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    Hussein, Bin Laden and Europe

    Hawaii Reporter
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    There are a lot of uninformed opinions about the reasons that France, Belgium, Russia and Germany continue to resist supporting the rest of Europe and the U.S. in the effort to eliminate the corrupt and evil regime in Iraq.

    Rush Limbaugh suggests that it might be because France, Russia and Germany have all been secretly supporting Saddam with equipment and technical expertise, and they don’t want anyone to find out during the inevitable “post-war” inspections.

    Some first-hand information was received from a friend of mine who just returned from Belgium. He says:

    “As you know, I am Belgian and I just, last night, (February 8th) returned from my yearly pilgrimage home to mom.

    “I could not believe the apathy and Anti-Americanism I witnessed in Belgium, France and Germany during the week I was there. Even my own (educated and well-traveled) family does not get it. It made me ashamed of my countrymen. As a retired Special Forces officer in the Belgian Army, I know first-hand the dangers of crazy Dictators and exporters of terror. I guess Europe has been conquered one too many times for them to not react like this. If you look at a map, you would see that almost all those ‘sophisticated,’ ‘dovish’ countries are within fairly easy reach of a crude missile from Baghdad.

    “Denial, I guess.”

    I won’t reveal his name, even though he said that I could, because his mother still lives in Belgium and the “reach” of the Internet is world-wide. But his comments were quite revealing., especially considering that he was a former Special Services officer.

    Just remember this: ”’after”’ a short and successful war, a regime change in Iraq, further weakening of the Al Qaeda network, and the “amazing” discovery of vast stores of chemical, biological and nuclear weapons in Iraq, you will see a lot of the present “nay-sayers” trying frantically to “get on board” and take credit for the wisdom and courage of President Bush, his advisors and most Americans.

    Also remember that a failure to act now will result in many, many more deaths from terrorist acts, and will make the 9/11 attacks seem minor by comparison.

    Re-read this editorial in March 2003, and we’ll see who is right.

    ”’Bud Weisbrod is a resident of Honolulu.”’

    New Death With Dignity Poll Confirms Gains in Voter Support -Massive Right-To-Life Media Campaign Failed to Sway Public Opinion

    Hawaii Reporter
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    Today’s announcement of the most recent Hawaii poll regarding Death With Dignity should come as no surprise to Hawaii’s citizens. See: https://www.deathwithdignityhawaii.org/

    According to the latest poll, registered voters in Hawaii support proposed Death with Dignity legislation by an overwhelming 71 percent, the same high level of support found in a similar poll when the bill was introduced one year ago. Both surveys were conducted by Q-Mark Research & Polling of Honolulu.

    This poll is particularly telling as it comes only days after the end of a massive media campaign against the proposal paid for by well-funded local and mainland right-to-life organizations.

    Sadly, however, the right-to-life media campaign seems to have had an effect on the Legislature. With time running out, no hearings are scheduled in either the House or Senate for the current bill.

    This will be a defining year for the Hawaii Legislature on this timely issue.

    The governor’s Blue-Ribbon Panel On Living and Dying supported the issue in 1998, and Death With Dignity legislation was first introduced in 1999 and came within three votes of passing during the 2002 session.

    Similar legislation is now being considered in Vermont and Arizona. See:

    https://timesargus.nybor.com/Search/Categories/Article/60066 and https://www.azleg.state.az.us/FormatDocument.asp?inDoc=/legtext/46leg/1r/bills/hb2454p%2Ehtm&DocType=B

    The issue is supported in Hawaii by a coalition of local organizations including the Hawaii Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers, Advocates for Consumer Rights, the American Civil Liberties Union, the First Unitarian Church of Honolulu, Free Thinkers Maui, Hemlock Society Hawaii, Humanists Hawaii, the Kokua Council, and Hawaii Compassion In Dying.

    The effort is also supported by many members of Hawaii’s medical and legal communities.

    ”’Scott Foster is the Communications Director for Death With Dignity Hawaii. He can be reached via email at”’ mailto:fosters005@hawaii.rr.com

    Police, Prosecutor, Lawmakers Target Owners of Firearms, Second Amendment

    Hawaii Reporter
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    There are 35 firearms and hunting bills in the Hawaii State Legislature this year, fewer than usual.

    Once again, law enforcement takes the lead in proposing restrictive gun legislation. The Honolulu Police Department wants the county police to take over regulation of all shooting ranges in the state, restricting hours of operation, and requiring:

    “A ledger shall be kept of all persons entering the establishment. The ledger shall include the person’s printed name, signature, date of birth, social security number, the date and time the person entered and exited the establishment, and the make, model, and serial number of all firearms the person brings into the establishment; A copy of the firearm registrations shall be presented for all firearms brought into the establishment. …”

    The county police would be able to close any range at its discretion should these bills pass — HB791 or SB1118.

    Honolulu City Prosecutor Peter Carlisle has proposed a complete rewrite of the whole of Chapter 134, Hawaii State Firearms Law.

    Disguised as a “simplification,” it includes old anti-gun favorites like take all your guns to the county police and re-register them every five years, retroactive registration of lawfully unregistered long guns, prove you have your guns at home in an arsenal type gun rack or gun safe, and a felony charge for transporting a firearm within 1,000 feet of a school (try to drive anywhere in the islands without passing a school).

    It adds a felony charge for wearing body armor unless you have a permit issued by your chief of police, and prohibits civilians from buying it. It requires all mental health caregivers in the state to report their patients who own guns to the county police.

    ”HB803, SB1106” Another prosecutor bill would add felony firearms possession charges to misdemeanor violations of hunting rules or trespassing while target shooting.

    ”HB545, SB548” Law enforcement is aided and abetted this year in the Senate by Sen. Willie Espero, D-Waipahu, Honouliuli, West Loch Fairways, Fernandez Village, Ewa, Ewa Beach, Iroquois Point, and Puuloa, who sponsored restrictive firearms bills, and is pushing them in the Senate.

    ”SB1024, SB548” Sens. Ros Baker and Suzanne Chun-Oakland sponsored a bill to make it unlawful for individuals named under temporary restraining orders to sell or transfer their firearms rather than turn them in to county police.

    ”SB934, HB108” As usual, Senate liberals are taking the lead against firearms again this year. The House is so far relatively quiet. Legislator information, copies of bills, hearing notices, and status of bills are available at https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov

    ”’You can request hearing notices faxed or e-mailed to you, and you can submit testimony by fax or e-mail. You can contact your legislators by e-mail. For help, the public access system works: par@Capitol.hawaii.gov. or call 808-587-0478. Or call HRA, 808-261-2754, mcooper@aloha.net.”’

