Author Archives: garyhooser

It’s been a long journey, but it looks like we are almost done passing a bill to ban the County’s usage of synthetic herbicides, Bill 101. The final hearing is set for 9am on November 20th and is being held … Continue reading →

Every Hawaii legislator will receive a pay raise starting January 2021. Likewise, the governor, the lieutenant governor, all state judges and most top executives in state government will receive substantial pay raises. Minimum wage workers will get nothing. Legislators accepted … Continue reading →

Please help today, especially by the end of the day on Wednesday, January 29th, if you can –  The 2020 Hawaii State Legislative Session has begun and we need to get this important message out BEFORE THE HEARINGS START. 1) Email … Continue reading →

On March 28, 2019, over 2,500 Kaua’i residents marched on Rice Street. On O’ahu, over 20,000 marched through Waikiki. Similarly, on Maui and in Hawai’i County – thousands marched – For, justice and for Aloha ‘Āina. Depending on the exact … Continue reading →

The primary question being asked by people is “What happens next?” Many want to know if/when Councilmember Brun will be removed from office and if/when that happens, how is his replacement selected. First of all, Councilmember Brun is allowed his … Continue reading →

Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard’s announcement that she would not be running for re-election, caught Hawaii’s political world by surprise. Initially, conventional wisdom would say that Big Island State Senator Kai Kahele is the heir apparent. But those more skilled in the … Continue reading →

The Aloha United Way commissioned ALICE REPORT: A STUDY OF FINANCIAL HARDSHIP IN HAWAI‘I determined than in 2017, 11% of Hawaii residents were living in poverty while another 37% exist on its very edge, only one paycheck away from financial … Continue reading →

People are often asking as to “my availability”. Bottom line: If I can help, do not hesitate to call. I am available to meet informally with any individual, anywhere in the state of Hawaii, who is considering running for public … Continue reading →

The power of a single legislator whether on the council, at the state legislature, or in the U.S. Congress, is limited to that of being one voice and one vote.  They may introduce bills (proposed laws), they may cast a … Continue reading →

What exactly does my legislator do?  What power do they have and what exactly can they do, or not do? The quick and dirty answer is: They have the power to pass laws (but not really). They have the power … Continue reading →