Legislative Members

31st Legislature, 2021
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The Legislature has adjourned sine die.

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House District 1
Hawaii State Capitol
Room: 432
phone: 808-586-6680
fax: 808-586-6684
repnakashima@Capitol.hawaii.gov

Member of the following committees:

Judiciary & Hawaiian Affairs

District Information
1 - Hamakua, North Hilo, South Hilo

EXPERIENCE
• Representative First House District (N. Kohala, S. Kohala, Hamakua, N. Hilo, S. Hilo
• Vice Chair, House Higher Education Committee
• Staff Assistant, US Senator Spark Matsunaga
• Legislative Aide, Representative Dwight Takamine
• Legislative Aide, Representative Eric Hamakawa
• Teacher, Honokaa High School (history & economics)
• Staffmember, Hawaii State Teachers Association (West Hawaii & Hilo)

COMMUNITY
• Member, Hamakua Lions Club
• President, Hawaii State Jaycees
• Vice-president, US Junior Chamber of Commerce
• Member, Democratic Party HI State Central Committee

Measures Introduced

	Title
HB3	RELATING TO REVENUE GENERATION.
HB7	RELATING TO MARIJUANA.
HB10 HD1	RELATING TO THE BOARD OF EDUCATION.
HB33 HD1 SD2	RELATING TO THE INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY STEERING COMMITTEE.
HB72 HD2 SD2	RELATING TO ELECTRIC FOOT SCOOTERS.
HB74	RELATING TO RESTRICTIONS ON AGRICULTURAL USES AND ACTIVITIES.
HB76	RELATING TO COUNTIES.
HB77 HD1 SD1	RELATING TO LANDS CONTROLLED BY THE STATE.
HB78 HD1 SD1	RELATING TO THE UNDERGROUND CONSTRUCTION OF HIGH-VOLTAGE ELECTRIC TRANSMISSION LINES.
HB79 HD1 SD2 CD1	RELATING TO HOUSING.
HB80 HD1 SD1 CD1	RELATING TO THE LOW-INCOME HOUSING TAX CREDIT.
HB81	RELATING TO PUBLIC LANDS.
HB95 HD2 SD1	RELATING TO SPECIAL LICENSE PLATES FOR NATURAL RESOURCES.
HB96 HD1	RELATING TO AGRICULTURAL BUILDINGS.
HB97	RELATING TO CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS.
HB98 HD2	RELATING TO AQUATIC RESOURCES.
HB100 HD1	RELATING TO INSPECTION FEES.
HB102 HD1	RELATING TO SUNSCREENS.
HB235	RELATING TO SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM INCENTIVES.
HB236	RELATING TO COFFEE PEST CONTROL.
HB237 HD2 SD2 CD1	RELATING TO INVASIVE SPECIES.
HB239 HD1	RELATING TO CAMPAIGN ADVERTISEMENTS.
HB243 HD1 SD2 CD1	RELATING TO SEA LEVEL RISE ADAPTATION.
HB244 HD1 SD1 CD1	RELATING TO LAND RECORDATION.
HB245 HD1	RELATING TO HISTORIC PRESERVATION.
HB246	RELATING TO COASTAL PROTECTION.
HB247 SD2	RELATING TO AGRICULTURAL LANDS.
HB304	RELATING TO DEFERRED DEPOSITS.
HB324	RELATING TO AGRICULTURAL LEASES.
HB328 HD2	RELATING TO ENERGY EFFICIENCY.
HB415	RELATING TO MOBILE DEVICES.
HB432 HD1	RELATING TO THE EARNED INCOME TAX CREDIT.
HB436	RELATING TO DEPENDENT CARE FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNTS.
HB439	RELATING TO THE PROTECTION OF TENANTS.
HB446 HD3 SD1	RELATING TO MOTOR VEHICLES.
HB448	RELATING TO VIOLATION OF PRIVACY.
HB460	RELATING TO A CARBON TAX.
HB467 HD1	RELATING TO PUBLIC LANDS.
HB497 HD1 SD1	RELATING TO COUNTY ZONING ORDINANCES.
HB498 HD1 SD1	RELATING TO AQUATIC RESOURCES.
HB499 HD2 SD2 CD1	RELATING TO LEASE EXTENSIONS ON PUBLIC LAND.
HB505	RELATING TO ELECTIONS.
HB525 HD2 SD1	RELATING TO TEACHER HOUSING.
HB530	RELATING TO THE TRANSFER OF NON-AGRICULTURAL PARK LANDS.
HB535	RELATING TO MANSLAUGHTER.
HB540 HD2	RELATING TO LIABILITY.
HB549	RELATING TO MEASUREMENT STANDARDS.
HB552 HD1 SD2 CD1	RELATING TO THE ENVIRONMENT.
HB553 HD2 SD2 CD1	RELATING TO THE PROTECTION OF SHARKS.
HB554 HD2	RELATING TO REAL PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS.
HB568	RELATING TO SEX TRAFFICKING.
HB569 HD2	RELATING TO VICTIM-COUNSELOR PRIVILEGE.
HB570 HD2 SD1	RELATING TO SEXUAL ABUSE OF MINORS.
HB571 HD2	RELATING TO CHILDLIKE SEX DOLLS.
HB596	RELATING TO REAL PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS.
HB597	RELATING TO REAL PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS.
HB601 HD2 SD1	RELATING TO THE TRAFFIC CODE.
HB640	RELATING TO PROCUREMENT.
HB641 HD1	RELATING TO CONDOMINIUMS.
HB642	RELATING TO EMPLOYMENT.
HB643 HD2	RELATING TO EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT.
HB644	PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO THE HAWAII STATE CONSTITUTION TO REQUIRE THE REAPPORTIONMENT COMMISSION TO ESTABLISH A REAPPORTIONMENT PLAN TO DRAW DISTRICT LINES FOR THE MEMBERS OF THE OFFICE OF HAWAIIAN AFFAIRS BOARD OF TRUSTEES.
HB645	RELATING TO GIFT REPORTING.
HB646	RELATING TO STATE LAW.
HB647	RELATING TO THE JUDICIARY.
HB648	RELATING TO HAWAIIAN AFFAIRS.
HB649	RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL.
HB650	RELATING TO THE PENAL CODE.
HB651	RELATING TO THE USE OF INTOXICANTS WHILE OPERATING A VEHICLE.
HB652	RELATING TO EXEMPTIONS FROM JURY DUTY.
HB653	RELATING TO PAYMENTS OF SUPPORT.
HB654 HD1	RELATING TO CHILD SUPPORT ENFORCEMENT.
HB655	RELATING TO ELECTIONS.
HB656 HD1	RELATING TO ELECTIONS.
HB657	RELATING TO FIREARMS.
HB658	RELATING TO THE ELECTION OF MEMBERS TO THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE OFFICE OF HAWAIIAN AFFAIRS.
HB659	RELATING TO PROPERTY FORFEITURE.
HB660	RELATING TO POLITICAL ADVERTISING.
HB661	RELATING TO FIREWORKS.
HB662 HD1	RELATING TO FIREARM OWNERSHIP.
HB663 HD1 SD1	RELATING TO THE GAME MANAGEMENT ADVISORY COMMISSION.
HB664	RELATING TO EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT.
HB665	RELATING TO LIFEGUARDS.
HB666	RELATING TO LAW ENFORCEMENT.
HB667	RELATING TO MEDICAL CANNABIS.
HB668	RELATING TO CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES.
HB669	RELATING TO LIABILITY.
HB670 HD1 SD2	RELATING TO THE EMPLOYEES' RETIREMENT SYSTEM.
HB671 HD2 SD2	RELATING TO THE CODE OF ETHICS.
HB672 HD1	RELATING TO THE STATE ETHICS CODE.
HB673	RELATING TO ELECTIONS.
HB674	RELATING TO ELECTIONEERING COMMUNICATIONS.
HB675	RELATING TO COMMUNITY MEETINGS.
HB676	RELATING TO THE OFFICE OF INFORMATION PRACTICES.
HB677	RELATING TO THE SUNSHINE LAW.
HB678 HD1	RELATING TO STATE HOLIDAYS.
