.
HB425
RELATING TO FIREARMS.
HB430
RELATING TO FIREARMS.
HB493 HD2
RELATING TO TAXATION.
HB497 HD1
RELATING TO HOUSING.
HB501
RELATING TO TRANSPORTATION.
HB519 HD1
RELATING TO DENTISTS AND DENTAL HYGIENISTS.
HB551 HD1
RELATING TO HEALTH.
HB617 HD1 SD2
RELATING TO ORAL HEALTH.
HB651
RELATING TO CARE FACILITY INSPECTIONS.
HB659 HD2
RELATING TO HEALTH.
HB661 HD1
RELATING TO LOAN REPAYMENT FOR HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS.
HB662 HD1
RELATING TO THE GENERAL EXCISE TAX.
HB663 HD1
RELATING TO BREAST CANCER SCREENING.
HB664 HD1
RELATING TO HEALTH.
HB666 HD1
RELATING TO THE INTERSTATE MEDICAL LICENSURE COMPACT.
HB783
RELATING TO FIREWORKS.
HB826
RELATING TO THE STATE TRAFFIC CODE.
HB830
RELATING TO THE HAWAII SCHOOL FOR THE DEAF AND BLIND.
HB831
PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE III, SECTION 4, OF THE HAWAII STATE CONSTITUTION TO ESTABLISH LEGISLATIVE TERM LIMITS.
HB832
RELATING TO ELECTIONS.
HB833
RELATING TO HEALTH.
HB872 HD1 SD1
RELATING TO THE HAWAII HEALTHY AGING PARTNERSHIP.
HB881
RELATING TO COMMERCIAL ACTIVITIES ON BEACHES.
HB949 HD2
RELATING TO RENEWABLE ENERGY.
HB951 HD1 SD1
RELATING TO HOUSING.
HB952 HD1
RELATING TO NATURAL RESOURCES.
HB967
RELATING TO PUBLIC FINANCING FOR CANDIDATES TO ELECTED OFFICE.
HB1116 HD1
RELATING TO SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGY.
HB1126
RELATING TO TAXATION.
HB1127
RELATING TO TAXATION.
HB1148 HD1 SD2 CD1
RELATING TO MENTAL HEALTH.
HB1185 HD1
RELATING TO TRANSIT-ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT.
HB1204 HD1 SD1
RELATING TO PUBLIC EDUCATION.
HB1211 HD1
RELATING TO CONVEYANCE TAX.
HB1222
RELATING TO LEGISLATIVE ACCESS THROUGH REMOTE TESTIMONY.
HB1249
RELATING TO DIAMOND HEAD.
HB1250 HD1 SD1
RELATING TO MAMAKI TEA.
HB1264
RELATING TO NURSES.
HB1267 HD1
RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES.
HB1300 HD2 SD1
RELATING TO MENTAL HEALTH.
HB1301 HD1 SD1
RELATING TO CANCER.
HB1327 HD2 SD1
RELATING TO TAX CREDITS.
HB1328 HD1
RELATING TO CHARTER SCHOOLS.
HB1331 HD1
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
HB1341 HD1
RELATING TO MEDICAID.
HB1351
RELATING TO THE CONVEYANCE TAX.
HB1368 HD1
RELATING TO THE HOSPITAL SUSTAINABILITY PROGRAM.
HB1370 HD1
RELATING TO THE STATE ARCHIVES.
HB1372
RELATING TO THE TIP CREDIT.
HB1375 HD3 SD3
RELATING TO TOURISM.
HB1423
RELATING TO ELECTRONIC SMOKING DEVICES.
HB1442 HD2 SD1
RELATING TO REHABILITATION.
HB1448 HD2
RELATING TO ASTHMA.
HB1449 HD1
RELATING TO LUNG CANCER.
HB1505 HD1
RELATING TO THE HAWAII EMPLOYER-UNION HEALTH BENEFITS TRUST FUND.
HB1506 HD1
RELATING TO THE EMPLOYEES' RETIREMENT SYSTEM OF THE STATE OF HAWAII.
HB1530 HD1 SD1
RELATING TO FIRE PROTECTION.
HB1535 HD1
RELATING TO THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII PROMISE PROGRAM.
HB1540
RELATING TO SCHOOL MEALS.
