2aHawaii

General Topics => Political Discussion => Topic started by: zippz on January 10, 2018, 12:34:45 PM

Title: The Capitol Blog
Post by: zippz on January 10, 2018, 12:34:45 PM
I signed up to be a volunteer with my rep, Sam Kong, at the State Capitol this legislative session.  Figure I'll do about 10 hours a week or so before work or after work.  I wanted to learn how things work at the Capitol and how to be more effective at activism.  Fortunately he's a pro-gun guy.

I just walked into to their office and asked if they're looking for volunteers and coincidentally they were discussing getting some volunteers at the time.  Not sure exactly what I'll be doing yet...filing and answering phone calls or researching projects and running events.  Rep Kong is the vice chair of the K-12 Education committee so somewhat related to my prior job as a college counselor.  Also tackling the homeless problem is another priority.

Just submitted my resume, filled out a short application, and waiting for my local background check to be done.
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: zippz on January 13, 2018, 12:44:50 AM
Started my first day at the Capitol.  It's the calm before the storm when the session starts on Wednesday.  The reps are currently submitting last minute bills for drafting and review.  If you want to submit a bill, it's recommended to do it in the Fall.  You provide your rep or committee chair your idea with as much details, information, examples, and references as you can and the legal eagles will draft up a bill based on that.

We got a few bills back from the Legislative Reference Bureau (LRB) who drafted the bills so we visited other reps to get them to sign off on it.  Basically it gives the other reps a heads up of what bills will be introduced next week and gives an indication of how much support it'll get.  Stuff like building the Veterans Memorial gets a lot of support, CCW is difficult to get signatures for so I'll have to ratchet up my marketing skills.  I find that the aides trying to sell the bills to the reps aren't experienced with firearms so they have a difficult time selling CCW.  It's really important to visit your reps and their aids to talk about firearms and take them out to the range during the off session times so they have some experience.

Other thing I'm doing is learning about homelessness and finding solutions for it which is something Rep Kong's been working on for a long time.  He even took in some homeless in the past but it's a difficult thing to do.  What I learned is only 20% of homeless are the drug addicts or crazy or criminals.  They make the headlines on the news and are the most visible.  The other 80% stay hidden and many of them want to be able to live on their own but need support, education, and temporary safe living conditions.  We're looking for opportunities to help organizations house them along with micro housing units that are cheaper for them to rent.  Unfortunately zoning and burdensome regulations present a lot of roadblocks.

I find it refreshing working at a regular job that's a lot more social and where I can be creative and thought provoking.  Coming from the military and security background where I'm just around disgruntled dudes all day.
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: zippz on January 22, 2018, 12:45:42 PM
This is how you lobby.  Everyone's weakness is their stomachs.  HGEA.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180122/afb1c171a9fd9eea34f81323d5486971.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180122/b691254f4f169392e510dde692c31f8e.jpg)

Sent from my LG-H830 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: Lihikai on January 22, 2018, 12:51:39 PM
Thanks for helping Sam out - he's a reliable pro-2A supporter.
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: punaperson on January 22, 2018, 01:16:28 PM
This is how you lobby.  Everyone's weakness is their stomachs.  HGEA.
So after the lunch-lobbying "shall issue CCW" is now a shoe-in? Man, that was easy. I'll chip in for a lunch tomorrow aimed at repealing the 10 round handgun mag limit!  :rofl:
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: zippz on January 22, 2018, 03:31:16 PM
So after the lunch-lobbying "shall issue CCW" is now a shoe-in? Man, that was easy. I'll chip in for a lunch tomorrow aimed at repealing the 10 round handgun mag limit!  :rofl:
Don't forget the staff.  So its like 3 lunches for 1 vote.
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: zippz on January 23, 2018, 11:08:28 PM
More food pics from last week.  The Cattle Ranchers group were lobbying and had an info session talking about bills that helped the local beef industry.  They brought in a professional chef and gave out samples of the local beef which was delicious, they got my vote!

We could do something like this for 2a to teach the representatives and staff about guns. Create an information sheet and have some food.  HRA would be the best ones to propose this to a Rep who would sponsor it.  Best to do something like this in December or January before it gets busy.

The Paniolos rangling us up.
(https://i.imgur.com/9XIl2Su.jpg)

Stuff they're lobbying for:
(https://i.imgur.com/anqHWaY.jpg)

Our committee clerk Sarah putting local beef to the test.
(https://i.imgur.com/YY4rgfv.jpg)
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: zippz on January 23, 2018, 11:14:54 PM

A lot of different lobbying groups have information sessions and luncheons throughout the week.  I'm getting fatter.
(https://i.imgur.com/zRC7HJ8.jpg)

My Rep Sam Kong is talking about the Hugh St project where micro homes are being built under the H1 Freeway in Pearl City to temporarily house the homeless.  Come down and check it out.  He's trying to house the working homeless families who work hard and are clean but just can't afford a home.  They make up about half of the homeless population.
(https://i.imgur.com/yGbZuxl.jpg)

Also it's a school choice rally
(https://i.imgur.com/7IJ1GY8.jpg)
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: zippz on January 23, 2018, 11:44:24 PM
For the past two weeks we've been busy getting bills ready for introduction.  12 proposals from the office were sent to the Legislative Reference Bureau (LRB) for drafting where the attorneys take our ideas, research, and supporting documents and do some legalize magic to turn them into bills and resolutions.  They dealt with homeless, convention of states, veterans memorial, and lower education.  A lady came in yesterday asking us to submit two bills she drafted because no one else could take them.  Each representative can introduce up to 10 bills each year and we were submitting 8 bills and 3 resolutions, so we accepted.

When we get the bills back from LRB, we visit the other representatives and ask for co-introducers and co-sponsors to sign the bills to show support for them.  We then submit the bills to the Chief Clerks office who assign it a House Bill (HB) number.  Then the House session convenes and the Bill is Introduced for the "First Reading" to determine if it moves forward to committee or dies.

