2025 HOUSE AND SENATE SESSION JOB OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE NOW

Photo of Lorraine R. Inouye

Senate District 1
Hilo, Pauka‘a, Papaikou, Pepe‘ekeo
Room: 210
Phone: 808-586-7335
Fax: 808-586-7339
seninouye@capitol.hawaii.gov

Senator Lorraine R. Inouye represents Hawaii's 1st District on Hawai‘i Island. An experienced legislator, she formerly served in the Hawai‘i State Senate for ten years from 1998-2008. Additionally, Senator Inouye was Hawaii County Mayor from 1990-1992 and was elected to the Hawai‘i County Council from 1984-1990. She was re-elected to the State Senate in 2014.

Senator Inouye is the Majority Whip, Chair of the Senate Water and Land Committee (WTL) and Vice-Chair of the Transportation and Culture at the Arts Committee (TCA). She is also a member of the Senate Ways and Means Committee (WAM).
EDUCATION
• Hilo High School – 1958
• Certificate, Management & Supervision-Hawaii Employers Council
• Certificate, Dale Carnegie
• Certificate, University of Idaho-Legislative Energy Horizon Institute
   • Energy Policy Planning Program 7/23/2016-11/12/2016

EXPERIENCE
• Hawaii State Senator, 1998 – 2008; 2014 – Present
• Majority Whip
• Chair, Water and Land, 2021
• Vice-Chair, Transportation, 2021
• Chair, Transportation, 2019-2020
• Chair, Transportation and Energy, 2016-2018
• Chair, Intergovernmental and Military Affairs, 2007-2008
• Chair, Transportation and Government Operations, 2005-2006
• Chair, Water, Land and Agriculture, 2003-2004
• Chair, Water, Land, Energy and Environment, 2001-2002
• Chair, Economic Development, 1998-2000
• Member, Ways and Means, 2000-2005; 2007-2008; 2016-2021
• Member, National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators 2002-2008; 2015- Present
• Member, National Council of State Legislators – 2000-2008; 2015- Present
• Member – Natural Resource & Infrastructure 2016-2018
• Member – NRI Committee Policy Working Group; 2018 - Present
• Member – Steering Committee NCSL Foundation Smart
   • Communities Public-Private Partnership; 2018 - Present
• Mayor, County of Hawaii; 1990-1992
• Member, Hawaii County Council, 1984-1990
• Member, Hawaii State Plan Policy Commission; 1980-1983
• Member, Hawaii County Planning Commission; 1974-1979

AWARDS
• University of Hawai‘i College of Tropical Agriculture & Human Resources Ka Lei Hano Award (2024)
• Zonta Club of Hilo Rose of Excellence Award (2024)
• Hawai‘i Farm Bureau Legislator of the Year Award (2024)
• National Foundation for Women Legislators – Elected Women of Excellence Honoree (2019)
• Big Island Press Club Torch of Light 2016
• Filipina Women’s Network
    • 100 Most Influential Filipina Women in the U.S. – Policymakers & Visionaries, 2009
• National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS)
    • Charles Dick Medal of Merit, 2008
• University of Hawaii at Hilo Alumni and Friends Association
    • Distinguished Service Award, 2007
• Big Island Filipino Women's Civic Club
    • Outstanding Community Service Award, 2005
• Hawaii Farm Bureau Federation Distinguished Service Award 2004
• United Filipino Council of Hawaii
    • Government Service Award, 1997
• Girl Scout of Hawaii Award for Dedicated Service
    • Recipient 1989, 1990, 1991 Girl Scout's Queen Kaahumanu Award, 1991

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES AND ORGANIZATIONS
• Lifetime Member – The Girl Scouts of America
• Director, Girl Scout Council of Hawaii, 1995-1998
• Waimea Outdoor Circle
• Paniolo Preservations Society
• Hawaii Island Chamber of Commerce
• Big Island Filipino Council
• Rotary Club of Hilo – 1998-2000; 2010-2017
    • Paul Harris Fellow
• Democratic Party of Hawaii

Thursday, January 2, 2025

SENATOR LORRAINE R. INOUYE ANNOUNCES THE RELEASE OF $265,000 TO REROOF THE HILO BRANCH OF THE DIVISION OF FORESTRY AND WILDLIFE


Senator Lorraine R. Inouye (District 1 – Hilo, Paukaʻa, Papaikou, Pepeʻekeo) announced that Governor Josh Green has released $265,000 in general obligation (G.O.) bond funds for the Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) office in Hilo. This funding will be dedicated to removing the old roofing and replacing it with new metal roofing. It also includes the reinstallation of the existing solar panel array.

