JON RIKI KARAMATSU

I was honored to be re-elected to the Hawaii State House of Representatives on November 2, 2004. It was a tough election against a Republican opponent who previously ran against me as a Democrat in the 2002 Primary Election. My opponent got the full backing of Governor Linda Lingle and Lt. Governor Duke Aiona, who walked certain areas in my district and appeared in several brochures. The Republican Party sent a couple of negative “hit” pieces against me. It appeared in the last two weeks of the campaign, I was outspent two to one.

My opponent encouraged certain groups to vote for him. The governor helped him by focusing on an area she won in 2002, which was my opponent's weakest area of support. My opponent took the governor's platform as his own.

My goal was to focus on my legislative accomplishments and vision for Hawaii. As with my first campaign, I reached out to my entire district. Since a majority of my legislation was in the areas of economic development and education and I had a moderate voting record, I hoped I was able to touch a broad range of residents whether they are professionals, business owners, or labor workers.

On November 17-19, I attended the Japan-U.S. Cities Summit sharing ideas on economic development and sustainable cities. On December 11-12, I attended the Center for Policy Alternative's Summit on the States where state legislators from around the country discuss policy on various issues. Both conferences were very interesting and informative. It was great to hear case studies of other cities and think of ways to apply their successes and lessons learned to making Hawaii a better place.

For my second term, I will be a member of the House leadership as a Majority Whip. I will continue as vice chair of the Committee on Tourism and Culture. I am also continuing as a member for the committes on Economic Development & Business Concerns, Agriculture, and Finance.

An important thing I have learned in politics, or what I consider people science, is the understanding of human behavior. My heart is open to all kinds of people from all walks of life. I try to put myself into the shoes of others whether they are professionals, in alternative lifestyles, or in the struggle trying to make ends meet.

I have been a strong advocate for women and this stems from hearing the stories of girls who survived rape and violence. A majority of the stories I heard were not reported to the police. I know Governor Lingle disagrees with me in appropriating state funds for certain women's programs, but I am just speaking from my heart. In 1997, a lady who claimed to have a psychic gift told me to never forget what drove me into politics. That helpless feeling of not being able to do as much as I wanted for the girls who entrusted their stories of struggle to me was one of the things that got me determined to enter politics. Many of these girls were afraid or ashamed to go public. As a politician, I am as public as it gets, and I will do all I can to speak on behalf of those who feel alone.

I was just thinking of some of the challenging experiences I went through, in particular racism. When I went to Gonzaga University School of Law in Spokane, Washington, I saw what it was like to be a true minority among a population that was probably over 97% Caucasion. The people were conservative, religious, and mostly in the lower social/economic bracket. Politically, this area was once represented by former Democratic U.S. Speaker of the House Tom Foley. It is now represented by Republican U.S. Rep. George R. Nethercutt Jr. who defeated Foley by campaigning on term limits and is still in Congress breaking his promise.

The law students I became friends with were of all types of ethnic backgrounds. We would often get stares from the general public. Sometimes service would be bad at restaurants and stores. Inside, I was hoping it had nothing to do with us being minorities.

Throughout Spokane, Native American Indians would come up to me and talk. When I was in elementary school, I used to read all the books on Native Americans like the Sioux and Nez Perce tribes. One Native American shook my hand and told me “I understand the suffering of your people.” Likewise, inside, I wanted to tell him that I felt for the wrongs our country had done to his people. One Native American woman told me how U.S. Senator Daniel K. Inouye had done so much for Native Americans throughout our country.

One racist situation occured to me when I was hanging out with a Korean American friend at a bar next to my run-down apartment. These Caucasion guys were telling me that I needed to wear cowboy boots and started talking with racial overtones. Then they told me to go fly fishing with them that night. They kept encouraging me to drink more. Of course I didn’t because they wanted me to get drunk so they can convince me to fly fishing with them. Inside, I was thinking, do they think I am crazy to make such a decision. I told them first, you come with me to Hawaii and surf in some rough water. I left with my friend very disturbed. I would later bump into one of those guys alone and I told him what was on my mind sternly with my Filipino law school friend from California behind me. I guess I must have looked angry because my friend thought I was going to fight.

On another occasion, an attractive blonde Caucasion girl gave me her phone number. My Caucasion law school friend who was raised in Spokane kept telling me to date this other Asian girl in law school instead. I think he felt uncomfortable about me dating someone from his own Caucasion ethnicity.

Our country has a long way to go. Right now, the country is so politically divided. In the mainland United States, the Democratic Party is diverse with people of different ethnicities, religions, and social/economic backgrounds, and they are from cosmopolitan areas. In contrast, the Republicans are mostly Caucasion, of Christian faith, and from rural areas.

I heard that ethnic minority members of Congress get death threats. Getting assassinated for bettering your country is the sacrifice politicians are willing to face. I would love to someday influence national policy to unify our country. And maybe in the 2040s, our country will be ready for a minority president?

Today, I attended the Waikele Concert in the Park event. I made a short speech and walked around passing out my campaign materials. Some of the residents called out my name and approached me. I will be working on some issues brought up by one of my constituents. It was nice seeing people I have met through work or on the campaign trail.

Later, as I was putting up some of my signs, a constituent stopped her van and hugged me. I worked on some care home issues that she was involved with. Moments like that really touch me.

This past Wednesday, Stacey convinced some of my friends and I to go to dinner at Sasabune because I was successful in passing two bills in my freshman term. I tried to resist because it was not one of the three goals I stated at the beginning of the year. Now, come to think of it, I never expected to appropriate millions of dollars to uplift Waipahu, or pass bills when I first stepped into my office still potent with wet paint everywhere and furniture wrapped in plastic. With ideas, work, and people skills, I was able to accomplish a lot as a twenty-nine year-old politician.

There are so many more goals I want to achieve for Hawaii such as incentives to diversify our economy, incentives to encourage exporting products and services out of Hawaii, reducing the cost of health insurance, comprehensive recycling, building a science and technology public magnet school, creating an honor code in public schools, making a program to encourage parental involvement in their children's education, raising funds for classroom supplies, building a new sports stadium, job creation incentives, constructing a mass transit system, and supporting programs to reduce crimes, especially sexual assault and domestic violence. Just thinking of all these goals makes me energized.

Stacey and my friends are such go-getters. Their energy keeps me positive with that “keep trying hard” mentality. I have learned how positve energy between government, business, and community can produce awesome results. There is great potential for Hawaii!

Governor Lingle’s essay in the Insight section of last Sunday’s Star-Bulletin contained a good deal of misleading information. She (or her staff) got a little carried away in an attempt to make Democrats look like the bad guys. The public deserves to know the truth, so let’s look at some things the governor didn’t tell us in her essay.

By Senator Brian Taniguchi (Ways & Means Chair) & Representative Dwight Takamine (Finance Chair)

>> The governor said: “On June 30, 2002, six months before I came into office, our state recorded a general fund deficit of $215 million at the end of the fiscal year. One year later, we had cut that deficit to just $16 million.”

What she didn’t say: The governor failed to mention that fiscal year 2002 included Sept. 11, 2001, the day terrorists hijacked four U.S. airliners and slammed them into the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and a Pennsylvania field. That event crippled Hawaii’s economy, causing a dramatic drop in tax revenues and the subsequent deficit. The recovery we’ve seen since then is due in large part to the emergency measures enacted during the Special Session of 2001 and Regular Session of 2002 (prior to Governor Lingle assuming office).

>> The governor said: “Hawaii has experienced a dramatic economic turn-around … We leapfrogged from 29th place in economic momentum to eighth place between June 2001 and June 2004, according to Governing Magazine.”

What she didn’t say: Despite the effects of 9/11, Hawaii’s economic momentum actually went from 29th place in June 2001 to second in June 2003 (a timeframe that included 18 months of the Cayetano administration and only the first six months of Governor Lingle’s tenure). Under Governor Lingle’s administration, from June 2003 to June 2004, Hawaii’s ranking actually dropped from second to eighth. (Source: Governing Magazine: Sourcebook 2003 and 2004)

>> The governor said: “In fiscal year 2006, we will face an estimated deficit of $197 million because of massive increases in debt service brought on by previous debt restructuring plans, increased contributions to the state retirement system and increases in employee wages.”

What she didn’t say: The state’s past debt restructuring took advantage of incredibly low interest rates and was done by jurisdictions across the country to reduce costs. In fact, the Lingle administration initiated a large debt restructuring a year ago for the same reason. The governor knows that doing so pushes debt service obligations into the future, yet she did it, too.

In addition, the increased contributions to the retirement system are a direct result of two major factors — investment performance and an increase in wages. The stock market went through several years of poor performance, which no one could control, and the Legislature does not control the pay raises negotiated by the governor. To blame Democratic lawmakers for these factors is simply misleading.