I'll follow HB2036 about the Veterans Memorial throughout this thread as an example.  https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=2036&year=2018

Take aways: 
The last day for bill introductions is January 24th.  If you want to ask your rep to work on a bill for you, it should be done early preferably in November or December.  Give them your idea, evidence and research, news articles, court cases, pics & graphs, and whatever information you can to help them draft your bill.
It's important to talk to and answer questions from the Reps and their staff.  They are not firearms people so you have to teach them everything.  The Reps and staff cannot get sponsors for pro-gun firearms bills if they don't know what to say and what it's about.

Rep Kong's office staff, Crystal and Sarah prepare to submit bills for introduction.
(https://i.imgur.com/WnX5Y00.jpg)

The bill goes to the House Chamber who convenes every day (except for Recess days) to decide if the Introduced bill passes (first reading) to continue on or dies.
(https://i.imgur.com/3sqEA6d.jpg)

This is the stage we are currently at.  Committee hearings will start at the end of next week or the following week.
(https://i.imgur.com/Fx3RVib.jpg)

This is the status of the Veterans Memorial bill we submitted.  Notice the co-introducers and it passed it's first reading.
(https://i.imgur.com/roRR08Z.jpg)
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: zippz on January 23, 2018, 11:52:41 PM
Team Kong
(https://i.imgur.com/cLbvvFk.jpg)

These are good references on the legislative process since you lazy F*#%as neva go to the legislative workshops I posted prior.  I know who went cause I went to most of them. (https://2ahawaii.com/index.php?topic=29599.0)

This page has a lot of info on the legislative process....
http://lrbhawaii.org/par/

Watch this video and slides:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=844&v=afLrvEnG5Zg
http://lrbhawaii.org/par/workshp/yourvoice16.pptx


The steps a bill goes through before becoming a law:
http://lrbhawaii.org/par/pub/bill2lawshort.pdf

What you can do:
http://lrbhawaii.org/par/pub/yourvoice.pdf
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: Heavies on January 24, 2018, 02:16:27 AM
Hit them NOW.

Hopefully it will not get out of committee
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: punaperson on January 24, 2018, 05:07:55 AM
What was the price tag for that chandelier in the extravagantly unnecessarily cavernous chamber paid for by taxpayer dollars to make it appear as if something beyond normal human comprehension and capacity is taking place in there?

And thanks for the photos of those same superhumans stuffing their faces with cattle bits just prior to deciding how to treat the cattle bits producers. Good stuff.  :shaka:
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: oldfart on January 24, 2018, 06:45:36 AM
I didn't know all that went on down there.
Thanks for volunteering and disseminating all this information.
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: rklapp on January 24, 2018, 05:52:15 PM
mailinglist9@capitol.hawaii.gov
To   mailinglist@capitol.hawaii.gov Today at 2:50 PM
Aloha,

We are excited to announce that we have made improvements to our testimony submission webpage for the 2018 Legislative Session! Listed below are a few of the changes we’d like to highlight. If you anticipate submitting testimony to the Legislature this year, you may want to take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the new user interface.

The option for typing your testimony directly on the webpage (text box) now uses rich text so you have more formatting options.
You now have the ability to save your work in the text box and continue at another time.  You may continue to make changes to the text box until you submit your testimony.
We’ve increased the size limitation of the attachments accepted.  Instead of 10MB, you can now attach files as large as 20MB.
Please note that attachments will not be saved and must be uploaded at the time of submittal.
Users may now either type their testimony using the text box, or submit their testimony in an attachment, not both.
You will be able to see a history of your submitted and pending testimony, and from that list there will be quick links to the measure’s status and the hearing notice.
Since you can easily see your previously submitted testimony on the webpage, the confirmation e-mail has been eliminated.
To preserve the integrity of the legislative process, and to improve on the security of our system, each user may submit one piece testimony for each bill per hearing.
Please email any questions about the new testimony submission webpage to webmaster@capitol.hawaii.gov

Mahalo!
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: new guy on January 24, 2018, 07:19:15 PM
Awesome work, Zippz.   :shaka:

Did my "time" at the Leg many moons ago... until you live it, you will never truly understand it, but once you do it you are forever changed by the experience.
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: zippz on January 25, 2018, 07:04:37 PM
Hit them NOW.
Hopefully it will not get out of committee

The focus right now (prior to committee hearings) is the committee chairs where the bills will most likely end up in...judiciary, public safety, etc.  You can ask the bills to be/not to be heard.

What was the price tag for that chandelier in the extravagantly unnecessarily cavernous chamber paid for by taxpayer dollars to make it appear as if something beyond normal human comprehension and capacity is taking place in there?

I believe the chandeliers were made when the Capitol was made, they go over it in the free capitol tours.
https://governor.hawaii.gov/hawaii-state-capitol-tours/
(https://i.imgur.com/C2TFlmP.jpg)
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: zippz on January 25, 2018, 07:49:45 PM
I haven't been able to volunteer much this week due to my regular job.  The Capitol is relatively quiet right now, so it's a good time to head over there and talk to your district Senate and House Rep along with the 2a related chairmen..  I recommend calling to make an appointment first.  It will get busier as the session ramps up next week and it'll be difficult to talk to them.

