Westside Legislators Secure Long-Awaited Construction Projects for the Leeward Coast!

L-R: Rep. Gates, Rep. Eli, and Sen. Shimabukuro

Exciting news - thanks to the efforts of Rep. Cedric Gates, Rep. Stacelynn Eli, me, and others, the following capitol improvement projects (CIPs) have been approved by the Legislature and transmitted to Governor David Ige via HB2725:

>>Transportation<<
*Waianae Coast 5th Lane Extension, Condemnation of Paakea Road, and Other Traffic Improvements $32m
*Farrington Highway Improvements and Alternative Congestion Relief Between Honokai Hale and Hakimo Road $1m
*Makaha Bridges $1m
*Kalaeloa Airport Facility Improvements $13.4m
*Kalaeloa Barbers Point Harbor Improvements $104m (revenue-funded)

>>Education<<
*DOE R&M and Project Completion, statewide $291m
*HI 3R's Statewide School Improvement $10m
*Kamaile Academy PCS playground, parking, irrigation, and fencing $1.2m
*Makaha Elementary 21st Century Learning Center with concrete stage area and shade sails $3m
*Nanakuli Elementary Solar Panels, Restroom Renovations, and Other Improvements $1.1m
*Nanakuli High & Intermediate Performing Arts Center Auditorium $2m
*Nanakuli Library: permanent shade structure over grassy area fronting stage $420,000
*Waianae Coast Swimming Pool Project plan and design for feasibility study $250,000
*Waianae Elementary A/C Design $100,000
*Waianae High: Girls Athletic Locker Room $3.9m; Marine Science Learning Center $650,000; Rubberized All-Weather Track and Field $2.5m
*Waianae Intermediate: Replace Building A Sewer $300,000; Architectural Barrier Removal $3.3m; Covered Playcourt $1m

>>Hawaiian Affairs<<
*DHHL lot development, infrastructure, and land acquisition (statewide) $51m
*Bishop Museum fire suppression $900,000

>>Housing and Homelessness<<
*Public Housing development, improvements, renovations (statewide) $25m
*Dwelling Unit Revolving Fund (DURF) for affordable housing projects $117m

>>Water, Land, and Agriculture<<
*Kaena Point Predator Proof Fence Retrofits $42,000
*Kalaeloa Harvesting Facility $5m
*Watershed Protection and Initiatives (statewide) $12.5m

>>Labor<<
*Unemployment Insurance Division technology system modernization $10m

>>Public Safety and Military Affairs<<
*Disaster Warning and Communications Devices $5m
*VA Long-Term Care Facility, Oahu $26.2m

More exciting CIP projects and information contained in HB2725 can be found at this link: https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=2725&year=2020

I will continue to report on more projects and initiatives that benefit the Leeward Coast as the 2020 Legislative Session progresses. The Legislature is temporarily in recess due to COVID19, and will reconvene from June 22 to July 10, 2020.

SENATOR SHIMABUKURO'S 2020 LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES

Aloha! Please find below the measures I have introduced or supported in the 2020 Legislative Session:

TRANSPORTATION
HB2725	5th Lane and Parallel Route: Extend the 5th lane on Farrington Highway; open the locked portion of Paakea Road; other traffic and safety improvements (2019 $32m CIP; DOT conducting study in 2020)
HB1651 | SB213	Reconstructed Cars: Eliminates the additional inspection required for reconstructed cars, which already must pass safety checks.
SB2580 | HB2396	Automobile Carbon Emissions: Phase out of gas-powered cars

CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS (CIP)
HB2725	Wai‘anae Coast Swimming Pool ($250,000)
GIA	Waianae District Comprehensive Health and Hospital Board, Inc. Grant in Aid (GIA): Nānākuli Village Clinic ($1.5m)
GIA	Maili Land GIA (Catholic Charities Housing Development): R&M and transition project to low-income rentals ($500,000)
GIA	Kealahou West Oahu GIA
SB3093	District 21 CIP Bill: DOE and other priority construction projects
SB3034 | HB2496	Air Conditioning: funding for cooling systems for Wai‘anae Coast schools

HAWAIIAN AFFAIRS
SB2265 | HB1402	Micro Enterprise: Establishes the micro enterprise assistance program on Hawaiian home lands revolving fund to provide grants and loans through the implementation of the micro enterprise assistance program to qualified native Hawaiians, native Hawaiian-controlled homestead associations, and homestead association community development corporations
SB2388 | SB728 | HB1114	OHA Elections-Public Funding: Increases parity in public funding for OHA candidates
SB2414 | HB1116	OHA Elections-Randomized Ballots: Amends ballot requirements to display candidates for the Board of Trustees of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs by a feasible method that provides the greatest degree of randomization.
SB1295	OHA Elections-Head-to-Head Races: Requires that of the four seats on the OHA board of trustees without an island residency requirement, two shall represent an urban district, and two shall represent a rural district. Requires one urban district candidate and one rural district candidate to be elected in any election cycle. Limits voting for board of trustees seats with an urban or rural representation requirement to voters who have residency on the same island or in the same district.
SCR189 | SR159	Hawaiian Nationals working group
SCR70 | SR37	Missing and murdered indigenous women and girls
SB2094 | HB1880	Kaho‘olawe: Funding to support the Kaho‘olawe Island Reserve Commission
SB2111	Water Rights: Add the DHHL Chair or his/her designee as a member of the Water Commission

EDUCATION
GIA	Makaha Learning Center GIA: Request for funds to support the STRIVE program, which teaches solar PV installation skills to individuals who are homeless, live in transitional housing, or live at or below 150% FPL ($220,000)
SB2578 | HB2203	School suspensions: Eliminates 92-day suspensions, and limits suspensions to 3 days at a time, in order to improve educational outcomes for students. Makes exceptions for violent and other behaviors affecting health and safety of the school community.
SCR6 | SR7 | HCR15 | HR13	Women's Sports: Urging the convening of a task force to implement changes to Hawaii's Title IX regulations in light of anticipated changes from the federal government.
GIA	Searider Productions GIA ($300,000)
GIA	Read to Me International GIA: $300,000 to support Maili and other centers
SCR69 | SR36	Sexual violence treatment at public schools

PUBLIC SAFETY & MILITARY AFFAIRS
SB2266	Child Sex Abuse: Requires child sex abuse offenders to reside at least 2,000 feet away from the victim
SCR19 | SR5	Mass Crimes: Encourage the media to exclude the name and photo of convicts and suspects in mass shootings, bombings, terroristic crimes, etc.
SCR36 | SR20	Faith Pods: Urges Public Safety Department to establish faith pods based on Kapu Aloha at correctional centers
SCR20 | SR6	Halloween: Resolution urging to change the date of trick-or-treating to the last Saturday of October to increase safety for children and avoid conflicting with school and work obligations. This would still preserve the official date of Halloween as October 31, but is consistent with "National Trick or Treat Day," which other counties have been recognizing as the last Saturday of October
SCR191 | SR161	Nuclear weapons prohibition
SCR190 | SR160	United Nations' 75th Anniversary

CONSUMER PROTECTION
SB2269 | HB2206	Yo-Yo Financing: Prohibit the practice of conditional financing (aka "Yo-Yo" financing) by car dealerships. This practice has caused people to unexpectedly lose both their new and trade-in cars, or be coerced into high-interest loans that they cannot afford. The bill adds a new provision to § 437-28 that would make it a licensing violation for a new or used car dealer or salesperson to deliver a car to a consumer who applied for a car loan at any time before the consumer's loan has been approved and funded.
SB2271 | HB2204	Football: Football helmet re-conditioning requirements

HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES
GIA	Waianae District Comprehensive Health and Hospital Board, Inc. GIA: emergency room funding ($1.5m)
SB2310 | HB2061	Child Support: Allow a portion of child support to pass through to welfare recipients (Women's Caucus)
SB2270 | HB2459	Vaccinations: Allow conscientious exemptions to vaccinations
SB3095 | HB2712	Pharmacy Benefit Managers: Fairness for community health centers

JUDICIARY
SB2268 | HB2379	Eliminate durational residency requirements to initiate and complete a divorce in Hawaii to help DV victims, military service members, and others who have been unable to achieve justice under our current laws.
SB2110	Parental Rights: Requires courts to promptly inform indigent parents of their right to free legal representation
SB2109 | HB2638	Child Abuse: Requires the court and the prosecution to take appropriate action to ensure a prompt trial in order to minimize the length of time a child abuse victim or minor witness must endure the stress of the child's involvement in the proceedings

ENERGY & ENVIRONMENT
GIA	Protectors of Paradise GIA ($68,125)
GIA	Puma Punku Ocean Clean Up GIA
SB2579 | HB2205	Reforestation: Clarifies "renewable feedstocks" to conform with the federal statutes and EPA directives
SB2577 | HB2392	Environmental Impact Statements (EIS): Adds the definition of "biomass" and "fossil fuels" and amends the definition of "power generating facility" in legislation dealing with global climate change
SB2267	Harrassment Of Fishermen: Unlawful to prevent or attempt to prevent the lawful taking of fish by saltwater anglers, including by means of affecting behavior of fish, affecting personal property for fishing, filming/photography, or obstructing access to fishing areas.
SB2581 | HB2392	Public Lands: Prohibits DLNR from renewing expired military leases in order to restore and preserve land

AGRICULTURE & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
GIA	Alternative Structures International GIA: Organic farming youth training programs ($350,000)
GIA	Hawaii Good Food Alliance GIA ($50,000)
GIA	Waianae Economic Development Council GIA ($129,724)

Sen. Shimabukuro congratulates the graduating class of 2020

SENATOR SHIMABUKURO'S 2019 LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES

Opening Day 2019

Guy Hanohano Naehu, Sen. Maile Shimabukuro, Daniel Anthony, and Ma‘aloa Punua

Mahalo piha for everyone who came out to Opening Day this 2019 session! I am honored to be serving the Moku o Wai‘anae for the 30th legislative session! It was great meeting with all of you.