>> The governor said: “The Democrats who want me to open the spending floodgates are the same legislators who have raided $156 million from the Highway Fund since 1996. Our state receives a four-to-one federal match on highway funds, so we lost $624 million.”

What she didn’t say: In the last two years the governor herself has requested the Legislature’s agreement to transfer more than $55 million from various special funds to the general fund. With regard to the highway fund, however, state law says the highway fund can never go below 135 percent of what the Department of Transportation says it needs for highway construction and maintenance in a given year. The 35 percent cushion was put there to assure the state would always be able to meet unforeseen needs. Money may be taken from the highway fund only when the fund exceeds 135 percent of anticipated needs. And the four-to-one federal match only applies to money that is actually spent. So money that sits idle in the highway fund does not get matched.

>> The governor said: “The Democrats reinstated binding arbitration that brought about pay increases we couldn’t afford.”

What she didn’t say: There were four union agreements budgeted in the 2004 session — HSTA, UHPA, UPW and HGEA. The arbitrated HGEA contract the governor keeps complaining about actually had the lowest per capita cost of the four. The other three contracts were negotiated by the administration, and they give employees in those unions higher average raises than the HGEA workers got. The only reason the HGEA contract looks so large is that it covers more employees than the other three unions combined.

>> The governor said: “The Legislature is not required to adopt a balanced budget … They opposed my call for a constitutional amendment that would have required the Legislature to submit a balanced budget.”

What she didn’t say: The governor knows the Hawaii Constitution already requires a balanced budget. In fact, the only time spending is allowed to exceed revenues is “when the governor publicly declares the public health, safety or welfare is threatened as provided by law.” Otherwise, the governor and Legislature are jointly responsible for balancing the budget. Attorney General opinion 97-1 states that even though the express words “balanced budget” are not found in the state Constitution or the statutes, a balanced budget is required both in preparation and execution.

>> The governor said: “When we do have to cut funds, we aggressively seek other revenue sources, as was the case when we located untapped federal monies for culture and the arts.”

What she didn’t say: Before and during the last legislative session the Legislature’s Ice Task Force and House Finance Committee asked about using these very same “untapped” federal dollars in the fight against ice. We were told by the Department of Human Services that they were not available. Yet the money became available when the governor needed a way to fund the culture and arts budgets she had cut.

>> The governor said: “We fixed Act 221 technology tax credit program and extended it for five years.”

What she didn’t say: Act 221 (now Act 215) was originally conceived by Democrats and has received national recognition for its innovative approach to growing our high-tech industry. However, it needed to be modified and strengthened before anyone would agree to extending it. The Legislature and the administration worked jointly to make Act 215 an even better product than Act 221 was.

>> The governor said: “We established a one-call center where contractors can learn the location of underground utilities before they start digging.”

What she didn’t say: This legislation was actually introduced by Rep. Ken Hiraki, a Democrat, on behalf of a public/private group that had been working on the issue for a number of years.

>> The governor said: “The majority blocked other pro-business measures (including) a nine-point plan for workers’ compensation reform.”

What she didn’t say: The workers compensation package submitted by the Lingle administration was heavily weighted toward employers and against employees. It would have taken legitimate benefits away from workers. For her part, the governor vetoed a measure to address fraud by worker’s comp insurers, providers and employers. There was nothing for honest companies to fear in the legislation, yet the governor felt compelled to veto it. For a workers’ comp system to work well, it needs to assure that all parties play by the rules and are treated fairly.

>> The governor said: “We released $18.5 million to upgrade the Waimanalo Waste-water Treatment Plant to stop sewerage from flowing to the ocean.”

What she didn’t say: The money would not have been in the final version of the budget for the governor to release had Rep. Tommy Waters, a Democrat representing Waimanalo, not actively supported the appropriation. The budget process is always one of weighing competing priorities, and we know first-hand the role that Waters played in assuring the Waimanalo wastewater appropriation was in the final draft of the budget.

We could go on, but that’s enough.

The governor also took shots at the Legislature’s work on education reform and illegal drugs. However, had the Legislature not acted firmly on both issues this past session, we’d have been left with nothing. That’s what the governor’s vetoes would have meant for education and the fight against ice — status quo. Without the passage of the Legislature’s majority package we’d have no education reform, fewer tools to battle ice and no discounted prescription drug plan.

The Legislature truly would like to have a better working relationship with the governor and her administration. Frank exchanges of views are good when the parties are intent on achieving what is best for the community.

We believe that’s what the public wants and expects from its elected officials. We all know there is an election right around the corner, but the public interest would be better served if we had less spinning of information, more openness, greater trust and less political posturing on all sides.

Last night I attended the candidates’ rally sponsored by the Waipahu Neighborhood Board. Nine of my friends and family attended. I spoke on economic development, education, government efficiency, my respect of past leaders, and waipahu appropriations.

There was a voting, and my opponent Rito Saniatan (former Democrat turned Republican) and I tied with 62 votes each. In 2002, I came in last out of three candidates. The fourth candidate did not participate.

I have a lot of respect for anyone who runs for office. It is mentally and physically challenging. Exercising and meditation are great ways to stabilize the 101 things going through a candidate’s head.

A question I get asked a lot is “How do I like politics?” On a good day I would say, “I love politics. My first love was soccer and my second love is politics.” Other times, I would explain, “Politics is fun, but it is also very stressful.” Then on my bad days, I would comment, “I don’t know how long more I want to be in this.”

What keeps me going in politics is my passion to create ideas for the people of Hawaii. I see myself as an advocate for people from all walks of life. I have learned to be strong.

I remember when I was younger watching the news on television, and a lady was practically yelling into the ear of U.S. Senator Daniel K. Inouye. The senator calmly nodded and did not get angry. I was impressed.

Likewise, when I was a kid, I recall when my late Grandpa Tadao Sakai took my cousins and I to McDonald’s. Because we were taking awhile to order, the worker started yelling at my grandpa. My grandpa looked at the worker, turned to us calmly, and asked us what we wanted to order. This lesson stayed with me forever. Grandpa Sakai was the kindest person I have ever known, and I don’t think I will ever meet another person like him.

The behavior of these two great role models showed me that “power” is controlling your emotions and carrying yourself with honor. My mother gave me my middle name “Riki,” which means power in Japanese (the kanji for “Riki” is “chikara”).

We are all responsible for our actions. I believe in the following teaching of accountability:

1. Right View: Believe in the law of cause and effect and not to be deceived by appearances and desires.
2. Right Thought: The resolution not to cherish desires, not to be greedy, not to be angry, and not to do any harmful deed.
3. Right Speech: The avoidance of lying words, idle words, abusive words, and double tongues.
4. Right Behavior: Not to destroy any life or steal.
5. Right Livelihood: Avoid any life that would bring shame.
6. Right Effort: Try to do one’s best diligently toward the right direction.
7. Right Mindfulness: Maintain a pure and thoughtful mind.
8. Right Concentration: Keep the mind right and tranquil for its concentration, seeking to realize the mind’s pure essence.

Aloha! I am Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu and I represent District 41, which encompasses Waikele, Royal Kunia, Village Park, and Waipahu. I am running for re-election for this district and humbly ask for your support.

As a freshman Democrat, I introduced legislation to strengthen technology, encourage businesses to locate in economically depressed areas, lower the cost of health insurance, create a science and technology magnet school, and improve the efficiency of our tourism marketing contracts. In 2004, I was successful in passing two of my bills into law. One of my bills mandates an ethics training for elected and appointed state officials, and the other protects consumers and business from fraudulent Ni'ihau shell product sales. Further, I was able to secure nearly $32 million for projects in the Waipahu area. Despite being in my first term, I believe I was successful as a legislator because I bring fresh ideas to the table, analyze issues with an open mind, and work well with people.

If re-elected, I would like to work on a number of my goals for Hawaii. I dream of making Hawaii a global economic power in technology, biotechnology, science, e-commerce, film, digital media, and alternative energy, which will benefit everyone. Businesses will be able to expand and diversify. With more businesses around, entrepreneurs will have a lot of fun creating new services and products. Skilled workers will be able to find jobs in Hawaii instead of leaving for the mainland United States. Labor will have more jobs in service, transporting goods, and building and maintaining infrastructure. With more money coming into Hawaii, more revenues will be collected by the state. As a result, social and community programs combating drugs, domestic violence, sexual assault, and crime will be positively impacted. The knowledge-based economy will be a wonderful addition to our tourism, military, and agriculture industries. This dream inspires me to keep working hard step by step. If island nations such as Japan and Taiwan can do it, so can Hawaii!

In regards to education, I want to have science, technology, art, and business programs emphasized in public schools. We need to begin training our children to be innovative and creative from an early age. Parents' participation in their children's education will be crucial.

Further, I want to see Hawaii with a comprehensive recycling program where everyone participates. I will look to see if Hawaii can have a state-of-the-art facility to turn trash into re-usable material and convert processing energy into electricity. Technology will play a key role in recycling.