2a related bills and status:  https://2ahawaii.com/index.php?topic=30081.0

Senate:
District descriptions - http://lrbhawaii.org/par/fyi/sendescript18.pdf
Contact roster - http://lrbhawaii.org/par/fyi/seninfo18.pdf
Important 2a related chairs/vice chair:  Taniguchi/Rhoads (Judiciary), Nishihara/Wakai (Public Safety)

House:
District descriptions - http://lrbhawaii.org/par/fyi/hsedescript18.pdf
Contact roster - http://lrbhawaii.org/par/fyi/hseinfo18.pdf
Important 2a related chairs/vice chair:  Nishimoto/San Buenaventura (Judiciary), Takayama/Gates (Public Safety)

In other news...
Our committee clerk, Blaine, is preparing for the upcoming hearings onslaught.  He is in charge of managing the committee hearings and tracking bills for Rep Kong's office.  He will also prepare and review the testimonies submitted for the committee hearings.
(https://i.imgur.com/ufWAox7.jpg)

This is where we are currently at in the legislative process.  All bills have been introduced and they are posted on the legislative website https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov.  Bills are waiting to be sent (referred) to committees who will then setup hearings where you can submit testimony.  Some hearings have already begun.  2a related hearings haven't started yet.
(https://i.imgur.com/OudGb8K.jpg)

If you're interested in affordable housing, attend this
(https://i.imgur.com/JmdHipG.jpg)
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: zippz on January 25, 2018, 08:16:37 PM
Testimony.  You submit testimony through letters, email, online, or in person at committee hearings where representatives discuss the bill with the public.  You can voice your opinion in support of or against and why.  Here are somethings I found out today from one rep's office:

In general the Representatives weigh the testimony in the following order:

1.  Representative's views and the party platform
2.  Government agencies
3.  Organizations
4.  Individuals

Representative's views - It is very difficult to change a Representative's views, ie have an anti-gun representative change to support pro-gun bills.  To do so you need a significant amount of support.

Government agencies - Get support from agencies to support the bill such as the Dept of Land and Natural Resources to support suppressors.

Organizations - Get support from firearms organizations such as Hawaii Rifle Association, Hawaii Defense Foundation, Hawaii Practical Shooters, etc.  Also non-firearm related ones such as the ACLU, domestic violence groups, LGBT, etc who may support things such as the legalization of stun guns.  Unions are very important such as Corrections Officers union supporting CCW.  Businesses have a voice also.

Individuals - You may need hundreds, or even thousands, of individual testimonies from a variety of people.  Firearms/non-firearms owners, liberal/conservatives, men/women, etc.

I'll go over how to create effective testimony next time.
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: Heavies on January 26, 2018, 12:56:52 AM
Funny how individuals are the very one's they are SUPPOSED TO WORK FOR, yet they are the ones at the bottom of the list.....
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: zippz on January 26, 2018, 09:52:37 PM
Funny how individuals are the very one's they are SUPPOSED TO WORK FOR, yet they are the ones at the bottom of the list.....

The reasoning I came up with on my own is they represent the voters who voted them in, assuming that they are for gun control and the party line.  It takes a large amount of activists to counter that.

Organizations are basically a large group of people supporting/against the cause, so they are treated like large groups of individuals.

Government agencies are the ones who will implement the law and are "supposed" to know what is best regarding their field of expertise.
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: rklapp on January 26, 2018, 10:54:43 PM
If you can’t beat the swamp, join the swamp. As soon as a politician is elected, they become the swamp.
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: eyeeatingfish on January 27, 2018, 02:48:57 PM
Interesting. So maybe we just need to bring in food to get some gun rights laws!
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: zippz on January 29, 2018, 09:12:17 PM
Testimony.

First a little background.  You can present testimony through the legislative website (www.capitol.hawaii.gov), drop off paper testimony to the chairman, or testify in person before the committee hearing.  This is your opportunity to voice your opinion, facts, and experiences.  Hearing notices are posted at www.capitol.hawaii.gov (see the "Current Hearings" box) usually about 48 to 72 hours in advance of the hearing date.  Most gun bills are listed under JDC / JUD or PSM / PBS.  You can also view JL808's list and updates at https://2ahawaii.com/index.php?topic=30081.0. 

The Chief Clerk's office refers bills to applicable committees, then the chairman of the committee decide if they will include it in their hearing in which case it'll be posted on the hearing notice.  If they defer it (not hear it), then it dies for the year.  For progun bills, you want to contact the committee chair and ask them to hold a hearing for the bill.

(https://i.imgur.com/nh2QvOx.jpg)


Prior to the hearing, the committee members and staff review the bills to see what they do, researching information, and coming up with suggestions to amend the bill if needed.  The Reps and staff aren't experts on everything to include guns, so it is very important that you talk to them beforehand to teach them about it.

(https://i.imgur.com/VyoezIl.jpg)

People can start submitting website and paper testimony when the hearing notice is posted for a bill.  The deadline is 24 hours prior to the committee hearing time.  This allows the testimony to be processed, reviewed, and available for the committee hearing.  Testimony can still be submitted after the deadline, however it might not be included in the hearing.  The staff always try their best to get late testimony processed in time.  Committees are run differently.  In some committees the Chair and Vice Chair are able to review the testimony early but the committee members may only see it during the hearings.  Also the testimonies are only required to be made public (posted on website) after the hearing.  I've heard complaints from people that want the testimony posted online early so they can counter arguments when submitting their testimony, but that's not how it's supposed to work.

The hearings are open to the public and sometimes broadcast on the web (https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/broadcasts.aspx).  The committee briefly reviews the testimony and states the position of each testimony (support, oppose, neither).  They ask the audience if anyone wants to testify in person.  You then take a seat in front of the microphone, address the chair, vice chair, and committee members, state your name and title, your position on the subject, then testify.  You are normally limited to 2 to 3 minutes depending on how busy it is.  You must also submit written testimony (paper or online) when doing it in person, either before, during, or after the hearing.

(https://i.imgur.com/UZsC06O.jpg)
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: zippz on January 29, 2018, 09:51:52 PM
Writing Testimony

There are guides for writing testimony at http://lrbhawaii.org/par/pub/egtest.pdf and http://lrbhawaii.org/par/pub/tipscomleg.pdf

How to submit testimony online:  http://lrbhawaii.org/par/pub/howtotest.pdf

Tips for testimony:


Forgot to mention you can also make suggestions on how to change or improve the bill.
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: zippz on January 30, 2018, 09:27:42 PM
This is about where we are in the current calendar.  I made a mistake in my last chart as I found some bills are still going through their first reading before the House and Senate while a handful have advanced through their second reading.