HB679	RELATING TO NATIVE HAWAIIAN BENEFICIARIES.
HB680 HD2	RELATING TO HUMAN REMAINS.
HB681 HD2	RELATING TO MANAGEMENT OF STATE FUNDS.
HB682	RELATING TO TAXATION.
HB683 HD2 SD1 CD1	RELATING TO SUSTAINABLE AVIATION FUEL.
HB684 HD1	RELATING TO TAXATION.
HB685	RELATING TO RAW MILK.
HB686 HD2	RELATING TO CRITICAL ELECTRICAL INFRASTRUCTURE.
HB687	RELATING TO HOUSING.
HB688	RELATING TO SPECIAL PURPOSE REVENUE BONDS TO ASSIST KEAHOLE HOTEL & SUITES LLC.
HB689 HD1	RELATING TO SPECIAL PURPOSE REVENUE BONDS TO ASSIST HOUSE OF ALOHA ENTERPRISES LLC.
HB691	RELATING TO CAMPUS SAFETY.
HB702 HD2	RELATING TO FARM TO SCHOOL PROCUREMENT.
HB722 HD2 SD2	RELATING TO HUMAN TRAFFICKING.
HB725	RELATING TO THE VIOLATION OF RULES DURING EMERGENCY PERIODS.
HB740 HD1	RELATING TO VOTING.
HB741 HD2 SD1	RELATING TO ETHICS.
HB742	RELATING TO THE OFFICE OF HAWAIIAN AFFAIRS.
HB743	RELATING TO CAMPAIGN SPENDING.
HB744	RELATING TO THE PENAL CODE.
HB755 HD1	RELATING TO THE WORKS OF ART SPECIAL FUND.
HB756 HD2 SD1	RELATING TO THE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.
HB757 HD1	RELATING TO THE HAWAII HOUSING FINANCE AND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION.
HB781	RELATING TO STUDENT JOURNALISM.
HB783	RELATING TO THE UNIFORM PROBATE CODE.
HB784	RELATING TO TRESPASS.
HB803 HD1 SD1	RELATING TO ELECTRIC VEHICLES.
HB809 HD2	RELATING TO BROADBAND.
HB810	RELATING TO BROADBAND.
HB815	RELATING TO EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT.
HB816	RELATING TO AGRICULTURE.
HB818 HD1	RELATING TO CRIMINAL TRESPASS ONTO STATE LANDS.
HB820	RELATING TO PUBLIC ACCESS.
HB821 HD2	RELATING TO HISTORIC PRESERVATION.
HB826 HD2 SD2	RELATING TO ELECTRONIC SMOKING DEVICES.
HB827	RELATING TO AGRICULTURE.
HB828	RELATING TO AGRICULTURAL LOANS.
HB829	RELATING TO A FOOD HUB PILOT PROGRAM.
HB830	RELATING TO THE IMPORTANT AGRICULTURAL LAND QUALIFIED AGRICULTURAL COST TAX CREDIT.
HB831	RELATING TO PESTICIDES.
HB842 HD1	RELATING TO ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENTS.
HB844	RELATING TO PROCUREMENT.
HB845	RELATING TO FILM CREDIT CAP REMOVAL.
HB847	RELATING TO THE OFFICE OF ADMINISTRATIVE ADJUDICATIONS.
HB849 HD1	RELATING TO PROCUREMENT.
HB1085	RELATING TO SEXUAL ASSAULT OF AN ANIMAL.
HB1086 HD1 SD1	RELATING TO VETERINARIANS.
HB1108	RELATING TO GIFTS.
HB1112	RELATING TO THE VENDING FACILITIES PROGRAM.
HB1122 HD1 SD1	RELATING TO THE HAWAIIAN HOMES COMMISSION ACT.
HB1123	RELATING TO THE HAWAIIAN HOMES COMMISSION ACT.
HB1124 HD1 SD1	RELATING TO THE HAWAIIAN HOMES COMMISSION ACT.
HB1130 HD2 SD2	RELATING TO TRANSIT-ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT.
HB1131 HD1	RELATING TO THE STATE BUILDING CODE COUNCIL.
HB1144 HD2	RELATING TO AGRICULTURE.
HB1149 HD1 SD2 CD1	RELATING TO LAND USE.
HB1150	RELATING TO FISHING.
HB1161	RELATING TO CHARTER SCHOOLS.
HB1162	RELATING TO HAWAIIAN HOME LANDS.
HB1163	RELATING TO ETHICS.
HB1174 HD1 SD2	RELATING TO TAXATION.
HB1175	RELATING TO THE COMMUNITY-BASED ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM.
HB1177	RELATING TO TAX CREDITS.
HB1178	RELATING TO TAX CREDITS.
HB1179	RELATING TO INVASIVE SPECIES.
HB1191 HD2 SD2 CD1	RELATING TO BROADBAND SERVICE INFRASTRUCTURE.
HB1206	RELATING TO FOOD SECURITY.
HB1210	RELATING TO PROCUREMENT.
HB1220 HD2	RELATING TO CHARTER SCHOOLS.
HB1221 HD1	RELATING TO CHARTER SCHOOLS.
HB1222 HD1	RELATING TO EDUCATION.
HB1223 HD1	RELATING TO EDUCATION.
HB1246 HD2	RELATING TO FIREWORKS.
HB1258	RELATING TO HAWAIIAN HOME LANDS.
HB1259	RELATING TO VACANCIES.
HB1260	RELATING TO CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE FIRST REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT.
HB1261 HD1	RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES.
HB1262	RELATING TO ELECTIONS.
HB1286 HD2	RELATING TO TRAVEL.
HB1289	RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF SPECIAL PURPOSE REVENUE BONDS TO ASSIST HK MANAGEMENT, LLC.
HB1317	RELATING TO ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT.
HB1324 HD2 SD1	RELATING TO COMMERCIAL PROPERTY RENT RELIEF.
HB1325 HD1	RELATING TO THE PROCUREMENT CODE.
HB1326 HD1 SD1	RELATING TO DOMESTIC VIOLENCE.
HCR11 HD1 SD1	REQUESTING THE HAWAII STATE COMMISSION ON THE STATUS OF WOMEN TO CONVENE A TASK FORCE TO STUDY MISSING AND MURDERED NATIVE HAWAIIAN WOMEN AND GIRLS.
HCR12 HD1	CONVENING A TASK FORCE TO ADDRESS IMPLEMENTATION OF HAWAII'S STATE LAW COROLLARY TO TITLE IX TO STRENGTHEN HAWAII'S EFFORTS TO END CAMPUS-BASED SEXUAL VIOLENCE AND GENDER DISCRIMINATION.
HCR79	URGING THE BOARD OF EDUCATION TO NAME THE HILO HIGH SCHOOL GYM AFTER ALBERT AND LAWRENCE MANLIGUIS.
HCR81 HD1 SD1	URGING THE UNITED STATES CONGRESS, FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION, AND HAWAII DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION TO TAKE EVERY ACTION NECESSARY TO ADDRESS RAPIDLY INCREASING SAFETY RISKS AND COMMUNITY DISRUPTION RESULTING FROM INSUFFICIENT REGULATION OF TOUR HELICOPTER AND SMALL AIRCRAFT OPERATIONS THROUGHOUT HAWAII SKIES.
HCR94	REQUESTING THE COLLEGE OF TROPICAL AGRICULTURE AND HUMAN RESOURCES AT THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII AT MANOA TO EXPLICITLY INCLUDE BUSINESS EDUCATION AND GUIDANCE FOR FARMERS IN ITS MISSION STATEMENT.
HCR95	URGING HAWAII HELICOPTER COMPANIES TO AVOID CONDUCTING NONEMERGENCY FLIGHTS OVER RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOODS.
HCR130	REQUESTING THE DIRECTOR OF TAXATION TO WAIVE PENALTIES AND INTEREST SOUGHT FROM SMALL BUSINESSES AND INDIVIDUAL TAXPAYERS AS A RESULT OF UNDUE HARDSHIP RELATED TO THE CORONAVIRUS DISEASE 2019 PANDEMIC.
HCR131 HD2	REQUESTING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A BURIAL SITES WORKING GROUP TO REVIEW AND RECOMMEND IMPROVEMENTS TO THE BURIAL SITES PROGRAM WITHIN THE STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION DIVISION.