Finally, I would like to see a modern mass transit system on Oahu that blends nicely with our city and environment. This transportation system will stop at major locations throughout the island.

Once again, my name is Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu and I would be honored to get your support in my re-election for State House District 41, which includes Waikele, Royal Kunia, Village Park, and Waipahu. Aloha!

I dream of making Hawaii a global economic power in technology, biotechnology, science, e-commerce, film, digital media, and alternative energy, which will benefit everyone. Businesses will be able to expand and diversify. With more businesses around, entrepreneurs will have a lot of fun creating new services and products. Skilled workers will be able to find jobs in Hawaii instead of leaving for the mainland United States. Labor will have more jobs in service, transporting goods, and building and maintaining infrastructure. With more money coming into Hawaii, more revenues will be collected by the state. As a result, social and community programs combatting drugs, domestic violence, sexual assault, and crime will be positively impacted. The knowledge-based economy will be a wonderful addition to our tourism, military, and agriculture industries. This dream inspires me to keep working hard step by step. If island nations such as Japan and Taiwan can do it, so can Hawaii!

In addition, I want to see Hawaii with a comprehensive recycling program where everyone partcipates. Every government building, transportation facility, college, private business, home, townhouse community trash location, and apartment building will have containers for “bottles and cans,” “burnables,” and “others.” I will look to see if Hawaii can have a state-of-the-art facility to turn trash into re-usable material and convert processing energy into electricity. Technology will play a key role in recycling.

In regards to education, I want to have science, technology, art, and business programs emphasized in public schools. We need to begin training our children to be innovative and creative from an early age. Parents’ participation in their children’s education will be crucial.

I would like to see a modern mass transit system on Oahu that blends nicely with our city and environment. This system will stop at major locations throughout the island.

I hope a strong economy and education, and increased parental involvement in their children’s lives will have a direct correlation in reducing crime? If so, that would top off my dream.

When I first ran for State Representative of District 41: Waikele, Royal Kunia, Village Park, and Waipahu, at 27 years old, I got support from friends and family. I wasn't endorsed by any major businesses, unions, or political action committees. In fact, a good number of them were against me.

As a moderate freshman Democrat, I introduced legislation to strengthen technology, lower the cost of health insurance for small businesses, mandate ethics training for elected and appointed state officials, and protect consumers and business from fraudulent Ni'ihau shell product sales. I am able to work with a wide range of people and organizations. I believe my ideas, fair approach to policy-making, and honest passion on certain issues have won respect from supporters as well as opponents. As a result, in addition to friends and family, I have received support from small businesses, big businesses, unions, law firms, professional organizations, women activists, farmers, developers, and new friends. To get the support of organizations so contrasting shows my desire to bring people together.

I love creating new laws. I enjoy brainstorming and analyzing issues. I am currently working on several bills for next year regarding education, business, health insurance, recycling, and Aloha Stadium. In the last two years, I have gained valuable knowledge, experience, and friendship to make an impact on state policy.

I am happy to say that two of my bills were signed into law by the Governor, my bill requiring mandatory ethics training for elected and appointed state officials, and my bill protecting consumers and Hawaii businesses from those conducting fraudulent sales using the term “Ni'ihau.” As my freshman term ends, I am proud to say that I was able to get my goals for Hawaii achieved administratively, and now, by creating laws. In addition, I helped to secure nearly $32 million for the Waipahu area.

These past several months, I have been working hard on my internet business. I am trying to double up the amount of time spent on my business since personal time was hard to find during the legislative session. Right now, the business is paying for itself. However, I hope to improve my revenue elevenfold by December 2004 so I can be comfortably in the “black.”

In addition, I have been meeting my neighbors to share my legislative accomplishments and hear their concerns. Its really nice seeing people I have be-friended in the past couple of years.

I understand that Governor Lingle and the Republicans are determined to get me out of office. In fact they are so aggressive, they have approached a couple of my former Democratic opponents to run against me as Republicans. I will just focus on my work for my community and the people of Hawaii. I will let my accomplishments in the legislature and community speak for itself. As a moderate Democrat, I have won the support of liberals, conservatives, and everything in-between.

The theme for my fundraiser tomorrow is honoring the 1954 Democratic Revolution. The following is my speech for my fundraiser:

Fifty years ago this fall, a number of young Democrats swept the Republican-controlled Territorial Legislature in what has become known as the historic Democratic Revolution of 1954. Arguably, this was a turning point in modern Hawaii history.

If we were to travel back in time to the middle of the twentieth century, many of us would be shocked. Imagine a time of overt racism, abuse of laborers, and forced political pressure.

Minorities were not hired because of their race. There were organizations such as the Pacific Club that did not allow minorities to be members. The “Big Five companies” and the Republicans controlled the workers. The GOP provided a tax system favorable to plantation interests, restricted appropriations for social services and public education, and provided various government tasks for the economic elite. The territory of Hawaii only required itself to provide free education through the eighth grade. This made it hard for workers to further their children's education while the elite routinely sent their children to high school and college. When it came time for voting, plantation surpervisors would wait outside of the polling booths and watch the string that suspended the voter's pencil over the Republican side of the ballot. If the supervisor saw the string shift towards the Democratic side of the ballot, the worker might find himself blacklisted for voting the wrong way.

About ten years before the revolution, a “coffee drinking group” of political dreamers met regularly in hopes of changing Hawaii. The leaders were former police captain John Burns, nisei dentist Ernest Murai, former teacher Mitsuyuki Kido, ILWU leader Jack Kawano, and attorney and member of the Honolulu Board of Supervisors Chuck Mau. Kido recalled, “What triggered me into politics was the fact that youngsters that we enrolled into the 442nd Combat Team…wrote letters from their hospital beds in Italy and said, 'We're willing to sacrifice our lives and everything – are we coming back to a second-class society?” It touches me to know that many 442 soldiers fought in hopes of bettering the lives of future generations such as mine.

With the leadership of John Burns and the unity of the World War II veterans and labor workers, the 1954 Democratic Revolution was inevitable. Honor and discipline is what drove them. The practice of not shaming your family and oneself was common.

The leaders of the 1954 Democratic Revolution inspired me to enter politics. I apply their teachings to my time period. We are now living in a world where blaming others is common. Government must provide the tools, but we must all do our part. We need to teach our children to behave well and be willing to learn. After all, the World War II generation made the most of what little they had, and prospered. We can prosper again.

My goal is to emphasize honor and discipline in our society. Our history and struggles must be taught to our children. I hope to implement a code of honor at our schools to improve the behavior of our children, which will in turn help create better citizens.

Further, I will do all I can to diversify our economy in the knowledge-based industries such as technology, biotechnology, sciences, film, and alternative energy. We must use our brains to create intellectual and tangible property to be sold in the global economy. Ideas will create jobs.

Areas that I will continue to work on are issues regarding women and children, especially domestic abuse and sexual assault.

This is an exciting time for Hawaii. Together we can affect change to better our wonderful island home. I thank you for your support, and I look forward to working with you. Mahalo!

On Sunday, May 30, 2004, I returned from my family vacation to Japan. I was in Japan from May 17th to May 30th. My younger sister Mia had just graduated from University of Hawaii at Manoa's John A. Burns School of Medicine, so my “baby” sister Lara flew back to Hawaii from Portland, Oregon where she now resides and works as a civil engineer. Since my family was altogether, my father decided to take us to Japan, something he had wanted to do years ago when we were younger. This was my second international trip; the first was in 1999 to Vancouver, Canada with my law school friends for a snowboarding trip.

We spent time in Fukuoka, Kumamoto, Beppu, Hiroshima, Osaka, Kyoto, and Tokyo. My ancestors on my father's side were from Yamaguchi and Hiroshima, and my ancestors from my mother's side were from Kumamoto. The trip was educational, spiritual, and fun. In Fukuoka, I had the tastiest gyoza. I got to visit Kumamoto castle, Osaka castle, and Nijo castle (Kyoto). In Hiroshima, I was invited by the Japanese Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii to have dinner with Hiroshima Chamber of Commerce, the mayor of Hiroshima, and the Governor of Hiroshima. My friends Stacey Hayashi and Scott Murakami participated in a week long conference between the two chambers. Also in Hiroshima, I was very emotionally moved by the musuem describing the bombing of Hiroshima by the United States during World War II. In addition, I visited numerous temples across Japan. The onsen at our hotel in Beppu was an interesting experience. I was impressed with everything in Tokyo.

I was happy to see my friend Akiko from Osaka, whom I met at the University of Hawaii at Manoa in 1996. I also was pleased to see Kyoko in Tokyo, a friend I met when I was in law school at Gonzaga University in 1998. I hung out with Scott Imaye, a Hawaii boy now practicing law in Tokyo.