    ”Firearms Bills and Where Second Amendment Advocates Stand on Them”

    *HB108 Prohibits person restrained by court order from transferring ownership of firearm. Hamakawa (BR) JUD ”STRONGLY OPPOSE”

    *HB787 Provides qualified immunity for police chief and person acting under police chief’s authority for issuance, denial, suspension, or revocation of firearms permit. Say (BR) LAB, JUD ”OPPOSE”

    *HB791 Provides for county regulation of firing ranges. Authorizes chief of police to issue permits. HPD bill. Say (BR) JUD,FIN ”STRONGLY OPPOSE”

    *HB792 Provides a law enforcement exception to the prohibition against 10-round ammunition magazines. Say (BR) JUD ”NO OPINION”

    *HB798 Requires a person applying for permit to acquire a pistol or a revolver to attend a handgun (as opposed to a firearm) safety or training course. HPD bill. Say (BR) JUD,FIN ”STRONGLY OPPOSE”

    *HB803 Repeals entire Chapter 134 relating to firearms, ammunition, and dangerous weapons, and enacts a new law on the same subject. Includes retroactive registration, re-registration every five years, and restrictive storing requirements. Introduced by the Prosecutor. Say (BR) WLH, JUD, FIN ”STRONGLY OPPOSE”

    *HB804 Makes mandatory minimum sentencing without the possibility of parole for repeat offenses applies to firearms violations to places to keep firearms and providing false information. Prohibits probation for a broader class of felony firearm offenders. Prosecutor. Say (BR) JUD ”OPPOSE” Accidental discharge is a felony.

    *HB918 Provides a tax credit for any firearm returned to law enforcement authorities. Arakaki, Souki JUD ”OPPOSE”

    *HB991 Allows a person who has been pardoned to own, possess, or control a firearm. Hamakawa JUD ”SUPPORT”

    *HB1200 Requires Certificate of Fitness for users, dealers, and storers of ammunition and components. Say (BR) LAB, PSM, JUD ”OPPOSE”

    Allows the Department to obtain national criminal background checks prior to issuance or renewal of a Certificate of Fitness for users, dealers, and storers of explosives. Imposes reporting requirement on individuals who purchase, use or store explosive materials.

    Package: Gov

    Companion: SB1372

    Introducer(s): SAY (BR)

    Current Referral:

    Date Status Text

    1/23/03 H Introduced

    1/24/03 H Pass First Reading

    1/27/03 H Referred to LAB, PSM, JUD, referral sheet 4.

    *SB462 Amends the criteria for the firearms safety or training courses to ensure that the applicants specifically receive handgun training. Aduja, Whalen, KAWAMOTO (BR) TMG, JHW ”OPPOSE”

    *SB465 Same as HB787 Kawamoto (BR) JHW

    *SB570 Details the circumstances under which and the persons to whom, the chiefs of police may issue licenses to carry a concealed weapon or firearm; details processes for license applications, renewals, and record keeping. Slom JHW ”STRONG SUPPORT”

    *SB934 Same as HB108. ”OPPOSE.” Chun Oakland, Baker. Heard in JHW, passed SD1.

    *SB1024 Enables counties to regulate operation of firing ranges within their jurisdiction. Espero TMG, JHW STRONGLY OPPOSE

    *SB1025 Allows licensed firearms dealers to order detachable ammunition magazines with a capacity in excess of ten rounds from manufacturers and have them delivered directly to the law enforcement officer who purchased them. Espero JHW ”NO OPINION”

    SB1102 Same as HB804 Prosecutor. Bunda (BR) JHW

    SB1106 Same as HB803 Prosecutor. Bunda (BR) TMG, JHW

    SB1111 Same as HB798 HPD. Bunda (BR) JHW

    SB1117 Same as HB792 HPD Bunda (BR) JHW

    SB1118 Same as HB791 HPD Bunda (BR) TMG, JHW

    SB1122 Same as HB787 Bunda (BR) JHW

    SB1173 Amends the criteria for firearms safety or training courses to require persons to specifically receive handgun training prior to being issued a permit to acquire a pistol or revolver. Espero WLA heard 2/7, JHW ”OPPOSE”

    SB1372 Same as HB1200

    ”HUNTING BILLS”

    *HB217 Provides that providers of sports or recreational activities, whether for profit or otherwise, shall only be liable for damages resulting from their negligent acts or omissions which cause injury. Chang, Oshiro, Herkes, Daramatsu, Schatz, Abinsay, Ito, Tamayo, Wakai TAC,JUD ”SUPPORT”

    *HB524 Limits civil liability for landowners who allow hunters to use their property for hunting. CHANG, EVANS, HIRAKI, HALE, HERKES, Kahoohalahala, Wakai, Magaoay, Souki, Karamatsu Heard and passed in WLH, referred on to JUD ”SUPPORT”

    *HB545 Clarifies lawful possession of a rifle or shotgun for hunting or target shooting is limited to instances of lawful hunting or lawful target shooting. ABINSAY, KARAMATSU, Sonson, Magaoay, Marumoto, Herkes, B. Oshiro WLH, JUD ”SUPPORT”

    *HB985 Prohibits the use of snaring and poisoning as methods of controlling game-animal populations. Hamakawa (BR) WLH, JUD ”SUPPORT”

    *HB522 Appropriates $150,000 from the tourism special fund to enhance agricultural tourism venues (including hunting). CHANG, EVANS, JERNIGAN, KARAMATSU, HIRAKI, HALE, Takumi, Wakai, Magaoay, Souki, Herkes AGR, TAC, FIN ”SUPPORT”

    *SB37 Same as HB217 KIM ECD, JHW

    *SB548 Same as HB545 INOUYE, Espero, Chun Oakland, Hooser WLA heard 2/7, JHA

    *SB1076 Authorizes the Department of Land and Natural Resources to designate public hunting as the primary means to control game animals in the natural area reserves system. KOKUBUN, Inouye, Taniguchi WLA heard 2/7, WAM ”SUPPORT”

    *SB1085 Same as HB524 BUNDA (BR) TMG/ECD, JHW

    *SB525 Same as HB522 INOUYE, Espero, Kokubun, English TSM/WLA, WAM

    Legend:

    BR= by request, meaning the introducer doesn’t necessarily support the bill.

    SB= Senate Bill

    HB= House Bill, many identical bills are introduced in both.

    HPD, Prosecutor= government agencies proposing the bills
    Legislator names= introducers or supporters, except Bunda and Say, the Senate Pres. And House Speaker, who introduce all package bills from government agencies.

    JUD and other three letters in capitals indicate the committees the bill is to be heard in. E.g., JUD is House Judiciary

    SUPPORT/OPPOSE/NO POSITION= HRA position on the bill

    To get copies of the bills, notice of hearings, and results of action taken on bills, see:

    https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/site1/docs/docs.asp?press1=docs

    Marketing Hawaii Style

    Hawaii Reporter
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    New Zealand has the right stuff. Its marketing experts were able to pull it off .. big Time. Despite lingering war threats and worries, its arrival numbers are steadily on the rise.

    Why? It appears it has true marketing experts that know their stuff. The World Travel Organization, WTO, and other major travel research firms have just concluded that war is not so much of concern when it comes to world travel, it’s the economy and security … in that order.

    New Zealand was able to pull ahead by promoting itself not only as a beautiful place, but also one of the securest and most desirable travel destinations. This despite war worries. New Zealand called; and visitors came and they continue to come.

    What are we doing? Our Aloha State is as beautiful and desirable as New Zealand. Have we made that known … enough?

