HB1326 from crossover to conference
With the legislative session at its midway point it is time for “crossover” when bills that have been heard and passed in one legislative body cross over to go through the same identical process, in the countervailing body.
Lessons from the ledge – Power Flow
The question of power flow at the Hawaii State legislature is not as simple as it may appear at first glance.
Hawaii is alive and well at the DNC
I recently had the honor and privilege of traveling to Washington, D.C., to represent the Democratic Party of Hawaii at a meeting of the Democratic National Committee.
Legislative testimony: A quick and concise tutorial
First of all, your testimony is important and has an impact. Trust me on this. I have served in public office on both the state and county level for 16 years, and I can say without hesitation that your testimony is important.
Hawaii Legislative Primer 4: Hierarchy of access and influence
The 2019 legislative session is in full swing and those familiar with the process know the environment in “the building” is hectic at best.
Crunch time for a living wage at the legislature
If you are earning less than $17 per hour at your job, a hearing being held at the State Capitol on Thursday, Jan. 31 could change that.
Automatic voter registration — save money, improve access
Every politician wants to “do something” and “accomplish stuff.” It is a natural inclination to want to make a mark, and to have accomplishments of significance to point to when running for reelection.
Let’s say mahalo to the good folks at TSA
Wracking my brain as to what I can do to support the good people working for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), during this ongoing government shutdown.
Hawaii Legislative Primer #3 – passing a bill
Jan. 16 is opening day of the Hawaii State Legislature. The legislative session will run for “60 session days” and adjourns on May 2 “sine die.”
Wage legislation — radical leftist or essential centrist?
In response to my previous column “Hawaii’s minimum wage needs to start at $17 and strive to be a living wage,” a woman wrote to me saying “I have voted for you in the past but it seems you have moved too far to the left …”
Hawaii’s minimum wage needs to be a living wage.
Every person working 40 hours a week, deserves to earn a wage that provides basic shelter, food and medical care. This statement should not be debatable.
Legislative primer 2: Universal truths, rules of the game
In order to understand and effectively navigate the legislative process, there are 7 critically important universal truths that must be understood and followed. They may at first seem overly simple and obvious, but they are critically important and impact all decisions.
Legislative session primer – 30 days out
The 2019 legislative session officially opens on Jan. 16, and concludes 60 “session days” later on May 2, “sine die” (traditional term used to adjourn the legislature - Latin for “proceedings that have been adjourned”).
Under the guise of civility
As newly elected legislators at all levels begin taking office, it is important to remind everyone that robust debate and holding our politicians accountable is critical to a healthy democracy.
County Council show goes on – a ship tossing in the sea
Unfortunately, if the meeting held by the incoming council is any indication, our newly elected Kauai County Council is starting off on the wrong foot. And/or they are stepping in it, depending on the preferred metaphor.
Prayers, politics and policy – Thanksgiving thoughts
I think taking one day per year and dedicating it to being thankful is a good idea. Actually, I wake up most mornings just being thankful for being alive, thankful for my good health, for my wonderful family, and for being able to do the work that I do.
Choosing the chair – Whose bias do you prefer?
Today being the first post-election meeting of the Kauai County Council is sure to be non-eventful on its surface. But the sub-currents are no doubt running strong, even as the winners are gracious and the losers act like all is OK.
An open letter to the newly elected
First of all a congratulations is in order for the winners. Whether or not I personally voted or supported, or perhaps even opposed your election, you won fair and square and I congratulate you for that achievement. And now you represent, all of us.
Kauai elections by the numbers — The Money Game
Except for two council candidates who as of noon on Oct. 30 have yet to file, the final “pre-general election” campaign spending commission reports due on Oct. 29 are in!
Deadline to vote is TODAY!
Today and every day (except Sunday) between now and Nov. 3, from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m., Kauai residents can walk in and vote in Lihue at the Historic County Annex Building, 4386 Rice Street, directly next to where the County Council meets weekly.