Dick Rowland Image ‘Shoots (News, Views and Quotes)’ – Sacramento, California Eco-scam, reported in the L.A. Times: After a yearlong investigation, law enforcement officers have arrested 14 people accused of defrauding the state’s recycling program of millions of dollars by hauling bottles and cans from Mexico and neighboring states and redeeming them in Los Angeles. – New York Advance in the science of public health, reported by the New York Post: The New York City Health Department is warning doctors they could face malpractice suits if they don’t push patients to kick the smoking habit. Above two items are quoted from Liberty Magazine, PO Box 1181, Port Townsend, WA 98368 (February 2003). – California Shoots Itself in the Foot With little fanfare or attention, a new law went into effect in California on January 1 that makes privatization of education support services more difficult. Reason Director of Education Lisa Snell points out that in light of $5.2 billion in proposed education cuts in Governor Davis’ state budget and the reduced flexibility of the new anti-privatization law, it will be difficult to not cut teachers and instructional programs. https://www.rppi.org/cripplingcalifornia.html 1/16/03 ‘Roots (Food for Thought)’ What follows is a theoretical physician who is operating his own medical practice answering questions about HMO’s. Author is unknown, perhaps by design. Explaining HMO’s Please study the following closely … Q. What does HMO stand for? A. This is actually a variation of the phrase, “Hey, Moe!” Its roots go back to a concept pioneered by Dr. Moe Howard of “The Three Stooges” who discovered that a patient could be made to forget about the pain in his foot if he was poked hard enough in the eyes. Q. I just joined an HMO. How difficult will it be to choose the doctor I want? A. Just slightly more difficult than choosing your parents. Your insurer will provide you with a book listing all the doctors who were participating in the plan. These doctors basically fall into two categories: those who are no longer accepting new patients; and those who will see you but are no longer part of the plan. But don’t worry, the remaining doctor who is still in the plan and accepting new patients has an office just a half-day’s drive away and has a diploma from a small medical school in India. Q. Do all diagnostic procedures require pre-certification? A. No. Only those you need. Q. What are pre-existing conditions? A. This is a term used by the grammatically challenged when they want to talk about existing conditions. Unfortunately, we appear to be pre-stuck with ‘pre’ and ‘now’ meaning the same. Q. Can I get coverage for my pre-existing conditions? A. Certainly, as long as they don’t require any treatment. Q. What happens if I want to try alternative forms of medicine? A. You’ll need to find alternative forms of payment. Q. My pharmacy plan only covers generic drugs, but I need the name brand. I tried the generic medication, but it gave me a stomach ache. What should I do? A. Poke yourself in the eye. Q. What if I’m away from home and I get sick? A. You really shouldn’t do that. Q. I think I need to see a specialist, but my doctor insists he can handle my problem. Can a general practitioner really perform a heart transplant right in his office? A. Hard to say, but considering that all you’re risking is the $10 co-payment, there is no harm giving him a shot at it. Q. Will health care be any different in the next century? A. No. But if you call right now, you might get an appointment by then. ‘Evergreen (Today’s Quotes)’ Today we visit former U.S. Rep. Dick Armey (R-Tx.): I said, “Ron (Dellums, D-Calif.,) you know, you and are alike, actually — I spend that money like it’s my money, and you spend that money like it’s my money.” – “Remember what Waylon says – I may be used, but I ain’t used up.” – Quoting a lyric by singer Waylon Jennings, while speaking to reporters after the House adjourned sine die Friday. Nov. 26, 2002. “The average politician, if he got run over by a train, would stand up and say, ‘I got the best of that deal.’ I don’t believe anything politicians have to say. I don’t like any politicians — never have. Politics is about how to fool somebody.” – Speaking to reporters Dec. 4, 1995 “Economics is the science of telling you things you have known all your life, but in a language you can’t understand.” – An economist by training, quoted in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution October 11, 1995. ”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.”
Legislative Hearing Notices – Jan. 28, 2003
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”
1/28/03 8:30 AM None Informational Briefing HLT
1/28/03 8:30 AM HB25 RELATING TO FAMILY LEAVE BENEFITS INSURANCE. LAB
1/28/03 8:30 AM HB26 RELATING TO SICK LEAVE. LAB
1/28/03 8:30 AM HB29 RELATING TO MEAL BREAKS. LAB
1/28/03 8:30 AM HB30 RELATING TO TEMPORARY DISABILITY INSURANCE. LAB
1/28/03 8:30 AM HB124 RELATING TO SICK LEAVE FOR PUBLIC EMPLOYEES. LAB
1/28/03 8:30 AM HB125 RELATING TO SICK LEAVE FOR EMPLOYEES IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR. LAB
1/28/03 8:30 AM HB128 RELATING TO TEMPORARY DISABILITY BENEFITS TO CARE FOR FAMILY MEMBERS WITH A SERIOUS HEALTH CONDITION. LAB
1/28/03 8:30 AM HB389 RELATING TO FAMILY LEAVE. LAB
1/28/03 8:30 AM HB390 RELATING TO LABOR. LAB
1/28/03 8:30 AM None Informational Briefing WAM
1/28/03 8:30 AM None Informational Briefing Summary WAM
1/28/03 9:00 AM None Informational Briefing EEP/ENE
1/28/03 9:00 AM HB13 RELATING TO PRESCRIPTION DRUG COST CONTROL. HLT
1/28/03 9:00 AM HB18 RELATING TO PHARMACEUTICAL BENEFIT MANAGEMENT COMPANIES. HLT
1/28/03 9:00 AM HB19 RELATING TO PRESCRIPTION DRUG COST CONTAINMENT AND AFFORDABLE ACCESS. HLT
1/28/03 9:00 AM HB120 RELATING TO MANDATORY HEALTH COVERAGE FOR EXAMINATION FOR SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES. HLT
1/28/03 9:00 AM HB189 RELATING TO EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTIVES FOR SEX ASSAULT SURVIVORS IN EMERGENCY ROOMS. HLT
1/28/03 9:00 AM HB259 RELATING TO MENTAL HEALTH AND ALCOHOL AND DRUG ABUSE TREATMENT INSURANCE BENEFITS. HLT
1/28/03 9:00 AM HB296 RELATING TO THE HAWAII HEALTH ALLIANCE. HLT
1/28/03 9:00 AM HB392 RELATING TO MANDATORY OVERTIME FOR NURSES. HLT
1/28/03 9:00 AM HB411 RELATING TO THE PROHIBITION OF DISCRIMINATION BY PUBLIC ENTITIES AGAINST INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES. HLT
1/28/03 9:00 AM HB507 RELATING TO EMERGENCY MEDICAL TECHNICIANS. HLT
1/28/03 9:00 AM HB548 RELATING TO ANATOMICAL GIFTS. HLT
1/28/03 9:00 AM None Informational Briefing TAC
1/28/03 12:45 PM HB1 MAKING APPROPRIATIONS TO PROVIDE FOR THE EXPENSES OF THE LEGISLATURE, THE LEGISLATIVE AUDITOR, THE LEGISLATIVE REFERENCE BUREAU, AND THE OMBUDSMAN. FIN
1/28/03 1:00 PM None Informational Briefing FIN
1/28/03 1:00 PM None Informational Briefing Summary FIN
1/28/03 1:15 PM None Informational Briefing ECD
1/28/03 1:15 PM None Informational Briefing ECD
1/28/03 1:15 PM None Informational Briefing TSM
1/28/03 1:30 PM None Informational Briefing EEP/ENE/CPC/CPH/TRN/TMG
1/28/03 2:45 PM None Informational Briefing SAT
1/29/03 8:30 AM HB155 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR PINEAPPLE RESEARCH. AGR
1/29/03 8:30 AM HB159 RELATING TO AGRICULTURE. AGR
1/29/03 8:30 AM HB283 RELATING TO AGRICULTURE. AGR
1/29/03 8:30 AM HB293 RELATING TO THE FARMERS’ MARKET. AGR
1/29/03 8:30 AM HB315 RELATING TO AGRIBUSINESS INCUBATORS. AGR
1/29/03 8:30 AM HB453 RELATING TO AGRICULTURAL LAND PRESERVATION. AGR
1/29/03 8:30 AM HB480 RELATING TO AGRICULTURAL PARKS. AGR
1/29/03 8:30 AM HB522 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION TO ENHANCE AGRICULTURAL TOURISM VENUES. AGR
