January 2009 | Small Business News
25th State Legislature to Begin on January 21
The 25th State Legislature convenes its 60-day working session (until May 3) on Wednesday, January 21 at 10 am in the State Capitol. Senator Colleen Hanabusa remains President of the Senate; Rep. Calvin Say continues as Speaker of the House. Several new members have joined the legislature and several committee changes were reported in last month’s SB News.
The mood this year is one of caution with the pressures of the national economic crisis looming ahead. The battle will likely be over the budget and lingering agricultural/lands issues. Education is always top of mind as are new energy initiatives.
Business will be watching for proposed tax increases, additional employer mandates (e.g., minimum wage hike) union card checks and increased regulation.
In December, longtime House member, Bob Nakasone (D-Maui) died leaving a vacancy for the Governor to fill. She may be able to do this prior to the start of Session.
Paperless initiatives are expanded this year making it more difficult for lawmakers and the public to get copies of legislative materials other than online.
SBH will provide important business alerts from the Session both online (www.smallbusinesshawaii.com) and in the SB News. You can also access legislature information, bill status, committee hearing schedules and more directly at www.capitol.hawaii.gov.
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