Grassroot Institute Warns Legislature Against Car Mandate

Watchdog group brings attention to the economic impact of zero-fossil-fuels proposal

News Release from Grassroot Institute

HONOLULU, HAWAII--March 15, 2016--Today, the Grassroot Institute spoke up in opposition to any government mandate that would limit the people of Hawaii in their choice of automobile. In comments submitted on HB 2085, the watchdog group identified significant problems in the state's plan to eliminate all ground transportation that uses fossil fuels by the year 2045.

Citing the state's own finding that the proposal would require that only electrical and hydrogen cell vehicles be available for sale within twelve years, the Grassroot Institute stated its opposition to government intrusion in the marketplace. In light of studies finding that similar measures in California are expected to have a significant negative impact on the economy, the think tank suggested that any plan proposed by the state be accompanied by a rigorous, third-party assessment of economic impact. Though the organization supports a healthy environment, such proposals require serious analysis before allowing them to advance.

"Although we support reasonable measures to protect the environment, this bill will unreasonably restrict consumers' choices and further raise the cost of living in Hawaii," stated Keli'i Akina, Ph.D., President of the Grassroot Institute. "Without considering its effect on businesses or families, the legislature is pushing forward to embrace unrealistic environmental standards that can only be achieved at the cost of our liberty and economic health."

Grassroot Institute's testimony can be viewed at: http://new.grassrootinstitute.org/2016/03/grassroot-testimony-hb-2085-relating-to-energy/

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HB2085: Text, Status

About the Grassroot Institute of Hawaii:

Grassroot Institute of Hawaii is a nonprofit, nonpartisan research institute dedicated to the principles of individual liberty, the free market, and limited, accountable government throughout Hawai`i and the Asia-Pacific region.  Read more about us at http://www.grassrootinstitute.org/

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About Grassroot President:

Keli’i Akina, Ph.D.,  is a recognized scholar, educator, public policy spokesperson, and community leader in Hawaii.  Currently, he is President/CEO of Grassroot Institute of Hawaii, a public policy think tank dedicated to the principles of individual liberty, free markets and limited, accountable government.  An expert in East-West Philosophy and ethics, Dr. Akina has taught at universities in China and the United States and continues as an adjunct instructor at Hawaii Pacific University.  Dr. Akina was a candidate for Trustee at Large of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs in the 2014 General Election run-off.