HB1541
RELATING TO SUICIDE PREVENTION AND AWARENESS MONTH.
HB1562 HD1
RELATING TO DRIVING WITHOUT A LICENSE.
HB1563
RELATING TO TOBACCO PRODUCTS.
HB1564
RELATING TO STATEWIDE FIRE HELICOPTERS.
HB1566 HD1
RELATING TO CONSUMER HEALTH DATA.
HB1593 HD1
RELATING TO ELECTIONS.
HB1594 HD1
RELATING TO INTOXICATING LIQUOR.
HB1604 HD1 SD1
RELATING TO CRIMINAL JUSTICE REFORM.
HB1610
RELATING TO PUBLIC RECORDS.
HB1648 HD1
RELATING TO SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGY.
HB1649 HD1
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
HB1650 HD1
RELATING TO THE BOARD OF EDUCATION.
HB1651 HD2
RELATING TO THE SAFETY OF EDUCATIONAL WORKERS.
HB1652 HD1 SD1
RELATING TO TAX CREDITS.
HB1655 HD1
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
HB1657 HD1
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
HB1662 HD1
RELATING TO A CHILD TAX CREDIT.
HB1664 HD1
RELATING TO PUBLIC CORRUPTION.
HB1693
RELATING TO ELECTRONIC SMOKING DEVICES.
HB1767 HD1
RELATING TO SCHOOL BUS SERVICES.
HB1768
RELATING TO FAMILY LEAVE.
HB1769 HD2
RELATING TO TAXATION.
HB1771 HD1
RELATING TO THE HAWAI'I HEALTH AGING PARTNERSHIP.
HB1772 HD1 SD1
RELATING TO FALL PREVENTION.
HB1773 HD1
RELATING TO DEMENTIA.
HB1775 HD1
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
HB1778 HD2
RELATING TO TOBACCO PRODUCTS.
HB1782 HD2
RELATING TO HEMP.
HB1786 HD1
RELATING TO ELECTIONS.
HB1797
RELATING TO STUDENT TRANSPORTATION.
HB1826 HD1 SD1
RELATING TO EDUCATION FOR MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS.
HB1827 HD2 SD1 CD1
RELATING TO HEALTHCARE WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT.
HB1828 HD1 SD2
RELATING TO ENERGY-EFFICIENCY PORTFOLIO STANDARDS.
HB1829 HD1 SD1
RELATING TO ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING INFRASTRUCTURE.
HB1830 HD2 SD1 CD1
RELATING TO MENTAL HEALTH.
HB1831 HD1 SD2
RELATING TO CRISIS INTERVENTION.
HB1832 HD1 SD2 CD1
RELATING TO HIRING.
HB1833 HD1 SD1
RELATING TO THE RENTAL HOUSING REVOLVING FUND.
HB1834 HD1 SD1
RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES.
HB1835 HD1
RELATING TO DISTRIBUTION MANAGEMENT.
HB1836 HD2 SD2 CD1
RELATING TO HEALTH.
HB1837 HD1 SD1
RELATING TO SCHOOL SAFETY.
HB1838 HD2 SD2
RELATING TO ZONING.
HB1839 HD2 SD1
RELATING TO THE ENVIRONMENT.
HB1840 HD2
RELATING TO THE ENVIRONMENT.
HB1841 HD2
RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES.
HB1842 HD1 SD1
RELATING TO FIRE PREVENTION.
HB1843 HD2 SD1
RELATING TO FIRE PROTECTION.
HB1844 HD1 SD1
RELATING TO THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII.
HB1899
RELATING TO STATE SNAILS.
HB1900 HD1
RELATING TO HYDROLOGIC DATA COLLECTION.
HB1902 HD1 SD2 CD1
RELATING TO EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT.
HB1903 HD1 SD1
RELATING TO EARLY LEARNING.
HB1904 HD2
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
HB1906 HD1 SD1
RELATING TO MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION TO PROMOTE STUDENT MENTAL HEALTH.
HB1908 HD1
RELATING TO PUBLIC EMPLOYEE COMPENSATION.
HB1921 HD1
RELATING TO MOBILE VACCINATIONS.
HB1934 HD2
RELATING TO DRIVING WHILE INTOXICATED.