Further, I would like to mahalo my nephew, Daniel Anthony, and the crew of Ku‘i at the Capitol 2019. I was honored to receive the first Ku‘i ‘Ai award, and to be able to witness the younger generation participating in the Hawaiian tradition of papa ku‘i ‘ai. Let us hope there are many more of these annual events.

Hau‘oli Makahiki Hou and I look forward to working with all of you!

Legislative Wrap-Up
(Courtesy of "Westside Stories")

Click here to read Part 1 of the Legislative Wrap-Up.
















Click here to read Part 2 of the Legislative Wrap-Up.

New window allows sex abuse victims to file claims from decades ago

Originally published by Hawaii News Now; click here to read the article on hawaiinewsnow.com.

Published: Wednesday, July 11th 2018, 4:02 pm HST
Updated: Wednesday, July 11th 2018, 5:42 pm HST

By Lynn Kawano, Anchor / Reporter

Adults who were victims of sex abuse as children have another chance to come forward and make claims under a new, two-year window for civil lawsuits.

Similar openings ended with dozens of pedophiles being exposed.

It also revealed "cover-ups" by multiple schools, churches, and non profits.

That's exactly what a new Hawaii report released Wednesday seeks to spotlight, describing in detail 58 men of the cloth recently accused even though the alleged abuse happened decades ago.

Some have died and some are still in the community.

The list of 58 was compiled by the law firm Jeff Anderson & Associates, based on the mainland, and the Law Office of Mark Gallagher, a Kailua attorney.

The research was the result of laws that temporarily blocked statutes of limitations, allowing victims to come forward and make claims, no matter how much time had passed.

The new window that opened Tuesday is the result of a recently-passed law, which gives victims until April of 2020 to file civil suits.

Since 2012, most of the claims have been connected to the Diocese of Honolulu.

"This report contains a lot of very ugly and scary information," said victims' advocate Joelle Casteix, at a news conference Wednesday, "Men who never would have been exposed if we had not allowed survivors to use the one thing they have, their voice."

The previous window also exposed Dr. Robert Browne, the psychiatrist who sexually boys at Kamehameha Schools over a 30-year period ending in the 1980s. Browne also treated priests for pedophilia.

Hawaii Preparatory Academy in Waimea also settled a court claim.

June Johnson Cleghorn came forward in 2014, saying a teacher abused her for six years, starting when she was 14 years old and boarding at the school. That claim was settled in 2016.

Cleghorn gives HPA credit for allowing her to publicly talk about the case and inviting her to educate current faculty and students.

"The intent was to end the secrecy surrounding this abuse," she said.

State Sen. Maile Shimabukuro, who introduced the legislation to reopen the window, says the #MeToo movement, USA gymnastics, and other massive scandals around the country prompted Hawaii lawmakers to pass the bill after several, previous failures.

Gallagher thinks the momentum will prompt many more to speak out in the next two years that the window provides.

"The different groups of survivors are finding their strength and their finding their supporters," he said.

New law allows schools to sell goods

Originally published by KITV; click here to read the article on kitv.com.

Posted: Jul 08, 2018 5:37 PM
Updated: Jul 08, 2018 5:37 PM

By Jordan Segundo

Schools can now be "open for business" thanks to a bill spearheaded by Waianae High School.

Senate bill 2051 is slated to become law on July 10.

The bill allows individual Department of Education schools and programs operated within a school, to engage in commercial enterprises, including the sale of goods produced by students.

Current laws prevent schools from selling more than $25,000 in goods or services.

The new bill removes this cap, and creates an outlet for all schools to engage in business enterprises which will generate much needed funds for their schools.

Waianae High School educators encouraged their legislators to turn the bill into law.

"Now you'll have the marine science learning center being able to market and sell their shrimp, mullet, ogo, kalo, sun fish...all these things to then be sold on the open market. And then funds will go directly back into the program, which of the course the school desperately needs," said Senator Maile Shimabukuro, (D) Kalaeloa-Waianae-Makaha.

"My hope for the students is that we create employers rather than employees," Rep. Cedric Asuega Gates (D) Kalaeloa-Waianae-Makaha. "I believe a lot of them will go off to be small business owners, to provide for our community the resources and services and goods that we get outside our community."

Contraflow & Other Traffic Updates

On 09/12/16, the Department of Transportation (DOT) shared some good news for eastbound afternoon drivers at the Ahupua‘a o Nanakuli Homestead meeting. The eastbound contraflow lane closure is temporary and will most likely end in late 2017. By that time, a 1.2 mile continuous 5th lane should be complete in Nanakuli, which will serve as a turning lane in the morning. My hope is to secure funding to turn the 5th lane into a contraflow lane in the afternoon. This will hopefully help to alleviate both eastbound and westbound traffic during peak hours.

Some other traffic solutions that DOT is working on include:

- Feasibility study to extend the 5th lane to Hakimo Road

- $12m to resurface Farrington Highway along the entire stretch of the Waianae Coast

- Traffic cameras at the Nanakuli Ave. and Haleakala Ave. stoplights, which will allow DOT to remotely control these lights, as well as allow drivers to view these intersections online

- High-tech infrared sensors at key intersections in Nanakuli

- Makakilo interchange improvement project

- LED lighting along Farrington Hwy

- Zipper Lane: added lane and extended hours

- Kualaka‘i to Kunia shoulder lane

- Tow truck service on Farrington Hwy

Contact me with your concerns at 586-7793.

Sen. Shimabukuro explained that one more permanent potential solution is to turn the fifth turning lane into a contraflow lane. This would make it three lanes westbound and two eastbound in the afternoon.		DOT Highways Division Deputy Director Edwin Sniffen addressed the community on 09/12/16.

For more information, contact:

Senator Maile Shimabukuro
District 21

(Kalaeloa, Honokai Hale, Ko Olina, Nanakuli, Ma‘ili, Wai‘anae, Makaha, Makua)

State Capitol, Room 222

415 South Beretania Street

Honolulu, HI 96813

808-586-7793 phone

808-586-7797 facsimile

maileshimabukuro@yahoo.com

Facebook: Like Me

Twitter: @SenMaile

Blog: http://21maile.com


Please click here to view this post on Senator Shimabukuro's blog.

CONGRATULATING THE WAI‘ANAE TIGERS JR. PEE WEE FOOTBALL TEAM ON WINNING THE HAWAII STATE DIVISION I CHAMPIONSHIP AND PLACING 3RD IN THE 2015 NATIONAL POP WARNER SUPER BOWL

[language from certificate presented by Sen. Shimabukuro on 03/31/2016]

The Wai‘anae Tigers Jr. Pee Wee Football Team learned the importance of discipline, commitment, and sacrifice to make their dreams a reality. Holidays, early mornings, and late evenings were often spent practicing. Their hard work paid off when the team finished the season having never been scored on by an opponent. The Tigers went on to win the 2015 Hawai‘i State Division I Championship, allowing them to advance to the National Championship in Orlando, FL, where the team placed third.

The following individuals were members of the championship team: Shane-Akoni Arindain-Pojas, Dustin Balancio-Sadamaru, Andrew Bushong, Chasen Callahan-Koko, Lathan Canionero, Luke DeCambra, Rayden DeMello, Kavassi Filimona, Kaien Gasper, Malcolm Gaston, Chayce Gomes, Victor Higa, Marc Izzi, Alvin Kalahiki IV, Elijah Kamakele-Rezentes, Chauncey Kido-White, Makana Kukonu, Shayce Lopes, Colton Lowry, Jaidias Malinao-Dias, Nainoa Nagum, Tama Tele‘e Nakoa,Keoni O'Sullivan, Keli‘i Pelenato, Dallas Pelen-Talalotu, Trent Phillips, Braedon Pieper, Christian Sansano, Moses Tabangcura, Kilohana Thomas, Nehemiah Timoteo, and Kanaloa Werner.