    On Feb. 7, 2003, the Hawaii Tourism Authority’s marketing expert said: “In the event of military action against Iraq, the Hawaii Tourism Authority plans to cancel advertising for two months, as a starting point. Bringing the advertising back, as well as other marketing efforts, will depend on how long a conflict last, and how ”’bloody”’ it gets.”

    At the same time the legislators are considering giving the state’s tourism marketing agency as much as $8 million in emergency money if war should break out with Iraq.

    On Feb. 12, 2003 the Hawaii Tourism Authority’s chair, Rex Johnson said: “The Hawaii Tourism Authority would like to have the extra revenue, but might not need the entire $8 million. Having those funds on call would be something very helpful to us.”

    In January the HTA’s expert on marketing, Frank Haas, announced in the Honolulu Advertiser that he will concentrate on attracting the higher spending visitors to Hawaii.

    Prior to 09/11, the German speaking market, one of the higher spending travelers, enjoyed the fourth place in Hawaii’s travel force with 130,000+ arrivals. Are they coming? No one from Hawaii has yet called them. Could it be that our marketing whizzes expect that they read our newspapers and know from there that we want them here?

    German speaking visitors enjoy 6 to 7 weeks ”’paid”’ vacation per year. In general that is split in three vacations per year. Data will show that if “only” 100,000 Visitors would set food in our beautiful state in 2003, that would generate $256+ million in revenues … not counting expenditures for shopping and restaurants. And European world travelers are unfazed by economic fluctuations.

    What have we done to tell them about Hawaii and on how secured it is even if war breaks out with Iraq? Not much. There is no war on U.S. soil. They will not travel to the Middle East, understandably.

    German-speaking visitors chose their travel destinations on availabilities of German-speaking services. Do we have those? No. Hawaii airs daily the “DEUTSCHE WELLE,” a popular German TV station. Can European visitors watch it? No. The hotels won’t make it accessible. Germans love their soccer games, particularly when on vacation. Twice per week, Wednesdays and Saturdays, the German National Soccer League shows two games. Can Germans watch those? No. Can Hawaii afford not to get $256+ million in revenues?

    Of course we have to concentrate on travelers from the U.S. mainland and Japan. But we should no longer neglect markets like Europe just because the HTA and Hawaii Visitor and Convention Bureau does not understand how to attract visitors from these markets.

    On Jan. 15, 2003, a report in the Honolulu Advertiser said: “Legislators demand better marketing efforts and told the Hawaii Tourism Authority that it is not fulfilling its goal to attract higher spending visitors.”

    But despite good sounding speeches and statements by the ones responsible for a $33 million budget on the tourism marketing, nothing is being done. I wonder how much the HVCB is spending on useless office representation? There is the HVCB on Oahu and an Oahu’s Visitor Bureau. We have tried several times to get responses … unsuccessfully. They only call us when they want complimentary services. And we happily comply every time.

    It’s time that we get true and independent experts that know their stuff.

    Let me close with words from Lincoln.

    On Sales: “We must not promise what we ought not, lest we be called on to perform what we cannot.”

    On Planning: “I will prepare, and some day my chance will come.”

    On Excellence: “Man is not the only animal who labors; but he is the only one who improves his workmanship.”

    On Management: “You cannot escape the responsibilities of tomorrow by evading it today.”

    In Hawaii’s case it is: Tomorrow we start a new life, but don’t wake us up too early.

    ”’Dieter Thate is owner of Dieter’s Tours and Kimapa Marketing. He can be reached by email at:”’ mailto:mail@kimapa.com ”’or visit his Web site at:”’ https://www.kimapa.com

    Lethal Environmental Ethics

    Hawaii Reporter
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    It may be based on a noble quest to safeguard our Earth’s future. But the “good science” of ecology leaves many urgent questions unanswered.

    Why do developed countries impose their environmental ethics on poor countries that are simply trying to pass through a stage they themselves went through? After taking numerous risks to reach their current economic and technological status, why do they tell poor countries to use no energy, agricultural or pest control technologies that might pose some conceivable risk of environmental harm? Why do they tell poor countries to follow sustainable development doctrines that really mean little or no energy or economic development?

    In the 1940s, malaria afflicted 300 million people worldwide, and killed 3 million, every year. With the help of DDT, developed nations eradicated this killer disease. Poor countries in Asia and Africa reduced malaria death rates by 70 percent in the early 1950s.

    But then pressure from developed countries drastically restricted the use of DDT, on the basis of environmental concerns. Last year, malaria again infected over 300 million people and killed over 2 million — most of them in Africa, and half of them children. Those who don’t die are often unable to work for weeks or months on end, sapping economies and health-care resources.

    Biotechnology restrictions imposed by developed countries result in millions facing malnutrition and starvation, eating anything that flies or crawls, and plowing under vast areas of wildlife habitat, in hope of surviving another day. Bans on fossil fuel and hydroelectric power plants mean people chop down forests or risk disease from burning dung.

    If only people in developed countries could see them, too. These people are “passionate about environmental causes,” but they ignore the millions who are poverty stricken, sick, starving and even dying because of misguided environmental policies. They send us aid, but it would be far better if they let us trade with them, develop our resources, set our own policies and determine our own destinies.

    People in developed countries can afford to worry about climate change, endangered bugs and a few hundred more dying of cancer before they are 70. We have to worry about millions of people dying of malaria, typhoid, dysentery and starvation. Millions of parents in sub-Saharan Africa must worry about where they will get their next meal, whether the water they drink will kill them and whether their babies will live beyond age five. As if that is not enough, they worry that HIV/AIDS will kill many who somehow survive these other diseases.

    In the name of “corporate social responsibility,” some companies have been forced by lobbyists to engage in activities that make the predicament of people in poor countries even worse. BP (British Petroleum) and Royal Dutch Shell support organizations and governments that oppose energy and economic development, international trade and the use of DDT. These groups say Africa and India should rely on expensive make-believe energy options, like wind and solar, that further delays our economic, health and environmental progress.

    Meanwhile, in 2001 alone, BP spent $8.5 billion on oil and gas operations, $100 million on its “Beyond Petroleum” advertising campaign, and a mere $33 million on renewable energy.

    To think long term does not give rich countries a license to restrict poor nations from making use of their resources. People need access to health care, they need to trade and they cannot do this when science is turned into a political tool to harass the poor.

    African countries face other tough battles, too. Europe in particular has confined their exports largely to primary products and imposed high tariffs on processed commodities. Many agricultural products from poor countries face quarantine rules that act as trade barriers, if Africans do not follow strict environmental standards.

    Even if they use DDT to stop terrible malaria epidemics or plant genetically modified bananas or sweet potatoes to prevent famines, these standards block our produce out of the richer markets. Along with price-distorting domestic subsidies, these policies have severely impacted economic growth in poor countries.

    A recent Kenya government report concludes that small farmers face such great difficulty in meeting stringent EU market requirements that their exports and revenues have been negatively affected. In 2001, Kenya’s farmers earned only Ksh 20,221 million ($259 million) from the export of flowers, fruits and vegetables. In previous years, Kenya and other East African countries were hard hit by a ban on fish exports.

