May 6, 2005 - 2005 legislative session wrap-up

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Aloha.

This legislative session, my Administration worked with legislators and the community on key issues of importance to all our residents.

Topping our list was a focused effort to address the state’s affordable housing shortage.  The Legislature took a step in the right direction by adopting parts of our plan.

But much more needs to be done to streamline the permitting process, provide more incentives to build more affordable housing, and to prevent the raiding of the state’s housing funds. 

The Legislature also supported other initiatives that are priorities for my Administration, including early childhood education, stronger laws to protect motorists and pedestrians, increased autonomy for the University of Hawai`i, and giving law enforcement officials more tools to prevent and prosecute crimes.

I am, however, disappointed that lawmakers did not provide tax relief for our lowest wage earners.  This is something my administration will continue to work on.

For more information on bills passed this session and our Administration’s initiatives, please visit my Web site at www.hawaii.gov/gov.

Mahalo.  This is Governor Linda Lingle.