The team's success would not have been possible without coaches Kenny Joseph, Davin Izzi, Alvin Kalahiki III, Shawn Kaleiohi, Kepa Kapahua, Makani Kukonu, Kawika Nakoa, Li‘i Talalotu, Boy Timoteo, and Floyd Werner.

The Wai‘anae Tigers Jr. Pee Wee Football Team has a proud history of success on the football field. Since 2004, the Tigers have won six Hawai‘i State Division I Championships, three Las Vegas Bowl Championships, and placed third at the 2012 and 2015 Pop Warner Super Bowls. The team's overall record for the past 12 years is 129 wins, 11 losses, and five ties.

The Senate of the Twenty-Eighth Legislature of the State of Hawai‘i, Regular Session of 2016, hereby commends and congratulates the Wai‘anae Tigers Jr. Pee Wee Football Team. The Senate extends its appreciation and warmest aloha to the coaches, business manager, team moms, and all other supporters for their guidance of these young athletes, and wishes the team continued success on and off the field.

The Senate with players and coaches of the Wai‘anae Tigers Jr. Pee Wee Football Team.		The Wai‘anae Tigers Jr. Pee Wee Football Team presented Sen. Shimabukuro with a team photo as a mahalo at a banquet on April 9, 2016.

Please click here to view more photos from the floor presentation on Senator Shimabukuro's Facebook page.

2016 Staff

Our office staff this session (left to right) Christine West, Colleen Young, Tori McCann, Geanine Gomes, Sara E. Perry, Stacy Kimo Garcia Jr., and Senator Maile Shimabukuro.

Not pictured: Volunteers Kapua Keli‘ikoa-Kama‘i, James Shimabukuro, and Lopaka Baptiste.

Makaha Hawaiian Civic Club's 6th Annual Scholarship Luau:
Videos & Photos

The Makaha Hawaiian Civic Club honored David "Rona" Ka‘aekuahiwi, founder of Na Keiki o Ka Mo‘i Canoe Club. L‑R: Emily Auwae; Nalei, Lisa, Shannon, & Dannon Ka‘aekuahiwi; John DeSoto; Georgiana Navarro.		Sen. Shimabukuro and her ‘ohana attended the event. L-R: Summer Miles, Fred Dodge, Karen Young, Tyce, Sen. Shimabukuro, Keani, and Shayne Sakoda.

Please click here to view more photos and videos on Senator Shimabukuro's blog.

Women of Wai‘anae Honored by Honolulu City Council

Sen. Shimabukuro; her mother, Karen Young (Women of Wai‘anae president); and Maryellen Lovelace (Women of Wai‘anae officer).

On January 7, 2016, the Women of Wai‘anae award recipients were honored by the Honolulu City Council. Among the honorees was Karen Young, mother of Senator Shimabukuro. To view photos of the event, please visit Councilmember Kym Pine's Facebook page.

Opening Day 2016

Sen. Shimabukuro posed with students and staff from Ka Waihona o ka Na‘auao public charter school on Opening Day 2016.

The 2016 legislative session started on January 20, 2016. Please click here and here to view more photos on Senator Shimabukuro's blog.

Senator Shimabukuro's 2016 Legislative Priorities

Aloha! Listed below is a list of some of the legislation I have either introduced or support. More items will be added to this list as the legislative session progresses. I will also continue to support Capital Improvement Project (CIP) requests for schools, our health center, roads and other areas. Please check future neighborhood board reports and 21maile.com for updates and additions to this list throughout the legislative session.

2015 Session Wrap-Up

Reprinted with permission from Westside Stories.

Click here to read part 1.

Click here to read part 2.

Women of Wai‘anae Honored by Hawaii Women Lawyers: Photos & Video

On April 17, 2015, Women of Wai‘anae (WOW) was given the "President's Award" by Hawaii Women Lawyers (HWL). HWL President Tricia Nakamatsu recognized WOW for their outstanding service to the community, including awarding college and vocational scholarships to non-traditional students on the Wai‘anae Coast.

Judge Lanson Kupau congratulated Women of Waianae. Judge Kupau (left), Donna Costa (center), and Karen Young (right).		Women of Waianae President Karen Young (left) posed with Hawaii Women Lawyers President Tricia Nakamatsu.		Women of Waianae received the "President's Award" from Hawaii Women Lawyers at the Plaza Club on 4/17/15. L-R: Sally Ford, Mae Chung, Sharon Sandell, Karen Young, Priscilla Maynard, Donna Costa, and Sue Carpenter.

WOW President Karen Young delivered an acceptance speech at the event. Karen Young is the mother of Senator Maile Shimabukuro.

Senate Certificate presented to Wai‘anae Boxing Club and "Papa" Fred Pereira

On April 18, 2015, a Senate certificate celebrating the Wai‘anae Boxing Club and honoring "Papa" Fred Pereira was presented by Stacy Garcia Jr. on behalf of Sen. Shimabukuro at the Wai‘anae Recreation Center.

The year 2015 marks the Wai‘anae Boxing Club's 50+ year anniversary. It was established by Coach "Papa" Fred Pereira in 1962, and has kept keiki off of the streets and away from negative influences like drugs and violence. The club boasts a proud and long-standing tradition of producing champion fighters who represent the people of Hawai‘i at national and international boxing and mixed martial arts competitions.

"Papa" Pereira, who turned 81 this year, was recognized for his impressive boxing career in the United States Army. He comes from a family of athletic competitors, including his father, Anton, who was an outstanding boxer, and his grandmother, Anita, the oldest runner to compete in the Honolulu Marathon at 80-years-old.

The festive event was attended by family and community members, as well as various club supporters. Entertainment was performed by a local band which played Jíbaro and Bomba & Plena music. On behalf of Sen. Shimabukuro's office, many thanks goes out to "Papa" Fred Periera and his ohana for the invitation and tremendous hospitality.

Mahalo nui loa to Shane Soares for inviting Sen. Shimabukuro, and for being one of the organizers of this special event.

Group photo taken with Waianae Boxing Club's next generation champions and Coach "Papa" Fred Pereira.



"Papa" Fred takes a group photo with champions of the Waianae Boxing Club.
(from left to right)
Row 1: Henry Silva, John Philips, Richard Pelen, James Jones, Tony Pereira.
Row 2: Derek Bright (wearing white hat), Julio Rodrigues (First Golden Glove champion from Hawaii, 1976-1999), Legendary Coach "Papa" Fred Pereira, Ricky Ruiz, Nelson Carvalho, Glen Rodrigues.
Row 3: Waltar Salas, Richard Garcia, Phillip Leonin, Adrian Silva, Cheyenne Padeken, Alvin Sequin, Douglas Westbrook.
Row 4: Chuck Salas, Alex Pelen, Shane Soares, Elwood Westbrook.

Hōkūle‘a Honored; Makaha's Richard "Buffalo" Keaulana Recognized As One of Original Crewmembers

Buffalo Keaulana and Senator Shimabukuro

On Monday, April 6, 2015, the Hōkūle‘a's original crewmembers were honored at the State Capitol. Big Mahalo Nui Loa to Senator Gilbert Kahele of Hawaii Island and his staff for preparing all the speeches and overseeing the Hōkūle‘a floor presentation.

Visit the Senate Majority Flickr album to view more photos.


Hokulea's original crewmembers honored at State Capitol
Source: KHON2 TV News | Click for full story

Various lawmakers in both the Senate and House chambers recognized the Polynesian Voyaging Society, as well as 12 of the 13 living crewmembers of Hokulea's maiden voyage from Hawaii to Tahiti and back in 1976.

PVS was founded in 1973 by Herb Kane, Ben Finney and Tommy Holmes. Then on March 8, 1975, PVS launched its first waa kaulua, the Hokulea, in Kaneohe Bay.

Her maiden voyage to Tahiti in 1976 was led by Mau Piailug, using traditional, non-instrument navigation.

"We are grateful to have our governmental body take the time to celebrate the worldwide voyage and to me, it shows that Hawaii is still with us, that the canoe still matters. As the voyage now heads into the Indian Ocean, which is much more dangerous, it gives us the strength to set sail," said Nainoa Thompson, pwo (master) navigator and president of PVS.

Joining Thompson from the crew were Finney, Abraham "Snake" Ah Nee, Milton "Shorty" Bertelmann, Richard "Buffalo" Keaulana, John Kruse, Francis Kainoa Lee, Kimo Lyman, Gordon Piianaia, Penny Martin, Billy Richards and Dr. Ben Young.