On a spiritual note, I was honored to pray at the main temple for Jodo Shyu in Kyoto because it is the religion of my late grandfather Maurice Karamatsu, and my grandmother Bessie Karamatsu. I was told that my grandfather once carried a buddhist model back to Hawaii. I attended Christian churches and bible schools when I was younger and was exposed to Buddhism through my Karamatsu grandparents. In regards to Buddhism, I had an unusual experience in the spring of 1997 at a student leadership conference for the University of Hawaii system. A couple of unexplainable things happened to me at the hotel (This story and other unusual stories will be told in the future). The next morning, when I opened my bag, I had a Buddhist book. My two roommates swore they did not put it in my bag. On the trip, after seeing the main Jodo Shyu temple, I read portions of the book. The religion is not intrusive, thus it could co-exist with Shintoism and other religions in Japan. It is a philosophy and a way of life. Buddha gives you the teaching and explains the life of his time period, but it is up to the individual to reach enlightenment. What is interesting about this religion is that it teaches accountability. The following quotes struck me:

1. “The point of the teachings is to control your own mind. Keep your mind from greed, and you will keep your behaviour right, your mind pure and your words faithful.” My interpretation is that we control our destiny. One is accountable for one's actions, and cannot blame others for one's wrong-doing. Discipline of your mind is important.

2. “Life is ever changing; none can escape the dissolution of the body…Do not vainly lament, but realize that nothing is permanent and learn from it the emptiness of human life.” The physical body dies, but the wisdom of enlightenment exists forever. It is up to us to live an honorable and compassionate life.

What a trip!

Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu
Floor Speech
On
House Bill 680, H.D. 2, S.D. 1, C.D. 1
Relating to Ethics
Monday, May 3, 2004

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support.

I introduced this bill because it is extremely important for the top officials of our state government to have mandatory ethics training in order to understand our ethics and lobbying laws. Traditionally, newly elected legislators attend an ethics course. This bill would go further by requiring mandatory ethics training for legislators, elected members of the board of education, the governor, the lieutenant governor, executive department heads and deputies, and trustees of the office of Hawaiian affairs. Thank you.

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.

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.

Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu
Floor Remarks Inserted into the Journal
April 16, 2004
49th Day
House Concurrent Resolution 127, House Draft 1
Requesting the Department of Accounting and General Services to Conduct a Study on the Cost of Maintaining Aloha Stadium

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support.

The Aloha Stadium (Stadium) in Halawa was built in 1975 and has served the general public for twenty-nine years. The repair and maintenance of the Stadium addressed various problems, including concerns with the corten steel used in the initial construction of the Stadium. That problem was addressed during a major overhaul of the Stadium from 1989 to 1995 that cost the State approximately $88,000,000. There is an anticipated maintenance cost concerning the replacement of all of the Stadium seats at a cost of approximately $17,500,000 over a three-year period. In addition, the Stadium parking lot is also in need of repair and is expected to cost the State approximately $6,000,000. I introduced this measure to find out what it will cost to maintain the Stadium with the intention of introducing another resolution in 2005 requesting the Department of Accounting and General Services to conduct a study on the cost of building a new stadium, and to have the department do a comparison between the two studies.

Thank you.

Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu
Floor Remarks Inserted into the Journal
April 13, 2004
47th Day
House Bill 1800, House Draft 1, Senate Draft 1, Conference Draft 1
Relating to the State Budget

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support.

As a member on the House Finance Committee, I am proud to have taken part in the final passage of the State budget bill. This budget provides for the priorities of the people of Hawaii while maintaining fiscal discipline. The legislature has allocated the limited available resources of the State to meet its most critical needs, namely the reinvention of our education system, ice use abatement, and affordable prescription drugs. The appropriation contained in the State budget is a thoughtful spending plan that reflects a balanced approach to addressing the important priorities of our communities without any tax increases.

Thank you.

Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu
Floor Remarks Inserted in the Journal
April 13, 2004
47th Day
House Resolution 186 and House Concurrent Resolution 258
Urging the United States Congress to Support the Passage of S. 68, Relating to Improving Benefits for Filipino Veterans of World War II

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support.

I want to express my support of House Resolution 186 and House Concurrent Resolution 258, which urges the United States Congress to pass S. 68 to improve benefits for certain Filipino veterans of World War II. The Rescission Act of 1946 withdrew the U.S. veteran's status of Filipino World War II soldiers, thereby denying them the benefits and compensation received by their American counterparts and soldiers of more than sixty-six other U.S. allied countries, which were similarly inducted into the U.S. military. The passage of S. 68 would extend full and equitable benefits, particularly health benefits, to Filipino veterans.

Thank you.

Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu
Floor Remarks Inserted in the Journal
April 13, 2004
47th Day
House Resolution 181 and House Concurrent Resolution 250
Requesting the President of the United States and the United States Congress to Support H.R. 677 Extending Veterans' Benefits to Filipino Veterans

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support.

I want to express my support of House Resolution 181 and House Concurrent Resolution 250, which urges the President of the United States and the United States Congress to pass House Resolution 677 (H.R. 677). H.R. 677 would deem certain service in the organized military forces of the Government of the Commonwealth of the Philippines and the Philippine Scouts to have been active service for purposes of benefits under programs administered by the Secretary of Veteran Affairs for qualified Filipino veterans. The resolution recognizes the courage and loyalty of the Filipino troops who fought along side our armed forces in the Philippines during World War II. Thus, H.R. 677 would make health benefits available to more of these qualified Filipino veterans.

Thank you.

In order for education reform to succeed, parental support is necessary. We must make sure our children are studying, turning in their homework, and behaving well. I attended public school from Pearl City Highlands Elementary School until graduating from the University of Hawaii at Manoa.

I was able to achieve my education because of my parents. As a baby, my mom who is a public school teacher would read to me until I began reading on my own. From three years old, my mom had my sisters and I complete workbooks and reading books by giving us pennies for each page completed.

When times are bad, my mom always tells me to look at a half a glass of water as half full, rather than half empty. Basically, make the most of what you got in your situation.

My dad was very strict, like “samurai.” I often got scoldings for my grades in math, my weakest subject matter. I guess that is why my dad is an electrical engineer and I became an attorney, businessman, and politician. Although I dreaded the anger in my dad’s voice, I appreciate it today. It prepared me to be calm and strong when I talk to someone who is angry or frustrated.

My dad always tells me to don’t blame others for my problems, but it is up to me to better the situation. That lesson taught me accountability, rather than blaming on others.

It is because of my mom and dad that I try to make the most of life. I am very fortunate to have great parents. I love them.

Thank you for expressing your desire to have locally elected school boards. I supported education reform by passing measures over to the Senate that will fund the unique needs of each school and student; give principals autonomy and flexibility over how school funds are spent; convert the School Based Management system into school-based boards comprised of parents, students, teachers, principals, and community members; and give school-based boards concrete responsibilities and allow them to participate in the school decision-making process.

Below are some of the reasons why 30 of the 51 members of the House of Representatives, including myself, voted against Governor Lingle’s education package:

 The Governor’s proposal would increase, not streamline, administrative bureaucracy. Her proposal calls for seven local school boards and seven district administrative staffs. That means duplicating many of the functions of the current statewide DOE seven times over. It’s bound to cost more. Moreover, the local boards can create more boards, further expanding government.

 Contrary to popular belief, the local boards in her proposal would not have full say in academic and financial matters. What many people don’t realize is that the Governor’s plan calls for creation of a seven-member statewide Education Standards and Accountability Commission (ESAC) that would:

1. Establish and maintain academic standards.
2. Establish a formula for distributing funds for school operations.
3. Establish a formula for distributing capital improvement funds to the districts.

 The local boards would only allocate funds according to formulas established by the ESAC. This means that the central ESAC — whose members would be appointed, not elected — would play a major role in deciding how money is spent in the individual districts and schools.

 The Governor would have the final say over who is appointed to the ESAC. Her proposal calls for its members to be appointed by the House Speaker and Senate President with the Governor having the final say in accepting or rejecting appointees. The Governor would have ultimate control over who gets on the ESAC, not the voters.

 Last, but certainly not least, recent news reports have pointed out that the Governor has presented no real evidence that smaller school districts will improve student performance. At its core, the Governor’s proposal asks that we demolish the current education structure and launch into an untried, unproven experiment in educational governance with no safety net.

I think it makes more sense to strengthen individual schools by addressing the needs of the schools first, giving those in the classroom the support mechanisms and accountability to put students first. That’s the goal of the Democratic reform package.

Great students don’t just happen. They succeed because of motivated teachers and supportive parents who make classroom learning exciting and challenging. To achieve top-notch performance, we need to give our schools and the people in them the tools they need to succeed.

We must put students first. Education reform is first and foremost about our kids and their futures. That’s why Democratic legislators in the State House are focused on the needs of the schools themselves. The type of school board structure we have is one of the least important parts of the formula we need to achieve true education reform.

