House inquiry sought on lawmakers' actions

By Derrick DePledge
Advertiser Capitol Bureau

State House Republican lawmakers will ask House Speaker Calvin Say to investigate whether any House lawmakers acted improperly in trying to help a man fired from Norwegian Cruise Line last year for sexual harassment.

Eight lawmakers, including three from the House, signed a letter to the cruise line asking for restitution for the man, claiming he was treated unfairly.

The Hawai'i State Ethics Commission is already investigating whether state Sen. Brian Kanno, D-19th (Kapolei, Makakilo, Waikele), who was behind the letter, acted properly. Kanno also worked on resolutions that would have required Norwegian to disclose sexual harassment policies and studied whether it should have to pay hotel taxes.

Senate Republicans asked for the investigation.

Rep. Colleen Meyer, R-47th (Ha'iku, Kahalu'u, La'ie), said "it is important for the people to trust those who represent them. As elected officials, senators and representatives are servants to their communities, not promoters of petty, private vendettas."

A House spokesperson said Say, D-20th (St. Louis Heights, Palolo, Wilhelmina Rise), had not received the request from Meyer and could not comment.

Reach Derrick DePledge at ddepledge@honoluluadvertiser.com or 525-8070.