It was the first time all living members of the original crew were together since that groundbreaking voyage.

"We could not have predicted today's event when we launched 40 years ago. We thought we might make a splash, but it turned into something so much larger," said Finney.

"Your island is like a canoe and your canoe is like an island. To take those lessons that we learned on Hokulea and then to bring them back and to apply it to the community to the island that you live on," Martin said.

Hokulea and her sister canoe Hikianalia continue their Malama Honua Worldwide Voyage, which launched from Hilo in 2013. The canoes are currently docked in New Zealand.

By the end of the voyage in 2017, the canoes hope to have traveled approximately 47,000 nautical miles.

Volunteers and employees from the University of Hawaii were also honored as they have long helped to house and care for Hokulea.

Senator Shimabukuro had the opportunity to deliver a speech as the introduction for Richard "Buffalo" Keaulana:

A commanding Hawaiian surfer from Makaha, O‘ahu; winner of the 1960 Makaha International; and often referred to as the "Mayor of Makaha," Richard Keaulana was born (1935) in Honolulu, and moved with his family to Makaha, on O‘ahu's west side, at age five. He learned to surf as a child at Waikiki, and made his first surfboard by taking a machete to a blank assembled from glued-together railroad ties.

Keaulana worked as a Waikiki beach boy in the 1950s and earned his nickname "Buffalo" for his generously proportioned head and shaggy reddish-brown hair. A perennial favorite in the Makaha International contest, Keaulana placed third in 1957, second in 1958, and first in 1960. He was also regarded as the world's best bodysurfer.

Buffalo was appointed head lifeguard at Makaha in 1969, a post he held until 1995. The Buffalo Big Board Classic debuted in 1977, a surf contest/beach party that immediately became a local institution. Keaulana is married with six children, including big-wave expert Brian and three-time longboard world champion Russ.

The Hawaii State Senate Recognizes Art Frank and Al Lewis for Their Outstanding Advocacy

Hawaii Senate Group Photo with Awardees.
Bottom row L-R: Senate President Mercado Kim, Sen. Thielen, Sen. Galuteria, Florence Mae Bowes Lewis, David Lewis, Susan Frank-Kama, Gwen Ahana, Carolyn & Art Frank, Sen. Shimabukuro, Sen. Kidani, Sen. Chun-Oakland, Sen. Taniguchi, Sen. Green, and Sen. Kahele.
Top row L-R: Sen. Gabbard, Sen. Harimoto, Sen. Espero, Sen. Ruderman, Sen. Riviere, Sen. Dela Cruz, Sen. English, Sen. Keith-Agaran, Sen. Ihara, Sen. Inouye, Sen. Wakai, Sen. Tokuda, Sen. Nishihara, Sen. Baker, & Sen. Kouchi.


On Wednesday, April 1, 2015, Senator Maile Shimabukuro delivered the following remarks during a floor presentation honoring Art Frank:

Art Frank, who is deaf and suffers from quadriparesis, is someone who has defied all the odds and served Hawaii's community in countless ways. He has had a long and active role with the disabled community, on the Wai‘anae Coast, and with the Hawaii Democratic Party.

In 1981, Mr. Frank spent five years lobbying for a bill which allows deaf individuals to attend government meetings and request a sign language interpreter or communication access real time translation, also known as "CART." He also worked tirelessly to ensure that Capitol restrooms were ADA compliant, and that disabled parking was afforded to disabled visitors at the Capitol, enduring 27 parking tickets in the process.

Mr. Frank has also testified in support of measures to benefit the Wai‘anae Coast. He has come to the Capitol on short notice, numerous times, to speak out in favor of measures to help alleviate traffic and otherwise improve conditions for the west side. He also attends neighborhood board and other community meetings and events aimed at bettering the lives of those on the Wai‘anae Coast.

Mr. Frank, along with his dear friend who we are also honoring today, Al Lewis, has been a devoted member of the Democratic Party for decades. Mr. Frank and Mr. Lewis have volunteered countless hours for many campaigns. I met both of them on the campaign trail, and was deeply inspired by their positive energy, enthusiasm, and sense of humor. Mr. Frank, who resides on the Wai‘anae Coast, and Mr. Lewis, who hails from Waimanalo, have volunteered for campaigns spanning the island, going as far as the opposite side of the island to support the candidates they believe in.

Raised in Waimanalo, Mr. Frank graduated from St. Louis high school, and is proud of his Hawaiian and "chop suey" heritage. He jokes that he met his devoted wife, Carolyn, in the shower. In fact, she was his nurse, and the first time they met happened to be in the shower of his hospital room. Since being married, Carolyn learned sign language and has always been Mr. Frank's rock. Carolyn has supported all of her husband's many community activities, and kept the home fires burning during the many hours he has spent away from home serving his community.

The fact that we are honoring Mr. Frank and Mr. Lewis on April 1, April Fools Day, couldn't be more appropriate. Both are always cracking jokes and pranks, and together they brought double the laughter to all in their company. Mr. Frank told me that he once proved his point about the inadequacy of the Capitol's bathrooms for the disabled by hurling a roll of toilet paper to the ceiling. That's the kind of comic relief we need more of at the Capitol.

I wanted to end by expressing my heartfelt thanks to Mr. Frank. He was like an angel sent down from the heavens in my time of need. The devotion and time he has spent supporting me, and the belief that he had in me, were instrumental in getting me to where I am today, and I will forever be grateful. Now that I have met Mr. Frank, whenever I feel that my troubles are overwhelming, I often think of him. And once he pops into my head I can't help but smile. I don't think Mr. Frank, who is deaf and suffers from quadriparesis, has ever spent a minute feeling sorry for himself. Instead, he is a man who understands how precious life is, and has chosen to use every ounce of his energy to try and make the world a better place.

Would Art Frank please stand to be recognized.

Accompanying Mr. Frank on the floor are his wife and sisters. Would each of you please stand when I call your name, and audience please hold your applause until I have introduced all floor guests: Carolyn Frank, Gwen Ahana, and Susan Frank-Kama.

Also here for Mr. Frank in the gallery are some of his relatives and friends, including some from the deaf community. Audience, please hold your applause while I introduce our gallery guests, and please stand when I call your name: Representative Jo Jordan, Ruth "Wai" Paaoao; Kukana Kama-Toth; Dr. Lawrence Redmond, D.C.; Jesse and Debbie Jackson; Rev. David and Juanita Schiewek; Dante Carpenter; Nancyann Micky; Wilfred Soong; Ed Chevy; Linda and Jeff Lemrecht; Billy Kekua; Darlene Ewan; Colleen Adade; Lisa Tom; and Patty Sakal.

View more photos of the floor presentation

Nānākuli and Wai‘anae Boys & Girls Clubs Compete in Youth of Year Competition

The Youth of the Year Program recognizes Boys & Girls Club members who, with the help of their Clubs, have overcome personal challenges and have given back to their Clubs and their communities. Youth of the Year winners demonstrate service to Club, community and family; academic success; strong moral character; life goals; and poise and public speaking ability. These high achievers personify the values and character of their hometown Clubs, and are shining examples that GREAT Futures start at Boys & Girls Clubs.

NFL-YET Nānākuli Boys & Girls Club brought their Youth of the Year finalists to meet legislators. L-R: Kekoa Tupua, Ashley Guerrero, Torae Redd, Senator Shimabukuro, Kiana Redd and Lala Fernandez



Wai‘anae Boys and Girls club brought two youth to the event. L-R: Senator Shimabukuro, Jeffrey Jones (youth of the year participant), Lana Keamo (Clubhouse Director, Boys & Girls Club of Hawaii-Wai‘anae), Ja-zjah Yahiku-Young (youth of the year candidate), Representative Jo Jordan, and Ewaza Parmer (Teen Director).

Senator Maile Shimabukuro's 2015 Bill List

AGRICULTURE
SB774 HB509	Classification of Agricultural Lands; Taro Lands: Creates a classification of agricultural public lands entitled “taro lands�. Appropriates funds to the board of land and natural resources to create an inventory of lands classified as taro lands.
SB775 HB1427	Temporary Shelters; Agricultural Land: Permits temporary shelters on lands in the agricultural district.