HCR132 HD1 SD1	REQUESTING THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH TO APPLY TO THE DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION'S OFFICE OF DIVERSION CONTROL FOR AN EXCEPTION UNDER TITLE 21 CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS SECTION 1307.03, AND REQUEST FORMAL WRITTEN ACKNOWLEDGMENT THAT THE LISTING OF MARIHUANA, MARIHUANA EXTRACT, AND TETRAHYDROCANNABINOLS AS CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES IN FEDERAL SCHEDULE I DOES NOT APPLY TO THE PROTECTED ACTIVITIES IN HAWAII REVISED STATUTES.
HCR133	REQUESTING THE WILLIAM S. RICHARDSON SCHOOL OF LAW TO ESTABLISH THE BURIAL SITES WORKING GROUP TO EXAMINE THE BURIAL SITES PROGRAM UNDER THE DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES' STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION DIVISION.
HCR151	URGING THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY TO INCREASE ITS INVESTMENT IN COMPREHENSIVE OFFENDER REENTRY TRAINING PROGRAMS FOR INDIVIDUALS EXITING CORRECTIONAL FACILITIES.
HCR153 HD1	URGING THE BOARD OF EDUCATION TO CONSIDER HAWAII RESIDENTS WITH EXPERIENCE SERVING IN THE POSITION OF TEACHER OR HIGHER IN HAWAII'S PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM AS PART OF THE QUALIFIED CANDIDATE POOL TO SERVE AS SUPERINTENDENT OF EDUCATION OF HAWAII'S PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM.
HCR154 SD1	CONDEMNING ALL FORMS OF ANTI-ASIAN SENTIMENT AS RELATED TO COVID-19; URGING GREATER INVESTMENT IN FEDERAL, STATE, AND LOCAL RESOURCES TO DEVELOP AND SUPPORT COMMUNITYWIDE SOLUTIONS; AND REQUESTING THE CIVIL RIGHTS DIVISION OF THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE TO IDENTIFY AND ANALYZE INCIDENTS BASED ON ANTI-ASIAN AND ANTI-PACIFIC ISLANDER SENTIMENT AND DISPROPORTIONATE NUMBERS OF HOMICIDES OF ASIAN-AMERICANS AND PACIFIC ISLANDERS BY LAW ENFORCEMENT.
HCR165	REQUESTING THE HAWAII TOURISM AUTHORITY TO DEVELOP AN IMPLEMENTATION PLAN BASED ON TOURISM HOT SPOTS IDENTIFIED IN COUNTY DESTINATION MANAGEMENT ACTION PLANS.
HCR168	CONDEMNING AND DENOUNCING ALL FORMS OF ANTI-ASIAN SENTIMENT AND ALL ACTS OF RACISM, XENOPHOBIA, INTOLERANCE, DISCRIMINATION, HATE CRIME, AND HATE SPEECH AGAINST ASIAN AMERICANS AND ASIAN INDIVIDUALS IN THE UNITED STATES.
HCR169	REQUESTING THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR AND INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS TO CONVENE A WORKING GROUP TO IMPROVE ACCESS TO GOVERNMENT SERVICES FOR IMMIGRANTS AND INCREASE IMMIGRANT OPPORTUNITIES TO MAKE CIVIC AND ECONOMIC CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE COMMUNITY.
HR12 HD1	REQUESTING THE HAWAII STATE COMMISSION ON THE STATUS OF WOMEN TO CONVENE A TASK FORCE TO STUDY MISSING AND MURDERED NATIVE HAWAIIAN WOMEN AND GIRLS.
HR13 HD1	CONVENING A TASK FORCE TO ADDRESS IMPLEMENTATION OF HAWAII'S STATE LAW COROLLARY TO TITLE IX TO STRENGTHEN HAWAII'S EFFORTS TO END CAMPUS-BASED SEXUAL VIOLENCE AND GENDER DISCRIMINATION.
HR49 HD1	URGING THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION TO DEVELOP AND IMPLEMENT A PLAN TO REDUCE THE USE OF EXTERNAL CONTRACTS FOR CURRICULA, INSTRUCTION, AND TESTING IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS.
HR68 HD1	URGING THE UNITED STATES CONGRESS, FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION, AND HAWAII DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION TO TAKE EVERY ACTION NECESSARY TO ADDRESS RAPIDLY INCREASING SAFETY RISKS AND COMMUNITY DISRUPTION RESULTING FROM INSUFFICIENT REGULATION OF RAPIDLY INCREASING OPERATIONS OF TOUR HELICOPTERS AND SMALL AIRCRAFT THROUGHOUT HAWAII SKIES.
HR79	REQUESTING THE COLLEGE OF TROPICAL AGRICULTURE AND HUMAN RESOURCES AT THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII AT MANOA TO EXPLICITLY INCLUDE BUSINESS EDUCATION AND GUIDANCE FOR FARMERS IN ITS MISSION STATEMENT.
HR80	URGING HAWAII HELICOPTER COMPANIES TO AVOID CONDUCTING NONEMERGENCY FLIGHTS OVER RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOODS.
HR105 HD1	DESIGNATING THE FIRST FULL WEEK OF MAY AS TARDIVE DYSKINESIA AWARENESS WEEK.
HR112 HD1	REQUESTING THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH TO SUBMIT A REQUEST TO THE DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION FOR AN EXCEPTION TO REGULATIONS AND A PETITION TO INITIATE PROCEEDINGS FOR FEDERAL RULEMAKING TO CLARIFY THAT THE STATE-AUTHORIZED USE OF MEDICAL CANNABIS DOES NOT VIOLATE THE FEDERAL CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES ACT.
HR113 HD1	REQUESTING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A BURIAL SITES WORKING GROUP TO REVIEW AND RECOMMEND IMPROVEMENTS TO THE ISLAND BURIAL COUNCILS.
HR129 HD1	URGING THE BOARD OF EDUCATION TO CONSIDER HAWAII RESIDENTS WITH EXPERIENCE SERVING IN THE POSITION OF TEACHER OR HIGHER IN HAWAII'S PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM AS PART OF THE QUALIFIED CANDIDATE POOL TO SERVE AS SUPERINTENDENT OF EDUCATION OF HAWAII'S PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM.
HR130	CONDEMNING ALL FORMS OF ANTI-ASIAN SENTIMENT AS RELATED TO COVID-19 AND URGING GREATER INVESTMENT IN FEDERAL, STATE, AND LOCAL RESOURCES TO DEVELOP AND SUPPORT COMMUNITYWIDE SOLUTIONS.
HR141	REQUESTING THE HAWAII TOURISM AUTHORITY TO DEVELOP AN IMPLEMENTATION PLAN BASED ON TOURISM HOT SPOTS IDENTIFIED IN COUNTY DESTINATION MANAGEMENT ACTION PLANS.
HR142	CONDEMNING AND DENOUNCING ALL FORMS OF ANTI-ASIAN SENTIMENT AND ALL ACTS OF RACISM, XENOPHOBIA, INTOLERANCE, DISCRIMINATION, HATE CRIME, AND HATE SPEECH AGAINST ASIAN AMERICANS AND ASIAN INDIVIDUALS IN THE UNITED STATES.
HR143	REQUESTING THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR AND INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS TO CONVENE A WORKING GROUP TO IMPROVE ACCESS TO GOVERNMENT SERVICES FOR IMMIGRANTS AND INCREASE IMMIGRANT OPPORTUNITIES TO MAKE CIVIC AND ECONOMIC CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE COMMUNITY.