1/29/03 8:30 AM HB523 RELATING TO AGRICULTURAL TOURISM. AGR
1/29/03 8:30 AM HB542 RELATING TO AGRICULTURAL COMMODITIES. AGR
1/29/03 8:30 AM HB543 RELATING TO THE AGRIBUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION. AGR
1/29/03 8:30 AM HB546 RELATING TO THE STATE WATER CODE. AGR
1/29/03 8:30 AM None Informational Briefing WAM
1/29/03 8:30 AM None Informational Briefing Summary WAM
1/29/03 8:30 AM HB178 RELATING TO LAND USE. WLH
1/29/03 8:30 AM HB179 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR THE PURCHASE OF LAND IN NORTH KONA. WLH
1/29/03 8:30 AM HB295 RELATING TO THE PUBLIC LAND TRUST. WLH
1/29/03 8:30 AM HB426 RELATING TO PUBLIC LANDS. WLH
1/29/03 8:30 AM HB427 RELATING TO HAWAIIAN AFFAIRS. WLH
1/29/03 8:30 AM HB428 RELATING TO PUBLIC LAND LEASES. WLH
1/29/03 8:30 AM HB524 RELATING TO LANDOWNERS’ LIABILITY. WLH
1/29/03 8:30 AM HB526 RELATING TO HOME OCCUPATIONS WITHIN AGRICULTURAL DISTRICTS. WLH
1/29/03 8:30 AM HCR10 REQUESTING THAT THE PRESIDENT AND CONGRESS RECOGNIZE AN OFFICIAL POLITICAL RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT AND THE HAWAIIAN PEOPLE. WLH
1/29/03 8:30 AM HR10 REQUESTING THAT THE PRESIDENT AND CONGRESS RECOGNIZE AN OFFICIAL POLITICAL RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT AND THE HAWAIIAN PEOPLE. WLH
1/29/03 9:00 AM SB442 RELATING TO THE RIGHTS OF VICTIMS. JHW
1/29/03 9:00 AM SB932 RELATING TO ABUSE OF FAMILY OR HOUSEHOLD MEMBERS. JHW
1/29/03 9:00 AM SB933 RELATING TO STALKING. JHW
1/29/03 9:00 AM SB934 RELATING TO TRANSFER OF OWNERSHIP OF FIREARMS AND AMMUNITION. JHW
1/29/03 9:00 AM SB935 RELATING TO ORDERS FOR PROTECTION. JHW
1/29/03 9:00 AM SB937 RELATING TO ABUSE OF FAMILY AND HOUSEHOLD MEMBERS. JHW
1/29/03 9:00 AM SB962 AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS AND MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR THE CHILDREN’S JUSTICE CENTER. JHW
1/29/03 9:00 AM SB972 RELATING TO TORT LIABILITY. JHW
1/29/03 9:00 AM SB996 RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY. JHW
1/29/03 9:00 AM HB55 RELATING TO THE IN-BOND CONCESSION AT STATE AIRPORTS. TRN
1/29/03 9:00 AM HB137 RELATING TO HIGHWAY SAFETY. TRN
1/29/03 9:00 AM HB145 RELATING TO HIGHWAYS. TRN
1/29/03 9:00 AM HB149 RELATING TO TRANSPORTATION. TRN
1/29/03 9:00 AM HB203 RELATING TO THE TRANSFER OF JURISDICTION OVER HIGHWAYS TO THE COUNTIES. TRN
1/29/03 9:00 AM HB218 RELATING TO TERMINABLE RENTAL ADJUSTMENT CLAUSE VEHICLE LEASES. TRN
1/29/03 9:00 AM HB440 RELATING TO FEASIBILITY OF CONSTRUCTING AN EXERCISE PATH ALONG THE WAIANAE COAST. TRN
1/29/03 9:00 AM HB456 RELATING TO TOWING. TRN
1/29/03 9:00 AM HB457 RELATING TO TOWING. TRN
1/29/03 9:00 AM HB459 RELATING TO MOTOR VEHICLE INSURANCE. TRN
1/29/03 1:00 PM SB10 RELATING TO COUNSELING. EDU
1/29/03 1:00 PM SB13 RELATING TO EDUCATION. EDU
1/29/03 1:00 PM SB16 RELATING TO EDUCATION. EDU
1/29/03 1:00 PM SB17 RELATING TO EDUCATION. EDU
1/29/03 1:00 PM SB18 RELATING TO EDUCATION. EDU
1/29/03 1:00 PM SB60 RELATING TO SCHOOL ASSESSMENT LIAISONS. EDU
1/29/03 1:00 PM SB80 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR SCHOOL SAFETY RESOURCE OFFICERS. EDU
1/29/03 1:00 PM SB350 RELATING TO EDUCATION. EDU
1/29/03 1:00 PM SB701 RELATING TO EDUCATION. EDU
1/29/03 1:00 PM SB816 RELATING TO SAFETY RESOURCE OFFICER PROGRAM. EDU
1/29/03 1:30 PM None Informational Briefing WLA
1/29/03 2:15 PM HB593 RELATING TO REAL ESTATE. CPC
1/29/03 2:15 PM HB594 RELATING TO THE PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION. CPC
1/29/03 2:15 PM HB595 RELATING TO CHECK CASHING. CPC
1/29/03 2:15 PM HB655 RELATING TO CREDIT CARDS. CPC
1/29/03 2:15 PM HB736 RELATING TO PROFESSIONAL AND VOCATIONAL LICENSES. CPC
1/29/03 2:15 PM HB929 RELATING TO CONDOMINIUM PROPERTY REGIMES. CPC
1/29/03 2:15 PM HB1025 RELATING TO CIGARETTE RETAILERS AND MANUFACTURERS. CPC
1/29/03 2:15 PM HB1098 RELATING TO THE UNIFORM INFORMATION PRACTICES ACT. CPC
1/29/03 2:15 PM HB1099 RELATING TO THE UNIFORM INFORMATION PRACTICES ACT. CPC
1/29/03 2:15 PM HB1100 RELATING TO THE UNIFORM INFORMATION PRACTICES ACT. CPC
1/29/03 2:15 PM HB1102 RELATING TO PROCUREMENT CARD PAYMENTS. CPC
1/29/03 2:15 PM HB1103 RELATING TO PROCUREMENT. CPC
1/29/03 2:15 PM HB1114 RELATING TO TOBACCO. CPC
1/29/03 2:15 PM HB1160 RELATING TO THE EXAMINATION FOR LICENSURE AS A CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT. CPC
1/29/03 2:15 PM HB1161 RELATING TO PSYCHOLOGIST LICENSING REQUIREMENTS. CPC
1/29/03 2:15 PM HB1162 RELATING TO INSURANCE FRAUD. CPC
1/29/03 2:15 PM HB1163 RELATING TO DENTAL INSURANCE. CPC
1/29/03 2:15 PM HB1165 RELATING TO BUSINESS REGISTRATION. CPC
1/29/03 2:15 PM HB1166 RELATING TO THE UNIFORM LIMITED PARTNERSHIP ACT. CPC
1/29/03 2:15 PM HB1171 RELATING TO CONCILIATION PANELS. CPC
1/29/03 2:15 PM HB1172 RELATING TO THE UNIFORM SECURITIES ACT. CPC
1/29/03 2:15 PM HB1259 RELATING TO THE UNIFORM COMMERCIAL CODE. CPC
1/29/03 2:15 PM HB1339 RELATING TO CONDOMINIUM PROPERTY REGIMES. CPC
1/29/03 2:45 PM SB96 RELATING TO HUMAN SERVICES. HMS
1/29/03 2:45 PM SB401 RELATING TO EARLY CHILDHOOD. HMS
1/29/03 2:45 PM SB486 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR THE HANA YOUTH CENTER. HMS
1/29/03 2:45 PM SB494 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR THE MAUI ADULT DAY CARE CENTER. HMS
1/29/03 2:45 PM SB504 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR THE MAUI FOOD BANK. HMS
1/29/03 2:45 PM SB514 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR QUEST ORTHODONTIC SERVICES. HMS
1/29/03 2:45 PM SB697 RELATING TO CHILD PROTECTIVE SERVICES. HMS
1/29/03 2:45 PM SB786 RELATING TO ADOPTION. HMS
1/29/03 2:45 PM SB865 RELATING TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A STATE FOOD SECURITY COUNCIL. HMS
1/29/03 2:45 PM SB867 RELATING TO HUMAN SERVICES. HMS
1/29/03 2:45 PM SB44 RELATING TO TRANSPORTATION. TMG
1/29/03 2:45 PM SB45 RELATING TO TRANSPORTATION. TMG
1/29/03 2:45 PM SB47 RELATING TO WHARFAGE FEES. TMG
1/29/03 2:45 PM SB91 RELATING TO HIGHWAYS. TMG
1/29/03 2:45 PM SB578 RELATING TO HIGHWAY SAFETY. TMG
1/29/03 2:45 PM SB671 RELATING TO SCHOOL ZONES. TMG
1/29/03 2:45 PM SB723 RELATING TO HIGHWAYS. TMG
1/29/03 2:45 PM SB732 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR HIGHWAY IMPROVEMENTS. TMG
1/30/03 8:30 AM HB21 RELATING TO CORPORATE DISCLOSURE. EDB
1/30/03 8:30 AM HB131 RELATING TO TAXATION. EDB
1/30/03 8:30 AM HB152 RELATING TO TAXATION. EDB
1/30/03 8:30 AM HB521 RELATING TO AN ANNUAL GENERAL EXCISE TAX HOLIDAY. EDB
1/30/03 8:30 AM HB643 RELATING TO GENERAL EXCISE TAX. EDB
1/30/03 8:30 AM HB650 RELATING TO TAXATION. EDB
1/30/03 8:30 AM HB719 RELATING TO TAXATION. EDB
1/30/03 8:30 AM HB1066 RELATING TO THE TELEVISION INDUSTRY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT. EDB
1/30/03 8:30 AM HB1353 RELATING TO INCOME TAX CREDITS. EDB
1/30/03 8:30 AM HB1394 RELATING TO TAXATION TO STIMULATE THE ECONOMY. EDB
1/30/03 8:30 AM None Informational Briefing WAM
1/30/03 8:30 AM None Informational Briefing WAM
1/30/03 8:30 AM None Informational Briefing Summary WAM
1/30/03 9:00 AM SB98 RELATING TO NATIVE HAWAIIAN HEALTH. JHW
1/30/03 9:00 AM SB98 RELATING TO NATIVE HAWAIIAN HEALTH. JHW
1/30/03 9:00 AM SB381 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR THE PAYMENT OF DAMAGES FOR HAWAIIAN HOME LANDS TRUST INDIVIDUAL CLAIMS. JHW
1/30/03 9:00 AM SB381 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR THE PAYMENT OF DAMAGES FOR HAWAIIAN HOME LANDS TRUST INDIVIDUAL CLAIMS. JHW
1/30/03 9:00 AM SB382 RELATING TO HAWAIIAN AFFAIRS. JHW
1/30/03 9:00 AM SB383 RELATING TO HAWAIIAN HOME LANDS TRUST INDIVIDUAL CLAIMS. JHW
1/30/03 9:00 AM SB383 RELATING TO HAWAIIAN HOME LANDS TRUST INDIVIDUAL CLAIMS. JHW
1/30/03 9:00 AM SB476 RELATING TO CEDED LAND REVENUES. JHW