“I want to thank Governor Green and his administration for recognizing the importance of this project for the Department of Land and Natural Resources’ DOFAW Hilo Branch Office.” said Senator Inouye. “This project will also enhance the building’s energy efficiency and durability.”

Photo: Forest area north of Hilo along highway 19.



Friday, December 27, 2024

SENATOR LORRAINE R. INOUYE ANNOUNCES THE RELEASE OF $1 MILLION FOR THE HILO DOCARE OFFICE RENOVATION


Senator Lorraine R. Inouye (District 1 – Hilo, Paukaʻa, Papaikou, Pepeʻekeo) announced that Governor Josh Green released $1 million in capital improvement project funds for the Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement (DOCARE) Hilo Branch Office Building Renovation project.

“I want to thank Governor Green and his administration for recognizing the importance of this project for the Department of Land and Natural Resources, DOCARE staff, and our community,” said Senator Inouye. “These funds are a crucial and critical investment for Hilo’s infrastructure and the much-needed renovations for the DOCARE facility so we can continue to better preserve and protect our natural, cultural, and historical resources.”

The funding will be used to assess and improve existing conditions of the office and warehouse and to further determine other needed improvements. It represents the first step for an improved law enforcement facility.

Photo credit: Dept. of Land and Natural Resources



Friday, December 6, 2024

FUNDING OF $200,000 RELEASED FOR HOSPICE OF HILO

Senator Lorraine R. Inouye (District 1 – Hilo, Paukaʻa, Papaikou, Pepeʻekeo) recently announced that Governor Josh Green has released $200,000 in capital improvement project Grant-in-Aid funds for the Hospice of Hilo. These funds will go towards plans, design, and construction for improvements and maintenance at the organization’s headquarters, including essential upgrades to the parking lot.

“This funding will significantly improve the facilities and services at Hospice of Hilo, ensuring they can continue to provide critical care to our community,” said Senator Lorraine R. Inouye. “Supporting organizations like Hospice of Hilo helps build a stronger, more compassionate future for Hawaiʻi, and I am proud to have helped secure this grant for our district. These improvements will ensure that Hospice of Hilo can continue to serve its residents in a safe and efficient manner.”

Originally published to the Hawai‘i Senate Majority Blog



Friday, May 3, 2024

LEGISLATURE PASSES BILL TO EXEMPT CERTAIN MEDICAL SERVICES FROM GENERAL EXCISE TAX

Senator Inouye reads her remarks on the Senate floor before the passage of SB 1035 CD1.

The Hawai‘i State Legislature passed a bill on May 1 to provide relief to the healthcare system in Hawaiʻi.

Senate Bill 1035 SD2 HD1 CD1, introduced by Senator Lorraine R. Inouye (Senate District 1, Hilo, Paukaʻa, Papaikou, Pepeʻekeo), exempts hospitals, infirmaries, medical clinics, health care facilities, pharmacies, and medical and dental providers from General Excise Tax (GET) on goods or services that are reimbursed through Medicaid, Medicare, or TRICARE. If approved by the Governor, this law will go into effect on January 1, 2026.

Under current law, there is incongruity in the way medical services are treated with regard to GET. Only medical services rendered at a nonprofit hospital, infirmary, or sanitarium are exempt from GET, but services rendered by individual or group practices or clinics are fully taxable. Government health programs such as Medicare, Medicaid, and TRICARE, do not compensate for the tax differential, which requires some providers to cover added costs.

“At the behest of my constituents from Hilo who are local medical practitioners, I proudly introduced Senate Bill 1035 to address the issue of unsustainable taxation on healthcare services in Hawaiʻi, particularly impacting underserved populations covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and Tricare,” said Senator Inouye. “With a dwindling number of providers able to accept these essential insurances, the bill aims to relieve financial burdens and stimulate economic growth by exempting healthcare and dental services from the General Excise Tax. This measure especially benefits rural healthcare providers and patients, who often face challenges in accessing quality care due to limited resources and funding. Additionally, SB1035 promotes equity and access to healthcare, strengthens our healthcare infrastructure, and ensures compliance with federal regulations. With endorsement from over one-hundred and fifty-five healthcare professionals, I could not be more thrilled that SB1035 has passed the Legislature – this transformative bill will enact meaningful change in our healthcare system.”

The State already faces a shortage of nearly eight-hundred physicians, and a recent survey of physicians by the John A. Burns School of Medicine found that the elimination of GET on medical services could be an effective means of recruiting and maintaining more physicians.

