House Floor Speech
Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu
on
H.B. 2569
Relating to Niihau Shell Products
Thursday, April 29, 2004
6:30 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I rise in support.
H.B. 2569 prohibits items made of seashells from being labeled “Niihau” if not 100% made of Niihau shells and made within the State. As we are moving ahead in strengthening and diversifying our economy, we must include our native Hawaiians to be a part of this historical movement. This bill takes a small step towards that direction.
Specifically, H.B. 2569 would protect the Native Hawaiian Niihau shell product businesses on Niihau from other businesses using the term “Niihau” on their products when in fact their products (1) do not comprise of seashells harvested from the island of Niihau, its waters, or beaches; and (2) are not fabricated, processed, or manufactured entirely within the State. In addition, this bill allows labeling that indicates the percentage of Niihau shell content if the item contains at least 80% Niihau shells and is made entirely in the State.
The Native Hawaiian Niihau shell product businesses on Niihau are known for their craftsmanship and selection of pristine shells from their island. The policy behind this measure is to protect Hawaii businesses, especially native Hawaiian businesses from being taken advantage of by businesses fraudulently using the term “Niihau” for their products. After all, customers pay hundreds, even thousands of dollars for Niihau shell products. Hawaiian cultural products are becoming more and more popular in the global economy as Hawaii in itself is a brand name. Besides retail businesses, with e-commerce businesses on the Internet, the potential for abuse is even greater. Therefore, I created H.B. 2569 to help protect our Hawaii businesses, especially those owned by our Native Hawaiian brothers and sisters. Thank you.
JON RIKI KARAMATSU 