COMMERCE AND CONSUMER PROTECTION
SB776 HB1266	Insurance; First Party Claims; Prompt Payment; Unfair Claim Settlement Practices; Makes an insurer's failure to pay a claimant, in a first party insurance claim, an amount the insurer deems fair within thirty days of a demand for payment of the claim an unfair claim settlement practice.
SB772	Public Utilities Commission; Disclosure Requirements: Requires utilities seeking to hire a public utilities commission employee or recent employee to file a notice of contact. Requires that commissioners' financial disclosure statements be posted on the commission website.
SB784	Public Agency Meetings; Notice Requirements; Persons with Disabilities; Accommodations: Requires public notices to provide information, including a point of contact, explaining how to request an accommodation in order to participate at the public meeting. Requires notices that are posted electronically to conform to the applicable provisions under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
SB994 HB380	HPIA; Mandatory Issuance of Policies; Removal of Moratorium: Requires member insurers of HPIA to offer a minimum number of policies proportionate to their market share on properties that are situated in the areas designated for coverage by the insurance commissioner and that have been previously and continuously insured since 06/01/2014. Prohibits HPIA from issuing or continuing a moratorium on issuing policies on those same properties.
SB1193 HB370	HPIA; Policy Renewals; Continued Coverage: Requires member insurers of HPIA to renew policies that were in effect as of 1/1/2014. Provides for continued coverage under an existing HPIA policy upon a transfer in ownership of the property.

ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT
SB1325	Waste Disposal; Contracts; Payments: Requires that all contracts between private entities that include disposal of waste or solid waste include a requirement of proof that the waste was received and disposed of at a licensed facility before payment is made for those contractual services.
SB1323	Biogas; Renewable Gas Portfolio Standards: Requires the public utilities commission to direct public utilities that supply gas to the public to acquire biogas generated from nonfossil fuel sources. Establishes renewable gas portfolio standards for public utilities that sell biogas in the State.
SB777	Public Utilities Commission: Requires the public utilities commission to hold a public hearing prior to issuing an order relating to electric transmission lines in residential neighborhoods, electricity rate cases, and mergers involving electrical utilities.

HAWAIIAN AFFAIRS
SB778	Hawaiian Language Immersion Program; Student Assessments: Requires and appropriates funds for the department of education to establish procedures to develop an assessment of established statewide performance standards for students in the kaiapuni program. Requires reports to the legislature.
SB786 HB1380	Aha Moku Advisory Committee: Appropriates funds for the administration and operation of the aha moku advisory committee and for community outreach.
SB1191	Aha Moku Advisory Committee: Provides that the aha moku advisory committee shall appoint a chair and vice-chair. Permits the committee to hire an executive assistant in lieu of an executive director. Enumerates duties for the positions established.

HEALTH
SB768 HB864	In Vitro Fertilization Procedure Coverage; Infertility Disability: Provides insurance coverage equality for women who are diagnosed with infertility by making available to them expanded treatment options, ensuring adequate and affordable health care services.
SB990	Weed Whacker; Noise Regulations; Additional Restrictions: Makes it unlawful for any non-government entity or agent thereof to operate a weed whacker in or within one hundred feet of a residential zone, except between 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. on most days. Defines weed whacker.
SB787	Health Insurance; Infertility Procedure Coverage; Auditor: Appropriates funds to the auditor to conduct a study on the effects of requiring insurers to cover infertility procedures.
SB789 HB672	In Vitro Fertilization Procedure Coverage; Infertility Disability: Provides insurance coverage equality for women who are diagnosed with infertility by making available to them expanded treatment options, ensuring adequate and affordable health care services.
SB781 HB673	Embryo, Oocyte, and Sperm Cryopreservation; Insurance: Requires insurance coverage for embryo, oocyte, and sperm cryopreservation procedures to preserve the fertility of adults diagnosed with cancer who have not yet started cancer treatment.

EDUCATION
SB991 HB258	University of Hawaii; College of Education: Requests the auditor to examine the University of Hawaii at Manoa college of education's management of Ho`okulaiwi and its other programs that have ended within the last five fiscal years and submit a written report to the legislature prior to the convening of the regular session of 2016.
SB387 HB451	Affirmative Consent; University of Hawaii System: Requires the University of Hawaii system to establish and enforce an affirmative consent standard for all policies and protocols relating to sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking as a condition of receiving state funds for student assistance.
SB1195 HB811	UH Hawaii Educational Policy Center: Appropriates moneys for two full- time equivalent graduate assistant positions at the Hawaii educational policy center at UH.

HOUSING
SB763 HB1265	Mobile Home Parks; Low-income; Alternative Housing: Requires and appropriates funds for the department of land and natural resources, in consultation with the department of human services, to establish mobile home parks throughout the State for individuals whose family income is no more than 250 per cent of the federal poverty level. Allows private sector to develop mobile home parks.
SB785 HB1379	Affordable Housing Credit; Hawaiian Home Lands: Makes permanent Act 141, Session Laws of Hawaii 2009, which requires the counties to issue affordable housing credits to DHHL. Makes permanent Act 98, Session Laws of Hawaii 2012, which requires the counties to issue affordable housing credits for each residential unit developed by DHHL. Allows credits to be issued for rental units developed by DHHL on a two-credit per one-unit basis and to satisfy affordable housing obligations imposed by the counties, regardless of the date of enactment thereof.
SB1192 HB371	Foreclosures; Asset: Prohibits a mortgage creditor from executing on any asset of the debtor beyond the asset that is secured by the mortgage.
SB392	Women's Legislative Caucus Package; Income Tax Credit: Amends income tax credit for low-income household renters to adjust for inflation. Applies to taxable years beginning after 12/31/2015.

HUMAN SERVICES
SB1327 HB1239	Compacts of Free Association; Health Care: Requires the State to pay costs assessed on low-income Compacts of Free Association residents and other lawfully present legal permanent residents who receive health care through the Hawaii Health Connector and would otherwise be eligible for Medicaid except for their citizenship status. Requires the Department of Human Services to engage in community outreach.
SB992	Native Hawaiians; Child Welfare Act; Child Custody: Creates the Native Hawaiian Welfare Act establishing the na kupuna tribunal which is granted exclusive jurisdiction over child custody proceedings involving Native Hawaiian children. Establishes a one-year pilot project prior to full implementation of the Act.

JUDICIARY
SB764 HB309	Instructions to Jury: Allows the court to instruct the jury that the jury shall consider the prosecution's failure to disclose information or materials as required by the Hawaii rules of penal procedure as relevant in its deliberations to determine whether or not there is reasonable doubt.
SB779 HB1157	District Courts; Civil Actions: Raises the district courts' jurisdictional limit for civil actions involving specific performance.
SB1194 HB567	State Ethics Commission; Online Access: Requires the electronic filing of lobbyist disclosure statements. Requires that the filed statements be posted online.

LABOR
SB766 HB215	Workers' Compensation; Independent Medical Examination: Requires that a physician selected and paid for by an employer to conduct a medical examination for workers' compensation purposes shall be actively treating at least ten patients in a one-month period; be actively treating at least 50 per cent of the physician's total patient load in a one-month period; and possess medical malpractice insurance. Defines "actively treating."
SB780 HB35	Taxation; Employee Benefits; Deduction: Limits the amount that an employer may deduct for benefits provided to an employee to 50 times the State's median household income.
SB1324 HB1370	Employees' Retirement System Benefits; Direct Payment to Former Spouse; Divorce: Provides statutory authority for the employees' retirement system administrator to make direct payment to a former spouse of a member of benefits or portion thereof pursuant to valid court judgment, order, or decree.

PUBLIC SAFETY AND MILITARY AFFAIRS
SB783 HB1381	Mental Health; Firearm Permit Requirements; Psychological Clearance Requirements: Specifies that an additional penalty for refusal to submit to a breath, blood, or urine test and requires the surrender of all firearms and ammunition within possession. Requires firearms permit application forms to be accompanied by an affirmation that neither the applicant nor any family or household member is or has been diagnosed with or treated for certain mental disorders and that if the applicant or family or household member is subsequently diagnosed, the applicant shall lock and secure or surrender all firearms and ammunition within 48 hours. Requires payment of a fine of $50 per day of noncompliance with the requirement to lock and secure, or surrender, firearms and ammunition within 48 hours. Specifies failure to pay child or spousal support as a good cause for revocation of a firearm permit or license.
SB771 HB310	Law Enforcement Search Powers; Voluntary and Informed Consent: Requires law enforcement officers and officers of justice to request and obtain a person's voluntary and informed consent prior to conducting a search of the person, the person's belongings, the person's residence, or the person's vehicle when conducting the search without a search warrant. Provides an exception for law enforcement officers or officers of justice who have probable cause to believe that a person is armed and presents a danger to the officer's safety.
SB773	Animal Cruelty; Slaughter or Trafficking of Pet Animals for Human Consumption: Prohibits the slaughter or trafficking of pet animals' for human consumption. Specifies that a "pet animal" shall include all dogs and cats.