1/30/03 9:00 AM SB477 RELATING TO THE HAWAIIAN HOME LANDS COMMISSION ACT. JHW
1/30/03 9:00 AM SB478 RELATING TO THE PRIMARY AND GENERAL ELECTIONS OF THE OFFICE OF HAWAIIAN AFFAIRS. JHW
1/30/03 9:00 AM SB610 RELATING TO INDIVIDUAL CLAIMS RESOLUTION UNDER THE HAWAIIAN HOME LANDS TRUST. JHW
1/30/03 9:00 AM SB610 RELATING TO INDIVIDUAL CLAIMS RESOLUTION UNDER THE HAWAIIAN HOME LANDS TRUST. JHW
1/30/03 9:00 AM SB615 RELATING TO SPECIAL ATTORNEYS GENERAL. JHW
1/30/03 9:00 AM SB638 RELATING TO HAWAIIAN HOMES COMMISSION. JHW
1/30/03 1:15 PM None Informational Briefing ECD
1/30/03 1:15 PM SB82 RELATING TO ENTERPRISE ZONES. ECD
1/30/03 1:15 PM SB358 RELATING TO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT. ECD
1/30/03 1:15 PM SB659 RELATING TO ENTERPRISE ZONE. ECD
1/30/03 1:15 PM SB836 RELATING TO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT. ECD
1/30/03 1:15 PM SB1253 RELATING TO ECONOMIC DATA. ECD
1/30/03 1:15 PM SB1254 RELATING TO INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS. ECD
1/30/03 1:15 PM SB1250 RELATING TO NEW ECONOMY WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT. ECD/LBR
1/30/03 1:15 PM SB33 RELATING TO TAXATION. TSM
1/30/03 1:15 PM SB38 RELATING TO THE HAWAII TOURISM AUTHORITY. TSM
1/30/03 1:15 PM SB377 RELATING TO TAXATION. TSM
1/30/03 1:15 PM SB673 RELATING TO TRANSIENT ACCOMMODATIONS TAX. TSM
1/30/03 1:15 PM SB826 RELATING TO TIME SHARING. TSM
1/30/03 1:15 PM SB828 RELATING TO TIME SHARING PLANS. TSM
1/30/03 2:25 PM SB319 RELATING TO COUNTIES. ENE/TMG
1/30/03 2:25 PM SB490 RELATING TO RENEWABLE ENERGY. ENE/TMG
1/30/03 2:25 PM SB492 AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY IN STATE FACILITIES. ENE/TMG
1/30/03 2:25 PM SB1290 RELATING TO PRODUCT PROCUREMENT PREFERENCES BY STATE AGENCIES. TMG/ENE
1/30/03 2:25 PM SB1474 RELATING TO MOTOR VEHICLES. TMG/ENE
1/30/03 2:30 PM SB354 RELATING TO ENERGY. ENE
1/30/03 2:30 PM SB431 RELATING TO CLEAN FUEL VEHICLES. ENE
1/30/03 2:30 PM SB487 RELATING TO A GEOTHERMAL-TO-HYDROGEN TAX CREDIT. ENE
1/30/03 2:30 PM SB503 RELATING TO CLEAN WATER. ENE
1/30/03 2:30 PM SB506 RELATING TO GEOTHERMAL ROYALTIES. ENE
1/30/03 2:30 PM SB558 RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF SPECIAL PURPOSE REVENUE BONDS TO ASSIST INDUSTRIAL ENTERPRISES. ENE
1/30/03 2:30 PM SB595 RELATING TO ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENTS. ENE
1/30/03 2:30 PM SB596 RELATING TO ENERGY CONSERVATION TAX CREDIT. ENE
1/30/03 2:30 PM SB708 RELATING TO ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENTS. ENE
1/30/03 2:30 PM SB709 RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF SPECIAL PURPOSE REVENUE BONDS TO ASSIST PROJECTS ON THE ISLANDS OF MAUI AND HAWAII. ENE
1/30/03 2:30 PM SB713 RELATING TO CLOSURE OF MUNICIPAL FACILITIES. ENE
1/30/03 2:30 PM SB722 RELATING TO RENEWABLE ENERGY. ENE
1/30/03 2:30 PM SB815 RELATING TO ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENTS. ENE
1/30/03 2:30 PM SB819 RELATING TO CONSERVATION. ENE
1/30/03 2:30 PM SB840 RELATING TO ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENTS. ENE
1/30/03 2:30 PM SB841 RELATING TO ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT. ENE
1/30/03 2:30 PM SB848 RELATING TO THE ISLAND OF KAHOOLAWE. ENE
1/30/03 2:30 PM SB855 RELATING TO ENERGY. ENE
1/30/03 2:30 PM SB909 RELATING TO REQUIRED GREASE INTERCEPTORS. ENE
1/30/03 2:30 PM SB1292 RELATING TO THE ENERGY CONSERVATION INCOME TAX CREDIT. ENE
1/30/03 2:45 PM SB658 RELATING TO EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTIVES FOR SEX ASSAULT SURVIVORS IN EMERGENCY ROOMS. HTH
1/30/03 2:45 PM SB739 RELATING TO ANATOMICAL GIFTS. HTH
1/30/03 2:45 PM SB741 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT SERVICES. HTH
1/30/03 2:45 PM SB747 RELATING TO INSURANCE. HTH
1/30/03 2:45 PM SB893 RELATING TO MANDATORY HEALTH COVERAGE FOR EXAMINATION FOR SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES. HTH
1/30/03 2:45 PM SB894 RELATING TO OSTEOPOROSIS. HTH
1/30/03 2:45 PM SB963 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR THE POISON CENTER. HTH
1/30/03 2:45 PM SB1241 RELATING TO CANCER EXAMINATIONS. HTH
1/30/03 2:45 PM SB890 MAKING APPROPRIATIONS FOR DENTAL SERVICES. HTH/HMS
1/30/03 2:45 PM SB891 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR ADULT DENTAL HEALTH SERVICES. HTH/HMS
1/30/03 2:45 PM SB426 RELATING TO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT. SAT
1/30/03 2:45 PM SB721 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR A UNIFIED DATABASE SYSTEM OF ALL STATE AGENCIES. SAT
1/30/03 2:45 PM SB1251 RELATING TO A STATE CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER. SAT
1/30/03 2:45 PM SB1334 RELATING TO THE STATE INTERNET PORTAL. SAT
1/31/03 9:00 AM SB392 RELATING TO MANDATORY DRUG TREATMENT COURT QUARTERLY REPORTING. JHW
1/31/03 9:00 AM SB632 RELATING TO TAXATION APPEALS. JHW
1/31/03 9:00 AM SB635 RELATING TO TRAFFIC FINES. JHW
1/31/03 9:00 AM SB729 RELATING TO THE DRUG COURT PROGRAM. JHW
1/31/03 9:00 AM SB801 RELATING TO THE OFFICE OF INFORMATION PRACTICES. JHW
1/31/03 9:00 AM SB802 RELATING TO GOVERNMENT RECORDS. JHW
1/31/03 1:00 PM None Informational Briefing TMG
1/31/03 1:15 PM SB58 RELATING TO SCHOOL REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE. EDU
1/31/03 1:15 PM SB75 RELATING TO EDUCATION. EDU
1/31/03 1:15 PM SB338 RELATING TO EDUCATION. EDU
1/31/03 1:15 PM SB339 RELATING TO EDUCATION. EDU
1/31/03 1:15 PM SB365 AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS AND MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR THE REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE OF STATE EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES. EDU
1/31/03 1:15 PM SB631 RELATING TO EDUCATION. EDU
1/31/03 1:15 PM SB631 RELATING TO EDUCATION. EDU
1/31/03 1:15 PM SB752 RELATING TO TORTS. EDU
1/31/03 1:15 PM SB832 RELATING TO THE HAWAII STATE PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM. EDU
1/31/03 1:15 PM SB49 RELATING TO EMPLOYEES’ RETIREMENT SYSTEM. LBR
1/31/03 1:15 PM SB765 RELATING TO THE RETIREMENT ALLOWANCE FOR PRINCIPALS AND VICE PRINCIPALS. LBR
1/31/03 1:15 PM SB779 RELATING TO THE EMPLOYEES’ RETIREMENT SYSTEM. LBR
1/31/03 1:15 PM SB783 RELATING TO THE EMPLOYEE’S RETIREMENT SYSTEM FOR EMERGENCY MEDICAL TECHNICIANS. LBR
1/31/03 1:15 PM SB797 RELATING TO THE EMPLOYEES’ RETIREMENT SYSTEM. LBR
1/31/03 1:15 PM SB799 RELATING TO VOLUNTARY EMPLOYEES’ BENEFICIARY ASSOCIATION TRUSTS. LBR
1/31/03 1:15 PM SB1126 RELATING TO ALLOWANCE ON SERVICE RETIREMENT. LBR
1/31/03 1:15 PM SB1155 RELATING TO THE OFFICE OF HAWAIIAN AFFAIRS. LBR
1/31/03 1:15 PM SB1309 RELATING TO THE EMPLOYEES’ RETIREMENT SYSTEM. LBR
1/31/03 1:15 PM SB1312 RELATING TO THE EMPLOYEES’ RETIREMENT SYSTEM. LBR
1/31/03 1:30 PM None Informational Briefing WLA
2/1/03 10:00 AM None Informational Briefing SEN-HSE
2/3/03 9:00 AM SB361 RELATING TO THE WEED AND SEED PROGRAM. JHW
2/3/03 9:00 AM SB611 RELATING TO COURT APPOINTED COUNSEL. JHW
2/3/03 9:00 AM SB618 RELATING TO CRIME VICTIM COMPENSATION. JHW
2/3/03 9:00 AM SB634 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR TWO COUNSELORS TO TREAT WOMEN INCARCERATED FOR DRUG-RELATED OFFENSES ON MAUI. JHW
2/3/03 9:00 AM SB782 RELATING TO CORRECTIONS. JHW
2/4/03 1:15 PM None Informational Briefing SAT/ECD
2/21/03 1:00 PM None Informational Briefing TMG
Legislative Hearing Notices – Jan. 28, 2003