(https://i.imgur.com/es20r98.jpg)


Where bills went in last years legislature:
2,918    Bills Introduced
1,172    No hearing
69          Heard, failed 1st lateral
923        Failed 1st Crossover
394        Failed 2nd Crossover
130        Failed in final conference or failed final reading
13           Vetoed
217         BILLS PASSED AND ENACTED (7%)

(https://i.imgur.com/P4qYedM.jpg)


And below is my testimony for the apprentice hunter bill.  I kept it simple, used past experience, and showed how the bill will fix my problem and benefit my nephew.

I am a hunter and support HB1970 which will allow my nephew to go on hunting trips.

I am a new hunter and I enjoy bird hunting on the mountain ridges and forests because I get to experience unspoiled nature, learn about animals and conservation, and get a lot of exercise hiking on the trails.  I would like to bring my 12 year old nephew to gain the same experience and knowledge while hunting in the forests.

My nephew is unable to attend the hunter’s education course because they are only held once per month, usually on school nights, and his school studies prevent him from attending them.  This law would allow him to go hunting with me while he searches for a class that he can attend.  This bill will also allow me to introduce hunting to my friends who are hesitant on finding the time to attend a 2 day hunter’s education class.

Please support HB1970 which will allow my nephew to go hunting and learn valuable life lessons.

Mahalo
Todd Yukutake

Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: Heavies on February 02, 2018, 08:50:07 PM
Great info Zippz, thank you for taking the time and sharing!
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: zippz on February 13, 2018, 12:28:01 AM
I did a test to see how to get more testimonies for HB1908 - multiburst triggers and stuff.  Helping a bunch of people do testimony on the internet takes a long time to do since they have to register for an account or retrieve their forgotten password, etc.  I said screw it and went old school instead by drafting a template and printing paper copies for people to fill out.  I gave it out at the LIFE fun shoot and HLSL in the Koko Head action bays.  People were eager to fill them out.  In fact I got mobbed by HLSL because they really wanted to do it and I ran out of copies.  They saw how easy and quick it was, as short as 1 minute.  Also several people can do it at the same time.

(https://i.imgur.com/2ejj8gL.jpg)   (https://i.imgur.com/cOrrZlh.jpg)   (https://i.imgur.com/QqAQ9fI.jpg)

I ran into a few minor problems as I had to explain how to fill it out, the writing was messy, and people didn't write comments.  You'll see 27 of them when they're uploaded later today.(https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1908&year=2018).  Being the lazy guy I am, I improved the form with LINES AND INSTRUCTIONS so it'll be easier and faster next time.
(https://i.imgur.com/V6SOgBd.jpg)

I went to the capitol yesterday to turn in the paper testimonies.  I went to deliver them to the chair, Rep Nishimoto, but was informed I had to deliver it to the Vice Chair's office instead with 3 photocopies of each.  Apparently (or not so) the instructions on what to do are printed at the bottom of the hearing notices.  Fortunately the guys in the Public Access Room (http://lrbhawaii.org/par/) on the 4th floor helped me out by printing copies for me. :shaka:  I then dropped off the copies in Buenaventura's office.  I learned I could've emailed or faxed them instead.
(https://i.imgur.com/XDPKDGw.jpg)

Next time a hearing is held after the weekend, I'll get a group together to hit everyone at Koko Head.  I think I can get 200-300 in a weekend.  Maybe 500+ on a gun show weekend.  I'll also give them HRA membership forms and instructions on how to do it online.  I think this is a good way to introduce people to testifying so they see how easy and quick it is, then hopefully they'll do it online on their own.
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: punaperson on February 13, 2018, 05:31:35 AM
zippz, thanks for all you're doing. Spending all the time and energy you do for our cause is beyond commendable. Thank you!  :worship:
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: zippz on February 13, 2018, 10:04:22 PM
zippz, thanks for all you're doing. Spending all the time and energy you do for our cause is beyond commendable. Thank you!  :worship:

Welcome, and same to you.
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: zippz on February 13, 2018, 10:46:51 PM
I'll go over some upcoming deadlines.  See the legislative calendar for dates and definitions http://lrbhawaii.org/par/fyi/calendar18.pdf

Before that, we'll go over referrals and committees.  Senators (http://lrbhawaii.org/par/fyi/sencom18.pdf) and Representatives (http://lrbhawaii.org/par/fyi/hsecom18.pdf)  are assigned to different committees such as finance, water and land, education, etc.  Bills are "referred" to committees that cover the topic.  For example HB1908 Multiburst Triggers was referred to Judicial (JUD) and Consumer Protection (CPC) committees.

(https://i.imgur.com/XJILW0i.jpg)


(https://i.imgur.com/1v98wcl.jpg)

Feb 8th was the Triple Referral Filing deadline which means bills referred to 3 or more committees must have 2 or less committee hearings remaining or they are dead.  Example HB1970 Apprentice Hunting (https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1970)  was referred to 3 committees (WAL, JUD, FIN) and passed 1 hearing (WAL) with 2 remaining to go through(JUD, FIN).  So it made the deadline.

Feb 16th is First Lateral where bills must only have 1 or less hearings to go or they will dier.  Example:  HB1970 must have a committee hearing in JUD and/or FIN by the 16th or it is dead.

March 2 First Decking means the bill must have passed all of it's committee hearings or else the bill will die.

Bills that passed all of their committees will have their final vote (third reading) by the full chamber (house or senate).  If it fails then it dies.  If it passes then it goes to crossover.

March 8 First Crossover.  The successfully passed bills will be transferred to the other chamber ( House <---->  Senate) where it will go through committee hearings and votes all over again.

One thing of note is sometimes a bill is referred to joint committees like HB1205(https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1205) referred to IAC/HHS where both committees hear the bill at the same time.  This is counted as one committee for the deadlines above.
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: zippz on February 14, 2018, 09:41:56 PM
I've seen some questions on what legislators look for in testimony.  As an aide, I read the bills and testimony prior to the committee hearings and meet with my rep to go over issues and concerns that I've found.  My reps committees are education (k-12), higher education (college), water and land, and energy and environmental.  I'm fairly new to this and I don't really know how everything works in the respective areas and what to look for.  Reps should have a better idea since they have a lot more experience than I, but still they can't know everything which is what testimony and research are for.