TRANSPORTATION
SB769 HB1446	Farrington Highway; Feasibility Study: Appropriates moneys for the director of transportation to conduct a feasibility study regarding the establishment of a fifth lane of travel on the ocean side of Farrington highway in Nanakuli from Kahe point to Mohihi street, to be used for contraflow during rush hour and requiring relocation of the existing railroad.
SB770	Farrington Highway Realignment: Authorizes the issuance of general obligation bonds and appropriates funds for planning and construction for the realignment of Farrington highway mauka of the Makaha beach area of Oahu.
SB767 HB646	Motor Vehicles; Reconstructed: Repeals the requirement for special inspection and certification of reconstructed vehicles prior to operation upon a public highway.
SB765 HB216	Uninsured Motorist; Underinsured Motorist; Prompt Claims Payment: Requires an insurer in a claim under uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage to pay to the claimant an amount the insurer deems reasonable within thirty days of a demand for payment of the claim. Requires any undisputed amount paid to a claimant to be disclosed to the arbitrator or judge and deducted from the amount of any judgment or award.

Opening Day 2015 Photos: Senator Maile Shimabukuro

The Opening Day of the Twenty-Eighth Legislature was held on January 21, 2015. Staff, friends, family, and supporters joined Senator Shimabukuro to celebrate the occasion. Former aide, Wally Inglis, who worked with the senator for most of her political career, stopped by to say hello. Longtime family friends Rolando and Susan Cruz, who now live in San Diego, also stopped by with their granddaughter, Ciena Jadu, who is now attending UH-Manoa.

View more Opening Day photos on Senator Shimabukuro's District 21 blog

NANAKULI HIGH SCHOOL GOLDEN HAWKS PARADE OF CHAMPIONS

Sen. Maile Shimabukuro to present Senate congratulatory certificates

The Nanakuli community on Saturday, November 22 will come together to congratulate the Golden Hawks champions and achievement players at the Parade of Champions scheduled for 9:30 a.m. The parade will start at Nanakuli High School and Intermediate (NHIS) parking lot, through Nanakuli Town-Farrington Highway, ending at Lualualei PVT Landfill Company.

Sen. Maile Shimabukuro, who represents the Leeward Coast, will present two congratulatory certificates on behalf of the Hawaii State Senate to NHIS Golden Hawks Varsity Football Team and NHIS Lady Hawks Junior Varsity Girls Softball Team, both winning their respective 2014 Oahu Interscholastic Association Division II Championships.

"These young athletes, led by their dedicated coaches, persevered both on and off the fields this season," said Shimabukuro. "We are all so very proud of them and their victories, in academics, in sports and in their teamwork."

HPD CHIEF CANCELS MEETING WITH HAWAII WOMEN'S LEGISLATIVE CAUCUS AND WOMEN HONOLULU CITY COUNCILMEMBERS

The Hawaii Women's Legislative Caucus today announced that they received a call from the Honolulu Police Department's (HPD) Chief of Police's office canceling Thursday's meeting with the Women's State Legislative Caucus and three women members of the Honolulu City Council.

A representative of the Women's Caucus spoke with the office of Chief of Police Louis M. Kealoha to ask that the commitment to meet with the women on Thursday be honored.

"The purpose of Thursday's meeting was for the Women's Legislative Caucus and the three women city councilmembers to have the opportunity to speak with Chief Kealoha directly," said Senate President Donna Mercado Kim, a member of the Women's Caucus. "We hoped to work cooperatively with the police to strengthen efforts to end domestic violence and keep victims safe. We wanted to discuss concerns and questions about HPD's internal policies and procedures regarding domestic violence cases, especially when one of their own officers is a suspect that has been brought to us by victims' service providers."

"The Women's Legislative Caucus and women Honolulu City Councilmembers asked for the opportunity to discuss these issues with Chief Kealoha prior to the public informational briefing so that he could be prepared to respond fully in public, and to, hopefully, open the door to improved partnerships and outcomes in domestic violence cases," said Senate President Kim.

A representative of the Women's Caucus was told the meeting was cancelled because the internal investigation was not yet completed. "We made it clear that the Women's Caucus understands that personnel investigations are confidential and that we have no intention of interfering in that matter," stated Senator Laura Thielen, a member of the Women's Caucus. "We told Chief Kealoha's office that our concern and our meeting is to be focused on the broader HPD policies and response to domestic violence incidents."

The cancellation was completely unexpected. "Many of us rearranged our schedules to suit the Police Chief's requested meeting date and time. We are disappointed at his unexpected cancellation," stated Senate President Kim. "We sincerely hope this is not a sign of the lack of importance the department places on the issue of domestic violence. But it's perplexing to us why he would cancel such an important meeting with so many women leaders."

View the news release

Hawaii Women's Legislative Caucus calls for accountability of HPD in extreme domestic violence case involving its officers

Following the public release of a surveillance video showing a Honolulu Police Department (HPD) sergeant allegedly brutally beating his girlfriend in a Waipahu restaurant, the Hawaii Women's State Legislative Caucus and the three women members of the Honolulu City Council are calling on HPD to explain its policies and procedures for handling criminal actions involving its own officers and how the failure to act that occurred earlier this week is not repeated.

According to reports, HPD officers responding to the scene did not arrest the sergeant, nor did they file any reports of the incident that night. It was only on the following day, after a citizen provided HPD and the press with the surveillance video, that HPD took action to remove the sergeant of his police powers and begin an internal investigation into the incident, according to a Hawaii News Now report.

The Joint Women's Legislative Caucus and City Council members released the following statement:

"We are calling for a meeting with the Chief of Police, followed by an informational briefing with the Honolulu Police Department and Police Commission. The public has a right to know the department's policies and procedures for response to domestic violence or any other crimes when the offender is a police officer, particularly one who serves in a supervisory role.

"HPD officials must explain to the public why the alleged assailant was not charged and arrested given evidence of probable cause, including multiple witnesses who had to come to the woman's aide and a video surveillance depicting the appalling domestic violence assault.

"It is absolutely unacceptable that HPD officers chose not to enforce our domestic violence laws. The fact that the woman denied the incident is to be expected under the circumstances. Indeed, the responding officers' failure to take action clearly communicated that her safety will not be protected by them. If similar situations have occurred in the past, any victim of violence would deny it out of fear of retaliation.

"This incident sends a dark message to victims of domestic violence and all residents of Oahu, that members of HPD, who are supposed to serve and protect, may turn a blind eye to domestic violence or other criminal acts committed by of one of their officers.

"The integrity of HPD has been mired and trust has been lost. We demand public accountability."

View the news release

Maile in the News

Disclosure changes concern university regents (Honolulu Star-Advertiser)

Native Hawaiian Rolls Commission Update for Lawmakers (Hawaii Public Radio)

More Than 130,000 Native Hawaiians Sign Up for Nation Building (Honolulu Civil Beat)

Senators cheer native voter list (Honolulu Star-Advertiser)

Singles left out of Hawaii fertility law (Honolulu Star-Advertiser)

Childhood sex abuse window extended to April 26, 2016 (Honolulu Star-Advertiser)

Hawaii House seeks solution on OHA Kakaako Makai bill (Honolulu Civil Beat)

Measure on insurance for infertility advances (Honolulu Star-Advertiser)

Will Hawaii lawmakers require more government transparency? (Honolulu Civil Beat)

Changes to sex assault bill set new limits on victims' recourse (Honolulu Star-Advertiser)

Toughen laws against child-sex predators (Honolulu Star-Advertiser Editorial)

Bills seek more time for child sexual abuse victims (Honolulu Star-Advertiser)

Lawsuit by former Kamehameha students alleges decades of sex abuse (KHON2)

Should Hawaii re-designate Discoverers' Day as Indigenous Peoples' Day? (Honolulu Civil Beat)

Slayer of peacock decided not to sue condo association (Honolulu Star-Advertiser)

OHA condo plan clears hurdles in Senate (Honolulu Star-Advertiser)

For now e-cigarettes are exempt from SB 2222 (Hawaii News Now)

DHHL residential leases, vacancies & potential legislation discussed at 11/21/13 briefing

Lawmakers consider extension to child sex abuse lawsuit deadline (KHON2)

By Jai Cunninghman | Read this story on KHON2.com

A large amount of legal paperwork is being filed seeking civil damages in sex assaults alleged to have happened decades ago.

The court filings come as the deadline approaches for an exemption on the statute of limitations regarding a victim of child sexual abuse to file a lawsuit against his or her alleged abuser.

"The window closes on April 24, and so I'm sure that's why these plaintiffs are scrambling to get lawsuits filed in time," said state Sen. Maile Shimabukuro (D-Waianae, Makaha, Makua).

The clerks office at Circuit Court has processed six lawsuits filed in the last two days.

"It does concern me that with the deadline closing tomorrow, that there are many, many more out there, who are just going to run out of time," said Shimabukuro.