“We have not passed a GE tax exemption bill ever since I have been in office and thus, the passage of SB1035 to benefit medical providers who care for our kūpuna and ALICE families, is a momentous occasion,” said Senate Committee on Health and Human Services Chair Senator Joy San Buenaventura (Senate District 2, Puna). “Ever since Senator Inouye brought this bill to my attention as Health and Human Services Chair, I have championed it.  Unlike store owners who are allowed to pass on General Excise Tax to consumers, the federal government makes it illegal for medical providers of Medicare, Medicaid, and Tricare services to pass on General Excise Tax to their patients. Thus, by requiring these medical providers to pay General Excise Tax, we are actually dismissing them by increasing their costs. With this bill's passage, we remove a major disincentive in servicing the underserved community and hope we can prevent the further loss of physicians, dentists and other medical providers, and save the health industry approximately $74 million per year.”

“For the medical community in Hawaiʻi, May 1, 2024 will be marked as an historic day. Today, we see the passing of SB1035, which brings crucial tax equity to Hawaiʻi’s independent medical providers,” said Hawaiʻi Medical Association president, Elizabeth Ann Ignacio, MD. “This legislation returns fairness to the taxation of medical practices, allowing more physicians to work in Hawaiʻi and increasing access to care for Hawaiʻi’s most vulnerable populations. The members of the Hawaiʻi Medical Association thank our government leaders for their foresight in passing this important legislation; this is a critical step in creating the medical infrastructure needed for a healthier Hawaiʻi.”

Senate Bill 1035 now advances to the Governor’s desk for consideration.



Friday, May 3, 2024

SENATE WATER AND LAND COMMITTEE CHAIR RESPONDS TO DECISION TO DEFER CRITICAL WATER BILL


Senator Lorraine R. Inouye, (District 1, Hilo, Pauka‘a, Papaikou, Pepe‘ekeo) Chair of the Senate Committee on Water and Land, issued the following statement regarding the decision to defer House Bill 2690 HD2 SD1 (HB2690), a measure to address structural problems with Hawaiʻi’s Water Commission and fund remediation of pollution from Red Hill:

"I am greatly disappointed in the outcome on HB2690. Despite agreement between both legislative bodies that this bill is urgently needed and very important – not just for Red Hill, but also for Lahaina. I was deeply touched by all of the students and others from Maui who flew to Oʻahu to learn about civics and our legislative process. I'd like to thank the UH Richardson School of Law students and the Lahaina Strong advocates who fought so hard to keep this bill alive. I will work tirelessly with these advocates over the interim to ensure we have a strong measure for the next legislative session."

Significant provisions in the comprehensive bill include the creation of a Red Hill Special Fund for remediation, addition of staff positions for Red Hill WAI policy coordination, allowing the Commission on Water Resource Management (CWRM) to elect its own chairperson, allowing the CWRM to hire independent legal counsel, and providing CWRM the authority to take action during an emergency water shortage.



Wednesday, February 21, 2024

SENATOR LORRAINE R. INOUYE ANNOUNCES THE RELEASE OF OVER $6,000,000 FOR MULTIPLE PROJECTS IN SENATE DISTRICT 1


Hilo, Hawaiʻi – (Feb. 20, 2024) Senator Lorraine R. Inouye (District 1, Hilo, Paukaʻa, Papaikou, Pepeʻekeo), issued the following statement thanking Governor Josh Green for releasing over $6,000,000 in capital improvement project funds to finance multiple projects in Senate District 1.

“I am thrilled to share the news of this important investment in our community,” Senator Inouye said. “These funds will address essential needs at Hilo Medical Center, enhance the Wailoa River State Recreation Area, and support the continued growth of the Island of Hawaiʻi YMCA.”

The funding breakdown is as follows:

 •  $1.5 million for boiler replacement at Hilo Medical Center, ensuring reliable heating and hot water for patients and staff.
 •  $4.5 million for roof repair and replacement at the Acute Hospital section of Hilo Medical Center, safeguarding patient safety and facility integrity.
 •  $600,000 for land acquisition and construction at the Island of Hawaiʻi YMCA, enabling site improvements and enhanced security measures.
 •  $350,000 for upgrades at the Wailoa River State Recreation Area in Hilo, including the installation of a pathway and flag poles for the Korean and Vietnam War Memorials.

“These projects will not only improve the quality of life for our residents but also contribute to the economic vitality of our community,” Senator Inouye added. “I am grateful to Governor Green for recognizing the importance of these investments and look forward to seeing these projects come to fruition.”



Thursday, January 19, 2023

Visit to Hilo High School to Look at Proposed Parking Lot Locations

State Senator Lorraine Inouye (Hilo, Pauka‘a, Papaikou, Pepe‘ekeo) met with Hilo High School administrators and officials on January 12 to review property locations near the school’s gymnasium on which a proposed parking lot is to be built.

Senator Inouye obtained capital improvement project funding of $6 million to construct the long- awaited parking lot for the gymnasium. Besides serving Hilo High School’s athletic programs and campus events, the building also serves a dual purpose as an emergency shelter for disasters. Current parking in the area is inadequate. The gymnasium was completed in 2014.

