SEN. BRICKWOOD GALUTERIA ATTENDS NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF STATE MAJORITY LEADERS

Front: Majority Leaders Rep. Valerie Longhurst (Delaware) and Rep. Pam Peterson (Oklahoma). Back: Majority Leaders Rep. Ken Bragg (Arkansas), Sen. Troy Jackson (Maine), and Sen. Brickwood Galuteria (Hawaii) (Photo courtesy of Senate Communications)

Senate Majority Leader Brickwood Galuteria recently attended the State Legislative Leaders Foundation's (SLLF) second annual Conference of State Majority Leaders.

The conference is the only national educational program designed exclusively for all House and Senate Majority Leaders. Over the course of the program the Leaders meet with peers to take a close look and explore strategies for making their caucuses and institutions more effective while exploring the unique challenges associated with being Majority Leader.

The program is a mix of substantive discussions led by a preeminent faculty as well as a closed-door (everything is on the table) session open only to Majority Leaders. It is a gathering of individuals who share one of most important jobs in the legislature.

"In order to be an efficient and effective leader, it's important to take part in these skills-training sessions to learn and share with others who are tasked with the same job our common goals, successes and problems," said Majority Leader Galuteria. "I've heard the perspective of leaders from across the nation and will be able to bring that back to Hawaii to make our caucus and institution more effective."

During one plenary session, lawmakers heard from West Virginia policy makers and administrators about innovative education programs such as "Feed to Achieve." This program allows schools to offer free meals to all its students regardless of income. It establishes nonprofits to raise funds through private donations to pay for the meals and other food-related programs in the state's public schools.

STATE SENATE ADJOURNS SESSION APPROVING MORE THAN 240 BILLS INCLUDING KEY MEASURES THAT IMPROVE THE LIVES OF HAWAII'S PEOPLE

The Hawaii State Senate today adjourned the 2014 session passing more than 240 bills that align with its initial priorities to make Hawaii a better place for everyone now and in the future through initiatives supporting Hawaii's keiki, kūpuna, workers and the environment.

"The ability to compromise and work together is essential to making good laws that help Hawaii's people today and in the future," said Senate President Donna Mercado Kim. "It is thanks to the patience and passion of our members and advocates that we were able to complete another successful session."

"With anything we do in life, it's always about balance. That's the same way we look at it here in our majority caucus," said Sen. Brickwood Galuteria. "Every issue will have two opposing sides. Our job as lawmakers is to come out at the end of session with worthy legislation that improve the quality of life of our people. I think we did just that and I'm proud of my colleagues in the Senate Majority.

The Senate Majority, whose members are Democrats, this afternoon took action on its final bills of the session. Some of the major bills discussed and approved were several education measures that align with earlier action emphasizing the Senate's commitment to Hawaii's keiki, the future of Hawaii.

Lawmakers passed four bills relating to education, one prohibiting teachers from using seclusion and creating conditions and procedures for the use of restraint in schools in order to promote the safety and well-being of students (HB2257), and another raising the salary cap of the superintendent of education in order to attract and retain exemplary candidates (HB2257). The third bill will allow charter schools to charge fees on the use of facilities to help cover operating costs (HB1745).

Overall, many of the notable bills this session focused on prevention and maintaining core services and projects. Lawmakers funded initiatives that address imminent problems (as part of the joint majority package) such as the rise in kūpuna population, spread of invasive species, and effects of climate control. Lawmakers also remained committed to providing continued support for the people most in need, including Hawaii's keiki, kūpuna and workers who earn the lowest wages.

The governor has 45 days from the time a bill was received to veto it, sign it into law, or allow it to pass into law without his signature.

Highlights of Bills Passed this Session

STATEMENT FROM SEN. BRICKWOOD GALUTERIA ON SIGNING OF HB1866, RELATING TO HCDA, INTO LAW

Senator Brickwood Galuteria, Senate Majority Leader, released the following statement on HB1866 relating to the Hawaii Community Development Authority (HCDA):

"The Legislature passed HB1866 to reform HCDA more than two weeks ago and I am pleased that the governor has signed this bill into law," said Senator Galuteria. "I am proud to have worked with my colleagues in both the Senate and House in crafting a compromise bill that address concerns of all parties involved. With this law, our State can continue to move in a positive direction that balances our need for more housing with sustainable development and protecting our environment."

HB1866 amends the HCDA membership and appointment, creates a 418-foot height limit, and makes requirement changes for notice, hearing, approval and vesting of rights for development permits.