Effective change requires motivated people to make it work. Today’s schools suffer from an array of problems that have greatly frustrated our teachers, principals, parents and students. Unless these problems are addressed, there is little hope of creating a better future for Hawaii’s young people.

Here are the ideas the Democratic majority is working on this legislative session.

 A student-weighted budgeting process to assure schools receive realistic funding for the types of students they are teaching.

 A training academy for principals to keep them up to date on educational management techniques.

 A bonus program to encourage teachers to become National Board Certified.

 An elected board for each school with the authority to assist the principal and teachers in defining and meeting their educational goals.

 Greater decision-making authority for school administrators over things they don’t control today, such as personnel, budgets, supplies, school construction and maintenance.

 A financial system that ensures the money budgeted and authorized for the schools actually gets to the schools.

 The end of micro-management by the Governor and Legislature; giving local
educators the autonomy to do their jobs and — just as importantly — holding them accountable for results.

 A school board whose members are elected by and accountable to specific geographic areas of the state like legislators.

Here’s what we can expect if we implement these initiatives:

 Funding will be based on the unique needs of each school and its students.

 Budgeting and administration of education funds will be more transparent to everyone.

 Bureaucracy will be reduced, and accountability will be increased.

 Innovation and initiative will be encouraged at the local level.

 Parents, students and educators will be empowered to make the most of the potential that exists in every one of our schools.

Pride is a powerful force that can make good things happen. We need to give our schools back their pride. We need to adopt a truly local approach, one that works at the individual school level. We simply must: “Put Students First.” Once again, thank you for expressing your concerns to me.

House Floor Remarks for 2003 Principals of the Year
March 31, 2004

Mr. Speaker and colleagues, when we think of people who were most influential in our lives, educators come quick to mind. As a young thirteen year-old freshman at Pearl City High School, I remember my social studies teacher requiring us to memorize an interesting fact about all the Presidents of the United States and to read inspiring historical accounts such as a portion of United States Senator Daniel K. Inouye's biography. He made history and politics “cool.” It is through school that I was reminded of all the sacrifice done by those before me. Although, not apparent at that time, I believe this was the spark that left an impression on me that would eventually lead me to law and politics.

Likewise, I believe Principal Curtis Young is leaving a lasting impression on the many students he has worked with. Therefore, I am honored to recognize Mr. Curtis Young of Honowai Elementary School, the 2003 National Distinguished Principal, also known as Hawaii’s Elementary Principal of the Year. Mr. Young, will you please rise and be recognized.

In July of last year, I had the privilege of surprising Mr. Young with a framed House Certificate before the children that inspire him and the teachers and staff that support him at a student assembly at Honowai Elementary School. I believe it was not a surprise to anyone at the assembly that Mr. Young was recognized because he is the Principal of the Year every year at Honowai.

As some of our schools struggle to meet the standards of the Federal “No Child Left Behind Act,” Mr. Young’s leadership has left the standards of that act in the dust. As Honolulu Star-Bulletin reporter Susan Essoyan stated in an article about him in December of last year, “The numbers look almost too good to be true. At Honowai Elementary School, which serves mostly low-income students in Waipahu, test scores keep going up.”

In 1997, 60 percent of the third-graders scored below average on the reading SAT. In 2003, only 18 percent did so.

In 1999, the first time fifth-graders took the SAT, just 7 percent scored above average. Just four years later, 35 percent scored above average.

He was able to provide inspiration and encouragement in a school that has one of the largest English-as-a-second language populations and where 70 percent of the students are poor enough to qualify for subsidized lunches. The following is Mr. Young's belief as stated in the Star Bulletin article, “My fundamental belief is if you're going to make a difference with kids, that difference must be made at the level of interaction between the student and the teacher. Training for teachers, support for teachers, the time for teaching and the resources.”
Not only has Mr. Young provided a nurturing environment to promote student achievement, but also staff achievement in which the Milken Family Foundation found a National Educator in Leonard Villanueva, who I was privileged to honor in our Chamber last year. When Mr. Villanueva was asked how to replicate Honowai’s success, he gave a three-word formula: “Clone Mr. Young.”

At Honowai Elementary School, Mr. Young has “reformed” criticism into challenges, obstacles into opportunities, and excuses into examples. He reforms education every day so that everyone their school can achieve success.

Mr. Young, thank you for your service. Also joining him in our Gallery is his wife, Carol Young. Ms. Young, will you rise and be recognized.

At this time I would like to relinquish the floor to Representative Glenn Wakai who will speak about our next honoree. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu
Second Reading House Floor Speech
Senate Bill, Senate Draft 2, House Draft 2
Relating to Bioprospecting
Tuesday, March 25, 2004

I rise in support.

First of all, I would like to commend the Chair of Water, Land and Hawaiian Affairs for making the bioprospecting advisory commission more balanced by adding the Chairperson of the Board of Agriculture and the Director of Health to the commission.

I would also like to commend the Chair of Economic Development and Business Concerns for removing four sections of the prior draft, which included language that would hurt research and innovation.

House 2034, House Draft 3 regarding bioprospecting, which we passed over to the Senate is drastically different from the current form of this measure. As of now, House Bill 2034, House Draft 3 is dead, and we are moving forward a better balanced bill that would allow research and oversee our unique biodiversity.

Thank you.

Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu
Third Reading House Floor Speech
House Bill 2002, House Draft 2
Relating to Education
Tuesday, March 9, 2004

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support.

This measure will give each public school the authority, resources, and flexibility to meet the needs of its student body. A key element in reforming our public school system is the “Student weighted formula” that takes into account the unique needs of each student and assigns funds that follow each student to whichever school the student attends. Further, this bill would give principals autonomy and flexibility over how school funds are spent, and expand the role of the current School Community-Based Management System. Thank you.

Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu
Third Reading House Floor Speech
House Bill 2186, House Draft 2
Relating to Filipino Centennial Celebration Commission
Tuesday, March 9, 2004

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support.

The purpose of this bill is to appropriate funds to the Filipino Centennial Celebration Commission for events commemorating the one-hundredth anniversary of the arrival in Hawaii of the first immigrants from the Philippines. I am very proud of all the contribution the Filipino community has done for Hawaii. The events for this celebration will have a positive impact on Hawaii's residents and visitors. Thank you.

Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu
Third Reading House Floor Speech
House Bill 1924, House Draft 1
Relating to Ethics
Tuesday, March 9, 2004

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support.

The purpose of this bill is to require that teachers receive their normal annual increment or longevity increase, as the case may be, for a year's satisfactory service in any fiscal year that an increase in the appropriate salary schedule is effected. This bill is important in keeping Hawaii's teachers' salaries competitive. Annual incremental movement is critical to attract and retain quality teachers. Thank you.

Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu
Third Reading House Floor Speech
House Bill 680, House Draft 2
Relating to Ethics
Tuesday, March 9, 2004

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support.

It is extremely important for the top officials of our state government to have mandatory ethics training in order to understand our ethics and lobbying laws. This bill would provide for mandatory ethics training for legislators, elected members of the board of education, governor, lieutenant governor, executive department heads and deputies, and trustees of the office of Hawaiian affairs. Thank you.

Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu
Third Reading House Floor Speech
House Bill No. 2034, House Draft 3
Relating to Bioprospecting
Tuesday, March 9, 2004

Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition.

House Bill 2034, House Draft 3 prohibits the conveyance of the rights, interests, and title to biological resources and biological diversity identified upon or collected from public lands. Currently, the University of Hawaii (UH) has many programs and partnerships to research life sciences. With this prohibition, we will see the departure of biotechnology companies and research companies, as well as universities and other research institutes partnering with UH. As a result, Hawaii will lose revenue, grants, and jobs. Moreover, Hawaii will lose research needed to preserve endangered species, control invasive species, preserve fragile ecosystems, and discover potential drugs and vaccines.

There are many parts of this bill that will hurt research in Hawaii. Specifically, in Section 1 of the bill, reference to “prohibit the conveyance of rights, interest, and title to the biological resources and biological diversity identified upon or collected from public lands” needs to be removed. In addition, Section 3 should be deleted in its entirety because the first paragraph again prohibits the conveyance of rights. The University of Hawaii will be tremendously affected by this prohibition because it has numerous agreements with other entities to do research. How can other scientists research UH's biological materials if they do not have the right to research it? There were concerns regarding contract restrictions. However, restrictions are necessary to protect intellectual property. If intellectual property gets into the wrong hands, research would be at risk and companies partnering with UH could be seriously affected. Presently, the University can license the use of material, but still retain ownership. This bill will prevent UH from partnering with experts that could further the University's potential in the field of living science.

