Monthly Archives: March 2010

Jon Riki Karamatsu’s 2009-2010 Media as of March 30, 2010: 96 Days of All Media, 85 Days of Statewide Media, 9 Days of Regional Media, and 2 Days of Boutique Media.

On Monday, March 29, 2010, I attended the Tobe! Uta-Sanshin 2010 in Hawaii! at the Hawaii Okinawa Center in Waipio from 7:00 P.M to 9:30 P.M. I bumped into people I met at last year’s Okinawan Festival, various Kenjin Kai picnics, & up to this past Saturday’s Mililani Hongwanji’s Bazaar. My friend had a feeling I would be attending this performance, so she brought a DVD on Okinawan musical performances for me. I was so happy! I really enjoy Okinawan music.

On Monday, March 29, 2010, I co-chaired a hearing for the joint House Consumer Protection & Commerce Committee and Judiciary Committee with Rep. Glenn Wakai who took over for Rep. Bob Herkes who is ill from 2:00 P.M.

On Sunday, March 28, 2010, I attended the Honpa Hongwanji Betsuin Bazaar from 9:30 AM – 12 PM, & Auto Show at the Hawaii Convention Center from 12:30 PM – 7 PM.

I will be attending the Imua Flag Football Team Fundraiser in Kaneohe today, Saturday, March 27, 2010 from 5:00 P.M.

On Saturday, March 27, 2010 from 1:45 P.M., I attended the Mililani Hongwanji Bazaar at Mililani Hongwanji. I bought Okinawan donuts and green onions.

On Saturday, March 27, 2010, from 10:00 A.M. to 1:15 P.M., I participated in the Progressive Democrats of Hawaii Candidates Speed Dating where all the candidates for Lieutenant Governor was introduced to the crowd and later the crowd broke down into six smaller groups where each candidate could speak for 11 minutes and answer questions. At the end, each candidate could speak to the entire crowd for a few minutes as a finale. I had a lot of fun!

On Friday, March 26, 2010, I greeted a delegation from China at my capitol office from 10:00 A.M., presented a House certificate to my Waipahu constituents Armand and Marie Bartolome for their 60th wedding anniversary at Makino Chaya restaurant in Aiea, and celebrated my friend Lori Murayama’s birthday at V-Lounge owned by our friend where we ate very delicious brick-oven pizza.

On Thursday, March 25, 2010, I attended the HMSA, Microsoft, UH-Hilo College of Pharmacy Presentation at the state capitol from 12:00 P.M., chaired my House Judiciary Committee from 2:45 P.M., attended the Technology Industry Update Event from 6:20 P.M., and attended the 2010 Auto Show VIP Preview at the Hawaii Convention Center from about 6:50 P.M.

On Wednesday, March 24, 2010, I marched in the Kupuna Care and Meals on Wheels’ “March for Meals” from Honolulu Hale to the State Capitol where I spoke to a crowd.  I also presented a House certificate to the organizers of the event.

On Tuesday, March 23, 2010, I attended the Hawaii Medal of Honor ceremonies at the Hawaii House of Representatives chambers from 2:00 P.M., hosted guests from Japan at the State Capitol form 3:30 P.M., and attended a gathering for the Big Island County Council, colleagues from the House of Representatives, and community leaders at my friend Wes’ office from 6:30 P.M.

On Monday, March 22, 2010, I attended a gathering of House of Representatives and community leaders to celebrate my friend Sherry’s birthday.

On Sunday, March 21, 2010, I attended the 56th Annual Kunia Orchid Show at Leilehua High School gymnasium from 9:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M.

On Saturday, March 20, 2010, I attended the Hawaii Historical Arms Society Gun Show at Neal S. Blaisdell Center from 12:00 P.M. and the Green Dog Night Event, a Fundraiser for the Hawaii Canine Assistance Network at Ke’ehi Lagoon Veteran’s War Memorial, John A. Burns Hall, 2685 N. Nimitz Highway from 6:00 P.M.

I attended the fundraiser for Representatives Clift Tsuji and Kyle Yamashita at Mandalay Restaurant on Alakea Street on Thursday, March 18, 2010 from about 6:30 P.M.

House Concurrent Resolution 171
REQUESTING THE ATTORNEY GENERAL TO REVIEW THE GUARDIANSHIP PROCESS WITH RESPECT TO PATIENTS IN HOSPITALS WHO ARE WAITLISTED FOR POST-ACUTE CARE.
Guardianship; Hospital Patients Waitlisted for Post-Acute Care

House Concurrent Resolution 172
RELATING TO HEALTH SYSTEM TASK FORCE.
Health System Task Force
This task force will look at the tort law regarding medical care.