For example, HB2117 Limiting standardized testing given to students in school.(https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=2117&year=2018).  I didn't know overtesting was a big problem in schools now.  I don't know what the procedures are in the school system, options, and how anything works so it's very difficult for me to identify problems or tell if it's a good bill.

(https://i.imgur.com/Xv6orFI.jpg)

These are my thoughts on it,  it'll be different for everyone.

First thing I do is to read the bill preface sometimes written in the first section of the bill.  It gives a summary of the bill, what it does, background information, and why it's needed.  If you request a bill to be introduced next year, try and add a preface.  I'll do some quick research online too.  A lot of information will come from the testimony. 

Testimony is usually favored in the following order, which I usually agree with:
1.  Government (Federal, State, City)
2.  Organizations (Unions, non-profits, businesses)
3.  Individuals

What I look for:
1.  Presentation - On official letter head, neat appearance, formatted well.  Important points highlighted.  This gives a good first impression and draws my attention.  Clear and concise.
2. Credentials - What gives their testimony credibility?  Directors, instructors, experience in the field, etc.  As an example in HB1908 Multiburst triggers, Devin stated he was a business owner, FFL, and manufacturer which gave him credibility when he made specific technical details.
3.  Specific - Point to specific parts of the bill.  Be detailed in your explanations.
4.  Use examples and experiences and other references  to prove your point..
5.  Know  your audience - Most legislators aren't gun people.  Write it so they can understand it.
6.  Offer suggestions and alternatives (be specific) .  How can you turn a controversial subject into a win-win.
7.  Be polite and professional.
8.  Pictures, charts, tables, links to videos, etc catch my attention and quick to analyze.
9.  What is the outcome?

Other things
1.  Putting your name and contact info gives your testimony more credibility and is more professional.  If you have a good testimony, a rep could contact you for more information.
2.  When I see a testimony with just "I Oppose" it doesn't do much for me, but at least adds to the count.  At least a single line on why you oppose it helps a lot.
3.  I've heard adding your address helps where your district rep may see it and pay more attention to it.
4


Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: zippz on February 14, 2018, 10:06:14 PM
As stated earlier, Reps don't have much time to read testimony.and they may not understand what they're reading.   Some may get to read it 24 hours prior.  Some read it at the committee hearing.  Also remember they have dozens of other bills to go through too.

If you have good important points and suggestions to bring up, you should testify in person at the committee hearing or talk to the committee chair prior to the committee hearing.
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: Jl808 on February 15, 2018, 09:09:12 AM
Do you know if the submit testimony via email is still good or not? 

List of emails by committee for testimony submission
https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/comminfolist.aspx

Would this work better for folks who find it a hassle to testify via the Capitol website?
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: zippz on February 15, 2018, 12:58:27 PM
This is an interesting bill HB1924 Relating to Health (https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1924).  It came out initially as a food nutrition labeling law and was deferred (nice way of saying it died).  Then a committee brought it back and heard it and erased the entire bill and replaced it with a bill allowing pharmacists to distribute opioid overdose treatment drugs.

I didn't think this was possible, but I guess as long as it relates to the title "Relating to Health" I guess they can do it.  This is a way to introduce new bills after the introduction deadline at the beginning of the session.

So theoretically they could sacrifice one of the gun bills by gutting it and turning it into a assault rifle ban bill if they wanted to.  Probably the last day they could make a change like that is March 23rd, the second lateral.
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: punaperson on February 15, 2018, 01:18:17 PM
This is an interesting bill HB1924 Relating to Health (https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1924).  It came out initially as a food nutrition labeling law and was deferred (nice way of saying it died).  Then a committee brought it back and heard it and erased the entire bill and replaced it with a bill allowing pharmacists to distribute opioid overdose treatment drugs.

I didn't think this was possible, but I guess as long as it relates to the title "Relating to Health" I guess they can do it.  This is a way to introduce new bills after the introduction deadline at the beginning of the session.

So theoretically they could sacrifice one of the gun bills by gutting it and turning it into a assault rifle ban bill if they wanted to.  Probably the last day they could make a change like that is March 23rd, the second lateral.
The California legislature is notorious for these "gut and amend" bills. I'm not at all familiar with how often nor to what degree it happens here.

"Gut and amend is a catchall phrase thrown around Sacramento. In general, it means removing all or a substantial part of a bill and replacing it with new provisions that have little or nothing to do with the bill’s original intent, especially after the bill’s shell has passed through a part of the process, like a committee hearing or a vote in one chamber."

I guess that would qualify as a version of "We have to pass the bill to find out what in the bill" (now). Disgusting.
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: groveler on February 15, 2018, 02:24:05 PM
One thing I haven't figured out yet.
Why bother to talk to Democrats?
No one is ever going to convince
them to act differently.
They are are sick, and in
our case the majority.
The only man with sight
in a land of blind men is
considered to be ill.
Do not obey their laws.
can you take that step?
This is just a rhetorical question for
us Hawaii gun owners.
I do no violate any federal,
state or local laws.
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: macsak on February 15, 2018, 03:17:48 PM
This is an interesting bill HB1924 Relating to Health (https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1924).  It came out initially as a food nutrition labeling law and was deferred (nice way of saying it died).  Then a committee brought it back and heard it and erased the entire bill and replaced it with a bill allowing pharmacists to distribute opioid overdose treatment drugs.

I didn't think this was possible, but I guess as long as it relates to the title "Relating to Health" I guess they can do it.  This is a way to introduce new bills after the introduction deadline at the beginning of the session.

So theoretically they could sacrifice one of the gun bills by gutting it and turning it into a assault rifle ban bill if they wanted to.  Probably the last day they could make a change like that is March 23rd, the second lateral.

this is entirely legal here in hawaii
they can amend any bill at any time
even in conference committee, which takes place after the bill has passed the house and senate
they can add in original language that was amended out,  or put in new language, or even replace the whole bill
the part that sucks about this is that conference committee occurs OUTSIDE OF ANY PUBLIC INPUT
and then the bill is voted on by the legislature, and if it wins, it goes to the governor

this rule is not abused here in hawaii as much as it is in california, as seen in punaperson's post
BUT IT CAN HAPPEN
so we need to always be vigilant and keep up the pressure on the legislature
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: zippz on February 15, 2018, 04:24:47 PM
Do you know if the submit testimony via email is still good or not? 