HB1947 HD1
RELATING TO THE EMPLOYEES' RETIREMENT SYSTEM.
HB1954 HD1
RELATING TO THE COMMUNITY OUTREACH COURT.
HB1964 HD2 SD2
RELATING TO EARLY CHILD CARE.
HB1966
RELATING TO HEALTH CARE.
HB1968 HD2
RELATING TO SEXUAL ABUSE OF MINORS.
HB1969 HD2
RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION.
HB1970 HD1
RELATING TO ENERGY.
HB1971
RELATING TO AGRICULTURE.
HB1972 HD1 SD1
RELATING TO ELECTRIC VEHICLE BATTERIES.
HB1974 HD1 SD1
RELATING TO SOCIAL SERVICES.
HB1975
RELATING TO THE SUNSHINE LAW.
HB1976 HD1 SD1
RELATING TO THE OFFICE OF ELECTIONS.
HB1977 HD1
RELATING TO BRAILLE LITERACY.
HB1978
RELATING TO VACANCIES IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
HB1979
RELATING TO PRESCRIPTION DRUGS.
HB2005 HD2
RELATING TO TAXES.
HB2006
RELATING TO INVASIVE PESTS.
HB2014
RELATING TO HARASSMENT.
HB2042 HD1 SD1 CD1
RELATING TO MENTAL HEALTH.
HB2043 HD3
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
HB2080
PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE 1, SECTION 23, OF THE HAWAII CONSTITUTION RELATING TO MARRIAGE.
HB2082 HD1
RELATING TO SCHOOL BUS SERVICES.
HB2112 HD2 SD1
RELATING TO MOPED INSURANCE.
HB2113 HD1
RELATING TO PHARMACY.
HB2132 HD1
RELATING TO INVASIVE SPECIES.
HB2133 HD1
RELATING TO INVASIVE SPECIES.
HB2159 HD2 SD2
RELATING TO MENTAL HEALTH.
HB2174 HD2 SD1
RELATING TO SEARCH AND RESCUE.
HB2190
RELATING TO THE RIGHT TO GARDEN.
HB2191 HD1
RELATING TO FERAL ANIMALS.
HB2192 HD1 SD1 CD1
RELATING TO CEMETERIES.
HB2193 HD1 SD2 CD1
RELATING TO FIREWORKS.
HB2194
RELATING TO HEALTH INSURANCE.
HB2217 HD1
RELATING TO HEALTH.
HB2224 HD2 SD1 CD1
RELATING TO LONG-TERM CARE.
HB2230 HD1 SD1
RELATING TO LAW ENFORCEMENT.
HB2231 HD1 SD1
RELATING TO LAW ENFORCEMENT.
HB2232 HD1
RELATING TO WEAPONS.
HB2240 HD1
RELATING TO HAWAII EDUCATOR LOANS.
HB2253 HD2 SD1
RELATING TO HEALTH.
HB2254 HD1
RELATING TO EMPLOYEES.
HB2257
RELATING TO PUBLIC EDUCATION.
HB2261 HD2
RELATING TO HISTORIC PRESERVATION.
HB2330 HD1
RELATING TO AUTOMATED EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATORS.
HB2509 HD1 SD1
PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE VI, SECTION 3 OF THE HAWAII STATE CONSTITUTION TO INCREASE THE MANDATORY RETIREMENT AGE FOR STATE JUSTICES AND JUDGES.
HB2511
RELATING TO CANCER.
HB2531
RELATING TO WORKPLACE SAFETY.
HB2537
RELATING TO INVASIVE SPECIES.
HB2548 HD3 SD1
RELATING TO ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS.
HB2549 HD1
RELATING TO MAUI'S PERMANENT HOUSING RECOVERY.
HB2551
RELATING TO LAW ENFORCEMENT.
HB2552 HD1 SD1
RELATING TO EMPLOYEE BENEFITS.
HB2553 HD2 SD2 CD1
RELATING TO PHARMACISTS.
HB2572 HD1
RELATING TO TEACHER LOANS.
HB2575
RELATING TO CONSTRUCTION WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT.
HB2622 HD1 SD1
RELATING TO FIREARMS.
HB2623
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
HB2624
RELATING TO THE LIQUOR TAX LAW.