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’ 1/28/03 8:30 AM None Informational Briefing HLT 1/28/03 8:30 AM HB25 RELATING TO FAMILY LEAVE BENEFITS INSURANCE. LAB 1/28/03 8:30 AM HB26 RELATING TO SICK LEAVE. LAB 1/28/03 8:30 AM HB29 RELATING TO MEAL BREAKS. LAB 1/28/03 8:30 AM HB30 RELATING TO TEMPORARY DISABILITY INSURANCE. LAB 1/28/03 8:30 AM HB124 RELATING TO SICK LEAVE FOR PUBLIC EMPLOYEES. LAB 1/28/03 8:30 AM HB125 RELATING TO SICK LEAVE FOR EMPLOYEES IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR. LAB 1/28/03 8:30 AM HB128 RELATING TO TEMPORARY DISABILITY BENEFITS TO CARE FOR FAMILY MEMBERS WITH A SERIOUS HEALTH CONDITION. LAB 1/28/03 8:30 AM HB389 RELATING TO FAMILY LEAVE. LAB 1/28/03 8:30 AM HB390 RELATING TO LABOR. LAB 1/28/03 8:30 AM None Informational Briefing WAM 1/28/03 8:30 AM None Informational Briefing Summary WAM 1/28/03 9:00 AM None Informational Briefing EEP/ENE 1/28/03 9:00 AM HB13 RELATING TO PRESCRIPTION DRUG COST CONTROL. HLT 1/28/03 9:00 AM HB18 RELATING TO PHARMACEUTICAL BENEFIT MANAGEMENT COMPANIES. HLT 1/28/03 9:00 AM HB19 RELATING TO PRESCRIPTION DRUG COST CONTAINMENT AND AFFORDABLE ACCESS. HLT 1/28/03 9:00 AM HB120 RELATING TO MANDATORY HEALTH COVERAGE FOR EXAMINATION FOR SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES. HLT 1/28/03 9:00 AM HB189 RELATING TO EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTIVES FOR SEX ASSAULT SURVIVORS IN EMERGENCY ROOMS. HLT 1/28/03 9:00 AM HB259 RELATING TO MENTAL HEALTH AND ALCOHOL AND DRUG ABUSE TREATMENT INSURANCE BENEFITS. HLT 1/28/03 9:00 AM HB296 RELATING TO THE HAWAII HEALTH ALLIANCE. HLT 1/28/03 9:00 AM HB392 RELATING TO MANDATORY OVERTIME FOR NURSES. HLT 1/28/03 9:00 AM HB411 RELATING TO THE PROHIBITION OF DISCRIMINATION BY PUBLIC ENTITIES AGAINST INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES. HLT 1/28/03 9:00 AM HB507 RELATING TO EMERGENCY MEDICAL TECHNICIANS. HLT 1/28/03 9:00 AM HB548 RELATING TO ANATOMICAL GIFTS. HLT 1/28/03 9:00 AM None Informational Briefing TAC 1/28/03 12:45 PM HB1 MAKING APPROPRIATIONS TO PROVIDE FOR THE EXPENSES OF THE LEGISLATURE, THE LEGISLATIVE AUDITOR, THE LEGISLATIVE REFERENCE BUREAU, AND THE OMBUDSMAN. FIN 1/28/03 1:00 PM None Informational Briefing FIN 1/28/03 1:00 PM None Informational Briefing Summary FIN 1/28/03 1:15 PM None Informational Briefing ECD 1/28/03 1:15 PM None Informational Briefing ECD 1/28/03 1:15 PM None Informational Briefing TSM 1/28/03 1:30 PM None Informational Briefing EEP/ENE/CPC/CPH/TRN/TMG 1/28/03 2:45 PM None Informational Briefing SAT 1/29/03 8:30 AM HB155 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR PINEAPPLE RESEARCH. AGR 1/29/03 8:30 AM HB159 RELATING TO AGRICULTURE. AGR 1/29/03 8:30 AM HB283 RELATING TO AGRICULTURE. AGR 1/29/03 8:30 AM HB293 RELATING TO THE FARMERS’ MARKET. AGR 1/29/03 8:30 AM HB315 RELATING TO AGRIBUSINESS INCUBATORS. AGR 1/29/03 8:30 AM HB453 RELATING TO AGRICULTURAL LAND PRESERVATION. AGR 1/29/03 8:30 AM HB480 RELATING TO AGRICULTURAL PARKS. AGR 1/29/03 8:30 AM HB522 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION TO ENHANCE AGRICULTURAL TOURISM VENUES. AGR 1/29/03 8:30 AM HB523 RELATING TO AGRICULTURAL TOURISM. AGR 1/29/03 8:30 AM HB542 RELATING TO AGRICULTURAL COMMODITIES. AGR 1/29/03 8:30 AM HB543 RELATING TO THE AGRIBUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION. AGR 1/29/03 8:30 AM HB546 RELATING TO THE STATE WATER CODE. AGR 1/29/03 8:30 AM None Informational Briefing WAM 1/29/03 8:30 AM None Informational Briefing Summary WAM 1/29/03 8:30 AM HB178 RELATING TO LAND USE. WLH 1/29/03 8:30 AM HB179 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR THE PURCHASE OF LAND IN NORTH KONA. WLH 1/29/03 8:30 AM HB295 RELATING TO THE PUBLIC LAND TRUST. WLH 1/29/03 8:30 AM HB426 RELATING TO PUBLIC LANDS. WLH 1/29/03 8:30 AM HB427 RELATING TO HAWAIIAN AFFAIRS. WLH 1/29/03 8:30 AM HB428 RELATING TO PUBLIC LAND LEASES. WLH 1/29/03 8:30 AM HB524 RELATING TO LANDOWNERS’ LIABILITY. WLH 1/29/03 8:30 AM HB526 RELATING TO HOME OCCUPATIONS WITHIN AGRICULTURAL DISTRICTS. WLH 1/29/03 8:30 AM HCR10 REQUESTING THAT THE PRESIDENT AND CONGRESS RECOGNIZE AN OFFICIAL POLITICAL RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT AND THE HAWAIIAN PEOPLE. WLH 1/29/03 8:30 AM HR10 REQUESTING THAT THE PRESIDENT AND CONGRESS RECOGNIZE AN OFFICIAL POLITICAL RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT AND THE HAWAIIAN PEOPLE. WLH 1/29/03 9:00 AM SB442 RELATING TO THE RIGHTS OF VICTIMS. JHW 1/29/03 9:00 AM SB932 RELATING TO ABUSE OF FAMILY OR HOUSEHOLD MEMBERS. JHW 1/29/03 9:00 AM SB933 RELATING TO STALKING. JHW 1/29/03 9:00 AM SB934 RELATING TO TRANSFER OF OWNERSHIP OF FIREARMS AND AMMUNITION. JHW 1/29/03 9:00 AM SB935 RELATING TO ORDERS FOR PROTECTION. JHW 1/29/03 9:00 AM SB937 RELATING TO ABUSE OF FAMILY AND HOUSEHOLD MEMBERS. JHW 1/29/03 9:00 AM SB962 AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS AND MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR THE CHILDREN’S JUSTICE CENTER. JHW 1/29/03 9:00 AM SB972 RELATING TO TORT LIABILITY. JHW 1/29/03 9:00 AM SB996 RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY. JHW 1/29/03 9:00 AM HB55 RELATING TO THE IN-BOND CONCESSION AT STATE AIRPORTS. TRN 1/29/03 9:00 AM HB137 RELATING TO HIGHWAY SAFETY. TRN 1/29/03 9:00 AM HB145 RELATING TO HIGHWAYS. TRN 1/29/03 9:00 AM HB149 RELATING TO TRANSPORTATION. TRN 1/29/03 9:00 AM HB203 RELATING TO THE TRANSFER OF JURISDICTION OVER HIGHWAYS TO THE COUNTIES. TRN 1/29/03 9:00 AM HB218 RELATING TO TERMINABLE RENTAL ADJUSTMENT CLAUSE VEHICLE LEASES. TRN 1/29/03 9:00 AM HB440 RELATING TO FEASIBILITY OF CONSTRUCTING AN EXERCISE PATH ALONG THE WAIANAE COAST. TRN 1/29/03 9:00 AM HB456 RELATING TO TOWING. TRN 1/29/03 9:00 AM HB457 RELATING TO TOWING. TRN 1/29/03 9:00 AM HB459 RELATING TO MOTOR VEHICLE INSURANCE. TRN 1/29/03 1:00 PM SB10 RELATING TO COUNSELING. EDU 1/29/03 1:00 PM SB13 RELATING TO EDUCATION. EDU 1/29/03 1:00 PM SB16 RELATING TO EDUCATION. EDU 1/29/03 1:00 PM SB17 RELATING TO EDUCATION. EDU 1/29/03 1:00 PM SB18 RELATING TO EDUCATION. EDU 1/29/03 1:00 PM SB60 RELATING TO SCHOOL ASSESSMENT LIAISONS. EDU 1/29/03 1:00 PM SB80 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR SCHOOL SAFETY RESOURCE OFFICERS. EDU 1/29/03 1:00 PM SB350 RELATING TO EDUCATION. EDU 1/29/03 1:00 PM SB701 RELATING TO EDUCATION. EDU 1/29/03 1:00 PM SB816 RELATING TO SAFETY RESOURCE OFFICER PROGRAM. EDU 1/29/03 1:30 PM None Informational Briefing WLA 1/29/03 2:15 PM HB593 RELATING TO REAL ESTATE. CPC 1/29/03 2:15 PM HB594 RELATING TO THE PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION. CPC 1/29/03 2:15 PM HB595 RELATING TO CHECK CASHING. CPC 1/29/03 2:15 PM HB655 RELATING TO CREDIT CARDS. CPC 1/29/03 2:15 PM HB736 RELATING TO PROFESSIONAL AND VOCATIONAL LICENSES. CPC 1/29/03 2:15 PM HB929 RELATING TO CONDOMINIUM PROPERTY REGIMES. CPC 1/29/03 2:15 PM HB1025 RELATING TO CIGARETTE RETAILERS AND MANUFACTURERS. CPC 1/29/03 2:15 PM HB1098 RELATING TO THE UNIFORM INFORMATION PRACTICES ACT. CPC 1/29/03 2:15 PM HB1099 RELATING TO THE UNIFORM INFORMATION PRACTICES ACT. CPC 1/29/03 2:15 PM HB1100 RELATING TO THE UNIFORM INFORMATION PRACTICES ACT. CPC 1/29/03 2:15 PM HB1102 RELATING TO PROCUREMENT CARD PAYMENTS. CPC 1/29/03 2:15 PM HB1103 RELATING TO PROCUREMENT. CPC 1/29/03 2:15 PM HB1114 RELATING TO TOBACCO. CPC 1/29/03 2:15 PM HB1160 RELATING TO THE EXAMINATION FOR LICENSURE AS A CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT. CPC 1/29/03 2:15 PM HB1161 RELATING TO PSYCHOLOGIST LICENSING REQUIREMENTS. CPC 1/29/03 2:15 PM HB1162 RELATING TO INSURANCE FRAUD. CPC 1/29/03 2:15 PM HB1163 RELATING TO DENTAL INSURANCE. CPC 1/29/03 2:15 PM HB1165 RELATING TO BUSINESS REGISTRATION. CPC 1/29/03 2:15 PM HB1166 RELATING TO THE UNIFORM LIMITED PARTNERSHIP ACT. CPC 1/29/03 2:15 PM HB1171 RELATING TO CONCILIATION PANELS. CPC 1/29/03 2:15 PM HB1172 RELATING TO THE UNIFORM SECURITIES ACT. CPC 1/29/03 2:15 PM HB1259 RELATING TO THE UNIFORM COMMERCIAL CODE. CPC 1/29/03 2:15 PM HB1339 RELATING TO CONDOMINIUM PROPERTY REGIMES. CPC 1/29/03 2:45 PM SB96 RELATING TO HUMAN SERVICES. HMS 1/29/03 2:45 PM SB401 RELATING TO EARLY CHILDHOOD. HMS 