#house speaker scott saiki

Gov. Josh Green, M.D., issued his final veto decisions today after additional analysis and input from stakeholders. Of the 17 bills on his original Intent to Veto List, Green issued seven vetoes. He signed four bills after issuing line-item reductions, and six bills were signed into law.

The legislation, titled “Related to public financing for candidates for elected office,” is aimed at helping to level the playing field for working class candidates and people of all backgrounds, to create a more fair elections system and help reduce the influence of private money in elections.

Over the past six months, the Red Hill WAI group met regularly to conduct research, listen to subject matter experts, and formulate recommended policies. A comprehensive plan has been finalized, which serves as a blueprint and living document outlining the necessary steps to clean up Red Hill and remediate the aquifer.

The Hawaiʻi House of Representatives officially adjourned sine die on Thursday, marking the end of the 32nd legislative session. Throughout the past four months, House leaders said the chamber made significant progress on the priority areas of affordable housing, financial relief for low-income families, mental health services, and protecting Hawaiʻi’s natural resources.

Members from Maui County who were selected for leadership roles include: Rep. Justin Woodson, chair of the Education committee; Rep. Kyle Yamashita, chair of the Finance committee; Rep. Troy N. Hashimoto, chair of the Housing committee; Rep. Elle Cochran, vice chair of the Energy & Environmental Protection committee; Rep. Terez Amato, vice chair of the Human Services committee; and Rep. Mahina Poepoe, vice chair of the Water & Land committee.

Speaker Saiki reports that “the House will advance legislation to increase the hourly minimum wage to $18, increase the food tax credit, and make the Earned Income Tax Credit refundable and permanent.”

In a year overshadowed by COVID-19 pandemic, lawmakers restore funding to critical social service and education programs, adopt structural and regulatory reforms

In a year plagued by COVID-19 pandemic, lawmakers say they are making an effort to address the needs of struggling families, public health concerns, restoring Hawaiʻi’s economy. 

As the 2019 Legislative Session nears its crossover deadline, the House has passed nearly 500 bills during a productive session focused on good