As a former educator, Representative Nakashima understands how critical it is to evaluate program budget requests, and to set criteria for the evaluation of these appropriations. Mark will work towards the development of geothermal energy statewide as a solution to breaking the State's dependence on imported oil. Representative Nakashima will also work to create a synergy between the Big Island community, public schools and institutions of higher learning to become more collaborative, and he will continue to work with all stakeholders to develop a vision that will guide long-term decision making and future expenditures.
Representative Nakashima is a graduate of the University of Hawaii at Manoa and holds a B.Ed. degree and Professional Diploma in education with an emphasis in political science.

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April 12, 2018

Reps. Nakashima and San Buenaventura to Host Community Meeting on Emergency Preparedness

WHO: Representative Mark M. Nakashima
Representative Joy A. San Buenaventura

WHAT: Community meeting on emergency preparedness

WHEN: Saturday, April 28, 2018 1-3 p.m.

WHERE: Pāhoa Neighborhood Facility
15-2910 Ku‘uhome Street
Pāhoa

Representative Joy A. San Buenaventura (Puna) and Representative Mark M. Nakashima (Hamakua) will be holding a community meeting on emergency preparedness.

Confirmed guest speakers will include:
• Talmadge Magno, Civil Defense Administrator, Hawai‘i County
• Thomas Travis, Hawai‘i Emergency Management Agency, Director
• Dennis Hwang of UH Sea Grant, Coastal Hazard Mitigation Specialist

Topics for discussion will range from emergency shelter locations to hurricane preparations, and updates regarding the false missile alert. Speakers will consider unique characteristics of Puna homes such as catchment water use.

April 9, 2018

April 2018 Holomua Newsletter

Dear Friends, We just completed “Crossover” which is the legislative deadline for House bills (HBs) to move to the Senate and Senate bills (SBs) to move to the House and remain “alive”. The House approved and sent 381 bills to the Senate for consideration.

February 28, 2018

HOSA UH Hilo Delegates at State Conference

HOSA (Health Occupation Students of America) at UH Hilo delegates with Representative Mark Nakashima, who presented each member with a certificate from the House of Representatives congratulating them for their performance at last month’s Hawai’i Island regional competition and representing UH Hilo at the State Leadership Conference held February 21-23 in Honolulu. (Left to Right) Jeremy Villanueva, Lark Jason Canico, Kelly Gani, Representative Mark Nakashima, Leslie Arce, Travis Taylor, Sheldon Cabudol, Deserie Pagatpatan.