    Corporate social responsibility ought not be used to impose policies that kill people. It should not be used to render poor populations sick, unproductive and perpetually destitute.

    For rich countries to tell poor nations to invest only in alternative energy and ban chemicals that help control disease-carrying insects – and then claim to be responsible, humanitarian and compassionate – is to engage in hypocrisy of the most lethal kind.

    ”’James Shikwati is director the Inter Region Economic Network (IREN), in Nairobi, Kenya.”’

    Grassroot Perspective – Feb. 13, 2003-Car Not Guilty of Fireworks Explosion; Lawyer Fees Reduced for Tobacco Litigation

    Hawaii Reporter
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    “Dick Rowland Image”

    ”Shoots (News, Views and Quotes)”

    Today is a law day for shoots. Read and weep, laugh or just scratch your head.

    – Car Not Guilty of Fireworks Explosion

    The search for deep pockets in litigation is never-ending. On a recent Fourth of July, six young people rented a car from Enterprise Rent-A-Car and drove through a neighborhood in Des Moines, Iowa, shooting bottle rockets at pedestrians. One of the bottle rockets exploded prematurely, setting off Roman candles and other fireworks inside the car. Two of the passengers were severely burned and a third died. Since the young man who was actually firing the rockets ended up in jail on an unrelated matter and was effectively judgment-proof, the injured passengers sued Enterprise instead on the legal theory that the owner of a car is responsible for any damages it causes. The jury would have none of it, however, and in October completely exonerated the rent-a-car company. From The National Law Journal

    – Lawyer Fees Reduced for Tobacco Litigation

    Like Attorneys General in many other states, Illinois’ AG Jim Ryan signed a poorly thought out agreement with private law firms to sue tobacco companies on the state’s behalf. When the tobacco companies settled, Illinois was left looking at a $910 million bill — 10 percent of the state’s share of the Master Settlement Agreement — for hardly any legal work. On Dec. 17, the Cook County Circuit Court approved a settlement between the lawyers and the State of Illinois reducing the fee to the still-princely sum of $121 million. From The Chicago Sun-Times

    Above articles are quoted from the Heartland Institute https://www.heartland.org Lawsuit Abuse Fortnighty January 2003.

    ”Roots (Food for Thought)”

    Here is another thoughtful essay from our friend, Bill Hastings, an attorney on the Big Island.

    Jan. 12, 2003

    Dear Editor:

    The several responses to Lisa Vail’s letter regarding seatbelt laws and checkpoints have been enlightening. I am amazed at how little value is attached to individual liberty. Leetha Paogofie tells us that the police don’t make the laws, they only enforce them. Fair enough. But someone in the police departments or their superiors elsewhere in government decides where to expend our limited police resources. That someone decided that it was more important to have “click it or ticket” programs than to focus those resources on “ice” or other law enforcement needs in our community. (By the way, I believe in seatbelts; I’m alive today because I have always used one.)

    An earlier writer suggested that such laws are good, because we know that buckling up is the right and safe thing to do. Moreover, if we are injured or killed as a result of our foolishness, then we or our families may become a burden on society. Therefore, it is appropriate that we be required to act in a way that will protect us from harm.

    By this logic, there are many more significant things that “the Law” ought to require. Why are we wasting time worrying about such a little thing as seatbelt use? We have read recently of the major health problems caused by over-eating. Certainly the cost and suffering in our society flowing from improperly seatbelt use is minuscule compared to that resulting from obesity. Shouldn’t there be a law requiring people to eat properly? Shouldn’t parents be fined or sent to jail if they allow their children to get fat? In fact, shouldn’t the government mandate a well-balance diet: lots of fruits and vegetables, not too much starch or sugar, plenty of protein. Look at the cost and suffering in our community caused by diabetes. Luaus ought to be outlawed; McDonalds should be closed. They create temptations to overeating that few can resist. Restaurants should be required to serve smaller portions. Alcohol use is well known to cause many health problems, which in turn place a major financial burdens on our society. It’s certainly a bigger problem than seatbelts. Prohibition should be brought back.

    WHT recently reported that over 70,000 people die in America each year from the flu. Shouldn’t there be a law against going to work or church or the mall or school when you are sick? Clearly the suffering caused to those innocents who catch the bug from you justifies a fine. (On the other hand, the report said most of the flu victims are elderly, so perhaps removing them from Social Security and Medicare is, on balance, a good thing.)

    Look at divorce: the negative impact on children from a broken home is well documented. They are much more likely to end up dropping out of school, pregnant, on welfare, on drugs, in gangs or otherwise in trouble with the law. The costs to society resulting from divorce are enormous. Surely, divorce should be illegal. (Of course, unhappy marriages aren’t good either; they should be outlawed.)

    Life is full of risks. Surfing is risky; people drown. Jogging and walking are risky; people have heart attacks or get hit by inattentive drivers. Hiking is risky; people get lost or injured. Of course, we all know that driving is very risky. In fact, we should probably all stay in bed all day.

    So, no, I don’t think our lawmakers have a right to outlaw risky behaviors. There shouldn’t be seatbelt laws or helmet laws or laws against riding in the back of pickups or using cell phones while driving. Slippery slides and swings shouldn’t have been removed from our parks and schools. I shouldn’t be required to buy an air bag in my new car.

    I don’t want to live in an antiseptic society where I am only allowed to make “right” choices. (Besides, occasionally what everyone knows is “right” turns out not be right at all.) I don’t want to be fined because my action just might increase my risk of injury. Liberty means nothing if it does not mean the right to make choices considered by some to be stupid or foolish. (Of course, I must accept the consequences of my foolishness.) Only if I directly threaten the person or property of another does my government have the legitimate right to tell me, “No.” Let government warn me of the risks, but please, leave me free to choose.

    Bill Hastings, Kamuela P.O. Box 628 Kamuela, HI 06743.

    ”Evergreen (Today’s Quotes)”

    “Society in every state is a blessing, but Government, even in its best state, is but a necessary evil; in its worst state, an intolerable one.” — Thomas Paine, Common Sense [1776]

    “Our country has stumbled into socialism during the past half century; by now — 1958 — we have adopted nearly all the things socialists stand for. Those of us who are aware of socialism’s built-in destructiveness have watched this process with apprehension and are forever predicting, or warning against, the impending catastrophe which we think we see hanging over our society. Under socialism, some men are put at the disposal of other men, deliberately, legally, and on principle. Socialism, in other words, is premised in an immoral extension of political power.” — Leonard E. Read, Essays on Liberty, Volume VI [1959]

    ”’See Web site”’ https://www.grassrootinstitute.org ”’for further information. Join its efforts at “Nurturing the rights and responsibilities of the individual in a civil society. …” or email or call Grassroot of Hawaii Institute President Richard O. Rowland at mailto:grassroot@hawaii.rr.com or (808) 487-4959.”’

    From Being Undecided to Being Down

    Hawaii Reporter
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    “Suzanne Gelb Image”

    Dear Readers:

    As an added resource, over the next few months I will supplement my answers with self-help materials. Supplemental reading for today’s answers can be found in my book “Welcome Home. A Book About Overcoming Addictions” (pp. 77 for Answer 1; pp. 78 for Answer 2). For more information visit my Web site at https://www.DrGelbSays.com

    ”Confused – What Does it Mean?”