1/29/03 2:45 PM SB486 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR THE HANA YOUTH CENTER. HMS 1/29/03 2:45 PM SB494 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR THE MAUI ADULT DAY CARE CENTER. HMS 1/29/03 2:45 PM SB504 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR THE MAUI FOOD BANK. HMS 1/29/03 2:45 PM SB514 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR QUEST ORTHODONTIC SERVICES. HMS 1/29/03 2:45 PM SB697 RELATING TO CHILD PROTECTIVE SERVICES. HMS 1/29/03 2:45 PM SB786 RELATING TO ADOPTION. HMS 1/29/03 2:45 PM SB865 RELATING TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A STATE FOOD SECURITY COUNCIL. HMS 1/29/03 2:45 PM SB867 RELATING TO HUMAN SERVICES. HMS 1/29/03 2:45 PM SB44 RELATING TO TRANSPORTATION. TMG 1/29/03 2:45 PM SB45 RELATING TO TRANSPORTATION. TMG 1/29/03 2:45 PM SB47 RELATING TO WHARFAGE FEES. TMG 1/29/03 2:45 PM SB91 RELATING TO HIGHWAYS. TMG 1/29/03 2:45 PM SB578 RELATING TO HIGHWAY SAFETY. TMG 1/29/03 2:45 PM SB671 RELATING TO SCHOOL ZONES. TMG 1/29/03 2:45 PM SB723 RELATING TO HIGHWAYS. TMG 1/29/03 2:45 PM SB732 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR HIGHWAY IMPROVEMENTS. TMG 1/30/03 8:30 AM HB21 RELATING TO CORPORATE DISCLOSURE. EDB 1/30/03 8:30 AM HB131 RELATING TO TAXATION. EDB 1/30/03 8:30 AM HB152 RELATING TO TAXATION. EDB 1/30/03 8:30 AM HB521 RELATING TO AN ANNUAL GENERAL EXCISE TAX HOLIDAY. EDB 1/30/03 8:30 AM HB643 RELATING TO GENERAL EXCISE TAX. EDB 1/30/03 8:30 AM HB650 RELATING TO TAXATION. EDB 1/30/03 8:30 AM HB719 RELATING TO TAXATION. EDB 1/30/03 8:30 AM HB1066 RELATING TO THE TELEVISION INDUSTRY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT. EDB 1/30/03 8:30 AM HB1353 RELATING TO INCOME TAX CREDITS. EDB 1/30/03 8:30 AM HB1394 RELATING TO TAXATION TO STIMULATE THE ECONOMY. EDB 1/30/03 8:30 AM None Informational Briefing WAM 1/30/03 8:30 AM None Informational Briefing WAM 1/30/03 8:30 AM None Informational Briefing Summary WAM 1/30/03 9:00 AM SB98 RELATING TO NATIVE HAWAIIAN HEALTH. JHW 1/30/03 9:00 AM SB98 RELATING TO NATIVE HAWAIIAN HEALTH. JHW 1/30/03 9:00 AM SB381 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR THE PAYMENT OF DAMAGES FOR HAWAIIAN HOME LANDS TRUST INDIVIDUAL CLAIMS. JHW 1/30/03 9:00 AM SB381 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR THE PAYMENT OF DAMAGES FOR HAWAIIAN HOME LANDS TRUST INDIVIDUAL CLAIMS. JHW 1/30/03 9:00 AM SB382 RELATING TO HAWAIIAN AFFAIRS. JHW 1/30/03 9:00 AM SB383 RELATING TO HAWAIIAN HOME LANDS TRUST INDIVIDUAL CLAIMS. JHW 1/30/03 9:00 AM SB383 RELATING TO HAWAIIAN HOME LANDS TRUST INDIVIDUAL CLAIMS. JHW 1/30/03 9:00 AM SB476 RELATING TO CEDED LAND REVENUES. JHW 1/30/03 9:00 AM SB477 RELATING TO THE HAWAIIAN HOME LANDS COMMISSION ACT. JHW 1/30/03 9:00 AM SB478 RELATING TO THE PRIMARY AND GENERAL ELECTIONS OF THE OFFICE OF HAWAIIAN AFFAIRS. JHW 1/30/03 9:00 AM SB610 RELATING TO INDIVIDUAL CLAIMS RESOLUTION UNDER THE HAWAIIAN HOME LANDS TRUST. JHW 1/30/03 9:00 AM SB610 RELATING TO INDIVIDUAL CLAIMS RESOLUTION UNDER THE HAWAIIAN HOME LANDS TRUST. JHW 1/30/03 9:00 AM SB615 RELATING TO SPECIAL ATTORNEYS GENERAL. JHW 1/30/03 9:00 AM SB638 RELATING TO HAWAIIAN HOMES COMMISSION. JHW 1/30/03 1:15 PM None Informational Briefing ECD 1/30/03 1:15 PM SB82 RELATING TO ENTERPRISE ZONES. ECD 1/30/03 1:15 PM SB358 RELATING TO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT. ECD 1/30/03 1:15 PM SB659 RELATING TO ENTERPRISE ZONE. ECD 1/30/03 1:15 PM SB836 RELATING TO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT. ECD 1/30/03 1:15 PM SB1253 RELATING TO ECONOMIC DATA. ECD 1/30/03 1:15 PM SB1254 RELATING TO INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS. ECD 1/30/03 1:15 PM SB1250 RELATING TO NEW ECONOMY WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT. ECD/LBR 1/30/03 1:15 PM SB33 RELATING TO TAXATION. TSM 1/30/03 1:15 PM SB38 RELATING TO THE HAWAII TOURISM AUTHORITY. TSM 1/30/03 1:15 PM SB377 RELATING TO TAXATION. TSM 1/30/03 1:15 PM SB673 RELATING TO TRANSIENT ACCOMMODATIONS TAX. TSM 1/30/03 1:15 PM SB826 RELATING TO TIME SHARING. TSM 1/30/03 1:15 PM SB828 RELATING TO TIME SHARING PLANS. TSM 1/30/03 2:25 PM SB319 RELATING TO COUNTIES. ENE/TMG 1/30/03 2:25 PM SB490 RELATING TO RENEWABLE ENERGY. ENE/TMG 1/30/03 2:25 PM SB492 AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY IN STATE FACILITIES. ENE/TMG 1/30/03 2:25 PM SB1290 RELATING TO PRODUCT PROCUREMENT PREFERENCES BY STATE AGENCIES. TMG/ENE 1/30/03 2:25 PM SB1474 RELATING TO MOTOR VEHICLES. TMG/ENE 1/30/03 2:30 PM SB354 RELATING TO ENERGY. ENE 1/30/03 2:30 PM SB431 RELATING TO CLEAN FUEL VEHICLES. ENE 1/30/03 2:30 PM SB487 RELATING TO A GEOTHERMAL-TO-HYDROGEN TAX CREDIT. ENE 1/30/03 2:30 PM SB503 RELATING TO CLEAN WATER. ENE 1/30/03 2:30 PM SB506 RELATING TO GEOTHERMAL ROYALTIES. ENE 1/30/03 2:30 PM SB558 RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF SPECIAL PURPOSE REVENUE BONDS TO ASSIST INDUSTRIAL ENTERPRISES. ENE 1/30/03 2:30 PM SB595 RELATING TO ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENTS. ENE 1/30/03 2:30 PM SB596 RELATING TO ENERGY CONSERVATION TAX CREDIT. ENE 1/30/03 2:30 PM SB708 RELATING TO ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENTS. ENE 1/30/03 2:30 PM SB709 RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF SPECIAL PURPOSE REVENUE BONDS TO ASSIST PROJECTS ON THE ISLANDS OF MAUI AND HAWAII. ENE 1/30/03 2:30 PM SB713 RELATING TO CLOSURE OF MUNICIPAL FACILITIES. ENE 1/30/03 2:30 PM SB722 RELATING TO RENEWABLE ENERGY. ENE 1/30/03 2:30 PM SB815 RELATING TO ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENTS. ENE 1/30/03 2:30 PM SB819 RELATING TO CONSERVATION. ENE 1/30/03 2:30 PM SB840 RELATING TO ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENTS. ENE 1/30/03 2:30 PM SB841 RELATING TO ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT. ENE 1/30/03 2:30 PM SB848 RELATING TO THE ISLAND OF KAHOOLAWE. ENE 1/30/03 2:30 PM SB855 RELATING TO ENERGY. ENE 1/30/03 2:30 PM SB909 RELATING TO REQUIRED GREASE INTERCEPTORS. ENE 1/30/03 2:30 PM SB1292 RELATING TO THE ENERGY CONSERVATION INCOME TAX CREDIT. ENE 1/30/03 2:45 PM SB658 RELATING TO EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTIVES FOR SEX ASSAULT SURVIVORS IN EMERGENCY ROOMS. HTH 1/30/03 2:45 PM SB739 RELATING TO ANATOMICAL GIFTS. HTH 1/30/03 2:45 PM SB741 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT SERVICES. HTH 1/30/03 2:45 PM SB747 RELATING TO INSURANCE. HTH 1/30/03 2:45 PM SB893 RELATING TO MANDATORY HEALTH COVERAGE FOR EXAMINATION FOR SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES. HTH 1/30/03 2:45 PM SB894 RELATING TO OSTEOPOROSIS. HTH 1/30/03 2:45 PM SB963 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR THE POISON CENTER. HTH 1/30/03 2:45 PM SB1241 RELATING TO CANCER EXAMINATIONS. HTH 1/30/03 2:45 PM SB890 MAKING APPROPRIATIONS FOR DENTAL SERVICES. HTH/HMS 1/30/03 2:45 PM SB891 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR ADULT DENTAL HEALTH SERVICES. HTH/HMS 1/30/03 2:45 PM SB426 RELATING TO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT. SAT 1/30/03 2:45 PM SB721 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR A UNIFIED DATABASE SYSTEM OF ALL STATE AGENCIES. SAT 1/30/03 2:45 PM SB1251 RELATING TO A STATE CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER. SAT 1/30/03 2:45 PM SB1334 RELATING TO THE STATE INTERNET PORTAL. SAT 1/31/03 9:00 AM SB392 RELATING TO MANDATORY DRUG TREATMENT COURT QUARTERLY REPORTING. JHW 1/31/03 9:00 AM SB632 RELATING TO TAXATION APPEALS. JHW 1/31/03 9:00 AM SB635 RELATING TO TRAFFIC FINES. JHW 1/31/03 9:00 AM SB729 RELATING TO THE DRUG COURT PROGRAM. JHW 1/31/03 9:00 AM SB801 RELATING TO THE OFFICE OF INFORMATION PRACTICES. JHW 1/31/03 9:00 AM SB802 RELATING