COMPROMISE LEADS TO LEGISLATURE'S APPROVAL OF OVER 135 MEASURES AHEAD OF SINE DIE

The Hawaii State Legislature today approved more than 135 on final reading ahead of the adjournment sine die this Thursday, including the state supplemental budget, measures supporting kūpuna and protecting the environment, and flagship bills raising minimum wage and funding the Turtle Bay Conservation Easement. The measures will now be enrolled to Governor Neil Abercrombie for consideration. The Governor has until Monday, June 23 to notify the legislature of an intent to veto and until Tuesday, July 8 to sign.

"Through the diligence and efficiency of my colleagues in both the Senate and House, not to mention their willingness to compromise, we have passed key measures that support our workers, kūpuna, keiki and environment," said Senate President Donna Mercado Kim.

"Caring for our kūpuna and protecting our environment was a priority of the legislature this year," said Majority Leader Brickwood Galuteria. "The four measures we passed will help fund preventive measures to care for our aina and seniors."

State Supplemental Budget

HB1700 includes funding for core services such as education, health, the University of Hawaii, human services, the environment, public safety, and supporting and caring for the lives of Hawaii's people.

Through prudent money management, and in order to reflect a weak economic forecast, lawmakers reduced Gov. Neil Abercrombie's executive budget request by $173 million in general funds over fiscal biennium 2013-15. The governor's $200 million budget request for FY2015 was significantly cut down to $65.7 million.

Funding for capital improvement projects amounted to just over $5 billion, of which $2.3 billion is funded in general obligation (GO) or reimbursable bonds. This number includes the lapse and reauthorization of $339 million in GO Bonds for the State Educational Facilities Improvement (SEFI) Fund. The budget includes $40 million for grant-in-aid (GIA).

"We've had some challenges balancing the budget this session, especially with lower-than-expected tax revenue projections," said Sen. David Ige, chair of the Ways and Means Committee, "but through the commitment of both Senate and House members to work together to balance the needs and concerns of everyone in our community, we were able to make the smart financial decisions to close the budget."

Flagship Measures Passing Final Reading:

Increasing Minimum Wage
Senate Bill 2609 will boost the income of Hawaii's lowest paid workers giving them more money to spend and invest, increasing economic activity and growth, while allowing them to care for their families. The final version of the bill increases the state's minimum wage from $7.25 to $10.10 over the next four years. For workers who earn at least $7 more than the minimum wage, businesses can deduct a 75 cents tip credit. The current tip credit is 50 cents.

Preserving Hawaii's Lands
House Bill 2434 will provide the $40 million needed to complete the agreement reached last week between the State of Hawaii, City and County of Honolulu, The Trust for Public Land, and Turtle Bay Resort (TBR) to establish a conservation easement on 665.8 acres of land at Turtle Bay Resort in Kahuku.

JOINT MAJORITY PACKAGE BILLS

Supporting Hawaii's Kūpuna
HB1713 SD2 and SB2346 SD1 HD2 supports Hawaii's kūpuna through funding of aging, long-term care and investor education programs.

Protecting the Environment
HB1714 establishes an interagency sea level rise vulnerability and adaptation committee under the State Department of Land and Natural Resources.

The final joint majority package bill, HB1716, which appropriates $5 million to the Hawaii Invasive Species Council for invasive species prevention, control, outreach, research, and planning, passed out of committee earlier this month.

Although the Senate passed out SB2478, a bill updating the chiropractic scope of practice, the House voted to recommit the both measures to committee. Both the House and Senate recommitted SB2799, relating the salary of the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation Executive Director.

The Senate deferred a vote on HB1652, a bill establishing a 5-year pilot program at the University of Hawaii Hilo School of Pharmacy and a University of Hawaii at Hilo College of Pharmacy Special Fund, until Thursday, May 1. And the House deferred vote on SB3065, the Dole land exchange bill, and until then as well.

Thursday, May 1, is adjournment sine die, the final day of the 2014 Legislative Session and the last day for the lawmakers to vote on measures. Senate will convene session at 11 a.m.

Click here to view Highlights from the Budget.