    Dear Dr. Gelb:

    I heard you once on the radio when you were doing that show on KHVH on Sundays, and you said something about that when we think we are confused often it is more that we are undecided. Can you explain again about confusion and indecision, because I sure feel confused a lot?

    Indecision

    A: Dr. Gelb says . . .

    Dear Indecision:

    I recall addressing that issue on my radio show “Are You Listening?” which addressed healthy living issues. By the way, I hope to start the weekly show up again soon. As you may recall, I stopped the show when I decided to attend law school. I will post the information about any start up times on my Web site and I hope that you can tune in.

    And yes, I still advocate the same concepts and approaches that I discussed on the air regarding the emotional and mental dilemmas which society may face as it tries to behave correctly both socially and morally. In many arenas and from many perspectives (e.g., academically, professionally and morally) people face difficult challenges and choices that present conflicting ideas or opinions. This can generate much indecision. This indecision about what to do has nothing, in my opinion, to do with the mind being confused. The mind is merely undecided about what choice to make, or it is waiting for a correct answer to present itself.

    Confusion is noticed when there is the absence of a choice, such as in the case of a deranged personality. Typically, such a personality cannot think clearly, put facts together, or organize thought processes in order to make a decision. This is confusion, whose roots may lie with organic or psychological factors. Such impairment of the mind tends to render it incapable of decision-making. Alzheimer’s can be considered as exemplifying neurological confusion.

    Another misinterpretation about confusion tends to arise when one person is trying to teach another something or is sharing a concept that the listener does not understand (it could be due to not knowing about the subject, for example). However, not understanding something does not mean that the mind is confused. Recall the old saying, “don’t confuse me with facts. My mind is made up.”

    ”Depressed – Why do I go There?”

    Dear Dr. Gelb:

    I feel that I am in a good place with my life, but when something disappointing happens, I get depressed fast. Then it is hard to pull myself out of it. How can I break this cycle?

    Stuck in a Rut

    A: Dr. Gelb says . . .

    Dear Stuck:

    You said it, I didn’t. When “something happens that is disappointing.” So many people use that word to describe feeling depressed, and in my opinion, it is that word which points to why they feel depressed. I do not believe that a sane person experiences clinical depression. I am also of the opinion that many of the behaviors that are perceived as depression are better described as moods. That mood is invariably a result of suppressed or repressed anger.

    When a person feels angry or afraid of something or somebody and they cannot express how they feel, it is not uncommon for them to revert to a mood of passivity rather than to express the rage they feel. This passive behavior is often labeled “depression.” When these emotions can be safely expressed, then the passive mood tends to subside. On the other hand with clinical depression, it is not that easy to dismiss and must be addressed accordingly — such as, by way of medication and intensive psychodrama therapy. (Sometimes hypnosis can positively affect clinical depression).

    ”’Suzanne J. Gelb, Ph.D., J.D. authors this daily column, Dr. Gelb Says, which answers questions about daily living and behavior issues. Dr. Gelb is a licensed psychologist in private practice in Honolulu. She holds a Ph.D. in Psychology and a Ph.D. in Human Services. Dr. Gelb is also a published author of a book on Overcoming Addictions and a book on Relationships.”’

    ”’This column is intended for entertainment use only and is not intended for the purpose of psychological diagnosis, treatment or personalized advice. For more about the column’s purpose, see”’ “An Online Intro to Dr. Gelb Says”

    ”’Email your questions to mailto:DrGelbSays@hawaiireporter.com More information on Dr. Gelb’s services and related resources available at”’ https://www.DrGelbSays.com

    Legislative Hearing Notices – Feb. 13, 2003

    Hawaii Reporter
    -
    0

    The following hearing notices, which are subject to change, were sorted and taken from the Hawaii State Capitol Web site. Please check that site for updates and/or changes to the schedule at https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/site1/docs/hearing/hearing2.asp?press1=docs&button1=current Go there and click on the Hearing Date to view the Hearing Notice.

    Hearings notices for both House and Senate measures in all committees:

    Hearing

    ”Date Time Bill Number Measure Title Committee”

    2/13/03 8:30 AM HB309 RELATING TO BUSINESS INCUBATORS. EDB

    2/13/03 8:30 AM HB685 RELATING TO ENTERPRISE ZONE. EDB

    2/13/03 8:30 AM HB1392 HD1 RELATING TO RENEWABLE ENERGY. EDB

    2/13/03 8:30 AM HB1675 RELATING TO TRADITIONAL HAWAIIAN HEALING PRACTICES. HLT/WLH

    2/13/03 8:30 AM HB1123 RELATING TO TERRORISM. PSM

    ”Date Time Bill Number Measure Title Committee”

    2/13/03 8:45 AM HB6 RELATING TO THE TOBACCO SETTLEMENT MONEYS. HLT

    2/13/03 8:45 AM HB279 RELATING TO HEALTH. HLT

    2/13/03 8:45 AM HB377 RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF SPECIAL PURPOSE REVENUE BONDS FOR NOT-FOR-PROFIT CORPORATIONS THAT PROVIDE HEALTH CARE FACILITIES. HLT

    2/13/03 8:45 AM HB378 RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF SPECIAL PURPOSE REVENUE BONDS FOR NOT-FOR-PROFIT CORPORATIONS THAT PROVIDE HEALTH CARE FACILITIES. HLT

    2/13/03 8:45 AM HB379 RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF SPECIAL PURPOSE REVENUE BONDS FOR NOT-FOR-PROFIT CORPORATIONS THAT PROVIDE HEALTH CARE FACILITIES. HLT

    2/13/03 8:45 AM HB380 RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF SPECIAL PURPOSE REVENUE BONDS FOR NOT-FOR-PROFIT CORPORATIONS THAT PROVIDE HEALTH CARE FACILITIES. HLT

    2/13/03 8:45 AM HB381 RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF SPECIAL PURPOSE REVENUE BONDS FOR NOT-FOR-PROFIT CORPORATIONS THAT PROVIDE HEALTH CARE FACILITIES. HLT

    2/13/03 8:45 AM HB382 RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF SPECIAL PURPOSE REVENUE BONDS FOR NOT-FOR-PROFIT CORPORATIONS THAT PROVIDE HEALTH CARE FACILITIES. HLT

    2/13/03 8:45 AM HB383 RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF SPECIAL PURPOSE REVENUE BONDS FOR NOT-FOR-PROFIT CORPORATIONS THAT PROVIDE HEALTH CARE FACILITIES. HLT

    2/13/03 8:45 AM HB384 RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF SPECIAL PURPOSE REVENUE BONDS FOR NOT-FOR-PROFIT CORPORATIONS THAT PROVIDE HEALTH CARE FACILITIES. HLT