House Concurrent Resolution 276
ENCOURAGING LOCAL NEWS ORGANIZATIONS TO DILIGENTLY ENFORCE COMMENT POSTING GUIDELINES ON THEIR ONLINE PUBLICATIONS.
News Organizations; Enforcement of Comment Posting Guidelines

House Resolution 198
ENCOURAGING LOCAL NEWS ORGANIZATIONS TO DILIGENTLY ENFORCE COMMENT POSTING GUIDELINES ON THEIR ONLINE PUBLICATIONS.
News Organizations; Enforcement of Comment Posting Guidelines

Rep. Jon Riki Karamatsu speaking to the crowd at the Wahiawa Nikkei Association Cherry Blossom festival at Wahiawa Hongwanji on January 30, 2010.

Rep. Jon Riki Karamatsu interviewed by one of the best reporters, Marisa Yamane of KHON2 News.

Rep. Jerry Chang, Rep. Jon Riki Karamatsu, & Councilman "Fresh Onishi" at the 8th Annual Hilo Chinese New Year Festival on Sat., Feb. 13, 2010.

Rep. Jon Riki Karamatsu & Rep. Ken Ito at Karamatsu's Feb. 18, 2010 fundraiser at St. Andrew's Priory.

Alec Sou, Rep. Jon Riki Karamatsu, & Brandon Mitsuda at Karamatsu's Feb. 18, 2010 fundraiser at St. Andrew's Priory.

Rep. Jon Riki Karamatsu & Speaker Calvin K.Y. Say addressing the crowd at the Association of Chinese from Vietnam, Cambodia & Laos at Empress Restaurant on Saturday, February 20, 2010.

Rep. Clift Tsuji, Speaker Calvin K.Y. Say, and Rep. Jon Riki Karamatsu on the 2009 Legislative Opening Day.

Rep. Jon Riki Karamatsu and Sen. Nadao "Najo" Yoshinaga at Karamatsu's Capitol Office, Room 427 in 2006.

Rep. Jon Riki Karamatsu & Rep. Bob Nakasone at Karamatsu's fundraiser at St. Andrew's Priory in 2006.

The entourage at Rep. Jon Riki Karamatsu's fundraiser at St. Andrew's Priory in 2006.

Rep. Roland Sagum, Rep. Ken Ito, Rep. Jerry Chang, & Rep. Jon Riki Karamatsu at their 2010 Legislative Opening Day reception at the Iolani Palace administration building.

SEEKING BALANCE IN POLITICS

By Rep. Jon Riki Karamatsu

Friday, March 19, 2010 

Lawmaking can be so messy at times.  Politicians pass laws based out of big policy ideas without studying the details.  They pass laws out of emotion.  Sometimes laws are passed or killed because of threats or fear of public perception.  The legal analysis and the visionary approach looking out for unforeseen circumstances or unintended consequences are blinded by narrow-minded goals and sometimes selfish power plays.  Some good laws never see the light of day and bad ones are passed because of politicians’ fear for their re-election probabilities rather than on the merit of the issue.  As for the laws we do create, a number of them violate constitutional rights, curb due process, infringe on privacy, mandate judges to punish individuals for violations of laws without looking at each unique case differently, duplicate laws that are already in existence, and damage the balance between agriculture and development.

Throughout my career I have worked on policy goals I believed was in the best interest of Hawaii.  I understand that what’s the best interest of another politician may be different or in the opposite direction of mine.  Therefore, one of the most important skills in lawmaking is the art of compromise.  The key to achieving “compromise” is “balance.”  As chair of the House Judiciary Committee, I have learned that I have to work in the shades of gray and even moving into the black, often times swallowing terrible laws pushed by my colleagues.   

As of now, many of my bills are already dead.  If a chair, doesn’t like my legislation, I accept it and move one.  You would think a chairman of a powerful committee such as mine would leverage other politicans’ bills to get my bills passed.  Nah, not me.  So many politicians, lobbyists, community leaders, and constituents want something, and I try my best to see if I can address their concerns or wishes.  I have helped individuals who opposed me and even attacked me personally.  I strongly believe that I must forgive others who have gone against me.  A difficult task, but something I believe is important rather than harboring ill feelings that will just tear you up inside and do more damage than good in the long run. 

