2025 Legislature Opening Day

What an exciting day! Legislature Opening Day was this past Wednesday and we wanted to share some HIGHLIGHTS! Many historic moments were made at the Capitol! 🌺 Stay tuned for HAPA’s legislative agenda.

The House of Representatives elects Kaua‘i Nadine Nakamura as the first female Speaker of the House. 🎉

Some highlights of the day: Our staff members, Aria and Leo Nahe met with Kuleana Academy (KA) alumni Representative Amy Perruso, Representative Mahina Poepoe, and Representative Terez Amato to discuss HAPA’s legislative priorities and thank them for championing the people.

HAPA board member Ikaika Hussey and former member Kim Coco Iwamoto were sworn in to represent their communities, with KA alumni Nichole Shintani, Nadia Alves, and Charles Jonsson supporting as staff members.

KA alumni Nikki Cristobal and Lorlani Keohokalole also represented Pouhana O Nā Wāhine, while Nara Boone attended on behalf of Maui Housing Hui. 🏛️🌿 It was so nice to connect with many other alumni serving in professional capacities advocating for social, economic, and environmental justice.

Senate President Ron Kouchi highlighted the state's biggest obstacle, housing, and committed to investing in infrastructure and pledged to support Gov Green’s $250 million dollar housing proposal.

House Speaker Nakamura also shared that investing in affordable housing is the top priority to help address the cost of living.

This is an exciting time so be sure to follow along and get legislative alerts by signing up for our HAPA mailing list!