February 7, 2018

No-cost Rx Delivery Now Available in Honoka'a

Honoka'a residents will now be able to have their prescriptions delivered to their homes for free, thanks to a program from The Hawai‘i Medical Service Association (HMSA) and CVS Health®, which does business in Hawaii as Longs Drugs. The program is open to HMSA members and the entire Honokaa community. See the Rx delivery poster for more information here.

February 7, 2018

September 2017 Holomua Newsletter

Aloha Friends, I have heard concerns regarding the “Rail Bill” that was recently enacted into law during the Legislature’s special session this summer. The deliberations were vigorous and at times unfortunately contentious. View full article

February 6, 2018

2018 District 1 Community Survey

Please take a few minutes to complete our community survey. You can take the survey online at here or a hard copy version of the survey can be found in the January 2018 edition of my Holomua newsletter.

March 1, 2016

January 2016 Newsletter

Hau'oli Makahiki Hou! May your New Year be filled with much opportunity! In the coming year, I plan to build upon the foundations from the previous years. As chair of the House Labor and Public Employment Committee, my goal has always been to continuously improve the function and accountability of government. View full article

April 8, 2015

March 2015 Newsletter - Holomua

Dear Friends,

Thank you for the opportunity to once again serve as your voice in the House of Representatives. We entered the 2015 legislature with two years experience as Chair of the House of Labor Committee and a better handle on the diversity of issues in the committee's portfolio. We have implemented Act 99 (SLH 2013) and have the Agricultural Workforce Development Advisory Board up and running providing programs and resources for the future agriculturalists throughout the state. View full article

April 4, 2014

March 2014 Holomua Newsletter

Dear Friends,

The House of Representatives is currently engaged in the "second pass" through bills that have crossed over from the Senate. Over on the Senate side, they are doing the same with House Bills. By this time, 90% of the topics have already been discussed once before and we are vetting bills that will be taken in to joint House-Senate Conference Committees in a few weeks.View full article

January 24, 2014

December Hamakua Times

The United States Supreme Court ruled that provisions in the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), which limited federal benefits to same-sex couples was unconstitutional and over-turned Section 3 of DOMA. The Windsor case involved a same sex couple who were married in Canada. When one spouse died, the other inherited her property and was charged inheritance taxes by the Internal Revenue Service. In addition to the Internal Revenue Service, the Supreme Court ruling has the potential to impact other federal benefits like Medicare, Social Security, Medicaid and federal tax benefits to same sex couples who live in states where same gender marriage is legal.

This decision by the United States Supreme Court renewed the push for same sex marriage in Hawaii because it was only with marriage that a couple could claim the federal benefits. Other portions of DOMA including provisions that did not require states from recognizing same sex marriages from other states was left in place. This created the question of whether same sex marriages from other states would be valid in Hawaii as Hawaii did not recognize same sex marriages.

Using his constitutional authority, Governor Abercrombie called the legislature into special session on October 28, 2013. Many people have argued that this demonstrated that the Governor was forcing the issue down the legislature's throat, that people were not being given the opportunities that they would have during a regular session, and that the bill was a done deal. The Governor has the constitutional right to call the legislature into session, however the legislature is under no obligation to act. The opponents could have moved to recess the session as soon as it began and it could have closed on the first day, but this did not happen. Once the legislature decided to move ahead, it was now a legislative decision.

In anticipation of the receipt of an extraordinary amount of testimony, the House of Representatives encouraged citizen participation in the hearing process by accepting written testimony by personal delivery, U.S. Postal Service, and the Legislature's website. Additionally, individuals with an interest in submitting oral, in-person testimony were able to do so and reserve in advance a place in the speaking order.

The House received more than 23,000 pieces of written testimony on this issue with over 5,000 individuals registered to testify orally. The committees began hearing testimony on Thursday, October 31, 2013, and continued through Tuesday, November 5, 2013. This unprecedented hearing process lasted more than 55 hours, during which more than 1,000 persons were able to testify.

This was not a done deal and we did hear the people. Many of the testifiers expressed concerns on the infringement of their religious freedoms. To address this, the House amended the bill by expanding the religious exemption to more closely model similar provisions in effect in the state of Connecticut. The House amendment makes it clear that a clergy member, minister, priest, rabbi, religious officer, or religious society that provides solemnizations shall be immune from any fine, penalty, injunction, administrative proceeding, or any other legal or administrative liability for declining to perform any marriage or civil union specifically because performing the marriage or civil union is in violation of their religious beliefs or faith.

Further, the bill expands the religious organization and facilities exemption to: (a) Apply to religious organizations and to nonprofit organizations operated, supervised, or controlled by a religious organization; (b) Establish that none of these entities shall be required to provide goods or services or their facilities or grounds for the solemnization or celebration of a marriage if the solemnization or celebration is in violation of their religious beliefs or faith; and (c) Expressly provide that these entities shall be immune from any fine, penalty, injunction, administrative proceeding, or any other legal or administrative liability for the failure or refusal to provide goods, services, grounds, or facilities pursuant to this measure.

Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it. ~ George Santayana. As a history teacher, I often quoted this to my 9th grade World History students at Honoka'a High School. It was true philosophically because we find that history often repeats itself and takes great wisdom and political courage to avoid making the same mistakes. This was also true for my students because if they failed my class, they would be condemned to be back repeating the class during the summer.

In discussing this historic legislation, I believe it is imperative that we consider the following issues and concerns:

The Civil Rights Act of 1964:

In reacting to the Civil Rights Bill of 1964, then Senator Strom Thurmond, a democrat from South Carolina, said, "This so-called Civil Rights Proposals, which the President has sent to Capitol Hill for enactment into law, are unconstitutional, unnecessary, unwise and extend beyond the realm of reason. This is the worst civil-rights package ever presented to the Congress..."

In listening to much of the opposition on the same sex marriage legislation, I heard much of the same issues and concerns that were voiced by Senator Thurmond almost 50 years ago. You will remember that much of our society today is built on the foundation of this 1964 landmark legislation that outlawed major forms of discrimination against racial, ethnic, national and religious minorities, and women. It ended unequal application of voter registration requirements and racial segregation in schools, at work, and facilities that served the general public.

Many argue that same sex marriage is different, because it is a choice. It is not how you were born, and you can change or hide it if you wanted. However, during the debate, it was also pointed out that religion is also a choice. That the protection of the right is really based on protecting us from mob rule and mob mentality. That fear can be a powerful motivator and that the purpose of the laws is to protect everyone's individual rights and not just those of the majority but also those of the minority. We must also be vigilant to preserve these ideals as we never know when the tables will turn and we will find ourselves on the short end of the stick.