Why should we hurt our University further when they are already struggling to bring research here? UH already has to compete against universities located in areas that are friendly to research, science, and technology. In this past Sunday's Honolulu Advertiser dated March 7, 2004, the University of Hawaii placed 81st out of 84 universities in terms of technological strength, defined by the number of patents obtained and references to an institution's scientific papers, according to a 2002 scorecard of university research by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's Review Magazine. That same year, UH ranked 99th among 141 universities in terms of technology transfer, according to the magazine. UH generated just $300,000 in licensing income compared to other universities that generated millions of dollars in licensing revenue.

The language in the second paragraph of Section 3 states, “nothing in this section shall be interpreted to prevent the State from entering into joint research or commercial development agreements.” However, this language means nothing because the bill's prohibitory text will still stop research.

Another concern is the lopsided composition of the members in establishing the bioprospecting advisory commission as stated in section 4 of the bill. Out of thirteen members, only two members are to be from the scientific community and only one member is to be from the biotechnology industry. Just looking at the numbers, the scientific and biotechnology community is clearly underrepresented.

Furthermore, the power of the commission is questionable. Specifically, the commission shall identify and develop the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the use of genetic resources. This will allow the commission to take a percentage of benefits from entities performing research on public lands. Who will get this “equitable sharing”? Will it be the State of Hawaii? Will it be special interest groups? What percentage will be taken from these agreements between the University and other entities? Unfortunately, the bill is silent on this. Such a policy will scare researchers away from this highly competitive arena and instead, researchers will go to other places in the world. And as I mentioned earlier, the University of Hawaii ranks near the bottom of American schools when it comes to bringing research to their respective locations.

Also, the commission shall conduct an inventory of current biotechnology research projects and activities. The University of Hawaii currently has mechanisms in place to have an inventory of biological research materials and track their movement both inside and outside of their campuses. Internally, the University's Biological Safety Office maintains records of all controlled biological material. In addition, UH researchers are required to obtain permits from appropriate state and federal agencies to sample in the field and should any biological material be transferred outside the University in the course of scholarly research, it may be done under the terms of a Material Transfer Agreement from the Univeristy of Hawaii Office of Technology Transfer and Economic Development. There is no text in the bill protecting the privacy of participating entities once inventory is released to the commission.

Taking this closer to home, House Bill 2034, House Draft 3 will hurt higher education and jobs in Hawaii. Lets not forget about our students studying life sciences and biotechnology in higher education institutes hoping to get a job in Hawaii. What about all our young grade school students taking math and science classes? What do we tell a child dreaming of becoming a great scientist? I am sorry, but if you want to be a participant in the life science and biotechnology arena, go to another location? In public, we politicians proudly encourage research to protect our environment and find cures for our diseases. We are quoted in the media that we are doing all we can to diversify our economy. Well, this measure does not reflect our public statements.

According to University of Hawaii Interim Vice President for Research, James R. Gaines, if enacted, this bill would put a significant amount of the UH's $324 million (2003) in extramural research funding at risk and would preclude the submission of many grant proposals currently under development. Federally funded programs such as EPSCoR that reach across our state to build capacity attracting federal funding that puts graduate student researchers into our public schools, would cease to exist. University of Hawaii researcher Donald Thomas stated in his testimony, “The legislation as presented would most certainly have a negative impact on the ability of one of Hawaii's premier biotechnology research facilities: the Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii.” He further stated, “This would devastate not only the biotechnology research and development currently underway in Hawaii, but would also severely impact research in Biology, Zoology, Geology, Geophysics, and Tropical Agriculture – the list is endless.” In his testimony, Cornell University Professor James K. Liebherr said, “I oppose the bill strictly on scientific grounds, as it would temporarily, at least, stop natural history research in Hawaii – except on private or Federal lands – at a time when we desperately need to learn more about biodiversity in order to learn how to manage it.” Leeward Community College Associate Professor Priscilla Millen wrote to me explaining that her horticulture and botany class, propagation center, community workshops, and programs with the Department of Education will be stopped dead in its track if this measure is passed.

In regards to jobs, we politicians talk about how we want good paying jobs and how we would like to see Hawaii's talent remain here. Well, this bill will do the opposite. In the Finance Committee hearing, Ann Chung, Executive Director of the Hawaii Technology Trade Association stated, “Our local technology and research companies are doing significant and life-enhancing research to discover potential drugs and vaccines for such things as dengue fever and anthrax. This prohibition would simply stop these companies in their tracks.”

Lets talk about how prohibition on bioprospecting will undermine investments in Hawaii's biotechnology research. Hawaii's academic institutions invest approximately $60 million on life science research and development annually. Further, the Legislature allotted $150 million of tobacco settlement funds for revenue bonds to finance the first phase of the Kaka'ako medical school facility, which will be occupied as early as 2005 and include a 216,000-square-foot research facility and a 138,000-square-foot education and administration building. This undertaking is projected to generate $80 million to $100 million into the state annual revenues and create 1,000 new jobs. If this bill passes, all these investments will go to waste.

After three hearings before four committees in the Hawaii State House of Representatives, proponents for House Bill 2034 have held their ground in keeping “prohibitory” and “equitable sharing of benefits” language in the bill. I agree with the University of Hawaii that there needs to be oversight on life science research. However, this bill will hurt valuable research and place Hawaii in a standstill as the world passes us by in education, technology, and economics. The parties involved in this issue are on opposite ends and have not moved towards the middle. From the hard-line stance I witnessed by proponents of the bill in two hearings, I suggest that the respective parties come back to the legislature when they are ready for a compromise. Some time ago, Governor John Burns explained how in politics, rather than see things in black and white, we must work in shades of gray. Likewise, the proponents of this bill must work towards a compromise, in the shades of gray.

Mr. Speaker, I entered politics with a dream of seeing Hawaii thriving in knowledge and innovation. When I say this, I really do mean it. It is for these reasons, I will be voting “no” on this measure. Thank you.

This past Saturday morning, I spoke to Waikele Elementary School students participating in the Young CEO program that teaches them to be entrepreneurs. In my speech to them, I asked, “How many of you have friends that have big goals and dreams?…How many of you have friends that work really hard?” I recommended that they keep these guys close. It is through these types of friends that you will exchange ideas and learn from each others mistakes. I stated, “I have a group of friends, we call ourselves the 'Pineapple Pack.' My friend Stacey left her good paying software engineering job to start up a number of small businesses. My other friend Owen left a lucrative law firm to start a magazine.” In my case, rather than practicing law, I ran for office a couple of years ago against three well-qualified candidates. I stuck to my platform and worked hard.

I also mentioned how I decided to go against the majority on a bill that would be hurtful on research, science, and biotechnology. I told the kids that I did it for them because maybe someday one of them could become a scientist or biotechnician. I had six members with me against thirty within the Democratic Caucus. I told the kids that if you watched the movie “Last Samurai” I felt as if we were charging into the canons.

It was nice on Saturday afternoon to hang out with the Pineapple Pack at Stacey's house. We filled up her portable pool and ate Owen's ono pupus from the Big Island. By the way, I am so proud of Owen's hard work on his magazine. That night I had a great time hanging out with my family at the Pearl Harbor Credit Union dinner.

Today, Stacey and I had a conversation on how a decision can change history and place one on a certain path. My decision to go against the majority on a bill was based on policy and principle even though I knew politically it would have been better to vote yes with reservations.

Last Tuesday, after my vote against the majority, in the late hours of that evening, Speaker Calvin Say saw I was under a lot of stress and told me, “the State probably did not know what happened tonight, but tonight when you go home, you will see how peaceful it is.” I went home and had one of my most peaceful nights. I drifted asleep.

Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu
Third Reading House Floor Remarks Inserted Into the Journal
House Bill 2322, House Draft 1
Relating to the Issuance of Special Purpose Revenue Bonds to Assist Processing Enterprises
March 5, 2004

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support.

This bill would authorize the issuance of special purpose revenue bonds for the purpose of assisting Aloun Farms, a Hawaii corporation, in building an agricultural processing plant. I support Aloun Farms in its efforts to promote diversified agriculture and events that help raise community awareness of farming. Thank you.

Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu
Third Reading House Floor Remarks Inserted Into the Journal
House Bill 2784, House Draft 1
Relating to State Enterprise Zones
March 4, 2004

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support.

House Bill 2784, House Draft 1 would amend the eligibility requirements for the State Enterprize Zone Program to allow more agricultural businesses the opportunity to participate. The bill extends the seven-year eligibility period by the number of months of the duration of a force majeure event to allow agricultural businesses to recover, and makes revenue growth criteria an option for agricultural businesses that cannot meet employment growth goals. This measure will help foster growth in Hawaii's agricultural industry. Thank you.

A second bill I introduced, House Bill 2781, House Draft 2 passed third reading on the floor of the Hawaii State House of Representatives.

House Bill 2781, House Draft 2 would allow the Hawaii Convention Center to enter into contracts with licensees requiring confidentiality as a condition to booking events. This bill exempts the booking records of the Hawaii Convention Center from the freedom of information law until ten days after the events have occurred. The purpose is to protect a potential licensee's confidential business information or proprietary information. This measure will encourage more conventions, especially business conventions and further promote Hawaii as being business friendly.