Senator Inouye discusses the project with Assistant Superintendent, DOE, Office of Facilities and Operations, Randall Tanaka, and Esther Kanehailua, Hilo-Waiakea Complex Area Superintendent.



Wednesday, May 4, 2022

The Uncertain Future of Astronomy on Mauna Kea



This is the floor speech by Senator Lorraine Inouye in support of astronomy on Mauna Kea as presented in the Senate as a commentary on HB 2024 CD1 on May 3, 2022.

Mr. President,

I rise to speak in opposition to House Bill 2024, Conference Draft #1. There are many things that are still wrong with this bill. However, in the interest of time, I will only mention a few.

The objective of this bill is to create the new Mauna Kea Stewardship and Oversight Authority with the responsibility to govern and manage the entire mountain, including astronomy at its summit.

The creation of a new authority to assume jurisdiction over Mauna Kea is redundant. The current management and stewardship of Mauna Kea is already set in place through the University of Hawaii and the Center for Mauna Kea Stewardship.

People I talked to at the University of Hawaii tell me that there are problems with the five-year transitional timeline which forces U.H. to turn over management of Mauna Kea to the new authority. With it comes complications such as having the University "legally required to comply with all obligations" of the current lease and not being able to do anything else while serving as a "lame duck landlord".

U.H. is concerned with upcoming lease re-negotiations in 2034, after the current lease runs out.

They are rightfully worried about the future of astronomy and the fate of its sub-lease partners which consists of all the observatories presently on the summit, including the future of the proposed and approved Thirty Meter Telescope. What is to become of them?

Doug Simmons, the current Director of Astronomy at the University of Hawaii tells me, "HB 2024 CD1 would impact the TMT project's vested rights in terms of its land authorization and permit. The current Thirty Meter Telescope sublease issued by UH guarantees site control for TMT through 2033 and commits UH to use its best efforts to secure a new general lease so that a new sublease can be issued. Pursuant to the bill, UH would no longer be involved and the authority would issue a new lease to TMT no sooner than July 1, 2028, if it decides to do so. That would require the authority to organize itself, create rules and processes, negotiate lease terms, and resolve any legal challenges. Similarly, the current CDUP for the project, issued to UH, would have to be replaced by a new permit or permits from the authority following the establishment of rules and processes and the resolution of any contested cases and judicial appeals."

As one writer in a recent Hawaii Tribune Herald letter stated, "I am writing to express my horror and amazement that the Trojan Horse bill known as House Bill 2024 is under serious consideration for passage."

Mr. President, this bill is a Trojan Horse indeed.

After UH loses their original lease in 2033, upon which TMT and the other observatories are sublessees, astronomy will be back at square one, starting all over again. The costly setback for astronomy, Hawaii's economy and jobs related to the industry will probably be too much to bear.

Sad to say the loss of the hard work of the late Board of Regent Barry Taniguchi, and the late Dr. Don Hall, one of the first directors of astronomy whom I have worked with as a councilmember on my island in the eighties.

There is no assurance that the new Mauna Kea Stewardship and Oversight Authority will guarantee that TMT, the University of Hawaii, and the other observatories will get new long-term leases. There will be too much politics involved in the new approval process.

At that point (or maybe even earlier) TMT will likely give up and move away from Hawaii.

This bill will be the demise of a promising new, world class telescope that will compliment the world class observatories we already have.

The casualty list will be long:

The demise of our $221 million a year astronomy industry. Astronomy itself brings in at least $110 million annually to our state, $68 million in labor income and $10 million in state tax revenues, according to a report today in the Honolulu Star Advertiser by one of Hawaii's most brilliant tech journalists.

The decimation of astronomy will contribute to the loss of many jobs not only in astronomy, but also in education, high tech, industry, and many support services, some of them small businesses and the economic benefits to my island and the state.

The demise of astronomy will also mean lost opportunities for future and the "spillover effects" astronomy brings to our fragile economy – knowledge, expertise, and technology benefits.

The ramifications of this bad bill will resonate throughout the worldwide astronomy, business, and scientific communities, even though the bill does declare "support of astronomy to be a policy of the State." How much of a commitment to astronomy do we truly have?

The new authority will have to give equal or maybe even greater weight to the ecology and environment of the mountain, its natural resources, restricted access, human activities, traditional cultural practices, and more.

DLNR brought up several concerns including unclear oversight legal framework, unclear financial sustainability, and redundant managerial planning that are part of the bill's flaws. The restrictions on astronomy and the associated leases are a problem as well as limitations on commercial use. And I totally agree as the chair of the Water and Land committee.

