Jon Riki Karamatsu

Party: Democratic

Age: 34

Job: Hawaii State House of Representatives, 2002-present; Attorney, 2001-present; President, JRK Enterprises LLC (Internet Retail), 2002-present; & Real Estate License, 2007-present.

Born in Honolulu. In Hawaii from birth

Lives: Waikele

Contact: (808) 678-3201, jonriki@gmail.com

Web site: jonriki.wordpress.com

Job history past 10 years:
Legislative Assistant, Senator Carol Fukunaga, 2002; Clerk, Kapiolani Women`s Center, 2000; Law Clerk, Corporation Counsel, City & County of Honolulu, 1999; Service Rep., Duty Free Shoppers, 1992-1996.

Ever run for public office? When? Outcome?
Won my race for the Hawaii State House of Representatives District 41 (Waikele, Royal Kunia, Village Park, Waipahu) in 2002, 2004, & 2006.

Other civic experience or community service:
Waikele Elementary School Community Council, 2008-present; Chair, Peace Day Hawaii Committee, 2007-present; Waipahu Business Association, 2004-present; & Waipahu Community Association, 2003-present.

Anything else you'd like voters to know about you?
Champion of Small Business, The National Coalition for Capital, 2008; Forty Under 40, Pacific Business News, 2007; Legislator of the Year, University of Hawaii Professional Assembly, 2006; Eagle Scout.

1) Why are you running for office?
I will continue to pass laws that will help Hawaii become a global leader in innovation in areas such as technology, biotechnology, science, renewable energy, health research, film, digital media, art, cultural products, agricultural research, high quality agricultural products. I will continue to pass laws and appropriate funds to help people suffering & facing difficult challenges such as abuse.

2) With state revenue growth slowing, what are your top three priorities for government spending?
1. Funding for project-based learning in our public schools in areas of science, robotics, computer programming, computer graphics, film, digital media, culture, art, carpentry, construction, electronics, and auto mechanics; 2. Funding for infrastructure for schools, highways, & state facilities; & 3. Funding for renewable energy projects.

3) What steps should the state take to reduce dependence on imported fossil fuel?
1. Float bonds to assist renewable energy companies to build their facilities; 2. Continue technology investment credit to attract capital to Hawaii renewable energy companies; 3. Use state land for renewable energy projects; 4. Zone to allow renewable energy powered mini-grid; 5. Update state facilities to be energy-efficient; 6. Incentives for people & businesses to use energy-efficient products.

4) What's the No. 1 thing needed to improve Hawai'i public schools?
There is too much emphasis on test-taking scores. Not all students have a good memory, can read quickly, & have English as their 1st language. We need to also support project based-learning where students can apply their education in completing a project, product, or service. Students get a feeling of achievement when they complete their projects & see how their education can be applied to life.

5) How should the state respond to financial difficulties at public and private hospitals?
Identify services that can be provided by another company for a lesser amount but with the same or better quality of service. Renewable energy technologies applied at hospitals with a fossil fuel energy back-up system. Float bonds for new infrastructure & improvements. Promote healthy living programs. Create a statewide health insurance program.

6) What is the No. 1 quality-of-life issue facing Hawai'i, and what would you do about it?
I want to help people who are suffering because of sex abuse, domestic violence, depression, single parenthood, health problems, & elderly challenges. I want to spread positive energy to counter all those who are impatient, angry, and full of hatred. Besides laws & appropriations, I created a strategy that can be applied in our quest to be compassionate, happy, & at peace. I want happiness for you.

7) What's the No. 1 piece of legislation you'd work to pass in 2009?
Create a zone to allow a renewable energy powered mini-grid to provide energy for infrastructure located in the zone; Have a renewable energy back-up system for all traffic management systems & important infrastructure so we can operate if we have a blackout; Float bonds to help companies build renewable energy facilities; & Extend investment tax credits for renewable energy research & development.