Statement from Sen. Brickwood Galuteria on SB3122, Relating to OHA's Kakaako-makai parcels

Senator Brickwood Galuteria, Senate Majority Leader, released the following remarks on SB3122 relating to OHA's Kakaako-makai parcels:

"We worked very hard to represent the interests of all those involved, but at the end of the day, we were unable to settle differences between the Senate and House version of the bill before the conference negotiations meeting deadline. Although the bill did not make it out of conference this legislative session, we may revisit the issue the next legislative session. I have always supported OHA's mission and will continue working with OHA on this and other issues affecting the self-determination of Native Hawaiians."

BALANCE PLAYS KEY ROLE IN LAWMAKERS ADVANCING LEGISLATION THAT SUPPORT HAWAII'S PEOPLE AND LAND

In the spirit of collaboration, House and Senate conferees today struck a balance passing out several conference drafts that support the people of Hawaii and protect and preserve the land that they live. The bills now goes to the full Senate and House for a final floor vote.

"The Legislature for the third year in a row worked efficiently and effectively to end conference negotiations on time," said Senate President Donna Mercado Kim. "In the past, certain bills required extending the deadline for negotiations. Efficiency is important to the Senate as we continue to do work for the people of Hawaii."

Increasing Minimum Wage
Senate Bill 2609 will boost the income of Hawaii's lowest paid workers giving them more money to spend and invest, increasing economic activity and growth, while allowing them to care for their families. The final version of the bill increases the state's minimum wage from $7.25 to $10.10 over the next four years. For workers who earn at least $7 more than the minimum wage, businesses can deduct a 75 cents tip credit. The current tip credit is 50 cents.

"From the start of the session, the Hawaii State Senate has been committed to improving the lives of Hawaii's people and raising the minimum wage is just one of the measures that will do just that," said Sen. Clayton Hee, Judiciary Chair. "Raising the minimum wage is not only good for Hawaii's people, it's the right thing to do and makes good economic sense. My colleagues and our counterparts in the House worked tirelessly to work out differences and through compromise were successful in approving this much-needed piece of legislation."

Preserving Hawaii's Lands
House Bill 2434 will provide the $40 million needed to complete the agreement reached last week between the State of Hawaii, City and County of Honolulu, The Trust for Public Land, and Turtle Bay Resort (TBR) to establish a conservation easement on 665.8 acres of land at Turtle Bay Resort in Kahuku.

"The Senate has always been committed to funding this important conservation easement on the North Shore," said Sen. David Ige, Ways and Means Chair. "This session and last, we advanced legislation funding the agreement, and were ready to include the $40 million in the state budget. I'm pleased with the result and thank those members who worked quickly and diligently to pass out this bill before the deadline."

State Supplemental Budget
HB1700 includes funding for core services such as education, health, the University of Hawaii, human services, the environment, public safety, and supporting and caring for the lives of Hawaii's people. Through prudent money management, and in order to reflect the weak economic forecast, lawmakers reduced Gov. Neil Abercrombie's executive budget request by $173 million in general funds over fiscal biennium 2013-15. The governor's $200 million budget request for FY2015 was significantly cut down to $65.7 million.

Funding for capital improvement projects amounted to just over $5 billion, of which $2.3 billion is funded in general obligation (GO) or reimbursable bonds. This number includes the lapse and reauthorization of $339 million in GO Bonds for the State Educational Facilities Improvement (SEFI) Fund. The budget includes $40 million for grant-in-aid (GIA).

"Education was a real winner in this bill," said Ige. "We were able to make key investments at every level ensuring that our students have the best access to quality education. We also made investments to protect our agriculture lands by adding positions to the pesticides branch in the Department of Agriculture, funded many key programs in other areas and closed on time with a balanced and fair budget despite challenges."

JOINT MAJORITY PACKAGE BILLS
Supporting Hawaii's Kūpuna
HB1713 SD2 and SB2346 SD1 HD2 supports Hawaii's kūpuna through funding of aging, long-term care and investor education programs.

Protecting the Environment
HB1714 establishes an interagency sea level rise vulnerability and adaptation committee under the State Department of Land and Natural Resources.

The final joint majority package bill, HB1716, which appropriates $5 million to the Hawaii Invasive Species Council for invasive species prevention, control, outreach, research, and planning, passed out of committee earlier this month.

"The Senate and House members of the 2014 legislative session put forth a joint majority package that addresses the combined interests and priorities of our State and I am pleased that the remaining three bills in the package have made it out of conference," said Senate Majority Leader Brickwood Galuteria. "These bills support the present and future of our state as it supports our kūpuna and addresses the effects of climate change for our future generation. Here in Hawaii, we are lucky to live in a place that cherishes our culture, traditions and environment, and protecting those ideals is one of our duties as lawmakers."