In the end, the DLNR believes that Mauna Kea lands should remain protected under the present conservation district rules under the oversight of the Board of Land and Natural Resources.

Mr. President, these are just some of the major concerns I have about HB 2024 CD1. Surely there are many more issues surrounding this bill including the fact that we have to appropriate more than $14 million for the creation of the new authority, micromanage observatory viewing time, among numerous legal concerns brought up by the Attorney General's office, the potential political process in the nomination to board appointees, and much more.

I must ask you, is Hawaii as committed to astronomy as this bill would like you to believe?

We must not let our highly respected, world-class astronomy industry wither and die due to short‑sighted legislation such as this.

Astronomy's contribution has remained steady in Hawaii over the past decade. It is a reliable economic generator for Hawaii especially when compared to weather and pest-prone agriculture and pandemic-afflicted, price sensitive, tourism.

The stars and mostly good weather are always here, and astronomy can be here to support us in Hawaii for generations to come.

Colleagues, it's time for us to make a statement and stand up for ASTRONOMY and not allow HB 2024 CD1 to pass.

Thank you, Mr. President.



Wednesday, April 6, 2022

Senator Inouye's Capitol Update – April 2022

https://mailchi.mp/3915a0e1ae15/senator-inouyes-newsletter-march-15325897



Senator Inouye's Newsletter "Capitol Update" is online. Items of interest for the April edition include the following:

Water and Land Committee to Advise and Consent to Several More Nominees – Aha Moku Advisory Committee, Land Use Commission, more.

Bills moving to Second Crossover – Monitoring bills that passed through the Water and Land Committee + the Mauna Kea stewardship bill

State Capitol Public Access Update – Revised visitation guidelines since March 28

SUBSCRIBE to my newsletter – it's free

State Supreme Court Approves Reapportionment Plan As Is

Legislative Certificates Presented to Police Officer and Firefighters of the Year

Historic Honokaa Buildings Added to National Registry

READ THE APRIL 2022 CAPITOL UPDATE



Thursday, March 10, 2022

Senator Inouye Reports Big Island Landmarks Will Be Placed on the National Register of Historic Places



Honolulu, Hawai‘i--Senator Lorraine R. Inouye (District 4 – Hilo, Hāmākua, Kohala, Waimea, Waikōloa, Kona), Chair of the Water and Land Committee, is proud to report that two Hawai‘i Island landmarks will be listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

The Historic Preservation Division received notice from the National Park Service in Washington, D.C. that the two landmarks in Honoka‘a Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church and the Awong Brothers Store, have been approved to be in the register. The church was nominated for inclusion in the register in January, 2021 and the store in September, 2017.

The Historic Hawai‘i Foundation's website describes the church as "significant as a small-town religious institution, centerpiece for religious and social activities, and catalyst for ethnic mixing in church and town. The church's blended congregation was comprised of Portuguese, Puerto Ricans, Filipinos, Native Hawaiians and other immigrant members through the years. The diversity of cultures paved the way for the ethnic mixing in a church that fostered similar cultural exchange with the small businesses in town prevalent throughout the plantation era."

Senator Inouye stated, "the church was the center of family gatherings for all of the plantation workers and their families. As a sugar plantation child, it was very meaningful to have a place for me and my family to gather with the community. I am excited to have learned that the church is one of very few that continues to hold the Holy Ghost Festival and procession."

The Awong Brothers Store is described by the foundation as historically important as a representative of Honoka‘a town. It began with the completion of the building in the 1870s. Awong Brothers Store's 50th anniversary was observed in 1968. The building is recognized as an important center for commerce, social and cultural activity for the town's community. The building is also "a fine example of a commercial, plantation-style building rendered in wood, reflecting the materials and carpentry skills available at the time of construction in Hawai‘i during the late 19th century.

Today the Awong Brothers Store, which closed in 1971, is now the home for the North Hawai‘i Community Federal Credit Union.

"I am very pleased that the Awong Brothers old store has finally gotten its due recognition as a place of historic importance that will be preserved into the future," said Senator Inouye. She added, "It has been a long while getting through this process to being recognized. I thank the Awong family for its many years serving as an economic contributor to the Honoka‘a and surrounding Hāmākua communities."

Nineteen properties in Honoka‘a are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.



Monday, March 7, 2022

Senator Inouye's Capitol Update – March 2022

https://mailchi.mp/13d670992eb6/senator-inouyes-newsletter-march-10313805



Senator Inouye's Newsletter "Capitol Update" is online. Items of interest in this edition include the following:

A list of selected Senate bills that passed to the House of Representatives prior to the big crossover vote of March 8, 2022.

Five Governor's nominees were appointed to the Board of Land and Natural Resources (BLNR) who will need to be confirmed by the Senate in a process called "Advise and Consent". The nominees first stop will be before the Water & Land Committee chaired by Senator Inouye.