    2/13/03 8:45 AM HB423 RELATING TO CANCER DETECTION SPECIAL FUND. HLT

    2/13/03 8:45 AM HB434 RELATING TO SPECIAL PURPOSE REVENUE BONDS FOR NORTH HAWAII COMMUNITY HOSPITAL, INC. HLT

    2/13/03 8:45 AM HB436 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION TO FUND A SECOND AMBULANCE TO SERVE THE WAIANAE COAST. HLT

    2/13/03 8:45 AM HB566 RELATING TO LIABILITY. HLT

    2/13/03 8:45 AM HB651 RELATING TO INFORMED CONSENT. HLT

    2/13/03 8:45 AM HB730 RELATING TO OCCUPATIONAL THERAPISTS. HLT

    2/13/03 8:45 AM HB903 RELATING TO SCHOOL HEALTH. HLT

    2/13/03 8:45 AM HB909 HD1 RELATING TO NATIVE HAWAIIAN HEALTH. HLT

    2/13/03 8:45 AM HB1178 RELATING TO REGISTRATION OF VITAL STATISTICS. HLT

    2/13/03 8:45 AM HB1186 RELATING TO PSYCHIATRIC FACILITIES. HLT

    2/13/03 8:45 AM HB1419 RELATING TO RESEARCH. HLT

    2/13/03 8:45 AM HB1426 RELATING TO SUBSTANCE ABUSE. HLT

    2/13/03 8:45 AM HB1603 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION TO ESTABLISH AN ADOLESCENT TREATMENT CENTER ON THE ISLAND OF HAWAII. HLT

    2/13/03 8:45 AM HB1604 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION TO PREVENT CRYSTAL METHAMPHETAMINE USE. HLT

    2/13/03 8:45 AM HB169 RELATING TO FAMILY CAREGIVERS. HLT/HSH

    2/13/03 8:45 AM HB251 RELATING TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A STATE FOOD SECURITY COUNCIL. HLT/HSH

    2/13/03 8:45 AM HB906 RELATING TO ADULT RESIDENTIAL CARE HOMES. HLT/HSH

    ”Date Time Bill Number Measure Title Committee”

    2/13/03 9:00 AM SB508 RELATING TO ELECTRONIC MAIL. CPH

    2/13/03 9:00 AM SB695 RELATING TO PROFESSIONAL COUNSELORS. CPH

    2/13/03 9:00 AM SB778 RELATING TO TEMPORARY DISABILITY INSURANCE. CPH

    2/13/03 9:00 AM SB1087 RELATING TO CONDOMINIUMS. CPH

    2/13/03 9:00 AM HB467 HD1 RELATING TO SOLID WASTE. EEP

    2/13/03 9:00 AM HB1328 RELATING TO THE CONSUMER ADVOCATE. EEP

    2/13/03 9:00 AM HB1678 RELATING TO ENVIRONMENTAL RIGHTS. EEP/WLH

    2/13/03 9:00 AM HB142 RELATING TO SPECIAL NUMBER PLATES. PSM

    2/13/03 9:00 AM HB330 RELATING TO LEAVES OF ABSENCE. PSM

    2/13/03 9:00 AM HB625 RELATING TO ALTERNATIVE PROGRAMS TO INCARCERATION. PSM

    2/13/03 9:00 AM HB857 RELATING TO CORRECTIONAL FACILITIES. PSM

    2/13/03 9:00 AM HB950 RELATING TO E911 AND 311 TELEPHONE SURCHARGES. PSM

    2/13/03 9:00 AM HB1311 RELATING TO DEPUTY SHERIFFS. PSM

    ”Date Time Bill Number Measure Title Committee”

    2/13/03 9:45 AM HB1260 HD1 RELATING TO PUBLIC SAFETY. PSM

    2/13/03 9:45 AM HB1261 HD1 RELATING TO PUBLIC SAFETY. PSM

    ”Date Time Bill Number Measure Title Committee”

    2/13/03 11:30 AM HB550 RELATING TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF MEDICAL FACILITIES. EDB/HLT

    2/13/03 11:30 AM HB551 RELATED TO THE STATE HEALTH PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT AGENCY. EDB/HLT

    ”Date Time Bill Number Measure Title Committee”

    2/13/03 1:15 PM SB425 RELATING TO HIGH TECHNOLOGY. ECD

    2/13/03 1:15 PM SB509 RELATING TO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS. ECD

    2/13/03 1:15 PM SB519 MAKING A MATCHING FUNDS APPROPRIATION TO SUPPORT A PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP TO MARKET AND PROMOTE INCENTIVES PROVIDED BY ACT 221, SESSION LAWS OF HAWAII 2001, FOR INVESTORS TO INVEST IN HIGH TECHNOLOGY IN HAWAII. ECD

    2/13/03 1:15 PM SB724 RELATING TO THE KANEOHE BAY REGIONAL COUNCIL. ECD

    2/13/03 1:15 PM SB726 RELATING TO THE SPECIAL ADVISORY COUNCIL FOR TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT. ECD

    2/13/03 1:15 PM SB803 AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS AND MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR DIAMOND HEAD STATE MONUMENT VISITORS CENTER. ECD

    2/13/03 1:15 PM SB812 RELATING TO SMALL BUSINESS HIGH TECHNOLOGY EMPLOYMENT TAX CREDIT. ECD

    2/13/03 1:15 PM SB868 RELATING TO RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATION TAX CREDIT. ECD

    2/13/03 1:15 PM SB872 AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS AND MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR RECONSTRUCTION OF STATE PARK FACILITIES. ECD

    2/13/03 1:15 PM SB1053 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR PLANS FOR HE`EIA KEA BEACH PARK. ECD

    2/13/03 1:15 PM SB1211 RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF SPECIAL PURPOSE REVENUE BONDS TO ASSIST PROCESSING ENTERPRISES. ECD

    2/13/03 1:15 PM SB1215 RELATING TO TAXATION. ECD

    2/13/03 1:15 PM SB1250 RELATING TO NEW ECONOMY WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT. ECD

    2/13/03 1:15 PM SB1450 RELATING TO STATE ENTERPRISE ZONES. ECD

    2/13/03 1:15 PM SB1599 RELATING TO THE DIAMOND HEAD STATE MONUMENT. ECD

    2/13/03 1:15 PM SB1648 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR THE HAWAII STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION. ECD

    2/13/03 1:15 PM SB1696 RELATING TO THE EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING FUND. ECD

    2/13/03 1:15 PM SB1697 RELATING TO TRANSITION TO WORK. ECD

    2/13/03 1:15 PM SB1704 RELATING TO A FILM PRODUCTION/POST PRODUCTION/HAWAIIAN CULTURAL AND EDUCATIONAL FACILITY AND WAREHOUSE WITHIN OR NEAR HEEIA STATE PARK. ECD

    2/13/03 1:15 PM SB725 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR AN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR THE KAHUKU AREA AS A HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTER. ECD/HTH

    2/13/03 1:15 PM SB9 RELATING TO EDUCATION. EDU/ECD

    2/13/03 1:15 PM SB1433 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS WITHIN THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION. EDU/ECD