Kūpuna Power Celebrates Seniors

As the "silver tsunami" approaches, it has become even more urgent to empower seniors through education, awareness and exercise. Sen. Brickwood Galuteria is hosting the second Kūpuna Power Day at the Hawaii State Capitol Rotunda. It's a fun-filled event bringing together more than 30 organization providing vital information for the health, safety and well- being for Hawaii's Kūpuna. The public, especially Kūpuna, are invited to enjoy a program jam packed with entertainment and information on Wednesday, April 16, 2014 from 9 - 11:30 a.m.

The event celebrates Kūpuna and seek to empower them with important information relating to everyday life. However, it's not all serious business on Kūpuna Power Day. The fun-filled event features notable local entertainers taking the stage and seniors will be asked to lace up their sneakers and take part in healthy exercise, including Silver Sneakers Stretch. Entertainment will be provided by Danny Kaleikini, Marlene Sai and Tony Silva. The events are free to attend.

"This day is all about empowering the Kūpuna with education, entertainment and exercise," said Senator Brickwood Galuteria, organizer of the event. "Our population is aging and we need to continue to provide our Kūpuna with support so that they can live self-sufficiently. The silver tsunami is coming and we want to prepare all our residents for when that time comes."

Helpful information and resources from a variety of vendors at Kupuna Power Day

Hawaii State Senate Sends Governor Measure to Legalize Same-Sex Marriage

In an historic vote, the Hawaii State Senate today passed a measure on final reading to legalize same-sex marriage in the State of Hawaii, accepting the House amendments to Senate Bill 1 (SB 1 HD 1), Relating to Equal Rights. The measure will now go to the Governor's desk for his approval.

"Today's passage of Senate Bill 1 marks a pivotal moment in our State's history, a moment enshrined in equality and justice," said Senate Majority Leader Brickwood Galuteria, who introduced the bill. "Working together with our colleagues in the State House we have come to a compromise which provides a balance between religious freedom and equal rights."

SB 1 HD1 recognizes marriages between individuals of the same gender. In addition, the measure extends to same-sex couples the same rights, benefits, protections, and responsibilities of marriage to which opposite-sex couples are presently entitled.

"I am pleased to have played a small part in this legislation which will bring equality, justice, and liberty for all regarding all Americans," said Senator Clayton Hee, Chair of the Senate Committee on Judiciary and Labor.

Incorporating public input and changes proposed by the House, the measure takes into account the concerns expressed by both the religious community and same-sex advocates. Specifically, language regarding religious exemptions for religious organizations and clergy performing solemnization has been amended to closely model similar provisions currently in effect in the State of Connecticut.

Under SB 1 HD1, religious organizations and affiliated nonprofits would be exempt from having to provide goods, services, or its facilities or grounds for the solemnization or the celebration of solemnization if it is in violation of its religious beliefs or faith. It also specifies that clergy and religious officers are not required to solemnize if it is against their religious beliefs or faith. In addition, the measure grants immunity from administrative, civil, and legal liability to religious organizations and officials for the failure or refusal to provide services, good, or facilities as described. Language has also been included that conforms the above exemptions to the existing civil union statute.

If signed into law by the Governor, same-sex marriages would begin December 2, 2013 in the State.

View the media release.

Hawaii State Senator Brickwood Galuteria Honored with Patrick Henry Award

Hawaii State Senate Majority Leader Brickwood Galuteria was recently selected as a recipient of the Patrick Henry Award from the National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS) and the Hawaii National Guard Association for his significant contributions to the Hawaii National Guard.

"Our military service members and their families embody the spirit of selfless service, making incredible sacrifices to protect our freedom," said Senator Brickwood Galuteria, who represents Senate District 12, encompassing Waikiki, Ala Moana, Kakaako, McCully, Moiliili. "I am deeply touched and humbled to have been selected for this prestigious award. I will continue to do my best to work with the Hawaii National Guard and others to ensure that Hawaii's servicemen and women receive the support they deserve."

The Patrick Henry Award, the civilian counterpart to the NGAUS Distinguished Service Metal, was created in 1989 and recognizes local officials and civic leaders, who, in a position of great responsibility, distinguish themselves with outstanding and exceptional service to the Armed Forces of the United States, the National Guard or NGAUS.

