Honorable Robert Bunda

President of the Senate

Twenty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2005

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Ways and Means, to which was referred S.B. No. 1709 entitled:

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose of this measure is to establish an Office of International Affairs to coordinate and promote economic, social, cultural, and scientific relations with other countries.

Your Committee finds that an Office of International Affairs (Office) will serve the needs of and provide opportunities for Hawaii while taking advantage of the State's unique location and rich culture. In this time of war, the Office will coordinate and promote much needed peaceful initiatives through improved economic, social, cultural, and scientific relations with other countries.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Ways and Means that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of S.B. No. 1709 and recommends that it pass Third Reading.