However, for a few issues, I feel obligated to make a stand on.  I list some of the examples I faced this year as chair of the House Judiciary Committee. 

I try to find a favorable result or at least seek some balance, especially if a bill treats an individual or entity differently than another like what is happening in our campaign finance laws where corporations, out-of-state-residents, competitive bidding contractors and small contractors are treated differently from others and cannot participate in the political process as far as campaign contributions are concerned. 

On the same note of equality under the law, I have concerns that the same-sex community does not have the same rights as the heterosexual community.  The legislature looked at giving all the contractual benefits and liabilities heterosexual couples have to same-sex partners.  Threats against the careers of politicians eventually ended the civil unions measure when it was at the brink of a historical passage. 

Further, in criminal law, every case is different based on the facts presented.  We have laws that mandate certain penalties disregarding the fact that every case is unique based on the facts and the circumstances.  Some of the judges testified that they can identify individuals who get in trouble with the law who can be helped to turn their lives around through the programs available in the specialty courts, which not only makes a former troubled citizen, a productive citizen, but it saves the state millions of dollars, and billions of dollars if you look into the long term. 

For fireworks, it is unfortunate that there are individuals who break the law because their wrong-doings has given a lot of momentum to the extreme right side of our community who wants to ban fireworks completely.  Currently, fireworks can only be popped within a four-hour window on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day and for a number of hours on Chinese New Year and Fourth of July.  Other than that, there is a ban on fireworks.  Personally, I enjoy the beauty of fireworks and sharing the experience with my family and friends.

In regards to the ignition interlock bill for driving under the influence, I believe the program is worthwhile and should be tried in the State of Hawaii.  However, I am opposed to the proposal to eliminate our “implied consent” law that allows one to refuse a breath, blood, and urine test, but by doing so, one loses his or her license for a time period with no legal recourse.  The legal community and lawmakers of the past ruled that “driving” is a “privilege” and not a “right”.  Recently, I accepted a version of the bill that would mandate a conviction of a petty misdemeanor (up to 30 days in prison) for one who refuses to take a breath, blood, or urine test without legal recourse.  “Due process” is a “right” and not merely a “privilege”.  Current law says that one is in violation of the driving under the influence law if they have an intoxication of .08.  An individual who would have tested below .08 is considered legal; however, a refusal would make that person a convict regardless, even if that person would have been considered legal or below .08, thus inncocent under the law.  He or she will not have due process in the court law.  I understand and believe in the policy behind this change, but as a lawyer, whenever a law can convict a person who is innocent under the law, I have a problem with that.

Finally, I have helped many developers in their projects through some of the bills I pushed as well as letters or public appearances I have done to show support.  But at the same time, I am looking out for our farmers and agricultural lands.  Again, balance is important.  I strongly believe the Ewa farmers who are the second largest growers of produce in Hawaii must be protected.  In this case, I support protecting these agricultural lands because producing our own food is essential in Hawaii’s self-sustainability or at least in our attempt to become so.  Besides the Kunia lands, the Ewa lands are the last of the large, flat, fertile, and contiguous prime agricultural lands on Oahu.  The soil is rated A and B according to the Land Study Bureau and soil experts explain that the soil is top for agriculture as it has a natural churning process similar to some of the lands that are now cemented over in Hawaii Kai.  Moreover, the sun is constant and winds are ideal unlike that on the North Shore.  Every farmer will say there has to be a constant access to water for successful farming.  The Ewa lands have natural wells underneath.  In fact, much of our drinking water is in the large aquifer below.  If we cover these lands with cement, a lot of the water will run off into the ocean rather than replenish our aquifer.  More development is planned on flat lands in Kapolei and in the hills of Makakilo as well as in Central Oahu and on the neighbor islands.  The soil on the hills and mountains are too acidic for many of the produce to grow there.  I have a bill that was never heard by it’s assigned committee that would start a task force to look into creating incentives to encourage the redevelopment in our urban core, especially our old buildings.  The problem we have in Hawaii for agriculture is that many of our farmers do not own their land, but lease them instead.  They are at the mercy of rich landowners, some from overseas.  Since the beginning of land use laws in the Kingdom of Hawaii to the Territory of Hawaii to statehood and up to today, investors would look for agricultural lands in Hawaii with the intent to reclassify them out of agriculture and into an urban classification because agricultural lands are cheaper, and with a reclassification where development can be performed, the value of the lands would jump up.  This has been the tradition, and it will continue to go on until someday we will have very few farmers left.  That is why I feel strongly in protecting the last of the active farmers on our prime agricultural lands.  I introduced bills that would prevent the reclassification of prime agricultural lands that have active farming or showed a history of farming.  These bills have all faded away, but I heard one was revived in the senate.