Third Reading and Crossover Deadlines.
Voting Date – March 8
Crossover Deadline – March 10, Senate bills to House and House bills to Senate

Hawaii State Capitol Re-opening, March 7 – Photo ID and vaccination card required for entry. Mask mandate still enforced until further notice.

The Reapportionment Commission's redrawn district maps have been challenged in court. Redistricting is updated every ten years after the most recent census count (2020).

Governor Ige released funds for several capitol improvement projects in District 4.

Senator Inouye's Capitol Update – March 2022.

If you would like to get Senator Inouye's Capitol Update newsletter in email, please SUBSCRIBE.



Wednesday, January 26, 2022

GOVERNOR RELEASES $1,800,000 FOR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT AT KANU O KA ‘ĀINA NEW CENTURY PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOL



The Governor recently released $1,800,000.00 in capital improvement project funding (CIP) to finance plans, design, construction, and equipment for the completion of a multipurpose building for Kanu o ka ‘Āina New Century Public Charter School, Multipurpose Building, in Waimea, Hawai‘i.

"I'd like to thank Governor Ige for releasing funding to finance plans, design, construction, and equipment for the completion of a multipurpose building, including a certified commercial kitchen space, athletic space, and performance space, for Kanu o ka ‘Āina New Century Public Charter School, in Waimea, Hawai‘i.” said Senator Lorraine R. Inouye (District 4 – Hilo, Hāmākua, Kohala, Waimea, Waikōloa, Kona). "I am particularly pleased that the release of these CIP monies will include financing for the plans, design, and construction for a new commercial kitchen space. Students and families of the Waimea community deserve and will greatly benefit from a new commercial kitchen. A certified commercial kitchen will go a long way in ensuring food security for the Waimea community."

Kanu o ka ‘Āina is one of seventeen Hawaiian focused charter schools located in various communities throughout the state with larger Native Hawaiian populations. Established in 2000, Kanu o ka ‘Āina is housed on Department of Hawaiian Home Lands in rural Waimea on Hawai‘i Island. The pandemic wreaked havoc on economic stability and food security of the families of Kanu o ka ‘Āina students, as first one, then both parents lost employment when the hotel industry shut down. For the first time, this peaceful community was burdened with basic survival issues as well as keeping loved ones safe from harm. To assist with food insecurity issues, Kanu o ka ‘Āina applied for and received CARES funding to provide weekly beef distributions for four public schools in the community.

Photo caption at top: Senator Lorraine Inouye visited Kanu o ka ‘Āina New Century Public Charter School this past fall (2021).

Press release
Governor's letter



Tuesday, January 18, 2022

Senate Water Land Committee Briefing Materials Worth A Second Look



The Senate Committee on Water and Land (WTL) completed a series of informational briefings with various agencies within the State Department of Land and Natural Resources (DNLR). The briefings focused on goals, operations, and budgetary items for each division. Several of them compiled informative PowerPoint presentations complete with graphics.

We have compiled this list of the presentations with the linked content below. Hearing notices and PDF files connect to our legislative website. The video links connect to the Hawaii State Senate channel on YouTube.

December 29, 2021 WTL Informational Briefing – Division of Forestry and Wildlife

Hearing Notice | PowerPoint PDF | Video

January 4, 2022 WTL Informational Briefing – Division of State Parks

Hearing Notice | PowerPoint PDF | Video

January 6, 2022 WTL Informational Briefing – Division of Aquatic Resources (DAR)

Hearing Notice | PowerPoint PDF | Video

January 10, 2022 WTL Informational Briefing – State Historic Preservation Division (SHPD)

Hearing Notice | PowerPoint PDF | Video

January 10, 2022 WTL Informational Briefing – Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement (DOCARE)

Hearing Notice | PowerPoint PDF | Video

January 11, 2022 Senate Ways & Means / Water & Land Committees
Combined Informational Briefing – Department of Land & Natural Resources (DLNR)
PDF - 161 pages of testimony with PowerPoint at the end

Hearing Notice | Testimony / PowerPoint PDF | Video



Monday, January 10, 2022

Community –
The Future of Astronomy Subject of Upcoming Talk



The future of astronomy will be the subject of an upcoming talk. John O'Meara, chief scientist of the W.M. Keck Observatory on the island of Hawaii will be the featured speaker. The subject is "The Year(s) Ahead: What's on the Horizon for Astronomy?" Ground and space based observations for the future will be highlighted.