TO GOVERNMENT RECORDS. JHW 1/31/03 1:00 PM None Informational Briefing TMG 1/31/03 1:15 PM SB58 RELATING TO SCHOOL REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE. EDU 1/31/03 1:15 PM SB75 RELATING TO EDUCATION. EDU 1/31/03 1:15 PM SB338 RELATING TO EDUCATION. EDU 1/31/03 1:15 PM SB339 RELATING TO EDUCATION. EDU 1/31/03 1:15 PM SB365 AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS AND MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR THE REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE OF STATE EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES. EDU 1/31/03 1:15 PM SB631 RELATING TO EDUCATION. EDU 1/31/03 1:15 PM SB631 RELATING TO EDUCATION. EDU 1/31/03 1:15 PM SB752 RELATING TO TORTS. EDU 1/31/03 1:15 PM SB832 RELATING TO THE HAWAII STATE PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM. EDU 1/31/03 1:15 PM SB49 RELATING TO EMPLOYEES’ RETIREMENT SYSTEM. LBR 1/31/03 1:15 PM SB765 RELATING TO THE RETIREMENT ALLOWANCE FOR PRINCIPALS AND VICE PRINCIPALS. LBR 1/31/03 1:15 PM SB779 RELATING TO THE EMPLOYEES’ RETIREMENT SYSTEM. LBR 1/31/03 1:15 PM SB783 RELATING TO THE EMPLOYEE’S RETIREMENT SYSTEM FOR EMERGENCY MEDICAL TECHNICIANS. LBR 1/31/03 1:15 PM SB797 RELATING TO THE EMPLOYEES’ RETIREMENT SYSTEM. LBR 1/31/03 1:15 PM SB799 RELATING TO VOLUNTARY EMPLOYEES’ BENEFICIARY ASSOCIATION TRUSTS. LBR 1/31/03 1:15 PM SB1126 RELATING TO ALLOWANCE ON SERVICE RETIREMENT. LBR 1/31/03 1:15 PM SB1155 RELATING TO THE OFFICE OF HAWAIIAN AFFAIRS. LBR 1/31/03 1:15 PM SB1309 RELATING TO THE EMPLOYEES’ RETIREMENT SYSTEM. LBR 1/31/03 1:15 PM SB1312 RELATING TO THE EMPLOYEES’ RETIREMENT SYSTEM. LBR 1/31/03 1:30 PM None Informational Briefing WLA 2/1/03 10:00 AM None Informational Briefing SEN-HSE 2/3/03 9:00 AM SB361 RELATING TO THE WEED AND SEED PROGRAM. JHW 2/3/03 9:00 AM SB611 RELATING TO COURT APPOINTED COUNSEL. JHW 2/3/03 9:00 AM SB618 RELATING TO CRIME VICTIM COMPENSATION. JHW 2/3/03 9:00 AM SB634 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR TWO COUNSELORS TO TREAT WOMEN INCARCERATED FOR DRUG-RELATED OFFENSES ON MAUI. JHW 2/3/03 9:00 AM SB782 RELATING TO CORRECTIONS. JHW 2/4/03 1:15 PM None Informational Briefing SAT/ECD 2/21/03 1:00 PM None Informational Briefing TMG
MBA Schools Hot, Hiring Market Not
WASHINGTON, Jan. 23 (UPI) — Business schools have been flooded with applications for the second year in a row, though the labor market remains extremely tight for graduates of business administration master’s programs.
“We’re certainly seeing an increase in applications this year,” said Jeff Heebner of the University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business. “Some people say now is a good time to take time out to get a degree. It may be a reason for the increase.”
A June 2002 Graduate Management Admission Council report says a majority of business schools saw increases in applications for that school year. The report cites the weak economy as the main reason.
Duke, University of California at Los Angeles, Columbia and Northwestern all reported 75 percent increases in the numbers of applications for the 2002 school year.
As business schools from Harvard to Stanford sift through thousands of applications for the ingoing class of 2003, all indicators point to a repeat of last year’s trend.
“Demand for an MBA education remains high here, as well as at other schools,” said spokesperson Jay Chrepta at Harvard School of Business.
Harvard reported approximately 8,000 applications for 900 places during each of the previous three years. For 2004, the school received more than 10,000 applications.
If the weak economy is driving some into school, it may also keep them away.
“While some people apply because they’re unemployed and it feels safe, others feel that this is not the time they want to be in school because it removes them from the marketplace,” said Cherie Scricca, a dean at Smith.
Smith has also seen increases in applications for their part-time MBA program during the past three years.
The poor economy has created a buyer’s market for employers, forcing them to decrease their recruiting at MBA schools, leaving graduates feeling the pinch.
“At the time of graduation for the class of 2002, only about 75 percent of the students in the class had job offers,” said Roman Velikson, a 2002 MBA graduate from the University of Chicago. “This year, the market has gotten even worse, companies are cutting back on hiring, and job prospects don’t look any better than last year.”
According to GMAC, the average employer will hire three new MBA’s in 2003. Thirty-one percent of those employers indicated that they would not offer signing bonuses — indicating a huge shift of hiring practices during the high-tech boom.
“During the boom a few years ago, a lot of people in business school started to drop out when they saw the money they could make,” said Smith MBA student Christine Briscoe. “After the boom, I think a lot of people starting going back to the traditional route.”
Indeed, bonus figures for 2002 were expected to drop by 25 percent to a total of $7.5 billion, down from $10 billion in 2001 and $14.3 billion in 2000, the New York Daily News reported.
“Overall average salaries and compensation packages for MBA’s have decreased, and fewer people are being hired into industries that paid the highest wages,” said Tom Kozicki, Director of the MBA Resource Center at the University of Southern California’s Marshall School of Business.
The university has also seen an increase in application levels for their MBA program. Kozicki cited the downturn in recruitment efforts due to the downturn in high-tech, consulting, investment banking sectors.
While those fields are still drawing a lot of business school graduates, MBAs are increasingly heading for more diverse directions, into fields such as biotech, medical devises, defense, and security, according to recruitment experts.
Additionally, more graduates are taking marketing or sales jobs — jobs that may have been shunned in the boon of the 1990s, says Tom Johnston of Worldbrdige Partners recruiting firm.
MBA grads are also venturing out on their own as entrepreneurs, said Jeremy Shinewald, a student at University of Virginia’s Darden Graduate School of Business Administration.
“I’ve noticed that people are being a little more entrepreneurial. They’re thinking ‘I don’t want to fight with 300 people for a job that I don’t want all that badly’,” he said.
Code Cubitt, an 2002 MBA graduate, headed toward the entrepreneurial route after the dot-com boom went bust because of a “lack of options.”
“There are so many MBA’s from ‘Tier 1’ applying en masse for the lowliest positions,” he said. “I knew I was going to do this eventually, I thought, ‘Why not now, since I’m not doing anything else?'”
The MBA is generally regarded as a program that helps people change careers, or gain work experience through an internship. Employers look for those valuable points on resumes, as well as a history of leadership and increasing job responsibility.
Still, Johnston is telling MBAs to lower their expectations, indicating that promises than an MBA will help people double their salary in 2 years are a little overblown.
But an MBA still holds value for employers and students alike.
“The weak economy hasn’t influenced my opinion about getting an MBA,” Velikson said.
She now works for Morgan Stanley in London.
“I was a career changer, and I now feel that I am in a much better position for the rest of my career than I was before the MBA.”
“There are still great opportunities for great people — MBA students have to be focused and work hard. There’s just more competition out there, Kozicki said.
Copyright 2003 by United Press International. All rights reserved.
