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Gratitude is a daily practice in Representative Matsumoto's family, as she and her husband ask their children for their prayer requests and 'thankfuls' each morning and night. She shared this tradition during her invocation, reminding everyone that gratitude shifts our focus and brings light even in difficult times. She prayed for the beautiful state of Hawaii, her fellow representatives, and the people they serve. Lifting up the staff, visitors, and all those affected by recent tragedies, asking for comfort and strength. Reflecting on the assurance that Jesus is our living hope in uncertain times and closed with a prayer in Jesus' name, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve and for life's many blessings.
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MEETING WITH HSTA MEMBERS TO DISCUSS SUPPORT AND ADVOCACY
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Representative Muraoka met with members of the Hawaii State Teachers Association (HSTA) to discuss their needs and explore ways to provide greater support. The conversation focused on key issues affecting educators and potential solutions to enhance resources, working conditions, and overall advocacy for HSTA members.
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MEETING WITH CHRISTIAN HOMESCHOOLERS
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It was a pleasure for Representative Matsumoto to welcome the Christian Homeschoolers of Hawaii (CHOH) to her office for Hawaii Homeschool Capitol Day. This event offers families an opportunity to learn about the legislative process while sharing insights on homeschooling and CHOH’s important work. Since 1988, CHOH has been dedicated to promoting and supporting Christ-centered, parent-directed home education in our state. She appreciates their commitment to providing resources, advocacy, and a strong community for homeschooling families.
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WORKING FAMILIES PRESS CONFERENCE
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Earlier this week, Representative Shimizu joined the Working Families Press Conference. Members of the Legislature’s Hawaii Working Families Caucus presented their 2025 Legislative Package, which addresses the child tax credit, supplemental nutrition assistance program, rent increase restrictions, family and medical leave, and early education. The Caucus was joined by other organizations displaying their support, which included Hawaii Appleseed, Hawaii Children’s Action Network Speaks!, and Hawaii Public Health Institute.
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FUTURE LEADERS EXCHANGE (FLEX)
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Had a wonderful time meeting with international high school exchange students at the State Capitol, where we discussed Hawaii’s legislative process and the importance of civic engagement. These students are part of the Future Leaders Exchange (FLEX) program, which fosters long-lasting peace and understanding between the U.S. and emerging democracies of the former Soviet Union. FLEX provides opportunities for high school students (ages 15-17) to spend a year in the United States, living with a volunteer family and attending an American high school. Looking forward to more opportunities to engage with future leaders from around the world!
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LEGISLATIVE SOLUTIONS FOR COST OF LIVING, CRIME AND PUBLIC SAFETY, EDUCATION, AND GOVERNMENT REFORM
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This Legislative Session, Representative Shimizu signed a total of 67 bills with a focus on cost of living, crime and public safety, education and parental rights, and government reform. Here are some of the important bills being introduced by Representative Shimizu:
Cost of Living
HB1339: Exempts food and groceries from the general excise tax. Expands a 2024 session law exempting certain medical and dental services to include all medical and dental services.
HB1341: Establishes tax credits for insurers providing full property coverage to owners and associations of condominiums in the amount equal to twenty per cent of the insurance premium. Provides additional ten per cent tax credits to insurers incorporated in the State.
HB567: Provides an income tax deduction for tips received by tipped employees.
HB854: Establishes a refundable Family Caregiver Tax Credit for unpaid family caregivers. Requires the Department of Taxation to report to the legislature before the convening of each regular session.
Crime and Public Safety
HB1338: Establishes a 2-year homelessness sanctuary pilot program, to be administered by the Governor's Coordinator on Homelessness in coordination with the Department of Human Services and the City and County of Honolulu.
Education and Protection of Children
HB1195: Requires the department of education to prohibit cell phone use during the instructional day, prohibit student access to social media through the school's internet, and implement a social media education campaign. Creates exemptions for students requiring accommodations, emergency situations, and teacher authorizations.
HB1196: Establishes a high school law enforcement curriculum-to-career pipeline initiative. Appropriates funds to develop and implement the program.
HB1198: Establishes civil liability for any commercial entity that knowingly or intentionally publishes or distributes material harmful to minors without following certain age verification requirements.
HB566: Protects minors from addictive content by imposing special requirements for operators regarding consent, notifications, and age verification. Protects minors from having their online personal data processed without parental consent.
