Focus
Crisis requires state legislators to act quickly

By Robert Bunda
State Senate president

The Legislature convenes tomorrow to tackle the unprecedented crisis caused by the global economic slowdown and terrorist acts. The challenges facing us are daunting, but just as the citizens of our nation are showing tremendous unity and strength, so too are those of us entrusted with the task of revitalizing Hawai'i and its economy.

Members of the state Senate have been demonstrating unanimity in our discussions on the governor's economic stimulus package. While we might disagree a bit on the scope or specifics of some proposals, we agree that prompt action is necessary.

Senate and House Democrats, along with our Republican colleagues, have been conferring with Gov. Ben Cayetano and his administration on shaping and refining the legislation to ensure that we:

• Help those people who are most in need, such as laid-off employees who lose medical benefits or unemployment insurance coverage.
• Provide tax relief to businesses and other taxpayers.
• Boost spending for construction, with an emphasis on repairs and maintenance of our public schools.
• Grant the governor certain powers so he can respond quickly to emergencies.

At the same time, legislators are keenly aware of our need to judge the proposals against our traditional standards, including:

• Preserving the Legislature's constitutional responsibilities for oversight and maintaining an effective system of checks and balances in government.
• Assessing the long-term financial impact on taxpayers of additional borrowing and spending.
• Ensuring that spending, particularly additional construction spending, is in accordance with established priorities.

These considerations, however, will be secondary to our approval of those stimulus measures that promise quick relief for Hawai'i residents and businesses suffering from this crisis. I am confident that the Senate will respond with legislation that not only provides near-term economic solutions to help us weather this storm but establishes the broader policies and goals that will ensure long-term vitality and health.

Our people are responding to the challenge with unity, strength and sacrifice, and I pledge the Legislature will do likewise.