MBA Schools Hot, Hiring Market Not
WASHINGTON, Jan. 23 (UPI) — Business schools have been flooded with applications for the second year in a row, though the labor market remains extremely tight for graduates of business administration master’s programs. “We’re certainly seeing an increase in applications this year,” said Jeff Heebner of the University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business. “Some people say now is a good time to take time out to get a degree. It may be a reason for the increase.” A June 2002 Graduate Management Admission Council report says a majority of business schools saw increases in applications for that school year. The report cites the weak economy as the main reason. Duke, University of California at Los Angeles, Columbia and Northwestern all reported 75 percent increases in the numbers of applications for the 2002 school year. As business schools from Harvard to Stanford sift through thousands of applications for the ingoing class of 2003, all indicators point to a repeat of last year’s trend. “Demand for an MBA education remains high here, as well as at other schools,” said spokesperson Jay Chrepta at Harvard School of Business. Harvard reported approximately 8,000 applications for 900 places during each of the previous three years. For 2004, the school received more than 10,000 applications. If the weak economy is driving some into school, it may also keep them away. “While some people apply because they’re unemployed and it feels safe, others feel that this is not the time they want to be in school because it removes them from the marketplace,” said Cherie Scricca, a dean at Smith. Smith has also seen increases in applications for their part-time MBA program during the past three years. The poor economy has created a buyer’s market for employers, forcing them to decrease their recruiting at MBA schools, leaving graduates feeling the pinch. “At the time of graduation for the class of 2002, only about 75 percent of the students in the class had job offers,” said Roman Velikson, a 2002 MBA graduate from the University of Chicago. “This year, the market has gotten even worse, companies are cutting back on hiring, and job prospects don’t look any better than last year.” According to GMAC, the average employer will hire three new MBA’s in 2003. Thirty-one percent of those employers indicated that they would not offer signing bonuses — indicating a huge shift of hiring practices during the high-tech boom. “During the boom a few years ago, a lot of people in business school started to drop out when they saw the money they could make,” said Smith MBA student Christine Briscoe. “After the boom, I think a lot of people starting going back to the traditional route.” Indeed, bonus figures for 2002 were expected to drop by 25 percent to a total of $7.5 billion, down from $10 billion in 2001 and $14.3 billion in 2000, the New York Daily News reported. “Overall average salaries and compensation packages for MBA’s have decreased, and fewer people are being hired into industries that paid the highest wages,” said Tom Kozicki, Director of the MBA Resource Center at the University of Southern California’s Marshall School of Business. The university has also seen an increase in application levels for their MBA program. Kozicki cited the downturn in recruitment efforts due to the downturn in high-tech, consulting, investment banking sectors. While those fields are still drawing a lot of business school graduates, MBAs are increasingly heading for more diverse directions, into fields such as biotech, medical devises, defense, and security, according to recruitment experts. Additionally, more graduates are taking marketing or sales jobs — jobs that may have been shunned in the boon of the 1990s, says Tom Johnston of Worldbrdige Partners recruiting firm. MBA grads are also venturing out on their own as entrepreneurs, said Jeremy Shinewald, a student at University of Virginia’s Darden Graduate School of Business Administration. “I’ve noticed that people are being a little more entrepreneurial. They’re thinking ‘I don’t want to fight with 300 people for a job that I don’t want all that badly’,” he said. Code Cubitt, an 2002 MBA graduate, headed toward the entrepreneurial route after the dot-com boom went bust because of a “lack of options.” “There are so many MBA’s from ‘Tier 1’ applying en masse for the lowliest positions,” he said. “I knew I was going to do this eventually, I thought, ‘Why not now, since I’m not doing anything else?'” The MBA is generally regarded as a program that helps people change careers, or gain work experience through an internship. Employers look for those valuable points on resumes, as well as a history of leadership and increasing job responsibility. Still, Johnston is telling MBAs to lower their expectations, indicating that promises than an MBA will help people double their salary in 2 years are a little overblown. But an MBA still holds value for employers and students alike. “The weak economy hasn’t influenced my opinion about getting an MBA,” Velikson said. She now works for Morgan Stanley in London. “I was a career changer, and I now feel that I am in a much better position for the rest of my career than I was before the MBA.” “There are still great opportunities for great people — MBA students have to be focused and work hard. There’s just more competition out there, Kozicki said. Copyright 2003 by United Press International. All rights reserved.
Deer in the Headlights
It is a welcoming fact that Cayetano’s suspicious appointments of political friends in his waning hours are now under scrutiny. (Honolulu Advertiser 01/26/03). In previous writings I had pointed with emphasis to Cayetano’s unusual late activities that could not wait until after the elections. Let’s not stop here but also look into appointments that are immediately affecting the tourism industry. Particularly troubling is the hastily appointment, shortly before the elections, of Rex Johnson as chief executive to the Hawaii Tourism Authority. The highest paid salary ever despite sluggish economic times. This man is in charge to control a budget for more than $60 million that is primarily spent on tourism and marketing. More troubling is the special condition attached to Johnson’s contract that allows him to draw 6 months pay after being relieved from his duties. Then there is Johnson’s sidekick, Frank Haas, the HTA’s director for marketing. Haas started out in March 2002 as free-lance marketing consultant and also was hastily changed into employment shortly before Nov. 5th. Both appointees have not come up yet with any sufficient strategies to restart tourism except excessive personal travel of the expense of the taxpayers and flip flopping on issues such as Lilo & Stitch, which may become big and excessive baggage. I have consistently pointed out that the HTA has failed to provide any leadership or ideas to implement strategies to revitalize the sluggish tourism industry. And now with new and true leadership for the state, all these appointees engage suddenly in a flurry of activities because they are beginning to realize that there are crucial requirements for their positions that are missing in their resumes. And finally after 40 years of mostly mismanagement, control and guidance is suddenly applied and they are acting like deer in the headlights. “We probably didn’t do a lot of things that we should have done, from an accountability standpoint,” sounded off Rex Johnson on Jan. 24, 2003, in the Honolulu Star-Bulletin. “Sometimes you need to spend a lot to get an important customer, and sometimes you don’t,” said Haas, Johnson’s sidekick, in that same article. Haas states further: “It doesn’t make sense to set visitor targets for wartime -? or even so set a projection -? because too little is known about how long a war would last and what would do to travel trends.” Huh? There is no war on U.S. soil. We have data on Desert Storm. We could set projections on tourism without war and with war. One fact of war is, for example, that most likely the value of the dollar will fall — a tremendous advantage to foreign travel. Only travel in certain world regions will be affected. But most of all it will affect travel for U.S. citizens. That travel group will refrain to travel to foreign countries. So we should do everything possible to target this group. Not war but terrorism should be a concern. I recommend that a bit more should be done by Haas and Johnson than just to shrug their shoulders. Europe is waiting for marketing signs. They are ready to come but get no calls from the HTA or Hawaii Visitor and Convention Bureau. Will this opportunity pass again? Johnson sounds off in the Honolulu Advertiser on 01/22/03: “To have a chat with Linda Lingle to see what she wants.” Johnson doesn’t know what to do? He now wants the new Convention Marketing firm to get his approval for wining and dining expenditures. But just last year’s Travel Agent’s Convention was so lavishly provided by the HTA and HVCB, and for free, that it has raised eyebrows in the industry. And all we have gotten so far are supportive sound bytes from attendees of that convention. But what kind of results are we getting from it in exchange for millions of dollars spent? The same applies to Lilo & Stitch. Johnson recently complained that numbers are missing from the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism to control such data. There is no data, because there are no results. My recommendation; Haas and Johnson should leave gracefully and make way for true progress before they get shed. The recent unusual flurry of activities played out in the media by these two men seems to be in response to the director of DBEDT, Ted Liu’s, statement: “Other substantial department changes that have been discussed, such as shedding agencies like the Hawaii Tourism Authority, will be announced by Lingle at a later date.” (Honolulu Advertiser 01/17/03) There is light at the end of the tunnel. No more deer in the headlights … let the shedding begin. ”Dieter Thate is owner of Dieter’s Tours and Kimapa Marketing since 1993. He can be reached by email at:” mailto:mail@kimapa.com ”or visit his Web site at:” https://www.kimapa.com
9/11 Panel Meets for the First Time
WASHINGTON, Jan. 27 (UPI) — The 10-member commission investigating the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks met formally for the first time Monday, in a closed session, where they agreed to convene public meetings and perhaps hearings, including some in New York city, as soon as practical.
“New York was the place where the greatest tragedy happened,” the commission’s chairman, former New Jersey GOP Gov. Thomas H. Kean, told United Press International, “so it makes sense that we would try to hold at least some of our activities there.”
The commission met informally Monday with a number of the victims’ relatives, who welcomed the new team. “They seemed very enthusiastic and very optimistic,” said Stephen Push, who represents a coalition of four groups of victims’ families. “They’re a good team with the right attitude,” he told UPI.
But Push said he was concerned that the commission is underfunded: “Personally, I don’t think the $3 million allocated is nearly enough.”
Kean acknowledged that the commission would likely have to ask for more: “Is it enough? Probably not. We don’t know yet,” adding that they intended to first draw up a work plan and decide staffing levels before developing a budget “as soon as we responsibly can.”
If they needed more money, he said, they would “go back to Congress to ask for it. Both (Congress) and the White House have indicated that they are happy with that.”
Kean told UPI that the bipartisan commission planned to establish a number of task forces to look at the different areas they are mandated to investigate. “Given we only have 16 months left,” he said, “we have to proceed simultaneously on several fronts.”
Breaking the commission and staff up into subcommittees in this way will also help head off a potentially thorny issue: that of potential or perceived conflicts of interest on the part of the members. The two men originally nominated as chairman and deputy chairman — former Secretary of State Henry A. Kissinger and former Senate Majority Leader George Mitchell — both withdrew last year after questions were raised about whether their substantial private-sector client lists might prevent them from doing a thorough job.
Push pointed out that three members of the commission work for law firms that represent airlines.
“We talked in general terms about this issue,” Kean told UPI, declining to discuss specific cases of individual members. But he indicated that the commission thought in broad terms about the question: “We have people who were in Congress, for instance, and one of the issues we’ve got to look at is whether congressional oversight failed.
“We intend to structure our work so that people who might be seen to have a conflict of interest in a certain area will not work on that area.”
Kean added that every member of the commission would fully disclose all their outside interests to the Senate ethics committee.
Push said the relatives would trust the integrity of the members not to take part in discussions where they might have a conflict of interest, but added, “we shall be watching them closely.”
In a press statement following the meeting, the commission announced the appointment as executive director of Philip Zelikow, of the University of Virginia. There was also discussion of staffing and other issues, including office space for the commission and a work plan, the statement said.
The bulk of the commission’s meetings — which it hopes to hold every two weeks or so — would be held in Washington, Kean said, adding that the main office would be there as well. “Most of the people are (in Washington), and more importantly, that is where all the documents are.”
On the question of office space, he said, “we hope to nail that down this week.”
Kean said the commission hoped — resources allowing — to have a field office in New York City. He said they had received hundreds of resumes from people interested in joining their staff.
Kean told UPI that the commission members met informally with each other over dinner Sunday evening — a “get-to-know-you” session — and with representatives of the victims’ families after the four-hour meeting on Monday morning.
The meeting was held two months to the day after President George W. Bush — who had initially opposed establishing the commission — signed the bill bringing into being on Nov. 27.
In addition to Kean, the commission has four Republican members: former Illinois Gov. James Thompson, former White House Counsel Fred Fielding, former Washington state Sen. Slade Gorton and John Lehman, who was Navy secretary under President Ronald Reagan
The Democratic members are two former Indiana congressmen, Lee Hamilton and Tim Roemer, former Georgia Sen. Max Cleland, attorney Richard Ben-Veniste and Jamie Gorelick, a Justice Department official in the Clinton administration.