Government Reform
HB568: Requires the office of legislative analyst to produce fiscal notes on all fiscal bills. Prohibits a committee from making a decision on a fiscal bill without a fiscal note. Mandates that fiscal notes be made available to the public. Appropriates funds.
HB570: Proposes a constitutional amendment to limit the terms of members of the legislature to a maximum of twelve years in the house of representatives or senate, or both, for terms beginning on or after the general election of 2026.
To stay informed on Representative Shimizu’s bills, sign up for E-Newsletters through his site here: https://www.repshimizu.com/e-newsletters, or follow his Instagram at www.instagram.com/repshimizu. View Representative Shimizu’s full bill package here: https://bit.ly/3WE1G5u.
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HAWAII STATE TEACHERS ASSOCIATION (HSTA) MEETING
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Representative Matsumoto met with the Hawaii State Teachers Association (HSTA) to discuss the challenges facing our educators and how they can be supported. She is grateful for the opportunity to hear their insights and work towards solutions.
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VISITING PEARL HARBOR AVIATION MUSEUM BLESSING
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Representative Pierick was invited to attend the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum Blessing, joined by his father and fellow Foursquare church leader. While there, they were able to see an elevated view of Ford Island and surrounding historic landmarks while learning about the timeline of the Pearl Harbor attack.
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CONTINUING HANDS-ON SUPPORT
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Representative David Alcos has worked with and supported 808 Cleanups for over a decade. He started cleaning roads sides with this organization in District 40, Ewa Beach. He is beyond grateful to be able to still support them but at a more genuine level as he currently still provides hands-on cleanups assistance in his very own District 41. He sends his gratitude out to 808 Cleanups in District 41 and also for their efforts all over the island.
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HONORING WAIANAE SEARIDERS JV FOOTBALL TEAM FOR UNDEFEATED CHAMPIONSHIP SEASON
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Representative Muraoka presented certificates of recognition to the Waianae Seariders JV football team for their outstanding achievement during the 2024-2025 season. The team went undefeated and secured the championship, showcasing dedication, teamwork, and excellence on the field.
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CONGRESSMAN ED CASE TALK STORY
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Attending Congressman Ed Case’s “Talk Story” community meeting at Mililani High School was a valuable experience for Representative Matsumoto. These gatherings play a vital role in fostering open dialogue and strengthening the crucial connection between representatives and the community.
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MOANALUA MIDDLE SCHOOL’S NATIONAL JUNIOR HONOR SOCIETY
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Representative Shimizu attended the induction of the 2025 Moanalua Middle School chapter of the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS). The ceremony featured Principal Moss leading these individuals in the recitation of the NJHS pledge, and the announcement of each of their names to the audience. With the student’s NJHS membership, they have demonstrated their commitment to the 5 Pillars of NJHS: Scholarship, Leadership, Service, Character, and Citizenship.
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CONNECTING WITH COMMUNITY MEMBERS
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Recently, Representative Pierick had fellowship time with a West Loch constituent and a Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum staff member. They discussed life, history, and any concerns from the district.
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HONORING WESTSIDE STRIKING AND HR BOXING CLUB FOR NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP WINS AND YOUTH IMPACT
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Representative Muraoka recognized Westside Striking and HR Boxing Club for their outstanding success in winning multiple national championships. Beyond their victories in the ring, the clubs have made a significant impact on Waianae’s youth, providing mentorship, discipline, and opportunities for personal growth through boxing.
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MEETING WITH CONGRESSMAN ED CASE
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Representative Pierick recently had the opportunity to meet with Congressman Ed Case at Honouliuli Middle School's "Talk Story" Town Hall. While in attendance, they were able to engage with the community, discuss important topics and speak to constituents about various local issues; learning what is the main priority for their districts.
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Remember when common sense was common? When standing up for what is right is, simply, the right thing to do? Welcome to “The RIGHT Side”: A Common Sense Conversation on The ANSWER, AM690 & FM94.3. Where Hawaii’s conservative legislators and leaders will gather to discuss our local political landscape and how it affects you, your ‘Ohana and your community. Want to join the conversation? You can call 808-913-6450 during the show which runs from 4 PM - 5 PM! Cut through the political noise and look at Hawaii from the RIGHT side! Mahalo to Savio Associates, LLC.
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Please do not hesitate to reach out to your Republican Representatives!
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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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