Honolulu Weekly

What was your biggest accomplishment this session?
“I believe passage of HB994 was the most important economic development issue of this session. My office helped draft the Senate and House version, and fortunately, I was able to convince the Senate Ways and Means chair the value of funding to pay for an application for a federal spaceport license. This measure will assist in developing a space tourism industry in Hawaii within 5 years. Space planes will take tourists into orbit where they will experience weightlessness. Several jurisdictions on the mainland and in Europe are competing to be the first on this earth to launch this new, exciting industry.”

With which piece of 2009 legislation are you most proud to be affiliated and why?
“HB994 mentioned in question 1. In 2007, legislation I introduced established within the Department of Business and Economic Development the Office of Aerospace Development (OAD). HB994 is a continuation of the State’s interest and commitment to the aerospace industry. SB537 creates the Aerospace Advisory Committee to work with the OAD to promote Hawaii and our aerospace potential and achievements.”

Debating which issue turned out to be the biggest distraction from your priorities?
“None was a distraction. Our job is to deal with all the issues which come before us and merits debate and discussion.”

What’s one thing you wish voters better understood about you or the political process as a whole?
“For many of us Legislators, this job is a full-time effort.”