Lawmakers are now mulling over extending the deadline.

"What we may end up having to do is give the Governor two different options - one that is more conservative, two years, and the other one that is five or more years extended on," Shimabukuro said.

Shimabukuro says going forward, the legislature is also hoping to set an age limit as to when victims can no longer file a sex assault lawsuit, possibly at 55 years old.

"Many people feel as if that is too young," Shimabukuro said. "Many of the victims who are filing are in their 70s, 80s because it has taken them so long to come to terms with the abuse that occurred... We're hoping for some kind of age that is reasonable and gives victims enough time to be able to have the courage to come forward."

Related links: HB2034 | SB2687

Art at the Capitol 2014: What's on Your Wall, Senator Shimabukuro?

Join us for the 6th Annual Art at the Capitol on First Friday in April

Friday, April 4, 2014 | Hawaii State Capitol | 4:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

The Legislature is opening its office doors for an evening of art, culture and history during downtown Honolulu's First Friday in April. View over 500 works of public art, purchased through the State Foundation on Culture and the Arts, showcased in state lawmakers' offices. Talk story with your state lawmakers, mingle with original artists and enjoy entertainment from Hawaii Youth Symphony. Featured artist: Otto Piene, kinetic sculptor who created the "Sun" and "Moon" chandeliers in the House and Senate chambers. A pre-recorded interview with Piene will be shown in Room 423.

4:30 p.m. - Program will start on the 3rd Floor
5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. - Self guided tour of the participating offices
Admission: FREE

For more information call (808) 586-6460 or email artatthecapitol@capitol.hawaii.gov.

Capitol Commentary: Senator Maile Shimabukuro

Opening Day 2014 Photos

Kamehameha Schools students participated in the ku‘i kalo (poi pounding) at the Capitol on Opening Day.
Left to right: Isaiah Sabey, Mikah Bertelmann, Sen. Shimabukuro, Hi‘ilani Fujihara-Nagamine, Hulukoa Nunokawa, Kahulu Nunokawa. Hi‘ilani is from the Wai‘anae Coast.

Click here to see Senator Shimabukuro's Opening Day 2014 Photos.

Legislative Committees to Receive Updates on Issues Related to DHHL and OHA

Legislative Committees to Receive Updates on Issues Related to DHHL and OHA

Honolulu- The Senate Committee on Hawaiian Affairs and the House Committee on Ocean, Marine Resources, and Hawaii Affairs will be conducting a series of informational briefings to receive updates on several emergent issues being addressed by the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) and the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA).
The briefings will be held on Thursday, November 21, 2013, beginning at 9:30 a.m. in the State Capitol conference room 329.

During the briefing the committees and departments will discuss:

Beginning at 9:30 a.m.: The Audit of the DHHL Homestead Services Division, the outcome of the DHHL Roundtable Discussions that occurred at the Hawaii State Capitol and the 12th Annual Native Hawaiian Convention in August and September 2013, completion of the Nelson v. HHC settlement payments, vacant DHHL properties, and other community concerns.

1:30 p.m.: The process and plan of execution for the 2014 primary election of candidates for Trustee of OHA.

Directly followed by: Corrective and/or other actions taken or planned in response to the audit conducted by the Office of the State Auditor (Report no. 13-07 of September, 2013) on the management and condition of OHA.

Bills signed into law: SB68 (Act 280) and SB1265 (Act 286)

On June 24, 2013, the Governor listed nine measures that were under consideration for vetoes. Among those listed were SB 68 and SB 1265, two bills introduced by Senator Maile Shimabukuro. However, the July 9 veto deadline passed, and those bills became law without the Governor's signature as Act 280 and Act 286.

Related links:
Bill seeks leeway for judges in felony drug cases (Honolulu Star-Advertiser)
Governor vetoes 3 bills (KITV News)

Senate Committee for Tourism/Hawaiian Affairs Split

(AP/Honolulu Star-Advertiser) - The Hawaii State Senate is splitting its committee on tourism and Hawaiian affairs into separate committees for each subject.

Senate President Donna Mercado Kim said in a statement today that the new assignments will give lawmakers better flexibility to focus on the subject areas.

The Tourism Committee will be led by Sen. Gilbert Kalehe, while Sen. Maile Shimabukuro will head the Hawaiian Affairs Committee.

Senate Majority Leader Brickwood Galuteria had been chairman of the combined committee. He says he'll be more effective as a majority leader with his understanding as a committee chairman.

The Senate also announced smaller changes to its commerce and water committees, with Sen. Brian Taniguchi to serve as vice-chairman of the commerce committee and Galuteria to be vice-chairman of the water committee.

Hawaii Women Lawyers' Annual Awards Ceremony on April 5, 2013

On April 5, 2013, Senator Maile Shimabukuro was honored by the Hawaii Women Lawyers (HWL) as the 2012 Outstanding Woman Lawyer of the Year. The following is an excerpt from the HWL event program:

"HWL recognizes Senator Maile Shimabukuro as the 2012 Women Lawyer of the Year for her introduction and passage of significant legislation which will assist victims of childhood sexual abuse. In 2012, Senator Shimabukuro introduced legislation which would extend the statute of limitations for civil actions brought by persons subjected to sexual offenses as a minor against the person who committed the act. Signed by Governor Abercrombie on April 24, 2012, the act now gives some measure of hope and remedy for individuals who were victimized and traumatized by abuse in their formative years...and have been forced to bear this burden far into adulthood. It increases the time limit to bring these civil lawsuits going forward to 8 years from when the victim turns 18, or 3 years from when the victim realizes his/her injury is due to sexual offense. It also created a civil window for victims of child sex abuse until April 2014 to file a lawsuit without regard to the statute of limitations.

"The passage of the act received national attention, including mention in an editorial in the New York Times, which stated that, Governor Cuomo's "strong leadership will be needed if New York is to match Hawaii's accomplishment any time soon." "

Maile with family and friends. Front row, L-R: James Nakano, Maile holding her son Keani, Shayne Sakoda holding his son Tyce and daughter Jaedyn; 2nd row, L-R: Jennifer Waihe‘e-Polk, Mihoko Nakano, Nalani Fujimori Kaina, Kurt, Kekai Sakoda, Brittany Hamilton, Chris Sakoda, Dawn. 3rd row, L-R: Kristine Yoo, Mark Forman, James Kaina, Jay Waihe‘e-Polk

Hawaii Women Lawyers President Nalani Fujimori Kaina, Maile, and Adriana Ramelli, Executive Director of the
Sex Abuse Treatment Center

Senator Governor Neil Abercrombie congratulated Maile (Photo courtesy: Gov. Neil Abercrombie)

WAI‘ANAE HIGH SCHOOL'S SEARIDER PRODUCTIONS DIGITAL MEDIA PROGRAM HONORED BY LEGISLATURE

The Apple Distinguished Program designation is reserved for programs that are recognized centers of educational excellence and leadership. The selection of Waianae High School's Searider Productions Digital program highlights its successes in enhancing and extending teaching and learning with thoughtful, innovative implementations of technology.

Speech delivered by Senator Shimabukuro on 4/2/13:
Aloha and good morning!

Today I am honored to recognize Wai‘anae High School's Searider Productions' Digital Program, which recently received Apple's Distinguished Program Award.

The Apple Distinguished Program designation is reserved for programs that are recognized centers of educational excellence and leadership. The selection of Searider Productions' Digital program highlights its successes in enhancing and extending teaching and learning with thoughtful, innovative implementations of technology.

Through the implementation of Apple technology, students have been provided with innovative and highly interactive learning opportunities that focus on mastering contemporary digital media and computer technologies.

Searider Digital students are able to explore areas such as video production, internet journalism & social media, graphic arts & design, 2D & 3D computer modeling, and interactive media creation & design.

A key organizing principle is the integration of real-world work assignments into the learning experience and formal curriculum. Students have had the opportunity to work on projects for private, public and non-profit organizations.

Students have also entered various digital media contests and have been recognized nationally and locally for their work.

Although the Searider Productions program is constantly growing and incorporating new and innovative approaches to stay current, it always remains true to its original roots and its ultimate goal of preparing students for success in school, work and life. Through the implementation of innovative Apple technologies, students are able to showcase their digital media skills and are better prepared for higher education, employment and entrepreneurship in digital media-related industries.