In my loyalty to “balance” when creating laws, I have requested for help or at least compromise from some of my colleagues on a few issues very important to me, but instead these individuals who I have helped with on their issues that they considered very important to them have in turn forced me to take their version of policy without an inch of compromise, and others have pushed floor amendments turning some of the bills upside down.  In my eight year political career, I have never forced my position on them or forced a floor amendment on them.  It is one thing to face opposition from dissidents or Republicans, who I have helped on bills as well, but it is much more painful when they are individuals within my political circle.  Politics is dirty.  The worse individuals will leak information to the media, talk from both sides of their mouth, attack your personal life, and do whatever it takes to knock you out.  I have a handful of politicians I trust, and that is it.  Many people are after something that they can get out of you, and forget about you as a person. 

One night after a very difficult hearing in which I gave in to allowing a bill to pass with language I disagreed with, I went home and laid in bed.  I thought of Rep. Bob Nakasone.  When he was alive, I could always go to him for advice.  He had a way of making you feel better without saying much.  His presence alone was so comforting.  I closed my eyes and reminisced of my mentor.  Rep. Nakasone would tell me, “Eh Jon, … balance … gotta have balance.” 

Despite my negative experiences in politics, I am determined to change it with positivity.  What keeps me driven is my platform to diversify the economy with innovation, encourage project-based learning in our public schools, increase sustainability by pushing for more of our own agricultural and energy production, reduce violence, help those in need, lower the cost of healthcare, provide long-term care services, develop affordable housing, and most importantly, help all beings to achieve peace within.  I am open to hearing all sides of an issue no matter if it is controversial or not, even though I know it is more politically safe to avoid controversial issues.  After all, government is where we can all have a healthy discussion, or else we will not progress as a society.  I believe in the goodness in humanity.  Without hope, there is nothing to live for.  Let’s take it to the next level!  Do your best, tackle each challenge, then it is on to the next one.  I wish you happiness, good heath, and success in all your positive endeavors!

I was interviewed last Wednesday, March 10, 2010 by Hawaii News Now (KGMB9 & KHNL8) regarding a bill regulating veterinarians. According to my press secretary and campaign statistics since January 1, 2009, I have been in the media for 91 days and 80 of those days were statewide media. I enjoy working with the media. Well, most of the time.

On Wednesday, March 17, 2010, from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM, I attended the Wahiawa Lions Club Charter Night “Celebrating 70 Years of Selfless Service” at Dot’s Restaurant in Wahiawa.

On Wednesday, March 16, 2010, I attended the House Consumer Protection & Commerce Committee hearing from 2 PM.

I was on Channel 2 news regarding human trafficking. Chaired my House Judiciary Committee hearing from 2 PM to after 8 PM, Tuesday, 16, 2010.

I attended “Taste of Ag” at Du Vin on Monday, March 15, 2010 from about 7 pm.

Representative Mitsuo “Mits” “Eugene” Shito

Representative Mitsuo Shito or “Mits” of Waipahu, Hawaii, passed away February 12, 2010 at Queen’s Medical Center at the age of  79.   Mits was born in Kaunakakai, Molokai. He retired from Hawaii Army National Guard after 42 years of service. Mits served as a State Representative in the House of Representative of the Hawaii State Legislature from 1974 to 1988, Executive Director of Hawaii Housing Authority Retired in 1996, member of Kawaiahao Church and served on The Board of Trustees. He was also a co-founder of Waipahu Cultural Garden Park (Hawaii’s Plantation Village) and a founder of the Mits Shito Golf Club.

I will miss working with Mits and seeing him at community events.  I also saw him every time I walked door-to-door in Waikele.

Your honor, may have permission to face the audience? (Addressing Chief Justice Moon and the Hawaii Supreme Court)

Good afternoon,

It gives me great pleasure, on behalf of the House of Representatives and Speaker Calvin Say, to speak on this great occasion of the swearing-in of the Honorable Lawrence M. Reifurth as Associate Judge of the Intermediate Court of Appeals and the Honorable Edward H. Kubo, Jr. as Judge of the Circuit Court of the First Circuit. Both individuals have had outstanding law careers, have been dedicated public servants to the state, and have been actively involved in community organizations. They are most certainly outstanding additions to our state court system.

