Feb 22, 2023

Better Background Checks Proposed For Certain State Employees

People applying for state jobs in Hawaii that put them in close proximity to minors and vulnerable adults would have to undergo more formal scrutiny which could include national background checks. "We've got to make extra sure that the supervisors, the coaches, the managers, the staff were not charged with murder or rape,”Rep. John Mizuno, who introduced House Bill 777. The bill would require the state Department of Human Services to conduct much broader background checks including obtaining fingerprints, searching through criminal histories and looking into past employers for their applicants. View full article

Feb 22, 2023

House Resolutions Introduced Proclaiming Feb. 24 'Remember Ukraine Day in Hawai'i'

Hawai'i Rep. John Mizuno introduced House Concurrent Resolution 16 and House Resolution 19 that proclaim Feb. 24, 2023 as "Remember Ukraine Day in Hawai'i" to mark the solemn one-year anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. View full article

February 17, 2023

Lawmaker Concerned About Falling Boulders Amid Rainy Weather

Recent reports of falling rocks, boulders, and a collapse of a rock wall crashing onto people, property, and houses has Rep. Mizuno concerned.“We’ve been in this position before with boulders falling from a hillside in Kalihi Valley several times during a 10-year period,” said State Representative John Mizuno (D-29 Kalihi Valley, Kamehameha Heights, portion of Lower Kalihi) in a news release. In response to continuing concerns voiced by constituents in the area, Rep. Mizuno introduced HB454 – Relating to Land Liability to create strict liability for an owner of land with a 20% or more slope for damage or injury to down-slope property and persons from falling rocks, debris, and landslides originating from the owner’s property. View full article

February 17, 2023

State Representative Introduces Bill Requiring Reporting Of Sex Abuse By Clergy

Hawaii Lawmakers Propose Bill To Make Gambling, Sports Betting Legal On Oahu - State Rep. John Mizuno is working to create a standalone sportsbook and card room, making it the first legal betting room in Hawaii. If this bill passes, Hawaii could gain millions per year and use it to help create affordable housing in the state. View full article

January 9, 2023

Hawaii Lawmakers Propose Bill To Make Gambling, Sports Betting Legal On Oahu

State Rep. John Mizuno is working to create a standalone sportsbook and card room, making it the first legal betting room in Hawaii. If this bill passes, Hawaii could gain millions per year and use it to help create affordable housing in the state. View full article

June 8, 2020

Church Distributes To Food To Homeless, Residents In Need In Kalihi

State Rep. John Mizuno and the senior pastor of Hawaii Cedar Church helped distribute food to more than 300 homeless residents in Kalihi. Mizuno said it was important not to forget that the homeless are the most vulnerable during the pandemic. View full article

January 21, 2022

State Representative Introduces Bill Requiring Reporting Of Sex Abuse By Clergy

A bill proposed by Rep. Mizuno was announced on Jan 22, 2022, that would require the mandatory reporting of sexual abuse by clergy members. "Enough is enough, we need to stop this practice of cover-ups and protect our children and the foundation of churches in the United States. The only way to dually accomplish this is by allowing an exemption to the "penitential communication" and evolve toward disclosure and reporting of any allegations of child abuse by members of the clergy." Rep. Mizuno said in a press release. View full article