Freedom of Religion

I believe in an America where religious intolerance will someday end-where all men and all churches are treated as equal-where every man has the same right to attend or not attend the church of his choice-where there is no Catholic vote, no anti-Catholic vote, no bloc voting of any kind-and where Catholics, Protestants and Jews, at both the lay and pastoral level, will refrain from those attitudes of disdain and division which have so often marred their works in the past, and promote instead the American ideal of brotherhood. -John F. Kennedy

Religious freedom is an individual civil right that allows you to practice your religious beliefs without interference. This also means that others are also free to practice their religions as they believe without outside interference as well. The issue arises when one religious group feels the need to impose their religious views on the rest of society or a person's individual civil right comes in conflict with another individual's practice of their religion freedom.

The same sex marriage bill as amended by the House tries to strike this balance by providing protections to religious institutions from undue intrusion on its religious beliefs by those seeking to promote their rights to same sex marriage.

Under our Hawaii Public Accommodations Law, you cannot discriminate based on Race, Color, National origin, Religion, Sex, Disability, Age, Genetic information, Sexual orientation, Martial status, AIDS/HIV, arrest and court record, or credit report.

A question was raised by a constituent who asked about the case of a B&B who refused service to a same-sex couple. This case was brought to my attention last year as Chair of the House Labor Committee as we deliberated on a domestic worker bill. A B&B owner was approached by a same sex couple who sought to rent out a room in their home. The owners did not want to rent to a same sex couple and found them another place to stay. The owners were found to be in violation of the public accommodations law and forced to pay restitution. This had already occurred and the same sex marriage bill would have no baring in this situation. However, based on this information and due to the close nature of working with a family in the home, I amended the domestic worker bill last session Act 248 to allow for the hiring and firing of domestic workers without the protection of Hawaii Civil Rights laws.

Does the Legislature have the Authority?

Following the Court's decision in 1996, the Legislature proposed an amendment to Hawaii's Constitution to clarify legislative authority to define marriage by passing H.B. No. 117, Regular Session 1997. Section 1 of the bill expressly states:

The legislature further finds that the question of whether or not the State should issue marriage licenses to couples of the same sex is a fundamental policy issue to be decided by the elected representatives of the people. This constitutional measure is thus designed to confirm that the legislative has the power to reserve marriage to opposite-sex couples and to ensure that the legislature will remain open to the petitions of those who seek a change in the marriage laws, and that such petitioners can be considered on an equal basis with those who oppose a change in our current marriage statutes. (emphasis added)

The bill that created the constitutional amendment question for the voters in 1998 specifically left open the possibility that the legislature should be open to the consideration of changing the marriage law in the future. The legislative intent of the bill is clear and provides the rationale for the legislative action that has occurred.

Same Sex Marriage Timeline

1993 - The Hawaii Supreme Court in Baehr v. Miike (originally Baehr v. Lewin) ruled that denying marriage to same-sex couples constituted discrimination based on sex in violation of the right to equal protection guaranteed by the state's constitution.
1994 - The Hawaii State Legislature amends HRS 572-1 the marriage statue by defining marriage as an institution for "one man and one woman."
1996 - Judge Kevin K.S. Chang ruled that the state did not prove that it had a compelling interest in denying marriage licenses to same-sex couples and that HRS 572-1 amended by the legislature in 1994 was unconstitutional.
1998 - Hawaii voters approved a constitutional amendment to the Hawaii Constitution granting the Hawaii State Legislature the power to reserve marriage to opposite-sex couples.
1999 - The Hawaii Supreme Court ruled that in light of the constitutional amendment approved by voters, HRS 572-1 passed by the legislature in 1994 was constitutional.
2011 - Hawaii Legislature adopts Civil Unions providing Hawaii marriage rights and benefits to couples.
2013 - United States Supreme Court held in United States v. Windsor, that restricting U.S. federal interpretation of "marriage" and "spouse" to apply only to heterosexual unions is unconstitutional, granting Federal marriage benefits to all legally married couples.

January 24, 2014

Happy New Year! 2014 is the year of the Green Wood Horse!

The Wood Horse year is a dynamic year with swift victories and unexpected adventure. Energy is flowing and it is a time for leaders to come forward. Decisive action, not procrastination will bring victory. One must act quickly in a Horse year.

With this in mind, we are poised to step off quickly this year to move forward in establishing a hydrogen economy here in the islands. While other states with mineral resources have been cool to the idea of investing in hydrogen -- Hawaii, out in the middle of the pacific -- has geothermal, an abundance of renewable energy resources and lots of water which are all the resources you need to make an abundance of hydrogen.

This legislative session, I will be introducing legislation that will further our commitment to developing the infrastructure and training necessary to prepare Hawaii for the planned roll-out of consumer models of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles in 2015 by Toyota, Hyundai, and Honda (partnered with General Motors).

On the Big Island, this will mean an ambitious program to develop our hydrogen manufacturing capacity utilizing renewable energy to electrolyze water to separate out the hydrogen (The H in H2O).

Initially utilizing wind, solar and hydroelectric power, we will manufacture hydrogen at locations around the island that will supply up to five fueling stations strategically placed to allow vehicles to be fueled around the island.

The hydrogen fuel cell vehicle shares many of the same characteristics as its gasoline driven counterpart. It takes a few minutes to refuel, it can travel about the same distance on one fill up, and it is better able to handle hills much like a gasoline car.

Unlike gasoline driven cars, it will not require the import of fossil fuel, there are no carbon emissions, and eventually you could make your own fuel at home.

When I was first elected in 2008, I deplored the fact that the volatile nature of the global fossil fuel market really hamstrung residents of Hawaii Island who are forced to spend an increasing percentage of our income on transportation. By embracing this technology, we will free ourselves from these outside forces over which we have no control.

To kick start hydrogen use in Hawaii, I hope to see an investment in hydrogen fuel cell transit busses, the conversion of some or all of our government fleets to hydrogen fuel cells, and including hydrogen fuel cell vehicles in the rental car fleets on island.

As Chair of the House Committee on Labor and Public Employment, I am striving to enhance our state workforce development program to be much more proactive in identifying future workforce needs. Areas such as STEM, agriculture, and healthcare are areas which can have a positive impact on our economy.

Another issue that falls into the Committee's jurisdiction is the minimum wage which is currently at $7.25, and has not increased for the past seven years. This measure failed last session when the House and Senate could not agree on this issue of tip credit.