List of emails by committee for testimony submission
https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/comminfolist.aspx

Would this work better for folks who find it a hassle to testify via the Capitol website?

Email list is still valid for submitting testimony and is another option that is quick and easy.  Need to include the relevant data such as the committee, hearing date/location, chairs, oppose/support, etc.  However the legislature prefers the capitol webpage because processing emails is time consuming.
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: Jl808 on February 15, 2018, 05:28:07 PM
One thing I haven't figured out yet.
Why bother to talk to Democrats?
No one is ever going to convince
them to act differently.
They are are sick, and in
our case the majority.
The only man with sight
in a land of blind men is
considered to be ill.
Do not obey their laws.
can you take that step?
This is just a rhetorical question for
us Hawaii gun owners.
I do no violate any federal,
state or local laws.

In Hawaii, there are Democrats who are pro-2A.  I don't mind if they don't believe in the same things I do.  I do mind that they uphold what they swore to protect (the constitution and bill of rights) as an elected official.

Reminds me of the saying: "a conservative is a liberal who's been mugged, a liberal is a conservative who's been arrested."

Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: hvybarrels on February 16, 2018, 12:41:29 AM
this is entirely legal here in hawaii
they can amend any bill at any time
even in conference committee, which takes place after the bill has passed the house and senate
they can add in original language that was amended out,  or put in new language, or even replace the whole bill
the part that sucks about this is that conference committee occurs OUTSIDE OF ANY PUBLIC INPUT
and then the bill is voted on by the legislature, and if it wins, it goes to the governor

this rule is not abused here in hawaii as much as it is in california, as seen in punaperson's post
BUT IT CAN HAPPEN
so we need to always be vigilant and keep up the pressure on the legislature

You have to keep in mind that first the Territory and then the State were formed to protect the interests of large land owners from the influence of their employees. We have the window dressing of Democracy to keep the population complacent, but it's still envelopes under the table that are really running the show.
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: zippz on April 08, 2018, 05:47:27 PM
The legislative session is going onto it's final lap.  2nd crossover is coming up next week.  HB1908 bump stock ban, CCW, magazine limits, hunters apprentice, and other bills are dead for the year.  SB2046 Multiburst trigger ban is going to it's final vote in the House and should crossover back to the Senate since it was amended.  SB2436 Firearm Surrender is also going to it's final vote in the House then not sure if it'll crossover or go to the Governor since it's adopted the same language as HB1908.

Bills that passed all of their committees and floor votes without amendments (changes) will go to conference committee where they'll make any last minute changes (like those 2050 effective dates) then go to the Governor for signature, veto, or pass without signature.  Bills that passed their stages but were amended will go back to their originating chamber on the 2nd crossover next week to go through the process a final time.

(https://i.imgur.com/yCPo9LO.jpg)

The Civil Beat posted an article about trickery that the lawmakers do to get bills passed.  Gut and Replace where they take a dead bill, erase it's contents, and insert a new law to get around deadlines or to try and make another effort to get a bill passed.
http://www.civilbeat.org/2018/04/whats-up-with-all-the-gut-and-replace-trickery-at-the-legislature-this-year/

SB2046 experienced some trickery where it was heading to the trash bin because it would not make the Friday deadline to be heard by the JUD committee.  The bill was added to the committee hearing 46 minutes before it started which prevented us from providing testimony.  I read through the Hawaii Constitution and I only saw a requirement for open hearings and no requirement for submitting testimony.  I don't think there are any laws that require it.  The House rules (https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/docs/HouseRules.pdf) state that 48 hour notice is to be given for committee hearings which can be waived by the speaker for good cause.  I don't see a case for good cause unless there was somesort of emergency that prevented the bill from being included or unforseeable urgent need to have the bill heard in committee.  A problem on their part shouldn't become a problem on our part.

Persons to notify about this would be the JUD Chair, Nishimoto who submitted the last minute waiver, House Speaker Saiki who approved the waiver, and your district representative who elect the Speaker.
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: zippz on April 08, 2018, 07:16:58 PM
In other news....

Attorney's Opinion - Long gun registration for those under 21yrs
The background.  I'm helping a military servicemember who is 20 years old and wants to bring his rifle here from Texas and get it registered at HPD.  HPD told him he can't register it and that they will hold on to it until he turns 21.  According HRS 134-3 there is no age requirement to register the rifle a person already owns and the 21 yr requirement is only for permits to acquire. 

Step 1 - I went to HPD to try and work out the issue and they said he cannot register it until 21.  I ask for a reference.  They said go look it up yourself.  The rest of the conversation didn't go well and I felt like I was going to be thrown in prison.

Step 2 - I had HRA talk to the Major of firearms section.  Denied.

Step 3 - I requested an attorney from the capitol Legislative Reference Bureau to research the law and send me an opinion on behalf of Rep Sam Kong.  I should get an answer back this week.

Step 4 - If HPD doesn't accept the attorney's opinion,then I'll send it to the State Attorney General's office on behalf of Rep Sam Kong.  HPD would have to follow the AG's opinion.

If you have a problem with HPD and need an interpretation of the law, you can go through this route and save yourself from attorney's fees.  Or if another department isn't cooperative for whatever issue then you can do this too.  The State attorney's and AG (along with other departments) serve the government and not the public.  This method allows you to get information through your representative's office.

More to follow.

