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Minority Leader Representative Matsumoto had the honor of delivering her speech for the 2025 Opening Day Legislative Session. She outlined the Republican Caucus bill package, tackling six critical issues based on the needs of the people of Hawaii: cost of living, housing security, education, crime and safety, Native Hawaiian advocacy, and government reform.
In her speech, she emphasized the importance of shared values that unite everyone in the chamber. Most importantly, she reminded her colleagues that being a "Representative" is not a job title; it is a job description. Representing their districts and serving the state. To watch her full speech, click the button below.
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GOVERNORS STATE OF THE STATE ADDRESS
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Representative Elijah Pierick had the privilege of reconnecting with several key figures from the community during his attendance at the Governor’s State of the State Address. Among those he had the opportunity to meet were the Commander of the Navy Region Hawaii, the Commander of the Pacific Fleet, and the leaders of the Indo-Pacific Command. He also engaged in discussions with the Deputy Commander of Air Force Pacific Command, the Mayor of Honolulu, and the Honolulu Prosecutor. In addition to these important interactions, Representative Pierick was able to reconnect with Governor Green, further strengthening his connections within the state leadership and connecting with prominent members of the community.
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WOMEN'S LEGISLATIVE CAUCUS BREAKFAST
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The Hawaii Women’s Legislative Caucus had their annual breakfast this past week! Representative Matsumoto, Representative Reyes Oda, and Representative Souza attended. At the breakfast, the caucus's 2025 bills package was presented and discussed. It was an inspiring event filled with leadership and progress!
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TACKLING COST OF LIVING AND QUALITY EDUCATION
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Representative Shimizu is dedicated to championing top concerns in not only District 32 but for the people of Hawaii. In last week’s Minority Caucus Press Conference, Representative Shimizu shared the two bills he introduced in the Minority Caucus bill package.
The first bill exempts food and grocery purchases, and all medical/dental services from the GE Tax. Food and medical bills contribute to Hawaii’s high cost of living with Hawaii being 1 of 13 states that taxes groceries and only 1 of 2 states that tax medical/dental services.
The second bill being introduced in the bill package by Representative Shimizu is the smartphone ban in schools. This bill will require the DOE to establish a ban on the use of cell phones during instructional time, develop an internet safety policy prohibiting access to social media, and implement a social media education campaign. Exceptions would be there for students with certain medical conditions, emergencies, and teacher approval. This policy will foster an environment of growth and learning by reducing distractions in the classroom.
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MEET YOUR 2025 LEGISLATIVE TEAM
FOR DISTRICT 32
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Meet Representative Shimizu’s Staff for the 2025 Legislative Session. With over ten sessions of combined legislative experience, Representative Shimizu’s office is well-equipped for this upcoming session. From left to right, pictured are Carole (Office Manager), Taryn, Representative Shimizu, Shotaro, and Maria. District 32 covers Fort Shafter, Moanalua, Red Hill, Aliamanu, Foster Village, Stadium, and parts of Halawa, Aiea, and Pearlridge. Please feel free to reach out to Representative Shimizu by phone at 808-586-9470, by email at [email protected], or stop by Room 305.
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BEVERAGE DAY AT THE CAPITOL
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Representative Matsumoto had the opportunity to attend Beverage Day at the State Capitol, where she got to talk to the different beverage producers in the state and see the work that they do. She was impressed by their dedication to producing quality products and contributing to Hawaii's economy.
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PERPETUATING THEIR COMMITMENT TO SERVE
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Representative David Alcos was one of the many Hawaii residents who traveled to Washington, D.C. to witness the historic Inauguration. The journey held significant personal meaning for Representative Alcos after the recent loss of his wife, Lena, to cancer. Surrounded by the energy of fellow Republicans, he found comfort in their shared commitment for a brighter future. This experience renewed his dedication to the values he and Lena envisioned—improving life in Hawaii and creating lasting change. It reaffirmed his determination to honor her memory while continuing their work for the people of Hawaii.
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LEGISLATIVE BREAKFAST WITH FILIPINO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OF HAWAII (FCCH)
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The Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii (FCCH) hosted its annual Legislative Breakfast at the Filipino Community Center. Representative Shimizu joined other legislators, business leaders, and community advocates to discuss 2025 key priorities. Some important priorities discussed included economic growth, education, and workforce development.
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SPECTRUM PSA ANNOUNCEMENT
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Representative Matsumoto had the opportunity to tape PSA announcements at the Spectrum Network, spreading awareness about Alzheimer's, breast cancer, and the importance of children eating healthy and staying active. These topics are close to her heart, as they impact so many lives and highlight the importance of prevention, education, and support. A big thank you to Spectrum Network for hosting her and providing a platform to share these important messages.
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Representative Elijah Pierick
House District 39
Royal Kunia, Village Park, Honouliuli, Hoopili and Waipahu
Room: 318
Phone: 808-586-8490
Fax: 808-586-8494
[email protected]
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Representative Garner M. Shimizu
House District 32
Ft. Shafter, Moanalua, Red Hill, AMR, Foster Village, Stadium, parts of Aliamanu, Halawa, Aiea, and Pearlridge
Room: 305
Phone: 808-586-8470
Fax: 808-586-9476
[email protected]
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Mahalo,
Hawaii State House Republican Caucus
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