May 14, 2009 - Governor's Weekly Radio Address - Legislative Wrap-Up

Click here to listen to this address.

Aloha,

The 2009 legislative session will be remembered as a time of missed opportunities. The Legislature chose to ignore key initiatives, rather than work collaboratively to find solutions to challenges facing our state.

Most disappointing was the Legislature's decision to overlook the will of the people of Hawai`i by raising taxes on our businesses and hard-working families; a move which will only harm Hawai‘i residents and delay our economic recovery.

My Administration proposed projects like the Highway Modernization Plan, Recreational Renaissance and Broadband Communications Initiative, which would have better prepared Hawai‘i for our future as well as spurred our economic recovery.

Fortunately, legislation is not the only way to implement innovative programs. My Administration is committed to moving these important initiatives forward using the resources we have, and will continue to improve the quality of life for all the people of Hawai`i.

Mahalo.  This is Governor Linda Lingle.