The talk will stream online for free on Wednesday, January 26, 2022 starting at 5:00 p.m. Hawaii Standard Time. The direct link to the event is:

https://bit.ly/Keck-Update-O'Meara

This talk will also be streamed live on the Keck Observatory Facebook page.

https://www.facebook.com/KeckObservatory



Monday, July 26, 2021

GOVERNOR RELEASES $3.3 MILLION FOR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS IN SENATE DISTRICT 4



Read the press release



Friday, February 21, 2020

Legislative Update – Waimea Community Meeting






I co-hosted a legislative update on February 20 in Waimea with Representative David Tarnas and Councilman Tim Richards. We provided updates on various bills and resolutions that affect our community here on the Big Island. We also had time for question and answer from some folks on topics such as the changes in healthcare coverage. If you were not able to make it out due to the heavy winds but have questions, feel free to comment below or call the office.

I have also posted our PowerPoint Presentation and newsletter on the this web page as downloadable PDF files. More photos from the town meeting can be found on my Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/senlorraineinouye/

View the PowerPoint presentation PDF.



Friday, February 21, 2020

February 2020 Newsletter







Senator Inouye's February 2020 newsletter is available to download.









If you want to get a notification of when the next newsletter or content item is uploaded to this web page, drop a note with your name and email address to seninouye@capitol.hawaii.gov. You will be added to our email list.



Wednesday, January 15, 2020

2020 Legislative Program

State Senator Lorraine Inouye's 2020 Legislative Program brochure is available for download.



Read the brochure



Monday, July 15, 2019

Trouble in paradise: does Hawaii need a new airports authority? (Airport Technology)


Read the article on airport-technology.com.



Monday, July 15, 2019

Waiaka Stream Bridge project gains traction (Hawaii Tribune-Herald)


Read the article on hawaiitribune-herald.com.



Monday, July 8, 2019

National Conference of State Legislatures Transportation Symposium

I recently traveled to Denver, Colorado where I attended the National Conference of State Legislatures Transportation Symposium. I met with state legislators and staff from across the country for a two day meeting to discuss various transportation topics, including autonomous vehicles, road usage charges, impaired driving, and electric vehicle surcharge.









Friday, June 14, 2019

MARITIME HEAVY WEATHER AND HURRICANE REQUEST TO REMAIN IN PORT GOES LIVE ON HAWAII DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION'S WEBSITE

Vessels under 200 gross tons planning to stay in port during a heavy weather event are required to submit a mooring plan for approval by the Captain of the Port and HDOT.

Harbor officials suggest submitting the application as early as possible.

http://hidot.hawaii.gov/harbors/hurricane-preparedness/



Thursday, June 13, 2019

Honolulu International Airport Mokulele Terminal dedication in honor of John C.M. "Brother" Iacovazzi

I attended a dedication ceremony for the Honolulu International Airport Mokulele Terminal in honor of John C.M. "Brother" Iacovazzi. John was the Director of Airport Services for Mokulele Airlines and was dedicated to his position. I was joined by HIDOT Director Jade Butay, Representative Lynn DeCoite and John's family who flew in from Pennsylvania.






Thursday, May 30, 2019

IllumiNation Energy Summit 2019

Senator Inouye attended the IllumiNation Energy Summit in Columbus, Ohio this month. She sat alongside technology providers, industry leaders, startup companies and other policymakers to have meaningful conversations & explore what the future of energy looks like. Among the presenters were: American Electric Power - AEP, The Ohio State University, Battelle, Smart Columbus, National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners.







Wednesday, May 29, 2019

Airport to benefit from capital improvement funds (Hawaii Tribune-Herald)


Read the article on hawaiitribune-herald.com.



Thursday, May 23, 2019

Governor Releases Funding for Waimea Elementary Land Acquisition (Big Island Now)


Read the article on bigislandnow.com.



Tuesday, May 21, 2019

Justices weigh state's care of Pohakuloa Training Area on Hawaii island (Honolulu Star-Advertiser)


Read the article on staradvertiser.com.



Tuesday, May 21, 2019

Court rejects power agreement for East Hawaii biomass plant (Honolulu Star-Advertiser)


Read the article on staradvertiser.com.



Wednesday, May 8, 2019

Proposal to levy surcharge on electric vehicle owners passes Hawaii Legislature (Honolulu Star-Advertiser)


Read the article on staradvertiser.com.



Tuesday, May 7, 2019

May 2019 Newsletter







Click here to read the May 2019 Newsletter.










Monday, April 8, 2019

March–April 2019 Newsletter







Click here to read the March–April 2019 Newsletter.










Monday, March 12, 2018

March 2018 Newsletter







Click here to read the March 2018 Newsletter.










Monday, April 17, 2017

March 2017 Newsletter







Click here to read the March 2017 Newsletter.











Monday, May 2, 2016

March 2016 Newsletter







Click here to read the March 2016 Newsletter.