    2/13/03 1:15 PM SB1527 RELATING TO A CONSTRUCTION RESOURCES RESEARCH CENTER. EDU/ECD

    2/13/03 1:15 PM SB826 RELATING TO TIME SHARING. TSM

    2/13/03 1:15 PM SB828 RELATING TO TIME SHARING PLANS. TSM

    2/13/03 1:15 PM SB1081 RELATING TO THE TRANSIENT ACCOMMODATIONS TAX. TSM

    2/13/03 1:15 PM SB1210 RELATING TO THE HAWAII TOURISM AUTHORITY. TSM

    2/13/03 1:15 PM SB1632 RELATING TO TIME SHARE. TSM

    ”Date Time Bill Number Measure Title Committee”

    2/13/03 1:45 PM SB811 RELATING TO PROMOTION OF HIGH TECHNOLOGY INDUSTRIES IN HAWAII. ECD/TSM

    2/13/03 1:45 PM SB1181 RELATING TO INCOME TAX CREDITS. ECD/TSM

    2/13/03 1:45 PM SB1174 RELATING TO HOTEL CONSTRUCTION AND REMODELING TAX CREDIT. TSM/ECD

    2/13/03 1:45 PM SB1252 RELATING TO TAX CREDITS. TSM/ECD

    ”Date Time Bill Number Measure Title Committee”

    2/13/03 2:00 PM HB287 RELATING TO PUBLIC EMPLOYEES. JUD

    2/13/03 2:00 PM HB525 RELATING TO ABSENTEE VOTING. JUD

    2/13/03 2:00 PM HB808 RELATING TO THE JUDICIARY. JUD

    2/13/03 2:00 PM HB976 RELATING TO CRIME. JUD

    2/13/03 2:00 PM HB1003 RELATING TO CRIME VICTIM COMPENSATION. JUD

    2/13/03 2:00 PM HB1112 RELATING TO CHAPTER 846E, HAWAII REVISED STATUTES. JUD

    2/13/03 2:00 PM HB1272 HD1 RELATING TO ADVOCACY FOR HUMAN SERVICES. JUD

    2/13/03 2:00 PM HB1547 RELATING TO ELECTIONS. JUD

    2/13/03 2:00 PM HB1636 RELATING TO HAWAIIAN HOUSING FINANCE CORPORATION. JUD

    ”Date Time Bill Number Measure Title Committee”

    2/13/03 2:30 PM SB499 RELATING TO CLEAN POWER. ENE

    2/13/03 2:30 PM SB503 RELATING TO CLEAN WATER.H ENE

    2/13/03 2:30 PM SB527 RELATING TO LAND USE. ENE

    2/13/03 2:30 PM SB557 RELATING TO INVASIVE SPECIES. ENE

    2/13/03 2:30 PM SB588 RELATING TO RENEWABLE ENERGY RESOURCES. ENE

    2/13/03 2:30 PM SB604 RELATING TO ROADSIDE HERBICIDE USE. ENE

    2/13/03 2:30 PM SB722 RELATING TO RENEWABLE ENERGY. ENE

    2/13/03 2:30 PM SB819 RELATING TO CONSERVATION. ENE

    2/13/03 2:30 PM SB843 RELATING TO CONSERVATION OF AQUATIC LIFE, WILDLIFE, AND LAND PLANTS. ENE

    2/13/03 2:30 PM SB1417 RELATING TO ENDANGERED SPECIES. ENE

    2/13/03 2:30 PM None Informational Briefing FIN

    2/13/03 2:30 PM SB624 RELATING TO INFORMED CONSENT. HTH

    2/13/03 2:30 PM SB736 RELATING TO PSYCHOLOGISTS. HTH

    2/13/03 2:30 PM SB1446 RELATING TO TECHNOLOGY. HTH/SAT

    2/13/03 2:30 PM SB1218 RELATING TO HAWAII HEALTH SYSTEMS CORPORATION. SAT

    ”Date Time Bill Number Measure Title Committee”

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB1067 RELATING TO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT. ECD/ENE

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB1206 RELATING TO TAXATION. ECD/ENE

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB520 MAKING A MATCHING FUNDS APPROPRIATION TO SUPPORT A PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP TO MARKET AND PROMOTE ALTERNATIVE ENERGY ACTIVITIES AND BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES IN HAWAII BY DEVELOPING AN ALTERNATIVE ENERGY INTERNET PORTAL. ENE/ECD

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB1080 RELATING TO PENALTIES. ENE/ECD

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB3 RELATING TO SPECIAL PURPOSE REVENUE BONDS FOR NORTH HAWAII COMMUNITY HOSPITAL, INC. HTH

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB157 RELATING TO HEALTH. HTH

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB325 RELATING TO SPECIAL PURPOSE REVENUE BONDS. HTH

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB683 RELATING TO DIABETES EDUCATION. HTH

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB747 RELATING TO INSURANCE. HTH

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB792 RELATING TO ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSES. HTH

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB800 RELATING TO SUBSTANCE ABUSE. HTH

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB1022 RELATING TO ADULT RESIDENTIAL CARE HOMES. HTH

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB1062 RELATING TO IMPROVING END-OF-LIFE CARE. HTH

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB1068 RELATING TO HEALTH CARE FACILITIES. HTH

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB1357 RELATING TO VITAL STATISTICS REGISTRATION DISTRICTS. HTH

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB1361 RELATING TO PRESCRIPTION DRUGS. HTH

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB1469 RELATING TO PEER SUPPORT COUNSELING SESSIONS. HTH

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB349 RELATING TO EDUCATION. SAT

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB376 RELATING TO ART. SAT

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB425 RELATING TO HIGH TECHNOLOGY. SAT

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB455 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION TO THE FRIENDS OF WAIPAHU CULTURAL GARDEN PARK. SAT

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB641 RELATING TO CONTRACTORS. SAT

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB724 RELATING TO THE KANEOHE BAY REGIONAL COUNCIL. SAT

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB794 RELATING TO HAWAIIAN LANGUAGE. SAT

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB1208 RELATING TO HAWAIIAN LANGUAGE. SAT

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB1242 RELATING TO FAIR ACCESS FOR STATE GOVERNMENT. SAT

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB1251 RELATING TO A STATE CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER. SAT

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB1263 RELATING TO ELECTRONIC PROCUREMENT. SAT

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB1452 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR THE JAPANESE AMERICAN CITIZENS LEAGUE 75TH ANNIVERSARY NATIONAL CONVENTION. SAT

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB1489 RELATING TO PUBLIC ACCESS. SAT

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB1490 RELATING TO PUBLIC ACCESS. SAT

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB1498 RELATING TO WORKS OF ART. SAT

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB1501 RELATING TO PUBLIC, EDUCATION, AND GOVERNMENT ACCESS ORGANIZATIONS. SAT

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB1518 RELATING TO THE HAWAIIAN LANGUAGE. SAT

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB1608 RELATING TO PUBLIC ACCESS. SAT

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB1662 RELATING TO CONGRESSWOMAN PATSY T. MINK. SAT

    2/13/03 2:45 PM SB1704 RELATING TO A FILM PRODUCTION/POST PRODUCTION/HAWAIIAN CULTURAL AND EDUCATIONAL FACILITY AND WAREHOUSE WITHIN OR NEAR HEEIA STATE PARK. SAT