During conference negotiations, the House sought a moderate increase in the tip credit while the Senate insisted that the tip credit increase be equal to the actual increase in the minimum. The Senate position would raise the tip credit from 25 cents to $2.25.

The tip credit is applied to tipped employees and is the amount deducted from the hourly minimum wage. This would mean that while the minimum wage would have increased to $9.25, tipped employees would continue to make just $7.00/hour.

The 28th Hawaii State Legislature convenes on Wednesday, January 15, 2014. For information regarding the legislature, you may visit the website at www.capitol.hawaii.gov.

I appreciate hearing from you with your questions or concerns. You may email me at repnakashima@capitol.hawaii.gov , call my office 974-4000 ext 6-6680 or (808)586-6680.

March 4, 2013

February 2013 "Holomua" Newsletter

Dear Friends,
Thank you for the opportunity to once again serve as your voice in the House of Representatives. This year is one of change and as the song goes, "Everything Old is New Again". Even during my short tenure in the House, it became very obvious that there was a growing chasm within the majority Democrats and we were becom-ing a "House divided." Thus after 14 years as Speaker of the House, Representative Calvin Say was succeeded by former Speaker Emeritus Joseph Souki of Maui. The Old/New Speaker was elected on a platform of transition that seeks to utilize the best talents of all members of the House.

Under Speaker Souki's leadership, I have been given the privilege of serving as Chair of the House Committee on Labor and Public Employment. In this new role, I have jurisdiction on many bread and butter issues impacting our families, such as minimum wage, sick leave, worker's compensation, unemployment insurance, and collective bargaining, just to name a few.

Should you have any questions or concerns regarding bills moving through the legis-lature, please feel free to contact me.

Aloha and Best Wishes
View full article

January 18, 2013

2013 Bill Introduction

The following are a list of bills that I will be introducing in the 2013 Legislature. Among the legislative goals that I have set for this session are measures that will develop the economy, preserve our environment, enhance education, and improve government.View full article

January 18, 2013

Happy New Year 2013- the Year of the Snake!

This is the year of the Water Snake, and all things will be possible. Saving money and being thrifty should be your top priorities. Delusion and deception are common in the year of the Water Snake. Stay Alert! To gain the greatest benefits from this year, you must control spending and use your talents wisely. If you are planning to get married, or begin a business partnership, be sure to thoroughly investigate the other person's finances and background before you legalize the alliance.

May 7, 2012

Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle Facility

Representative Nakashima coordinated visitations by the House Committees on Higher Education and Energy and Environmental Protection to the Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle Facility at Joint Base Hickam/Pearl Harbor to learn more about the current technology and plans for introduction of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles into the consumer market.

The Hawaii Center for Advanced Transportation Technology serves as a catalyst to expand transportation technology development in Hawaii and is currently working in partnership with the US Air Force to develop and demonstrate zero emission and low emission transportation technologies to meet military and commercial needs.

A new electrolyzer which was being installed during our visit will continue to test the durability of the technology in the field. An electrolyzer is a device that converts water into hydrogen and oxygen. The new electrolyzer is portable, small enough to fit in half a Matson Container, and is able to desalinate and purify the water before splitting the water molecule into its parts. This is important in military application as it would cut down on the need to transport hydrogen via supply lines and will allow for the manufacture of hydrogen closer to the point of use in the field. A hose need simply be put into a stream, pond or ocean to create the needed hydrogen for transportation.

An array of photovoltaic panels provide the necessary power to run the electrolyzer and no fossil fuels are utilized anywhere in the hydrogen creation process making it a totally renewable resource.
(Left) Photovoltaic panels provide power to the electrolyzer making the process renewable and a totally fossil fuel free process.View full article

May 7, 2012

Kalo Challenge

Ka Hana Noeau, a mentoring and leadership development group hosted their 4th Annual Sustainability event at the Intergenerational Center at Kamehameha Park in Kapaau. This year's special ingredient is kalo which has been raised by several Kohala families in part of a sustainability demonstration project that has been on-going in Kohala for the past couple of years.
Several "celebrity" teams made of of representatives of the Governor's Office, County Council, Kohala Boys, ILWU, Mayor's Team and others prepared a variety of dishes from pastas, stews, and dumplings competing for selection as "Most Savory," "Most Creative," "Most Aromatic," "Best Presentation," and the "People's Choice" awards.
Participation had grown each year with six teams participating in the chicken cook off in the first year to a field of eleven teams this year participating in the Kalo Challenge. These dishes have also been increasingly harder to judge as the judges bring a number of differences and expectations to the table. Judging on such a diverse number of criteria also adds complexity to the challenge of balancing of diverse tastes, eye appeal and textures. An additional category which was much straight forward was based on sustainability. This was measured by the cooking team's use of a variety of items that were brought in by local farmers and placed on a table for use by the teams. The OHA Team led by Trustee Robert Lindsey took this recognition by utilizing sixteen ingredients from the table in their entry.View full article

May 7, 2012

Honoka'a High School Jazz Band's Wonderful performance

"I strongly encourage everyone to take time out of their busy schedules and listen to the music produced by these very talented youths," Solomon said. "Under the direction of their band director Gary Washburn, these students have demonstrated how music education has benefited them to be successful in school and in life."View full article

May 7, 2012

Hilo High School Gym

On April 12th, the "last and final charette" for the Hilo High School gym was held. Representatives from the state, county, American Red Cross, Alumnae, and HHS were in attendance.

The gym will be built in one phase and when completed with seat 1376 in the bleachers when open, and 880 in the closed position. The gym will be built to meet the requirements of being a shelter as well as meeing ADA requirements. Various green energy initatives such as solar water heating will also be included in the gym design.

Ground breaking for the gym which has been delayed for over a year is now planned for June, 2012.View full article

April 24, 2012

Hawaii's 2nd Annual Micro Robotics Bipedal Robot Workshop

I would also like to encourage interested teams to participate in the upcoming Hawaii Micro Robotics Bipedal Robot Workshop which will be held at Hawaii Community College August 25-26. This workshop includes the opportunity to design and build an easy biped robot, the new Bipeduino. Elementary, middle and high schools with robotic teams are eligible to participate. For further information and registration, please contact Art Kimura, Hawaii Space Grant Consortium at art@higp.hawaii.edu, or (808) 934-7261.

These activities stimulate high technology education and assist in creating a technically capable workforce by developing the skill sets necessary to support high technology robotics-based activities as programs for potentially larger efforts. As a result, this will increase the number of students who have access to programs that are transitional between high school and college.

The 26th Legislative Session has adjourned and during the interim, I will hold meetings to update you on what was accomplished this session and what new laws will affect you. I will also continue to focus on the issues important to you, and will always be available to you during the interim. I appreciate your ideas and participation and should you have any suggestions or concerns please feel free to email me at repnakashima@capitol.hawaii.gov or call 974-4000, extension 6-6680.

