Aloha Friends and Neighbors

from Hawaii House Republican Caucus, Feb 25, 2023

This week we have started our 5-day Recess. This does not mean legislators and staff will not work or be in their offices. Recess is when House and Senate members do not convene for the floor session on these particular days. Recess allows uninterrupted time for committee hearings and other non-voting business and additional time for Legislators to review bills and resolutions before crossover.

Rep. Matsumoto finished up her committee hearings this week before the start of the 5-day recess. 

This year her top priority was to tackle the high cost of living. She introduced 6 bills including eliminating the general excise tax from food and medical services and eliminating the income tax for low and middle-income earners. 

Rep. Garcia hosted Waipahu Intermediate School for a special field trip to the State Capitol!

Student engagement in government is important because it helps young people understand how policies and decisions are made, and how they can have an impact on their communities.

WATCH VIDEO: Visit Representative Gene Ward's Instagram to listen to his speech on the newly adopted 2023 House Rules. @repward

"A legislative colleague, who is now incarcerated, once said “I can kill a bill anytime I want”. We recognize power can, and has been, abused, but we have not made the changes necessary within our own government to ensure it can’t happen again."

Rep. Pierick hosted a Fellowship Luncheon where legislators are invited to gather together, share a meal and strengthen each other's faith through fellowship. 

Rep. Pierick is hosting a Bible Study on March 1 with pastors in his office in the Capitol! If you are a pastor, please join! March 3rd, 8:30-9:30 AM Hawaii State Capitol, Room 318.

Rep. Alcos presented a certificate from the House of Representatives congratulating students that were on the National Elementary Honors Society at Keoneula Elementary school.

Special thanks to Principal Paul Taja & School Counselor Joshua Dela Cruz!

STILL MOVING! The following measures are moving through the legislature. To track these bills, submit testimony, and more, visit the capitol website www.capitol.hawaii.gov or click the bill numbers below. 

Rep. Matsumoto

HB942 - Relating to Emergency Medical Response

HB1145 - Relating to Adult Changing Stations

Rep. Alcos

HB1437 - Relating to Crime

HB1206 - Relating to State Permitting Office

Rep. Ward

HB461 -  Relating to ACT 86, Session Laws of Hawaii 2021

Capitol Convos is an opportunity for conservative Representatives to invite the public into the legislative session. We share information on what is going on at the capitol, how to get involved in the legislative process, address important community issues, and, answer your questions.

Capitol Convos airs live every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 5-6 PM on AM 690 & 94.3 FM The Answer.

Please feel free to call into the show and ask questions! (833) 296-8255.

If you have any comments, questions, or concerns that you would like to be addressed by your Representatives, please do not hesitate to reach out! Visit the capitol website for contact information. 

Mahalo,

Hawaii State House Republican Caucus