I invited 6 year-old Teighler Gella, who is a first grader at Saint Joseph's School in Waipahu to do the invocation on the floor of the Hawaii State House of Representatives. She was so cute! Below is her invocation followed by my floor announcement introducing her:

Invocation by 6 year-old Teighler Gella on March 1, 2004:

My name is Teighler Carissa Rabago Gella. I am 6 years old, and I attend first grade at Saint Joseph's School in Waipahu.

Let us pray.

Thank you God for giving us the opportunity to share together in the process of making decisions for our State. Bless the Members of this House and give them the strength and wisdom to make the best decisions for Hawaii's future.

I trust that you will guide them to provide great opportunities for our people, especially in 11 years when I can register to vote and for the years that follow when I am able to run for office.

Oh, and God, I don't really know what kinds of decisions a Representative makes, but it will be my birthday on Sunday, and if they can get my parents to buy me a pony, I would really appreciate it.

Amen.

Thank you.
(End)

Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu
House Floor Announcement
March 1, 2004

Mr. Speaker, I would like to make some introductions.

I would like to re-introduce to this body Ms. Teighler Gella, who just gave a great invocation on the House floor. She is six years old going on twenty, but will turn seven this week. After all, she is already thinking of becoming a politician. And you guys think I'm young.

Teighler is the daughter of Darryl Gella and Jennie Rabago, and the niece of Amoreena Rabago, clerk of the House Judiciary Committee for Representative Blake Oshiro. She is accompanied by her grandmother, Cari Rabago and her cousin, Logan Rabago, Amoreena's daughter. Will Representative Teighler Gella, Ms. Cari Rabago and Logan please rise and be recognized.

Teighler, you can go up and eat pizza now. Thank you.
(End)

Today, I summarized my Niihau Shell bill on the House floor for third reading. It passed the House and will be heading to the Senate.

The House Draft 1 of this bill prohibits items made of seashells from being labeled “Niihau” if not 100% made of Niihau shells and made within the State; allows items made with at least 80% Niihau shells to be labeled as to percentage content.

Below is my testimony before the House Committee on Consumer Protection and Commerce regarding Niihau Shell Products:

Testimony of
Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu
on
H.B. 2569
Relating to Niihau Shell Products
Monday, February 9, 2004
3:00 p.m.
Conference Room 325

Good afternoon Chair Hiraki, Vice Chair Herkes, and members of the committee.

I am Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu, and I am testifying in favor of H.B. 2569, which prohibits items made of seashells from being labeled “Niihau” if not 100% made of Niihau shells and made within the State. I dream of seeing Hawaii as a global economic power with a strong and diversified economy. However, as we are moving ahead in solidifying our tourism and military industries, and promoting our knowledge based industries such as technology and science, 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 discussion on a percentage measure for non 100% Niihau shell products to be permitted to use the term “Niihau” and be labeled with a percentage component.

The Native Hawaiian Niihau shell product businesses on Niihau are known for their craftsmanship and choice of pristine shells. The policy behind this measure is to protect Hawaii businesses, especially native Hawaiian businesses from being taken advantage of by companies capitalizing on the term “Niihau” just as the term “Kona” was for coffee. 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, if it has not already occurred.

Therefore, I support H.B. 2569 to help protect our Hawaii businesses, especially those owned by our Native Hawaiian brothers and sisters. Thank you Chair Hiraki, Vice Chair Herkes, and members of the committee for allowing me to testify.

With Warmest Aloha,

Jon Riki Karamatsu
State Representative, District 41

Late last year, a person told me, “Man, Jon Riki, you’ve done so much in a short time.” In my opinion, I haven’t done much yet. I cram as much work as I can because at times, I feel as if I am working against time. I have no idea when my last day in public office will be or when I will die. I know that death could be around the corner, so I live life to the fullest. I am determined to leave something meaningful for future generations before my time comes.

I love my family. I love my friends. I love Hawaii.

2003 bills are still alive for the 2004 legislative session if it was not held in committee. Some of the policy behind my bills were achieved quietly. For example, two out of three of my capital improvement projects were included in the 2003 state budget. My crystal methamphetamine prevention bill was included in a catch-all bill being addressed this year. Finally, a couple of my bills are being achieved administratively. The following are some of my 2003 bills:

House Bill 678 would establish the Hawaii Employer Mutual Health Insurance Company to provide health insurance to Hawaii employers. My intent was to have a company that would help smaller businesses (i.e. “mom and pop” stores) and entrepreneurs in their health coverage for their employees.

House Bill 679 would require the department of transportation to establish standards for the placement of school zone traffic signals, signage, and crosswalks, on public roads, to help ensure the safety of students, parents, and school personnel.

House Bill 680, House Draft 1 would require mandatory ethics training for legislators, elected members of the board of education, governor, lieutenant governor, executive department heads and deputies, and trustees of the office of Hawaiian affairs.

House Bill 682, House Draft 1 would appropriate funds for the Department of Health to work in cooperation with the Department of Education to prevent crystal methamphetamine use. There needs to be greater education on the danger of drugs to help prevent future drug users.

House Bill 683 would give students enrolled in University of Hawaii (UH) film courses reasonable access to the Diamond Head film studio. I was hoping to get UH film students some hands-on job experience in the film industry. Fortunately, UH and Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism will be working towards this goal administratively.

House Bill 684 would provide a tax credit for the purchase of motion picture and film, and television production and post-production equipment.

House Bill 686 would provide tax credits to small high technology companies that increases the amount of their employees. I created this bill to help push the growth of our technology industry and create jobs. I want Hawaii’s young adults to have a technology career here if they choose rather than looking towards the mainland as their only option.

House Bill 687 would require the Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) to include performance goals, monitoring requirements, and measures of effectiveness in each contract in which public funds are expended for tourism marketing or promotion. It would require HTA to provide an annual report. Ironically, not too long after I introduced this bill, a state audit revealed mismanagement by Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau (HVCB) on contracts they had with HTA. As a result, HTA took away all international marketing contracts from HVCB, leaving them with only a marketing contract for North America.

House Bill 690 would require the Hawaii Tourism Authority to allocate a portion of its biennial budget to contract with the Hawaii Technology Trade Association to market and promote high technology industries in Hawaii. My intent was to diversify Hawaii’s marketing strategy. This bill would promote Hawaii as “business friendly” and bring more investment monies into our State.

House Bill 689 would provide matching funds up to $75,000 for the plantation village programs through the Friends of Waipahu Cultural Garden Park. I supported the park because the rich history of Hawaii’s plantation life must be retained for future generations to see.

House Bill 691: In a contract for a public works project, a joint venture of two or more contractors shall qualify for the preference in this section if all joint venture contractors meet the requirements: a state agency shall award the contract to an offeror who has filed all state tax returns due to the State and paid all amounts owing on such returns for two successive years prior to submitting the offer; provided that the amount of that offer is not more than seven per cent higher than the amount offered by any competing contractor who has not filed or paid all applicable state taxes, and the amount of the offer by the state tax paying offeror is $5,000,000 or less. The policy behind this measure is to allow smaller companies to join together in the bidding process so they will be able to compete against larger companies.

Each Representative can introduce up to ten bills for the 2004 Legislative Session. Chairs and leadership can introduce much more. The following are some of the bills I introduced this session:

House Bill 2571 authorizes the formation of a purchasing pool for small employers to purchase health care insurance to meet the requirements of the prepaid health care law. I created this bill to help entrepreneurs and small businesses get reasonable health insurance rates for their employees.

House Bill 2573 allows the Director of Finance to invest up to 10% of state short-term investment moneys in linked investments. Moneys invested in financial institutions would be made available as a loan to an eligible borrower who is an entrepreneur in the State. A cap on loans will be set. The lending institution will pay an interest rate to the State for the certificate of deposit of not more than two percent below the current market rates.

House Bill 2568 requires the Department of Education to establish the Academy of Hawaii for gifted and talented students in order to develop the potential of students who have demonstrated superior achievement through the provision of appropriate educational opportunities, to be located on the University of Hawaii -–West Oahu campus. As we are attracting investments and companies in the knowledge-based industries, we need to prepare our students to be active participants in this historical movement.

House Bill 2569 prohibits items made of seashells from being labeled “Niihau” if not 100% made of Niihau shells and made within the State. Allows items made with at least a to-be-named percentage, but less than 100% of Niihau shells to be labeled as to percentage content. My intent is to protect the brand “Niihau shells” from money-makers using inferior shells and lei-making. Further, this bill will keep the market value high and protect the native Hawaiians in this industry.

House Bill 2570 provides a bonus for public school teachers if state revenues exceed an unspecified amount.

House Bill 2572 establishes the Tourism Diversification and Economic Development Committee to review and prioritize existing tourism diversification and economic development initiatives and facilitate the implementation of initiatives deemed most promising.