As a Hawaii State Representative and Chair of the House Judiciary Committee, I have had the privilege of working with both of these distinguished gentlemen. With Associate Judge Reifurth during his time as the Director of the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, and with Judge Kubo during his time as the United States Attorney for the District of Hawaii. During our time working together, they have shown me that they are both knowledgeable, capable and have the skills to assume their respective appointments. 

The life of a Judge is anything but easy. You work publicly and your decisions are scrutinized and criticized by all.  That is why a good judge must be a person of many qualities. They are patient, firm, alert, empathetic, sharp, and intelligent. Judge Reifurth and Judge Kubo demonstrate all of the qualities I have mentioned and the ones I have not.  I am certain you will serve on the bench with fairness, integrity and honor in the name of justice.

On behalf of the House of Representative and Speaker Calvin Say, we wish you many challenging and rewarding years on the bench. Congratulations. 

Thank you.

Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu

House Journal Written Remarks, 3^rd Reading

House Bill No. 1756, House Draft 1

Relating to Criminal Procedure

Monday, March 2, 2010

I rise in support.

House Bill 1756, House Draft 1 allows for the expungement of convictions for non-violent offenses after a five year waiting period after the completion of sentencing or probation for the offense to be expunged, whichever is later, before an application for expungement may be filed with the court.  It prohibits the expungement of a conviction for any crime that is not eligible for a deferred acceptance of a guilty plea or nolo contendere plea.  The court shall determine that the defendant is not likely to engage in a criminal course of conduct and that the ends of justice and the welfare of society do not require that the conviction remain on the applicant’s record before issuing an expungement order.

This bill works together with the Judiciary budget bill that includes the funding for the specialty courts that helps our people who commit non-violent crimes to turn their lives around.  Upon completion of their sentencing or probation, an expungement of convictions for non-violent offenses will help these individuals to get jobs and be productive citizens in our community.

Thank you.

Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu

House Journal Written Remarks, 3^rd Reading

House Bill No. 1752, House Draft 1

Relating to Repeat Offenders

Monday, March 2, 2010

I rise in support.

The purpose of House Bill 1752, House Draft 1 is to increase judicial discretion by excluding certain non-violent offenders from the repeat offenders statute requiring mandatory minimum prison terms.  The House is aware that the intent of this bill is to give back to Hawaii state judges discretion in sentencing certain defendants guilty of certain crimes as enumerated in the bill without requiring any minimum jail time or alternative sentencing methods if the circumstances do not require incarceration.  Mandatory incarceration of defendants results in huge costs to the State and does not lead to a reduction in recidivism.  According to the Judiciary, the incarceration of an adult defendant costs about $50,735 per year.  The use of alternative courts, such as drug court or Hawaii’s Opportunity Probation with Enforcement (HOPE) program, costs about $8,000 per year for each defendant.  In addition, the rates of recidivism for defendants graduating from these alternative courts are markedly lower than those leaving incarceration. 

Thank you.

Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu

House Journal Written Remarks, 3^rd Reading

House Bill No. 2725, House Draft 1

Relating to Animals

Monday, March 2, 2010

I rise in support.

House Bill 2725, House Draft 1 further protects the health and well being of pet animals.  The bill creates a new definition of “primary pet enclosure,” which means any kennel, cage, or structure used to restrict a pet animal to a limited amount of space.  It requires that an area of confinement in a primary pet enclosure provide access to shelter; is constructed of safe materials to protect an animal from injury; enable an animal to be clean, dry, and free from excess waste or other contaminants that could affect the animal’s health ; provide an animal with a solid surface or resting platform that is large enough for the animal to lie down in a normal manner; provide an animal with a solid surface (in the case of a rabbit or guinea pig the surface may be welded wire of sufficient size to allow feces to pass through, yet comfortably support the animal) or resting platform (in the case of birds, a perch) that is large enough for the animal to lie or perch upon in a normal manner.  In addition, the bill mandates that a primary pet enclosure provide sufficient space to allow an animal to easily stand, sit, lie, turn around, and make all other normal body movements in a comfortable normal position for the animal without making physical contact with any other animal enclosure; and interact safely with other animals within the enclosure.

Owners must also provide veterinary care when required to prevent the pet animal from suffering.  The definition of “pet animal” was amended to mean a dog, cat, domesticated rabbit so long as not bred or raised for meat production purposes, guinea pig, or caged birds (passeriformes, piciformes, and psittaciformes only) so long as not bred or raised for egg or meat production purposes. 