"This award recognizes Senator Galuteria for his unequaled political support to the Department of Defense of the State of Hawaii, the Hawaii National Guard and the Military in Hawaii," said Ray Jardine, who is the president and CEO of Native Hawaiian Veterans LLC and recommended Galuteria for the award. "His hard work and dedication in our State Legislature has had a direct and positive impact on the quality of life of our service members, creating a legacy that will be felt for generations to come."

"Senator Galuteria has been an unwavering champion for Hawaii's military service members and their families," said Major General Darryl D.M. Wong. "His exceptional leadership and work at the Legislature has demonstrated his passion and advocacy for the servicemen and women that serve this state and our nation."

Galuteria is serving his second term as a Hawaii State Senator and is the Majority Leader of the Senate. During his tenure at the State Senate Galuteria has served as chair of the Senate Committee on Hawaiian Affairs and Committee on Hawaiian Affairs and Tourism, and as a member on various committees. He currently sits on the Senate Committee on Public Safety, Intergovernmental and Military Affairs.

An award ceremony will be held in September 2013 as part of the 135th NGAUS General Conference and Exhibition in Hawaii.

View the media release.

Senate Votes to Pass More Than 150 Measures Ahead of Sine Die

Senate Votes to Pass More Than 100 Measures Ahead of Second Crossover

On April 9, 2013 the Hawaii State Senate voted to pass 136 measures on third reading ahead of Thursday's Second Crossover deadline. Today marked the 46th day of the 27th Legislature.

Thursday is the last day for the Senate to pass House bills amended by the Senate and the House to pass Senate bills amended by the House on Third Reading. After Second Crossover, members of both chambers will review the amendments made to their bills by the opposing chambers and deciding whether to agree or disagree to them. Thursday is also the last day to disagree, and the Senate and House will then convene conference committees to work out the differences and reach final agreement.

To view the complete list of measures passed on third reading today by the Senate, click here.

Senate Votes to Pass More Than 300 Measures on Third Reading Ahead of First Crossover Deadline

On March 5, 2013 the Hawaii State Senate voted to pass 348 measures on third reading, ahead of Thursday's First Crossover deadline. Today marked the 25th day of the 27th Legislature and the Senate and House are taking final votes on bills for third reading before the measures transfer chambers on First Crossover.

The First Crossover deadline is on Thursday, March 7, 2013. This is the last day for a final vote on a bill to occur in its originating chamber before it is passed on to the other chamber for further consideration. During First Crossover, all Senate bills that pass Third Reading must crossover to the House and all House bills that pass Third Reading must crossover to the Senate by the March 7 deadline.

To view a complete list of measures passed third reading today by the Senate, click here.

February 2013 Legislative Update

• Message from Senator Galuteria
• Senator Visits with Young People
• Hawaii State Majority Caucus 2013 Legislative Priorities
• 2013 State of the State Address
• Senator Daniel K. Akaka Recognized at the First Aloha Order of Merit Ceremony
• Senator Galuteria Attends the 2013 Presidential Inauguration
• Breaking New Ground

Click here to read the February 2013 Legislative Update

January 2013 Legislative Update

• Happy New Year from Senator Galuteria
• A Final Farewell to Senator Daniel K. Inouye
• Senate President Shan Tsutsui Accepts the Position of Lieutenant Governor
• Senator Donna Mercado Kim Selected as Senate President

Click here to read the January 2013 Legislative Update

November 2012 Legislative Update

• Mahalo Message from Senator Galuteria
• State Launches New Website
• Senate Organizes Quickly
• Official Red Cross First Aid App
• Legislative Session Jobs Posting

Click here to read the November 2012 Legislative Update

September 2012 Legislative Update

• Kupuna Power Comes to Waikiki and Ala Moana
• Message from Senator Galuteria
• Young Constituent Shares Her Experience as Senator Galuteria's Intern
• Our New Homeless Coordinator
• State Legislature's Website Wins Prestigious Award
• 19th Annual Children and Youth Day
• Important Dates To Remember

Click here to read the September 2012 Legislative Update

Senator Galuteria One Among the First To Sign Kana‘iolowalu Petition in Washington, D.C.

United States Senators Daniel K. Akaka and Daniel K. Inouye become the first two people to sign a petition affirming the inherent sovereignty of the Native Hawaiian people and expressing support for a restoration of Native Hawaiian self-governance. (Screenshot from video 'Kana'iolowalu petition signed in Washington' by the Office of Senator Akaka.)

Click here to view the video on YouTube.