I'd like to introduce the individuals representing the Searider Digital Program today, both on the floor and in the gallery. Please stand and be recognized when I announce your name, and I ask the audience to please hold their applause until the end of their introductions:

Michael O'Connor - Lead Instructor
Searider Digital student Jacoby Cid
Searider Digital student Schae-Leigh Nii

And, in the gallery:
26 STUDENTS FROM SEARIDER DIGITAL CLASSES
Searider Digital Teachers - Na‘a Makekau & Curtis Furumoto
Apple Representatives - Nani Daniels and Pete Vraspir
Searider Productions Executive Director - Candy Suiso
Wai‘anae High principal - Nelson Shigeta
Academy Vice Principal - Kevin Matsuba
Academy counselor - Shane Nakamura
Leeward District CAS - Ann Mahi

I ask my colleagues in the Hawaii State Senate and the audience to join me in applauding the teachers and students of the Waianae High School Searider Productions Digital program for their achievement in being designated as an Apple Distinguished Program.

U.S Navy Recognized for its Hawaiian Cultural Stewardship and Renewable Energy Initiatives

My Speech Honoring the Navy:

Aloha and good morning!

Today I am honored to recognize the United States Navy for their achievements in promoting environmental and Hawaiian cultural stewardship in the State of Hawai‘i, and leading the way to energy security through a number of renewable energy initiatives.

The Navy is thankful for the cultural sharing opportunities available by gratefully accepting invitations to and attending the Merrie Monarch Festival in Hilo virtually every year since 1964. They also host Makahiki events at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam which the Navy has co-sponsored with the O‘ahu Council of Hawaiian Civic Clubs for the past ten years.

Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam partnered with City, State, Local Legislators, Army Corps of Engineers, Private Businesses and Community Based Organizations to mitigate flooding in Nanakuli and Kapolei, and to reduce dust and prevent fires in the area of Lualualei.

They continue their partnership with Ka‘ala Farm, Nanakuli High School, and Kamehameha Schools in clearing brush from Ni‘oi‘ula Heiau. They have rendered it visible and accessible, and allowed for the education and cultural awareness of the many students whose kupuna have lived there for generations.

Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam partners with the community, Boy Scouts of America, Girl Scouts of America, Hawaii Air National Guard, military and Department of Defense families in the annual National Public Lands Day event. The group maintains the Halealoha Haleamau Burial Platform and removes invasive Pickleweed, and outplants native Hawaiian plant species at Ahua Reef.

Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam also partnered with various groups to beautify many areas surrounding Navy property, including the Pearl Harbor Bike Path, Nimitz and White Plains Beaches in Kalaeloa, and Pouhala Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary.

Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam further promotes environmental stewardship by utilizing photovoltaic arrays to lower energy costs in support of U.S. Navy and Department of Defense initiatives, and operating a fuel oil reclamation facility to reduce disposal costs and dependence on foreign oil. They were recently recognized as best in the Navy for energy and water efficiency.

The Kauai Pacific Missile Range Facility (or PMRF), and its partnership with Ke Kula Ni‘ihau O Kekaha sustains the educational display of habitat types that existed on the Mana Plain prior to western contact. The partnership also supports educational programs that include remotely piloted water craft and model rockets developed by Kaua‘i students.

PMRF has managed light sources to reduce potential for harm to the Newell's Shearwater and Hawaiian Petrel, both listed by the Endangered Species Act. They have combined wildlife protection and energy savings by replacing light fixtures that reduce both energy consumption and harmful distraction to birds. PMRF continues its partnership with numerous agencies and volunteers to enhance the survival of Laysan Albatross populations located at the facility.

The essence of "Aloha Spirit" is epitomized by the selfless efforts and leadership of our honored guests here with us today. On a personal note, I was raised in large part by my step-grandfather, Fred Calkins. Both he and his son, Fred Jr., served in the Navy for many years. So I am especially greatful for this opportunity to give much deserved recognition to the excellent community service provided by our Navy.

Will the special guests please stand when I announce your name to be recognized, and I ask the audience to please hold their applause until the end of all the introductions:

1) Rear Admiral Frank Ponds, Commander, Navy Region Hawaii
2) Captain Jeff James, Commander, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam
3) Captain Nicholas Mongillo, Commanding Officer, Pacific Missile Range Facility
4) Master-at-Arms Chief James Wooten, Joint Base Volunteer Coordinator
5) Victor Flint, Joint Base Community Plans and Liaison Officer
6) Patricia Coleman, Environmental Outreach Coordinator
7) Cory Campora, Natural Resource Specialist
8) Jeff Pantaleo, Cultural Resource Specialist

Interns Ana (right) & Nohealani (left) giving the moment of contemplation before the start of session.		Senator Shimabukuro with Victor Flint, Community Plans & Liason Officer		Rear Admiral Fernandez L. 'Frank' Ponds, Commander, of the Navy Region Hawaii, handed me a Commander coin after todays floor presentation.
Senator Shimabukuro with Tom Clements, Public Affairs Outreach Manager		L-R: Grace Hew Len, Victor Flint, Janice Fukawa		Lunch is served. Catered by Mark Ka‘aha‘aina of Ka‘aha‘aina Cafe in Waianae
Left to Right: Lt. Col. Benito Barron, Master Chief David Aguilera, Chief Master Sgt. Charles Orf and Senior Master Sgt. Christopher Hurst		Commander coin		Guess which hat belongs to Rear Admiral Frank Ponds.

Window for Child Sex Abuse Cases

A new blog has been published (sb2588act68.wordpress.com) dedicated to news surrounding SB2588/Act 68, which I authored in 2012, which extends the statute of limitations for filing civil lawsuits for child sex abuse cases.

Senate Spotlight Featuring Senator Maile Shimabukuro

Article: Repeal drug mandatory minimums

Maile introduced SB 68 Relating to Sentencing:
Allows judges discretion in setting incarceration terms when sentencing drug offenders in certain class B and class C felony cases to make the length of the sentence proportionate to the offense and related conduct. Excludes certain offenses.

Repeal drug mandatory minimums
(Originally published on StarAdvertiser.com, February 18, 2013)

Hawaii is one of the nation's safest states from violent crime but prison walls have been spilling over to Arizona because of another policy: mandatory minimum sentences for drug offenses. A federal sentencing commission determined two years ago that such sentencing rules are "excessively severe" and studies in Hawaii agree. Putting offenders behind bars for a requisite period in drug cases is harsh, futile and expensive, and state legislators should put the mandate aside.

Congress approved mandatory minimum sentences as part of the "war on drugs" in the 1970s. Hawaii passed its mandatory minimum for drug offenders in 1986 and so did most other states. By the 1990s, then-U.S. Chief Justice William Rehnquist acknowledged that those measures were "perhaps a good example of the law of unintended consequences."

Mandatory minimum sentencing laws eliminate judicial discretion, testified Kat Brady of the Community Alliance on Prisons at the Senate Judiciary and Labor Committee, which voted to advance the bill last week. "These laws are problematic because they tie the courts' hands and mandate longer prison sentences, regardless of whether the court believes the punishment is appropriate, based on the circumstances and facts of the case."

In Hawaii, drug offenders convicted of possessing a certain amount of drugs, a Class B felony, are sentenced to the minimum prison term of five years for possessing a certain amount of "dangerous" drugs, while distributing it to a minor is a Class A, which would automatically end with 10 years imprisonment.

But is that offense such a danger to society? Actually, in a 2006 case study in Hawaii, 97.6 percent of the drug offenses were not violent or personal crimes. The average drug offender spends an average of 39 months in prison, costing taxpayers an average of $85,000 per drug offender, according to a 2009 study by Thomas E. Lengyel of the American Human Association in Denver and University of Hawaii-Hilo sociology associate professor Marilyn Brown.

Lengyel and Brown figure that the net cost to the state for the 197 drug offenders' total prison terms upon their release in 2006 had come to $15.6 million. "The cost of incarcerating drug offenders greatly exceeds the corresponding social benefit," they concluded.

Many states now recognize that an expenditure is better focused on substance abuse programs than on lengthy imprisonment. The National Council of Sate Legislatures has concluded that sentences should reflect "the harm caused, the effects on the victim and the community and the rehabilitative needs of the offender." Mandatory minimum sentences for drug offenses don't do that and should be eliminated, in favor of judicial discretion and refining justice

Ka Pa‘alana Visits Capitol

On February 12, 2013, children and parents from Ka Pa‘alana traveling preschool visited the Capitol.

For more information about the preschool, click here.

K-9 Kokua Dog Rescue Adovcates Visit Maile on Humane Lobby Day

K-9 Kokua dog rescue advocates from the Wai‘anae Coast visited Maile on 2/8/13, "Humane Lobby Day." The advocates are supporting various animal cruelty and puppy mill bills, such as SBs 7, 8, 9, and 414. For more information, visit: http://www.k9kokua.org/.


Front Row: Catherine Lathrop, Kale Lyman, Sen. Shimabukuro.
Back Row: Jae Bonarek and Adam Moran.

KHON2: West-side Asks for Hearing on Rock Crushing and Landfill Expansion

'Legislators on the Move' Video: Rep. Maile Shimabukuro Surfing