    ”Date Time Bill Number Measure Title Committee”

    2/13/03 4:00 PM HB1292 PROPOSING AMENDMENTS TO ARTICLE VII, SECTION 8, AND ARTICLE X, SECTION 5, OF THE HAWAII CONSTITUTION, TO PROVIDE THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII WITH COMPLETE AUTONOMY FROM THE EXECUTIVE BRANCH. HED

    2/13/03 4:00 PM HB1466 RELATING TO THE HAWAII HURRICANE RELIEF FUND. HED

    ”’To reach legislators, see:”’ “Representatives at a Glance” and “Senators at a Glance”

    Political Tittle-tattle: News and Entertainment from Hawaii's Political Arena

    Hawaii Reporter
    -
    0

    “Malia Lt blue top Image”

    ”Campaign Spending Bills to Curb Questionable Behavior of Politicians Already at Death’s Door”

    Key bills that are backed by both the governor and the state Campaign Commission have little or no chance of passing this session because chairs in the House and Senate government affairs committees will not hear the bills.

    State Campaign Spending Executive Director Bob Watada says the bills would prevent those bidding on government contracts from making political contributions before and after the job is awarded.

    He says this legislation would be key in breaking the clear link between campaign contributions to county mayors, the governor and others in charge of procurement from contractors seeking favor in the bidding process, something for which Mayor Jeremy Harris’ and his administration are currently being investigated.

    Sen. Cal Kawamoto, D-Waipahu, has all but killed the bills because they have not received a hearing, which needs to be held in his committee. Kawamoto passed a similar bill out of his committee last year with several amendments including exempting legislators from the contribution ban. The bill passed the full Senate and House, but was vetoed by then Gov. Benjamin Cayetano. This year, rather than back the bill again, Kawamoto is refusing to even hear it. Meanwhile he has introduced legislation to dramatically increase the contribution limit to Senators from $4,000 to $24,000 per election cycle.

    In the House, Eric Hamakawa, D-Hilo, also has blocked the campaign spending reform bills from moving forward. Those close to the situation say Hamakawa and other House Democrats are motivated to block many of the governor’s bills because they are trying to render her ineffective for the 2006 gubernatorial campaign and are putting the passage of good legislation at a lower priority than that of politics and power.

    ”Important Ethics Bills Get Hearing Today”

    There are a number of ethics rules that legislators impose on other government officials, but exclude themselves from.

    Typically any chance to reform these exclusions dies in the Legislature. However, the House Legislative Management Committee will hear three extremely important ethics bills today at 2:30 p.m. in the state Capitol room 423 that would help dramatically in curbing government corruption. Those are:

    *Legislative ethics: HB 1529 (LMG, JUD) sets up legislative ethics committees to deal with legislator conflicts of interest, and requires new disclosures for large business clients, family members, and fundraisers during session. Remarkably, the legislature has not adopted a conflict of interest rule since it exempted itself in 1972 from the state ethics code’s conflict of interest section, as required by the state constitution.
    https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/sessioncurrent/bills/hb1529_.htm
    https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/site1/docs/getstatus2.asp?billno=HB1529

    *Legislative newsletters: HB 751 (LMG) prohibits legislators from mailing legislative newsletters closer than 60 days before an election in which the legislator is a candidate.
    https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/sessioncurrent/bills/hb751_.htm
    https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/site1/docs/getstatus2.asp?billno=HB751

    *Legislators conflicts of interest: HB 1609 (LMG, JUD) prohibits legislators from taking any official action directly affecting a business or other undertaking in which the legislator has a substantial financial interest or a private undertaking in which the legislator is an agent and prohibits legislators from acquiring a financial interest in certain undertakings.
    https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/sessioncurrent/bills/hb1609_.htm
    https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/site1/docs/getstatus2.asp?billno=HB1609

    ”Governor Promises to Veto Long-Term Care Tax

    Political Tittle-tattle: News and Entertainment from Hawaii’s Political Arena

    Hawaii Reporter
    -
    0

    “Malia Lt blue top Image”

    ”Campaign Spending Bills to Curb Questionable Behavior of Politicians Already at Death’s Door”

    Key bills that are backed by both the governor and the state Campaign Commission have little or no chance of passing this session because chairs in the House and Senate government affairs committees will not hear the bills.

    State Campaign Spending Executive Director Bob Watada says the bills would prevent those bidding on government contracts from making political contributions before and after the job is awarded.

    He says this legislation would be key in breaking the clear link between campaign contributions to county mayors, the governor and others in charge of procurement from contractors seeking favor in the bidding process, something for which Mayor Jeremy Harris’ and his administration are currently being investigated.

    Sen. Cal Kawamoto, D-Waipahu, has all but killed the bills because they have not received a hearing, which needs to be held in his committee. Kawamoto passed a similar bill out of his committee last year with several amendments including exempting legislators from the contribution ban. The bill passed the full Senate and House, but was vetoed by then Gov. Benjamin Cayetano. This year, rather than back the bill again, Kawamoto is refusing to even hear it. Meanwhile he has introduced legislation to dramatically increase the contribution limit to Senators from $4,000 to $24,000 per election cycle.

    In the House, Eric Hamakawa, D-Hilo, also has blocked the campaign spending reform bills from moving forward. Those close to the situation say Hamakawa and other House Democrats are motivated to block many of the governor’s bills because they are trying to render her ineffective for the 2006 gubernatorial campaign and are putting the passage of good legislation at a lower priority than that of politics and power.

    ”Important Ethics Bills Get Hearing Today”

    There are a number of ethics rules that legislators impose on other government officials, but exclude themselves from.

    Typically any chance to reform these exclusions dies in the Legislature. However, the House Legislative Management Committee will hear three extremely important ethics bills today at 2:30 p.m. in the state Capitol room 423 that would help dramatically in curbing government corruption. Those are:

    *Legislative ethics: HB 1529 (LMG, JUD) sets up legislative ethics committees to deal with legislator conflicts of interest, and requires new disclosures for large business clients, family members, and fundraisers during session. Remarkably, the legislature has not adopted a conflict of interest rule since it exempted itself in 1972 from the state ethics code’s conflict of interest section, as required by the state constitution.
    https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/sessioncurrent/bills/hb1529_.htm
    https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/site1/docs/getstatus2.asp?billno=HB1529

    *Legislative newsletters: HB 751 (LMG) prohibits legislators from mailing legislative newsletters closer than 60 days before an election in which the legislator is a candidate.
    https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/sessioncurrent/bills/hb751_.htm
    https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/site1/docs/getstatus2.asp?billno=HB751

    *Legislators conflicts of interest: HB 1609 (LMG, JUD) prohibits legislators from taking any official action directly affecting a business or other undertaking in which the legislator has a substantial financial interest or a private undertaking in which the legislator is an agent and prohibits legislators from acquiring a financial interest in certain undertakings.
    https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/sessioncurrent/bills/hb1609_.htm
    https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/site1/docs/getstatus2.asp?billno=HB1609

    ”Governor Promises to Veto Long-Term Care Tax

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