May 2012 Legislative Update

• End of Session Message from Senator Brickwood Galuteria
• "Senate Stayed the Course"
• "2012 Supplemental State Budget"
• "Over $105 Million for Senate District 12"

Click here to read the May 2012 Legislative Update

Senate Votes to Pass More Than 70 Measures During Sine Die Session

The Hawaii State Senate officially adjourned the 2012 Legislative Session today, voting to pass more than 70 measures. Today marks Sine Die, the 60th day of the 26th Legislature and the last day for the Senate and House to take final votes on bills agreed to by the House and Senate.

During Final Reading, Legislators vote on final versions of bills before them. If the bills pass both houses, the bills are sent to the Governor for consideration.

The last day for the Governor to give notice to the Legislature on bills he plans to veto will occur on the 35th day after adjournment. Any bill on which notice is not given will become law.

After the Legislature adjourns, the Governor has 45 days (excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays) to consider bills presented to the Governor less than ten days before adjournment. The Legislature may convene at or before noon on the 45th day in a special session to amend a returned bill to meet the Governor's objection.

To view a complete list of measures passed today by the Senate, click here.

Senate Votes to Pass More Than 100 Measures Ahead of Sine Die

On May 1, 2012 the Hawaii State Senate voted to pass more than 100 measures, ahead of Thursday, the last day of the 2012 Legislative Session. Today marked the 59th day of the 26th Legislature and the Senate and House are taking final votes on bills agreed to by House and Senate conference committees over the past several days.

During Final Reading, Legislators vote on final versions of bills before them. If the bills pass both houses, the bills are sent to the Governor for consideration. Several dozen fiscal bills are scheduled for final vote on Thursday, May 3, the 60th and final day of the 26th Legislative Session.

To view a complete list of measures passed today by the Senate, click here.

Senate Passes Over 200 Measures Ahead of Second Crossover Deadline

On April 10, 2012 the Hawaii State Senate voted to pass more than 200 measures, ahead of Thursday's Second Crossover deadline. To view a complete list of measures passed today by the Senate, click here.

Senate Majority Leader Update - February 14, 2012

Overview of 2012 Priorities

Happy Holidays from Senator Galuteria!

Hawaii State Senate Congratulates Governor's New Deputy Chief of Staff

Governor Neil Abercrombie announced Representative Blake Oshiro will be joining the Abercrombie Administration as his deputy chief of staff. Representative Oshiro who currently serves in the House of Representatives as its Majority Leader will be stepping down from his seat on December 7, 2011.

Senate President Shan Tsutsui and Senate Majority Leader Brickwood Galuteria, on behalf of the Senate, congratulate Representative Blake Oshiro as Governor Abercrombie's new deputy chief of staff. They offer the following statements on Representative Oshiro's appointment:

"Congratulations to Representative Blake Oshiro on his appointment as Governor Abercrombie's new deputy chief of staff. He is certainly a qualified, experienced and knowledgeable addition to the administration. We look forward to working with Representative Oshiro as he works with the governor and members of the administration to direct Hawaii under the "New Day" plan," said Senate President Shan Tsutsui.

"Governor Abercrombie's appointment of Representative Blake Oshiro as his new deputy chief of staff is very fitting. As my counterpart, while Representative Oshiro served as Majority Leader in the House of Representatives, I've had the pleasure of working closely with him. He is thorough, diligent, but equally important, he understands the nuances of the legislature and we look forward to working with him as deputy chief of staff," said Senate Majority Leader Brickwood Galuteria.

Revitalization of Kaka‘ako Moving Forward

Governor Abercrombie and Hawaii Community Development Authority Executive Director Anthony Ching announced on Wednesday, October 26th that ground-breaking for an affordable housing development project slated for 690 Pohukaina Street will begin in February of next year. Read/watch KITV4's coverage

See photos of the announcement on Governor Abercrombie's Facebook page

Visit the Hawaii Community Development Authority's website

January 2011 Newsletter

Highlights include Meeting with Cabinet Appointees, Senate Communications effort, and an update on the Legislative Urban Caucus. Read More

November 2010 Newsletter

Highlights include Senate re-organization, UH Cancer Center, and Understanding homelessness. Read More

October 2010 Newsletter

Highlights include Tourism News, a reminder to vote on November 2, Senate Appointees, and an Urban Caucus Update. Read More

September 2010 Newsletter

Highlights include Race to the Top, Legislative Urban Caucus, Judicial Appointments, and Congratulations to the Waipio Little League National Champs. Read More