Tuesday, October 13, 2015

September 2015 Newsletter







Click here to read the September 2015 Newsletter.











Monday, August 3, 2015

July 29 Pahoa Community Meeting

As Chair of the Senate Transportation and Energy Committee, Senator Inouye hosted an informational meeting on July 29, 2015, to update residents on the Pahoa Roundabout project scheduled to begin construction in early August. Located at the intersection of Highway 130 and Pahoa Village Road, the $5 million project was postponed last year while the June 27 lava flow threatened lower Puna.

Concerned that community members may have lost track of the project, and with the start date in a few weeks, Senator Inouye was joined by Senator Russell Ruderman, Rep. Joy San Buenaventura, and County Council members Daniel Paleka and Greggor Ilagan. DOT officials presented details regarding starting dates, the duration of the project, and traffic detours that will be in effect during construction. Ed Sniffen, Deputy Director, Highways Division, flew in from Oahu to make this presentation and Leslie Isemoto, President of Isemoto Contracting was also in attendance.



Wednesday, July 15, 2015

Kauai Transportation and Energy

Senator Inouye recently visited the island of Kauai to observe DOT facilities in preparation for her role as Chair of the Senate Transportation committee. Traveling with DOT officials she was able to observe the Lihue airport and Nawiliwili harbor and to spend time talking about highway priorities. She ended her visit in Koloa touring a solar farm and green energy biomass plant.



Wednesday, April 8, 2015

March 2015 Newsletter







Click here to read the March 2015 Newsletter.












Monday, December 29, 2014

Kohala Ditch




Senator Inouye visited the Kohala Ditch with a group of constituents. The date for this visit ended up being six days after a torrential rain, and the Senator was able to view the damage caused by the storm. This photo puts some perspective to the damage and ultimately, the inconvenience the North Kohala community was dealing with.





Tuesday, December 9, 2014

VASH Honors Mitch Roth




VASH (Visitor Aloha Society of Hawaii) honored Hawai‘i County Prosecuting Attorney Mitch Roth at a luncheon ceremony onboard The Pride of America. Senator Inouye joined many others, including fellow Hilo Rotary members, at this event. Congratulations Mitch!





Thursday, December 4, 2014

Kohala Coast Sound Test

Senator Inouye participated in a sound assessment for a proposed shooting range at Pu‘uanahulu, above the Kohala Coast resorts. She joined hoteliers and resort developers during the assessment. Following the test, she also visited the site, less than a mile away, for a demonstration of the firearms used during the assessment and an explanation of possible options for mitigation. (Photo courtesy: Rep. Cindy Evans)

2025 Committee Member of
 Measures Introduced in 2025
Measure and Title
SB3
RELATING TO WATER.
SB4
RELATING TO THE ROYAL MAUSOLEUM.
SB5
RELATING TO LEGISLATIVE VACANCIES.
SB6
RELATING TO NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT.
SB7
RELATING TO HEALTHY WORKPLACES.
SB8
RELATING TO JURY DUTY.
SB9
RELATING TO PLANT-BASED BUILDING MATERIALS.
SB10
RELATING TO AIR FILTERS.
SB11
RELATING TO VEGETATION MANAGEMENT NEAR UTILITY LINES.
SB12
RELATING TO NEONICOTINOIDS.
SB13
RELATING TO THE AQUACULTURE INVESTMENT TAX CREDIT.
SB14
RELATING TO INSURANCE.
SB15
RELATING TO HISTORIC PRESERVATION.
SB16
RELATING TO AQUARIUM FISH PERMITS.
SB17
RELATING TO WILDFIRE MITIGATION.
SB18
RELATING TO HISTORIC PRESERVATION.
SB19
RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES.
SB20
RELATING TO THE GREEN JOBS YOUTH CORPS.
SB21
RELATING TO WATER CARRIERS.
SB22
RELATING TO FISHERIES.
SB120
RELATING TO BUILDING CODES.
SB132
RELATING TO SMALL BUSINESS LOANS.
SB147
RELATING TO CONDOMINIUMS.
SB177
RELATING TO AQUACULTURE.
SB227
RELATING TO FIREWORKS.
SB311
PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO THE HAWAII STATE CONSTITUTION REGARDING THE FREEDOM OF SPEECH.
SB326
RELATING TO REVOLVING FUNDS.
SB328
RELATING TO TAXATION.
SB360
RELATING TO HOMELESSNESS.
SB371
RELATING TO PROPERTY DAMAGE OF CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE FACILITIES.
SB420
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
SB421
RELATING TO LITERACY.
SB422
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
SB423
RELATING TO THE EARLY LEARNING BOARD.
SB440
RELATING TO EDUCATION.
SB443
RELATING TO AGRICULTURAL LANDS.