(https://i.imgur.com/0gGJTyv.jpg)


Mom's Demand Action

Repeat from the march thread.  Mom's Demand Action had a meeting before their march last month.  They got a Representative to host and reserve the room.  Something we could do in the future too if we need a meeting room in town.  There's also the large auditorium in the basement that can hold about 200 people that they use for forums and presentations.  They had Dominos Pizzas, chicken ranch my favorite.
(https://i.imgur.com/QErypoA.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Nj0cUbg.jpg)

And another meeting for a mental health presentation.  Notice the food?  Yes very important to have food to get an audience.
(https://i.imgur.com/l7OUFY3.jpg)
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: zippz on April 11, 2018, 07:22:34 PM
Fundraiser tonight with the lobbyists.  More food.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180412/f689209e2b0fb9daa28ecb30d515fe76.jpg)

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Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: ren on April 11, 2018, 09:47:51 PM
very informative  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: hvybarrels on April 11, 2018, 11:53:51 PM
Dominos?! F that S!

Dirty Lickins Chicken!
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: ren on April 12, 2018, 07:46:56 AM
In other news....

Attorney's Opinion - Long gun registration for those under 21yrs
The background.  I'm helping a military servicemember who is 20 years old and wants to bring his rifle here from Texas and get it registered at HPD. HPD told him he can't register it and that they will hold on to it until he turns 21.  According HRS 134-3 there is no age requirement to register the rifle a person already owns and the 21 yr requirement is only for permits to acquire. 

Step 1 - I went to HPD to try and work out the issue and they said he cannot register it until 21.  I ask for a reference.  They said go look it up yourself.  The rest of the conversation didn't go well and I felt like I was going to be thrown in prison.


Isn't that illegal search and seizure? Law says he can have his rifle - HPD said cannot and will take it from him
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: London808 on April 12, 2018, 07:49:52 AM
Isn't that illegal search and seizure? Law says he can have his rifle - HPD said cannot and will take it from him

Not illegal search but it would be a 4th and 5th amendment violation.
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: zippz on April 12, 2018, 08:03:31 AM
Isn't that illegal search and seizure? Law says he can have his rifle - HPD said cannot and will take it from him

Yes.  They claimed that because HRS 134-2 Permit to Acquire had a minimum age of 21, then it applied to 134-3 registration.  They have no clue and just doing it that way because it's always been done that way and it's easier to discourage people from challenging them than figuring it out themselves.

They could claim that the intent of law in 134-3 is to follow 134-2 because no age is listed, but that's weak.  I think the lawmakers didn't include a age limit for registration for people moving here where you can buy a rifle at 16 in some States.
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: zippz on April 12, 2018, 09:32:13 AM
Kapuna Power day at the Capitol.(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180412/76df3ab902271698426a073f95f5aae9.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180412/d1f36fab72dd8d5e1f48d9dff4a47f74.jpg)

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Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: groveler on April 12, 2018, 12:55:50 PM
Not illegal search but it would be a 4th and 5th amendment violation.

I don't want to get banned, but most you guys haven't figured out yet that by the time
your rights are recognized you will be 10-20 years older? Cops do as they please,
because they know how slow the courts are. They will take your guns illegally as they
know they will never be punished for illegal acts, and you will never get them back or
you will be very much older when you do.
You will get a rusty piece of junk as they store them poorly on purpose.
The cops really are not your friends.
They are agents of the government and they work for the government.
The government is not your friend,  it is your lord and master.
I'm going to get warned for typing that,  but it is truth.
 
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: ren on April 12, 2018, 02:00:10 PM
I don't want to get banned, but most you guys haven't figured out yet that by the time
your rights are recognized you will be 10-20 years older? Cops do as they please,
because they know how slow the courts are. They will take your guns illegally as they
know they will never be punished for illegal acts, and you will never get them back or
you will be very much older when you do.
You will get a rusty piece of junk as they store them poorly on purpose.
The cops really are not your friends.
They are agents of the government and they work for the government.
The government is not your friend,  it is your lord and master.
I'm going to get warned for typing that,  but it is truth.

I don't think thats a fair generalization of the HPD or any LE organization in the US. There are officers that respect the 2A. Unfortunately it's an organization that exists in an anti-2A environment. The root problem is the leadership we have at the City level. Allegiance to anti 2A issues keeps them aligned with the powers that be.
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: Flapp_Jackson on April 12, 2018, 02:05:05 PM
I don't think thats a fair generalization of the HPD or any LE organization in the US. There are officers that respect the 2A. Unfortunately it's an organization that exists in an anti-2A environment. The root problem is the leadership we have at the City level. Allegiance to anti 2A issues keeps them aligned with the powers that be.

This is why in many counties, the Sheriffs (elected by the people) publicly support the Constitution and 2A, whereas the police chiefs in the same areas (appointed by city leadership) toe the gun control line.

So, when you read how a high percentage of police chiefs support some gun control measure, they are parroting what their political masters advocate.
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: groveler on April 12, 2018, 03:52:58 PM
This is why in many counties, the Sheriffs (elected by the people) publicly support the Constitution and 2A, whereas the police chiefs in the same areas (appointed by city leadership) toe the gun control line.

So, when you read how a high percentage of police chiefs support some gun control measure, they are parroting what their political masters advocate.

Have you ever heard of "Oath keepers".?
A cop does not promise to uphold the constitution, which
is a document that defines your God given rights and
 what the government cannot do.
a Cop promises to uphold whatever stupid law TPTB pass.
presuming ALL laws are for the peace of society.
That is how you get enslaved
as Hawaii gun owners are.
Courts are expensive and the policeman has
all the time and money in the world.


Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: punaperson on April 12, 2018, 04:07:32 PM
Have you ever heard of "Oath keepers".?
A cop does not promise to uphold the constitution, which
is a document that defines your God given rights and
 what the government cannot do.
a Cop promises to uphold whatever stupid law TPTB pass.
presuming ALL laws are for the peace of society.
That is how you get enslaved
as Hawaii gun owners are.
Courts are expensive and the policeman has
all the time and money in the world.
Here is the oath of office that all chiefs of police take (I have a copy of the signed oath for Hawaii county), and from the description it sounds as if all law enforcement officers would take the same oath.

All eligible public officers, before entering upon the duties of their respective offices, shall take and subscribe to the following oath or affirmation:

"I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States, and the Constitution of the State of Hawaii, and that I will faithfully discharge my duties as _____________ to best of my ability."