HB2644 HD2 SD1
RELATING TO LITTLE FIRE ANTS.
HB2665 HD1
RELATING TO THE STATE PLAN.
HB2672 HD1
RELATING TO LITTLE FIRE ANTS.
HB2690 HD2 SD1
RELATING TO WATER.
HB2691
RELATING TO THE RED HILL REMEDIATION AUTHORITY.
HB2744 HD2 SD1
RELATING TO ORAL HEALTH.
HB2748 HD2 SD1
RELATING TO LAW ENFORCEMENT.
HB2793
RELATING TO THE MAUI VETERANS HOME.
HB2794
RELATING TO HEALTH.
HB2807
RELATING TO MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES.
HCR3
URGING EACH COUNTY TO ESTABLISH AN EMERGENCY ZONING CODE FOR POST-DISASTER USE.
HCR4 HD1
REQUESTING THE CURRENT MEMBERS OF THE NORTHWEST WILDLAND FIRE PROTECTION AGREEMENT TO AMEND THE AGREEMENT TO ALLOW HAWAII TO JOIN AS A MEMBER.
HCR5
URGING RETAIL STORES AND PHARMACIES DOING BUSINESS IN THE STATE TO ADOPT A POLICY ON A NATIONAL AND LOCAL LEVEL GUARANTEEING AN INDIVIDUAL'S UNHINDERED ACCESS TO ALL UNITED STATES FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION-APPROVED CONTRACEPTIVES.
HCR6
URGING THE MEMBERS OF HAWAII'S CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION TO MONITOR THE ALLIANCE FOR HIPPOCRATIC MEDICINE V. U.S. FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION AND TAKE ACTION TO LIMIT THE CASE FROM FURTHER RESTRICTING ACCESS TO SAFE ABORTION OPTIONS.
HCR22 HD2 SD1
AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF A TERM, NON-EXCLUSIVE EASEMENT COVERING A PORTION OF STATE SUBMERGED LANDS AT WAIKIKI, HONOLULU, OAHU, FOR CONSTRUCTION, USE, REPAIR, AND MAINTENANCE OF STEPS.
HCR157
URGING THE UNITED STATES AND THE STATE TO RECOGNIZE AND ADDRESS THE AIR TRANSPORTATION CRISIS ON MOLOKAI AND LĀNA`I.
HCR198 SD1
REQUESTING THE STATE'S CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION TO ADVOCATE FOR THE ENFORCEMENT OF EXISTING INTERNATIONAL LAWS TO REDUCE GHOST NETS ENTERING THE STATE FROM INTERNATIONAL WATERS AND TAKE OTHER ACTIONS TO REDUCE MARINE DEBRIS FROM FISHING GEAR.
HCR199
REQUESTING THE DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES TO IDENTIFY ALL APPROPRIATE SITES AT STATE PARKS AT WHICH A WATER-BOTTLE FILLING STATION COULD BE INSTALLED.
HCR226
RECOGNIZING AND COMMENDING THE NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF STATE LEGISLATURES ON THE UPCOMING OCCASION OF ITS FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY IN 2025.
HR1
URGING RETAIL STORES AND PHARMACIES DOING BUSINESS IN THE STATE TO ADOPT A POLICY ON A NATIONAL AND LOCAL LEVEL GUARANTEEING AN INDIVIDUAL'S UNHINDERED ACCESS TO ALL UNITED STATES FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION-APPROVED CONTRACEPTIVES.
HR178
REQUESTING THE STATE'S CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION TO ADVOCATE FOR THE ENFORCEMENT OF EXISTING INTERNATIONAL LAWS TO REDUCE GHOST NETS ENTERING THE STATE FROM INTERNATIONAL WATERS AND TAKE OTHER ACTIONS TO REDUCE MARINE DEBRIS FROM FISHING GEAR.
HR179
REQUESTING THE DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES TO IDENTIFY ALL APPROPRIATE SITES AT STATE PARKS AT WHICH A WATER-BOTTLE FILLING STATION COULD BE INSTALLED.
HR212
RECOGNIZING AND COMMENDING THE NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF STATE LEGISLATURES ON THE UPCOMING OCCASION OF ITS FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY IN 2025.