Thank you.

Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu

House Journal Written Remarks, 3^rd Reading

House Bill No. 2250, House Draft 1

Relating to the Uniform Child Abduction Prevention Act

Monday, March 2, 2010

I rise in support.

The purpose of this bill is to enact the Uniform Child Abduction Prevention Act, which was designed to determine the risk of a child being abducted by a parent, and establishes measures to prevent abductions before and after child custody determinations.  Under this Act, courts are authorized to issue an abduction prevention order to, among other things, limit travel, or restrict visitation, and issue a warrant to take physical custody of the child.

Thank you.

Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu

House Journal Written Remarks, 3^rd Reading

House Bill No. 2904, House Draft 1

Relating to County General Plans

Monday, March 02, 2010

I rise in support.

House Bill 2904, House Draft 1 provides that the state general plan shall remain the ultimate controlling authority of land use in the State of Hawaii.  Within all state land use districts other than conservation, the counties have the authority to plan and zone pursuant to sections 46-4 relating to County Zoning and 226-58 relating to County General plans of the Hawaii Revised Statutes.  Even if they are discouraged, land uses that are permitted under: (1) The state general plan; (2) A county’s general plan or development plan; and (3) The county’s current zoning, for a tract of land, shall not be denied for lack of consistency or conformity.”

I would like to clarify that the state general plan should actually be the Hawaii State Planning Act as defined in Chapter 226 in the Hawaii Revised Statutes.

We are emphasizing that a permissible use under Hawaii Revised Statutes Chapter 205 relating to the Land Use Commission that defines the land use classifications, Hawaii Revised Statutes Chapter 226 relating to the State Planning Act, Hawaii Revised Statutes section 226-58 relating to County General Plans, and Hawaii Revised Statutes section 46-4 relating to County Zoning should be upheld when there are technical differences such as lack of consistency or conformity.  

As reflected in the testimonies on this measure, there is confusion among communities and planning directors of certain counties.  This confusion stems from a misunderstanding of the hierarchy of the land use regulations that are mandated by state law.  In particular, it is believed in some counties that zoning is not effective where it is contradicted by a county general plan.  According to state law, this belief is incorrect. County general plans set goals and limitations to be followed when exercising zoning powers, but it is the zoning ordinances that dictate which uses of land are permissible.

The Hawaii State Planning Act, as codified in Chapter 226 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, requires counties to formulate county general plans that are to “indicate desired physical development patterns for each county and regions within each county.”  Further, such plans “should…contain objectives to be achieved and policies to be pursued with respect to…land use.” These broad policies are just that – policies.

In Chapter 46 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, the state delegates to the counties the power to zone some of the lands on the islands.  Section 46-4, particularly, requires that ordinances be passed which set out various land use regulations such as restrictions on the location of residential, industrial, and commercial buildings.  These ordinances must “be accomplished within the framework of a long range, comprehensive general plan…” The statute further clarifies that “zoning shall be one of the tools available to the county to put the general plan into effect in an orderly manner.”  As it relates to land use, the county general plan is ineffective until the tool of zoning is utilized.

House Bill 2904, House Draft 1, merely restates the law in a single stroke – obviating the need for an interested party to thumb through the various chapters of the Hawaii Revised Statutes and piece together the various pieces of the land use puzzle.  In effect, it makes clear that zoning ordinances may never be passed that exceed the policies stated in a county general plan.  However, where a county general plan changes and old zoning ordinances remains in place, the county general plan’s policies are not effective with respect to land use until a new zoning ordinance reflecting such policies is passed, except as otherwise provided by state law.

Thank you.

Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu

House Journal Written Remarks, 3^rd Reading

House Bill No. 2724, House Draft 1

Relating to Offenses Against Public Order

Monday, March 02, 2010

I rise in support.

House Bill 2724, House Draft 1 will help protect dogs from cruelty, yet it is flexible enough to allow the training of working dogs in various industries in the state of Hawaii.  Specifically, the bill further defines the offense of cruelty to animals in the second degree by requiring that tethering, fastening, tying, or restraining a dog to a doghouse, tree, fence, or any other stationary object or to a cable trolley system cannot be done in a cruel or inhumane manner.  It requires that a tether or chain cannot weigh more than ten per cent of the weight of the dog tethered, and the tether or chain must have a swivel on at least one end.  Further, one cannot tether, fasten, tie, or restrain a dog younger than two months old.  Finally, in addition to the misdemeanor penalty currently in law, this bill mandates fines of $50 for a first offense and $200 for any subsequent offense.

