Aloha,

I would like to invite you to join me at a rally to oppose a number of legislative bills that will raise taxes on the people of Hawai`i, hurt our economy and stall job creation.

Governor Lingle will veto the measures at the rally. 

Please join us at the State Capitol on Thursday, May 7, at 3:30 p.m. to express your opposition to this legislation and send legislators a strong message that their responsibility is to the public, not special interests.

The Legislature passed five bills (SB1111, HB1741, HB1747, HB895 and HB1175) that will take $116 million in 2010 and almost $150 million each year thereafter from the pockets of our residents and visitors.

Join me in saying “no” to the Legislature’s attempt to raise taxes and “yes” to maintaining a balanced budget without raising taxes, sending workers to the unemployment line or cutting essential programs and services.

WHEN: Thursday, May 7, at 3:30 p.m.

WHERE: State Capitol

Please share this message with your family and friends.

Mahalo for your ongoing support.

Aloha ke Akua,

Duke Aiona

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Governor Lingle's web address to the people of Hawaii

Speaking to the people of Hawai`i today during a web address, just two days before the 2009 legislative session is scheduled to come to a close, Governor Lingle outlined ways in which actions taken and not taken by the Legislature this session will adversely impact the state's economic recovery and job creation.

The Governor also invited the public to join her at the State Capitol Rotunda tomorrow, Thursday, May 7 at 3:30 p.m. as she vetoes tax increases on Hawai`i residents, businesses and visitors. The tax increases passed by the 2009 Legislature would further erode the state's already weakened economy, cause greater loss of jobs, and discourage visitors from coming to Hawai`i.

"All the people of Hawai`i can have a place at the table in determining how we overcome the current economic challenges we face as a state," said Governor Lingle. "Tell your legislators that you oppose tax increases, before they meet on Friday, May 8 to try to override my vetoes. If enough of our voices come together in opposition to these tax hikes, legislators may reconsider how they vote."

Watch and read Governor Lingle's web address.

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Democratic Majority Extends Session to Override Governor's Vetoes

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hR8pXvYj4LE

"There is only one purpose for extending this session; and that so the Democratic Majority will be in a position to override Governor Linda Lingles veto of tax measures. I oppose this extension, Mr. Speaker; and I believe we should allow Governor Lingle to have her chance to veto measures and we should live with that result. The taxes on are people are going to be very arduous and I dont like us to set-up this body to set forth an override of her veto, " said Representative Cynthia Thielen.

A few minutes later on the floor Democratic Representative Karl Rhodes said,"' I just what to say, if the Governor doesn't veto the bills (referring to increasing the taxes) we can go sine die on Thursday."

"Bingo, Mr. Speaker, Bingo that is exactly the point there is no question why his extension is being requested and pushed through by the Democratic Majority," said Representative Cynthia Thielen.

 Excerpt from Capitol TV.