House Bill 2781 exempts the Hawaii convention center from the freedom of information law for the Hawaii convention center if compliance would result in a license agreement not being executed by a licensee requesting nondisclosure. The reasoning behind this bill is that companies may want to hold conventions without having to release private information that could endanger their trade secrets.

House Bill 2574 funds an Emergency Rear Exit for Kaleiopuu Elementary School and the Reinforcement of Building G at Honowai Elementary School.

House Bill 2781 exempts booking business records of the Hawaii Convention Center from the freedom on information law. The purpose is to protect a potential licensee’s confidential business information or proprietary information. This measure will encourage more conventions, especially business conventions and further promote Hawaii as being business friendly.

House Bill 2575 makes an appropriation for the continuation and expansion of the project east (environmental and spatial technology) initiative in Hawaii’s public schools.

House Resolution 85 and House Concurrent Resolution 126 requests the Hawaii State Commission on the Status of Women to maintain and utilize the self-sufficiency standard, where feasible.

House Concurrent Resolution 127 Requests the Department of Accounting and General Services to conduct a study comparing the cost of a new stadium with the cost of maintaining Aloha Stadium.

If you would like to express your support or disagreement with a bill through testimony, please call our office at 586-8490, or e-mail me at repkaramatsu@capitol.hawaii.gov. My staff will track the bill for you and keep you informed when it is scheduled for a public hearing before a legislative committee. Mahalo!

In life, we meet people from all walks of life. In my role as a politician, I am very grateful to have the opportunity to meet so many people with various backgrounds.

I try to understand people's lives as best as I can. I try to imagine being in their shoes and look deeper into who the individual is and what their surroundings are like. Everyone has a story, and if you analyze it, you will see the humanity of life.

The first Flemming Fellows Retreat was held at St. Petersburg, Florida from January 2-5, 2004. We negotiated a new constitution for a new state, prioritized our core values, and implemented our core values in our budget. We learned about various cultural values and stereotypes. One course was about framing the message depending on your audience. We broke into groups and made a smart growth plan and each group presented their plan to a different audience: legislators, business, media, and tax foundation. We also learned about ethics and the fine line between doing what you feel is right and what is legally wrong, after all, ethics can change through policy. I had a great time and made many new friends from across the country.

-2002-
2002 was a year of big changes for me and some of my close friends in our group called “Pineapple Pack”: (1) I entered elected state politics; (2) Stacey Hayashi began her e-commerce, digital media, and film companies; (3) Gene Nishihira got promoted to underwriter officer in Title Guaranty; (4) Owen Iida and Ryan Sanada got into respectable law firms; and (5) Spencer Yasui began to work in the hotel industry, leaving the retail arena.

-2003-
I was told by a friend of mine that 2003 would be a year of “small battles”: (1) I began my e-commerce company following the lead of entrepreneurs Stacey Hayashi and Scott Murakami; (2) Stacey Hayashi began manufacturing her own clothing; (3) Owen Iida left practicing law to embark on a new magazine called “Hawaii Next” (an idea he got when he was rooming at my townhouse); (4) Grant Karamatsu was hired as manager for Norwegian Cruise Lines; (5) Kendall Matsuyoshi got his real estate license; (6) Brandon Mitsuda went back to college to study counseling, and is currently working for Honolulu City Council Chair Donovan Dela Cruz and Owen Iida’s magazine “Hawaii Next.”

-2004-
I predict 2004 will be a year of huge challenges. The Pineapple Pack will continue to work hard as productive citizens of Hawaii and our country. I am going to work really hard to keep pushing for a diversified economy for Hawaii. I will continue to help those who face challenges of abuse and violence. At the same time I will do my best to improve my e-commerce company to continue bringing in revenue to Hawaii from out-of-state. In 2004, I will also be up for re-election for the State House and I will go all-out with my platform for a better Hawaii.

I wish the people of Hawaii the best. Work hard and enjoy life!

I was fortunate to be one of thirty politicians across the country to be selected to the Center For Policy Alternatives' Flemming Fellows 2004 Class.

The Flemming Fellows Leadership Institute was created in 1994 thanks to a generous grant from the W.K. Kellog Foundation. The institute identifies emerging leaders from the ranks of the nation's state legislators and provides them with a unique program of values-based leadership training and sustaining support. I will be attending two Flemming Fellows retreats in 2004. The first one will be from January 2-5, 2004 at St. Petersburg, Florida. The second retreat will be in Maryland in the middle of 2004.

I was really honored to be one of forty politicians selected from thirteen states to the Council of State Governments-West's Western Legislative Academy 2003 Class from October 14-17, 2003 at Colorado Springs, Colorado.

CSG-West began the Western Legislative Academy to build stronger Western Legislative institutions and more effective legislators. The institution's focus is to strengthen the professional and personal development skills of effective lawmaking. The Western Legislative Academy supports the legislative institution and gives legislators the opportunity to learn from their colleagues in other Western states.

Several months ago, I brought up a philosophical discussion with some of my friends. We discussed the difference between “Dying to Live” versus “Living to Die.”

I believe if one is dying to live, there are things that are obstructing one’s hope to live happily. Whereas, when one is living to die, one is making the most of life and if one is to die, there would be no regrets because he or she lived life to the fullest. I tell my mom that I push myself hard in my personal goals, and in my dreams for Hawaii and our country because if I die tomorrow, I would leave a positive impact on a good number of people.

I always remind my friends to always work hard, have fun, make an impact in your community, and love your loved ones.

I often say Governor John A. Burns is my hero. He has impacted Hawaii in his many roles as Police Chief, Small businessman, Delegate to Congress, and Governor of Hawaii. His push for social justice and statehood for Hawaii will forever be remembered. I memorized this quote from Burns, a devout catholic, stated after he allowed pro-choice to pass in Hawaii without his signature, “Whereas the Pope works in black and white, a politician must work in shades of gray.”

Tupac Amaru Shakur, in my opinion, is one of the artists that had a political and social conscious. His talent shined in his music, movies, and poetry. In the mid-90s, his music helped me to cope with some of my struggles. I stayed strong in my goal to be a politician.

He said that the Vietnam War would have lasted longer had it not been for the media reporting all the horrors of war. Likewise, through his music, he was reporting the horrors happening in the United States. In his songs, he mentions rape, young girls getting pregnant, drugs, violence, broken families, death, prostitution, and spending millions of dollars for wars while our own people are suffering.

Tupac stated, “I am not saying that I am going to change the world, but I guarantee I will spark the brain that will change the world.”

My grandfather Maurice Karamatsu passed away in 1992 before I graduated from Pearl City High School. At the time, I was doing some theater with Honolulu Theatre For Youth’s Young at Art. The last words I remember from him was, “Study hard, go to college, and one day Hollywood will beckon you.” My grandpa was always a believer of “anything is possible if you work hard.”

Granpda Karamatsu’s first job I believe was as a driver for Dillingham. Then he was a messenger boy for Hawaiian Airlines and rose up the ranks to management. He was recognized and asked to help start a small store in Waikiki, Duty Free Shoppers Hawaii (DFS). This store grew to be a big multinational company. He retired as Vice President of DFS.

Besides business, my grandfather was active in politics. He worked with senior politicians of the past such as Governor George Ariyoshi, Senator Nadao Yoshinaga and Representative Jack Suwa as well as from the next generation, Governor Ben Cayetano, Senate President Norman Mizuguchi and Speaker Calvin Say. He was friends with legendary attorney Wally Fujiyama (Attorney for DFS, University of Hawaii Regent) who was also active in Hawaii politics, and from what I heard, they often visited the state capitol.

After Grandpa Karamatsu died, the first job I had was working for DFS in its warehouse in the summer of 1992, punching price tags all day. Later in the summer of 1992, I worked in the Flightline division of DFS until the spring of 1996. I started a business this year and ironically, it is located next to DFS’ warehouse and headquarters where I used to work. My grandfather took a chance in the duty free arena where international travelers could buy merchandise tax free, a unique way of doing global business through international travel. Whereas, I have ventured into the e-commerce arena where internet stores lie in virtual reality and the world is your market.

As an elected official, I have met many political and business leaders who knew my grandpa. Senator Nadao Yoshinaga is now my mentor. Another mentor, Senator Carol Fukunaga also knew him. I got to know Colbert Matsumoto, CEO of Island Insurance, who was a young attorney for Wally Fujiyama when he met my grandpa. Wally Fujiyama’s grandson, Jon Fujiyama is now a friend of mine and a strong supporter. Speaker Calvin Say serves as a great teacher for me in the House of Representatives. He became friends with my grandpa because his father-in-law, Mr. Kotake was good friends with my grandpa.

These are just a number of coincidences that have happened recently. I believe Grandpa Karamatsu is still here guiding me in business and politics.