Thank you.

Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu

House Journal Written Remarks, 3^rd Reading

House Bill No. 2248, House Draft 1

Relating to the Uniform Adult Guardianship and Protective Proceedings Jurisdiction Act

Monday, March 02, 2010 

I rise in support.

The purpose of this bill is to improve interstate adult guardianship and protective proceedings by, among other things, establishing uniform rules regarding court communication, jurisdiction, and transfers of guardianship or conservatorship.

 Thank you.

Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu

House Floor Speech

House Bill No. 2000, House Draft 2

Relating to the Judiciary

Monday, March 8, 2010

I rise in support.

Mr. Speaker, I am in favor of House Bill 2000 House Draft 2, which is the budget for the Judiciary Branch.  As a reflection of these tough economic times, this measure reduces the Judiciary’s overall budget by $7.8 million for furloughs. 

However, the House recognizes that specialty courts play a huge role in helping those who have gone on the wrong path to get back on the right one.  Keep in mind that approximately 80% of individuals in trouble with the law are involved with drugs.  A high percentage of individuals involved with drugs have family problems, are victims of physical abuse or sexual abuse, and are going through mental challenges such as post traumatic stress disorder and depression.  These programs help individuals to get off of drugs, learn life skills to be productive citizens, but most importantly, it gives them hope that life can be better.   

Moreover, these programs not only changes lives, but save the state a lot of money.  For example, Adult Drug Court operating costs for 387 persons are $3.1 million a year, whereas, it would cost the state $19.6 million a year to put these same individuals in the prison system.  For Juvenile Drug Court, the cost for 65 persons are $1 million a year, whereas, it would cost just under $6.6 million a year for the same individuals if they were placed in the prison system.  

In addition, the House recognizes that the many non-profit organizations participating in purchase-of-service contracts with the Judiciary play a key role in providing essential services to help the people of Hawaii in need of assistance in our legal system. 

Thus, with the specialty courts’ and purchase-of-service contracts’ proven success and cost savings, $1.5 million has been restored in this bill for their services.    

In line with this Judiciary budget bill are two House bills, House Bill 1752, House Draft 1, which gives judges discretion in sentencing for non-violent repeat offenders including sending them to specialty courts and House Bill 1756, House Draft 1 that allows non-violent offenders to expunge their records upon successfully completing their sentencing so that they are able to get jobs and be a productive citizen.  Therefore, these bills together with the budget bill will help individuals to turn around their lives and further save the state billions of dollars in the long run.  Our country and state loves comeback stories, as reflected by many of our books and movies.  Likewise, Hawaii’s specialty courts and non-profit organizations participating in the Judiciary’s purchase-of-service contracts will give our people the opportunity to make the greatest comeback in their lives. 

 Thank you.

Below is a poem I created, “On to the Next One” for those of you facing attacks from negative people or facing tough challenges. Do your best, stay a level ahead, and it’s on to the next one.

On to the Next One

Negative tactics.

So many attacks. 

Blast past it and go on another track.

Up they come.

They think they’ve won.

Too late you’re gone and on to the next one.

– Jon Riki Karamatsu, Saturday, March 6, 2010 –

Matisyahu – “One Day”

Tara MacLean – “If I Fall”

So many people I have known and cared about have passed away.  I think of them as I move forward in life.