MahaloView full article

April 24, 2012

Liquid Robotics PacX Challenge

On April 5, 2012, I was pleased to be able to celebrate the arrival of Liquid Robotics' wave-powered Wave Glider marine robots at Kawaihae Harbor, and learn about its amazing technology as well as the Pacific Crossing (PacX) Challenge competition.

The four Wave Gliders docked at Kawaihae Harbor before continuing their record-setting journey across the Pacific Ocean for the PacX Challenge.

In November 2011, Liquid Robotics launched their wave gliders from San Francisco Bay, and last month broke the world record for distance by an unmanned wave-powered vehicle. They survived 26-foot waves in a gale force storm, defied turbulent mid-ocean currents, all while transmitting real time ocean data and staying on course to their first destination: the Liquid Robotics' Marine Engineering and Test Facility at Kawaihae Harbor.

The purpose of this crossing was to foster new scientific discoveries in ocean science by collecting and transmitting global ocean data during the yearlong journey. This expedition has also created an opportunity for students, marine researchers, and aspiring oceanographers to follow the robots as they cross the Pacific Ocean.

The Wave Glider is the first marine robot to use only the ocean's endless supply of wave energy for propulsion (no manpower, no emissions, no refueling). It is a reliable and economical autonomous satellite-controlled and self-powered robotic marine drone that has the capability of efficiently completing long missions with minimal environmental impact. Marine data gathered -- including ocean winds, wave heights, weather, oxygen, and currents -- will help address challenges such as ocean acidification, fisheries management, and natural disaster mitigation.

After a short checkup on the Big Island, the wave gliders will split into two pairs for the next leg of the PacX voyage. The Piccard Mar and Fontaine Maru are headed westward, crossing the Mariana Trench and taking on the Kuroshio Current to Japan. The Benjamin and Pap Mau are going through the Coral Sea and headed for Australia.

In addition to providing free unlimited access to ocean data, Liquid Robotics is inviting scientists, students and educators to compete in the PacX Challenge competition that will be awarded to the person(s) whose research "best represents the spirit of exploration and discovery embodied by this journey". The grand prize of $50,000 and six months of Wave Glider data services should inspire and ignite interest within the Big Island school system. Those interested in competing are required to submit a one-page research abstract. In December 2012, a board of distinguished U.S and international ocean scientists will evaluate the submissions and select one grand prize winner. I encourage taking advantage of this unique opportunity. The submission deadline for participating in the PacX Challenge is July 17, 2012.
(http://www.liquidr.com)

April 24, 2012

2012 Post-Session Legislative Community Meetings

I invite you to one of the following post-session meetings. The 2012 Legislative Session adjourns on May 3, 2012. I will provide a recap of the session, review of bills passed, and Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) approved for construction in the coming year. Please mark your calendars!View full article

April 19, 2012

Jam with the Honoka'a High School Jazz Band!

Aloha Capitol Jazz Fans!

Take a break on Friday, April 20, 2012 and celebrate National Jazz month!
Representative Mark M. Nakashima (Honoka'a Graduate) and Senator Malama Solomon invite you to attend this special concert by the award winning Honoka'a High School Jazz Band!

10:00 a.m.
Capitol Rotunda

See attached flyer for more information
Enjoy the jazz!
View full article

April 10, 2012

Big Island Candies Raised $430.00 for the Hawaii Food Basket!

Our office is happy to announce that we have raised $430.00 for the Hawaii Island Food Basket! Mahalo for all of you who have kindly purchased your crunch bars to support this great cause!View full article

March 12, 2012

Congratulations to Kohala Middle Schools team "6000 n 60"!

Kohala Middles School Students won National Siemens Award!

Each year the Siemens Foundation holds a "We Can Change the World Challenge" that encourages student teams to work with a teacher or mentor to identify a wide range of environmental issues of concern and create a plan to make sustainable, reproducible improvements in their local communities. The idea behind the challenge is to empower youth to introduce change! Students are judged based on their local environmental issue, community engagement, creativity and innovation, scientific approach, and the ability to expand their entry content in other communities. Each member of the first place team received a $10,000 U.S. savings bond, a discovery trip to Costa Rica, a pocket video camera to document their adventure, and a Siemens We Can Change the World Challenge green prize pack.

With the guidance of their team mentor, Lani Bowman, a group of Kohala Middle School students took the first place award for the grade 6-8 division of the 2010-2011 Siemens "We Can Change the World Challenge". The students are Isabel Steinhoff, Rico Bowman, Genevieve Boyle, and Mina Apostadiro. The team of students, known as "6000 n 60" focused on the disposal of household batteries and how there were no local opportunities to recycle them. "6000 n 60" represents their goal to collect 6000 batteries in 60 days. Their prediction was that if people were given the opportunity to recycle batteries and given information on how to better use those batteries, the community would be more aware of the ways in which they dispose their batteries and be more likely to participate.View full article

February 28, 2012

The Hamakua CDP is Coming to You!

The Community Development Plan (CDP) will map the future of your Hamakua community so this is YOUR chance to make sure we heard what YOU said & are headed in the right direction!View full article

February 25, 2012

Mid-Session Community Meetings

Aloha,
Representative Mark Nakashima will be holding a series of mid-session community meetings. Please come and share your thoughts or concerns with him. He will also be providing updates on district projects and current legislation. Please mark your calendars. He will also be meeting with seniors groups at their respective Senior Centers. Mahalo!

Hamakua Community
Thursday, February 23, 2012 6:30 PM, North Hawaii Education & Research Center (NHERC)

Kohala Community
Monday, February 27, 2012 4:00 PM, North Kohala Library

Rural South Hilo Community
Tuesday, February 28, 2012 7:00 PM, Kalanianaole School

North Hilo Community Council
Wednesday, March 28, 2012 6:30 PM, Location to be announced

If you have any questions, please contact our office toll free at 974-4000 ext 6-6680
Aloha!View full article

January 30, 2012

January Newsletter

Happy New Year! Welcome to 2012 Year of the Dragon!View full article

July 28, 2011

Rural Outreach Services (ROS) Initiative in Honokaa

Hawaii 24/7 (07/22/11) - "Government and community resources coming to Hamakua" (video) Gov. Neil Abercrombie and other officials kicked off the state's first rural initiatives program. The program, headquartered at the University of Hawaii, Hilo-North Hawaii Education and Research Center (NHERC), brings 38 federal, state and local agencies and nonprofits on a rotating basis to a central Big Island location. View full article