As used in this section, "eligible public officers" means the governor, the lieutenant governor, the members of both houses of the legislature, the members of the board of education, the members of the national guard, State or county employees who possess police powers, district court judges, and all those whose appointment requires the consent of the senate. [Ren and am Const Con 1978 and election Nov 7, 1978; am SB 1440 (1992) and election Nov 3, 1992]

* * * * *
The "out" of course, is "to the best of my ability". They just don't have the "ability" to interpret "the right to bear arms shall not be infringed" as meaning they cannot deny 100% of the law-abiding applicants CCW or open carry licenses. That's the best they can do. They suck!
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: groveler on April 12, 2018, 06:46:09 PM
Here is the oath of office that all chiefs of police take (I have a copy of the signed oath for Hawaii county), and from the description it sounds as if all law enforcement officers would take the same oath.

All eligible public officers, before entering upon the duties of their respective offices, shall take and subscribe to the following oath or affirmation:

"I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States, and the Constitution of the State of Hawaii, and that I will faithfully discharge my duties as _____________ to best of my ability."

As used in this section, "eligible public officers" means the governor, the lieutenant governor, the members of both houses of the legislature, the members of the board of education, the members of the national guard, State or county employees who possess police powers, district court judges, and all those whose appointment requires the consent of the senate. [Ren and am Const Con 1978 and election Nov 7, 1978; am SB 1440 (1992) and election Nov 3, 1992]

* * * * *
The "out" of course, is "to the best of my ability". They just don't have the "ability" to interpret "the right to bear arms shall not be infringed" as meaning they cannot deny 100% of the law-abiding applicants CCW or open carry licenses. That's the best they can do. They suck!

I stand corrected.
I owe you a breakfast at cafe 100.
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: punaperson on April 12, 2018, 07:33:42 PM
I stand corrected.
I owe you a breakfast at cafe 100.
Hey, it's totally understandable. Anyone who observed their actions would have to assume that they never took any kind of oath to uphold the constitutions... because they don't. I mean all of them: the cops, the chiefs, the legislators, the governor, the AG, the mayors, etc. They're all violating their oaths of office, and not a god-damned thing has ever happened to any of them for doing so. Nothing. Ever. Day after day after day...  They just keep creating, passing, signing, and enforcing more infringements with absolutely no consequences at all. Except maybe getting re-elected for 20 years. :wtf:
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: London808 on April 13, 2018, 07:21:54 AM
 :stopjack:
Can we get an admin to cleanup the thread please
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: zippz on April 13, 2018, 07:21:58 AM
48 he waiver

Yesterday my Rep, Vice chair EDN, had to get a 48hr waiver to add 3 bills to the Education committee hearing today related to studying security personnel at schools.  The bills were left off by the actual chair, I dunno why.   He asked for approval at the floor session and the speaker approved it.  At least this one gives 27 hours notice and testimony won't be marked late.

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session2018/hearingnotices/HEARING_EDN_04-13-18_.HTM


Recognition.

There are a couple ways to show appreciation through the legislature.  One methods is for representative to recognize people at the floor aessions for good deeds and work they're doing.

Another way is through certificates.  You can recommend someone to a representative for stuff like teachers and students winning awards, great volunteer, heroic acts, etc.  A formal certificate can be made and the rep will present it at the school or in a house or senate floor session.

We could do this for air rifle champions and great 2a volunteers.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180413/c61a825284121bf6410bff66157b9084.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180413/31adc2a801bc73bfcfc6ad2a8a9be938.jpg)

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Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: zippz on April 13, 2018, 07:28:58 AM
A certificate was given to Ken Kang, teacher from Aiea HS, for receiving a prestigious award.  I've wrote up certs for charter school teacher of the year and PAAC students who won scholarships and awards.

Just have to contact the rep with the info and they'll write up the certificate.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180413/2ec5aecec5fd3e93776647521e924d17.jpg)

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Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: zippz on April 24, 2018, 03:13:16 PM
Today I visited the state archives which is a two story building on the grounds of Iolani Palace.  The staff was very friendly.  I just had to register, write down what bills I was looking for, and they went into the backroom and brought out boxes of old copies.  You can use the photocopier (25c each) or I just used my cell phone to take pics.  I got copies of the handgun ban, handgun tax, firearms registration, and firearms safety class bills from 1994.  It was pretty quick.  I wanted to get copies of some testimonies too, but decided not to since it would've taken longer cause you have to lookup the committees, dates, and go through hundreds of pages of testimony.

They have other things there like marriage certificates, immigration records, pictures, cemetery listings, and other stuff going back to the 1800 and 1900's.  They basically have older stuff that the library and Capitol Legislative Reference Bureau wouldn't have.


(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180425/0bdb0631438ac22da88122b8d0974aaf.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180425/679e16fa67cc328fd39d48b55d394e40.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180425/4f28d34d07290dca630c0680c01d3ba9.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180425/6b7bb630d3c74ec6eac7403e4812d9b3.jpg)
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: London808 on April 24, 2018, 05:47:56 PM
Today I visited the state archives which is a two story building on the grounds of Iolani Palace.  The staff was very friendly.  I just had to register, write down what bills I was looking for, and they went into the backroom and brought out boxes of old copies.  You can use the photocopier (25c each) or I just used my cell phone to take pics.  I got copies of the handgun ban, handgun tax, firearms registration, and firearms safety class bills from 1994.  It was pretty quick.  I wanted to get copies of some testimonies too, but decided not to since it would've taken longer cause you have to lookup the committees, dates, and go through hundreds of pages of testimony.

They have other things there like marriage certificates, immigration records, pictures, cemetery listings, and other stuff going back to the 1800 and 1900's.  They basically have older stuff that the library and Capitol Legislative Reference Bureau wouldn't have.

Interesting information.
Title: Re: The Capitol Blog
Post by: rklapp on April 24, 2018, 07:57:05 PM
I hope they have a good fire sprinkler system.