The group’s next meeting will be in Washington on Feb. 12 and will also be closed, because personnel matters will be discussed. But it will be followed by availability to the press, Kean said.
Copyright 2003 by United Press International. All rights reserved.
9/11 Panel Meets for the First Time
WASHINGTON, Jan. 27 (UPI) — The 10-member commission investigating the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks met formally for the first time Monday, in a closed session, where they agreed to convene public meetings and perhaps hearings, including some in New York city, as soon as practical. “New York was the place where the greatest tragedy happened,” the commission’s chairman, former New Jersey GOP Gov. Thomas H. Kean, told United Press International, “so it makes sense that we would try to hold at least some of our activities there.” The commission met informally Monday with a number of the victims’ relatives, who welcomed the new team. “They seemed very enthusiastic and very optimistic,” said Stephen Push, who represents a coalition of four groups of victims’ families. “They’re a good team with the right attitude,” he told UPI. But Push said he was concerned that the commission is underfunded: “Personally, I don’t think the $3 million allocated is nearly enough.” Kean acknowledged that the commission would likely have to ask for more: “Is it enough? Probably not. We don’t know yet,” adding that they intended to first draw up a work plan and decide staffing levels before developing a budget “as soon as we responsibly can.” If they needed more money, he said, they would “go back to Congress to ask for it. Both (Congress) and the White House have indicated that they are happy with that.” Kean told UPI that the bipartisan commission planned to establish a number of task forces to look at the different areas they are mandated to investigate. “Given we only have 16 months left,” he said, “we have to proceed simultaneously on several fronts.” Breaking the commission and staff up into subcommittees in this way will also help head off a potentially thorny issue: that of potential or perceived conflicts of interest on the part of the members. The two men originally nominated as chairman and deputy chairman — former Secretary of State Henry A. Kissinger and former Senate Majority Leader George Mitchell — both withdrew last year after questions were raised about whether their substantial private-sector client lists might prevent them from doing a thorough job. Push pointed out that three members of the commission work for law firms that represent airlines. “We talked in general terms about this issue,” Kean told UPI, declining to discuss specific cases of individual members. But he indicated that the commission thought in broad terms about the question: “We have people who were in Congress, for instance, and one of the issues we’ve got to look at is whether congressional oversight failed. “We intend to structure our work so that people who might be seen to have a conflict of interest in a certain area will not work on that area.” Kean added that every member of the commission would fully disclose all their outside interests to the Senate ethics committee. Push said the relatives would trust the integrity of the members not to take part in discussions where they might have a conflict of interest, but added, “we shall be watching them closely.” In a press statement following the meeting, the commission announced the appointment as executive director of Philip Zelikow, of the University of Virginia. There was also discussion of staffing and other issues, including office space for the commission and a work plan, the statement said. The bulk of the commission’s meetings — which it hopes to hold every two weeks or so — would be held in Washington, Kean said, adding that the main office would be there as well. “Most of the people are (in Washington), and more importantly, that is where all the documents are.” On the question of office space, he said, “we hope to nail that down this week.” Kean said the commission hoped — resources allowing — to have a field office in New York City. He said they had received hundreds of resumes from people interested in joining their staff. Kean told UPI that the commission members met informally with each other over dinner Sunday evening — a “get-to-know-you” session — and with representatives of the victims’ families after the four-hour meeting on Monday morning. The meeting was held two months to the day after President George W. Bush — who had initially opposed establishing the commission — signed the bill bringing into being on Nov. 27. In addition to Kean, the commission has four Republican members: former Illinois Gov. James Thompson, former White House Counsel Fred Fielding, former Washington state Sen. Slade Gorton and John Lehman, who was Navy secretary under President Ronald Reagan The Democratic members are two former Indiana congressmen, Lee Hamilton and Tim Roemer, former Georgia Sen. Max Cleland, attorney Richard Ben-Veniste and Jamie Gorelick, a Justice Department official in the Clinton administration. The group’s next meeting will be in Washington on Feb. 12 and will also be closed, because personnel matters will be discussed. But it will be followed by availability to the press, Kean said. Copyright 2003 by United Press International. All rights reserved.
Lower the Overall Burden of Taxes
Since it appears that both lawmakers and administration officials want to give away the store, let’s hope they do something for everyone rather than a select few.
In fact, it is truly amazing that no liberal policy maker has pointed out that the much touted Act 221 tax credit for high technology investments is truly regressive, rewarding the rich who invest up to $2 million in a qualified investment with a 100 percent refund of their investment and now the investor owns an equity position in what might be worth millions in the future. The equity position is paid for by the taxpayers of Hawaii, including the very poor who may even be living in public housing.
Lawmakers should turn their attention to doing something that will improve the overall condition of all taxpayers. And the latest Tax Review Commission has a suggestion. The Commission points out that while the 1998 session of the state Legislature did undertake a reform of the state’s individual income tax rates and brackets, legislators did not go far enough.
At the lower end, lawmakers barely moved the bottom threshold — that level of income before a poor person has to begin paying income taxes — such that Hawaii continues to be the state with the third lowest level of income requiring the payment of income taxes. At the top end, single individuals with taxable income of $40,000 and couples with taxable incomes of $80,000 must pay the maximum income tax rate.
While lawmakers may think that is a reasonable level of income to require people to pay the maximum tax rate, they seem to forget that a maximum tax rate recognizes that the taxpayer has more than sufficient income for all his or her needs and therefore can cope with the maximum tax rate. No one seems to have asked the question of how that is perceived by people earning more than that amount or for that matter companies looking to locate in Hawaii who must pay their prospective employees more than that amount to attract them to their companies.
The Tax Review Commission made note of this fact and recommended that to help those at the bottom end, the state’s standard deduction and personal exemption should be increased to mirror the federal law. This would mean that the standard deduction of $1,900 for a joint return would rise to $7,600 and the personal exemption would rise from $1,040 to $2,900.
The Commission also noted that the state income tax brackets are so compressed that even persons on public assistance pay income taxes. They recommend that the state’s income tax brackets be expanded so that people on public assistance do not have to pay income taxes and that the highest marginal tax rate, which is currently 8.25 percent, not be imposed until a joint filer’s income exceeds $100,000.
What may be the most difficult to accomplish, the Commission recommends even closer conformity with the federal definition of what is taxable income. This would mean doing away with a plethora of special provisions such as the exclusion for initial payments made to members of the national guard or for that matter exempting cost of living allowances.
It is interesting to note that the Tax Review Commission prefaced all of these recommendations with the statement that, “If the state cannot afford to immediately reduce net income taxes, it should make a commitment to phase in over time …” Certainly faced with a looming shortfall in the biennial budget, the state is not in a position to make some of these reductions in the net income tax burden.
While this inability to act on these tax reductions may in part be due to the sluggish economy, some of it can surely be attributed to the fact that lawmakers have sapped the state treasury with all sorts of oddball tax incentives believing that they can stimulate the economy. What they have lost sight of is the fact that the tax climate must be improved for all taxpayers.
Instead of reducing the overall tax burden for all taxpayers, lawmakers have found it more attractive to say that they have provided incentives for this or that. While each of these tax incentives may not make much of a dent in the state treasury, collectively, they have foreclosed the possible across-the-board reduction in income tax rates and perhaps even a reduction in the 4 percent general excise tax.
Hopefully lawmakers will get the picture and reduce taxes for everybody and not for just a favored few.
”’Lowell L. Kalapa is the president of the Tax Foundation of Hawaii, a private, non-profit educational organization. For more information, please call 536-4587 or log on to”’ https://www.tfhawaii.org
Lessons are Learned from Privatization Projects That Do and Do Not Succeed
On Friday, the dissolution of one of the largest and most watched privatization’s in the United States was announced. The city of Atlanta and United Water announced that the city would take back operation of its water utility, ending the privatization after four years. The overwhelming majority of privatizations succeed, so there are mostly positive lessons learned from them, but there are also lessons to be learned from privatizations that don’t work out. There will be a lot of post-mortem discussion of the Atlanta privatization and amidst the rhetoric the real lessons will sometimes be obscured. Reason’s analysis of what happened and what lessons people should take away from it, “The Atlanta Water Privatization: What Can We Learn?” is available at https://www.rppi.org/atlantawaterprivatization.html It is clear there is plenty of blame on the shoulders of both parties involved, and that the privatization was high risk from the beginning. But I am particularly bothered by how little concern there seems to be for the consequences of this decision. Before the privatization was implemented, everyone demanded to know exactly what the implications were for city residents. Unfortunately, the decision to end the privatization has raised no such demands. Before privatization the city had allowed the water system to deteriorate to near collapse, was being fined by the EPA for violating clean water standards, and had nearly 50 percent more employees working in the water department than needed. The water department said it needed to double water rates to solve these problems. Privatization saved the city roughly $10 million per year, brought the system into compliance with EPA standards, and raised rates only 10 percent to accomplish it. An audit has revealed that the city used the $10 million per year in savings for general fund expenses, rather than for the sewer fund as it had promised. The city has made no statements about how it will cope without the $10 million per year in savings, but has announced there will be a rate increase and plans to increase the workforce by 15 percent. It is clear that Atlanta’s leaders are willing to make city residents pay, and pay a lot, rather than work through their differences with United Water or look for some alternative rather than city operation that already proved a dismal failure. As we discussed in our report on the politics of privatization (https://www.rppi.org/htg20.pdf), one truism of privatization is that it is a political decision, and politics, not reality, too often drive the train. ”Adrian Moore is the Vice President of Research for the Reason Foundation. He can be reached by email at:” mailto:Adrian.Moore@reason.org ”Originally published by Reason Foundation, which is a public policy think tank promoting choice, competition and a dynamic market economy as the foundation for human dignity and progress. For more information, contact Geoffrey Segal, Director of Privatization and Government Reform Policy at:” mailto:geoffrey.segal@reason.org ”Visit the Reason Web site at:” https://www.rppi.org ”or go to the Reason Public Policy Institute’s Privatization Center at:” https://www.privatization.org ”for information on government reform, privatization, contracting out and public/private partnerships.”