February 2010 events Rep. Jon Riki Karamatsu attended: Rep. John Mizuno’s fundraiser at Sam Choy’s Breakfast & Crab 2/1/2010, SHRM Hawaii 2010 Legislative Reception at Hawaii State Art Museum 2/4/2010, Construction Industry of Hawaii Shinnen Enkai at YWCA 2/4/2010, Waimea, Hawaii Cherry Blossom Festival (Big Island) 2/6/2010, Honolulu City Park & Recreation’s Valentine Day Dance at Neal Blaisdell Center 2/9/2010, Brian Uy and Alec Sou’s Chinese New Year dinner at Mandalay Restaurant 2/10/2010, Hawaii Animation Studios’ Opening Party 2/11/2010, 8th Annual Hilo Chinese New Year Festival at Kalakaua Park 2/13/2010, LCC Culinary Arts program Annual Scholarship Brunch 2/14/2010, Honowai Elementary School’s Drug-Free Assembly (Made a speech) 2/17/2010, Legislative Health & Wellness Day at the State Capitol 2/18/2010, Waimea Town Celebration (Kauai) 2/19/2010, Co-MC with Marisa Yamane of KHON2 TV news for Honolulu Japanese Junior Chamber of Commerce 58th Cherry Blossom Pearl Ridge Public Appearance 2/20/2010, GLBT Caucus Of The Democratic Party Of Hawaii 2/20/2010, Association of Chinese from Vietnam Cambodia & Laos Annual Spring Banquet 2/20/2010, Honolulu Jodo Shu Fujinkai’s General Membership Meeting 2/21/2010, Izuma Taisha Rev. Daiya & Asuko Amano’s Wedding Luncheon at Pagoda banquet room 2/21/2010, Day Of Remembrance By Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii 2/21/2010, Hawaii Chinese Association’s New Year Party & Installation Banquet at Pacific Beach Hotel 2/21/2010, Hawaii Association of Realtors’ Legislative Day Reception at Mandalay restaurant 2/23/2010, HIPA’s Seventh Annual Leadership Awards Dinner at Hilton Hawaiian Village 2/24/2010, Big Brothers and Big Sisters fundraiser at Ka 2/25/2010, 2010 Family Caregiver Awareness Day at the State Capitol 2/26/2010, caregivers meeting at Filipino Community Center 2/26/2010, Hawaii Teo Chew Association 12th Installation & 23rd Anniversary Annual Spring Banquet at Empress Chinese Restaurant 2/27/2010, Hawaii Ocean Expo at Neal S. Blaisdell Exhibition Hall 2010 2/28/2010, and Island Heritage 10th Annual Backyard Jam at Kapiolani Park Bandstand 2/28/2010.

January 2010 Events Rep. Jon Riki Karamatsu attended: Meeting with residents of Leeward Oahu, farmers, and environmentalists at a community leader’s house 1/2/2010, Honolulu Japanese Chamber of Commerce 65th Annual Shinnen Enkai at the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii 1/5/2010, Ho’okako’o Corporation Legislative Roundtable Charter Schools and State Schools 1/7/2010, Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii New Years Ohana Festival 1/10/2010, HAPTA (Hawaii Physical Therapy Association) Reception at capitol 1/12/2010, Pacific Resource Partnership Annual Reception at Oahu Country Club 1/12/2010, Outrigger Hotels Hawaii PAC Annual Gathering for 2010 at Outrigger on the Beach 1/13/2010, ARDA breakfast reception at Pacific Club 1/14/2010, Retail Merchants of Hawaii Annual Reception at Pacific Club 1/14/2010, Filipino Chamber of Commerce 2010 Legislative Breakfast at Dole Cannery Ballroom 2/16/2010, Sony Open First Hawaiian Bank skybox 2/16/2010, Ohana Baptist Church Grand Opening Service in Mapunapuna 2/17/2010, Victory over Violence & SGI conference at Hawaii Convention Center 2/17/2010, Kauai Councilman Derek Kawakami’s gathering at Wes Yonamine’s office 1/18/2010, Rep. Blake Oshiro’s fundraiser at Alston Hunt 1/19/2010, Dealer Day at the State Capitol 1/21/2010, Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii’s 8^th Annual Legislative Business Forum at Hiroshi’s Eurasian Tapas 1/21/2010, HMSA’s breakfast at Pacific Club 1/22/2010, Planned Parenthood at Royal Hawaiian Hotel 1/22/2010, Honolulu Japanese Junior Chamber of Commerce 58^th Cherry Blossom open Ceremonies at Honolulu Club 1/23/2010, Hawaii Friends of Civil Rights Awards Banquet at Waialae Country Club 1/24/2010, Kamehameha Schools breakfast at capitol 1/25/2010, Hawaii Association for Justice Ho’onanea Legislative Welcome Party at the Pacific Club 1/25/2010, Hawaiian Airlines reception at Hawaii State Art Museum 1/26/2010, and Wahiawa Nikkei Association Cherry Blossom Festival at Wahiawa Hongwanji 1/30/2010.

I am saddened to find out my good friend’s mom, Mrs. Lois Yasui passed away. She saw me grow up from a young kid. Mrs. Yasui helped us for cub scouts. As a politician, she has been one of my strongest supporters in my career. Through politics and Peace Day Hawaii, I got to work with organizations she was involved with such as the Hongwanji & the Pacific Buddhist Academy. I have a hard time believing she is gone.