Senator Gabbard Focused on Renewable Energy & the Environment

This legislative session, Senator Mike Gabbard has once again proven himself to be a strong supporter and activist for Hawai'i's shift to renewable, clean energy. He is the Chair of the Energy and Environment Committee and has introduced some impressive bills to improve our energy efficiency and environmental protection.

One such bill is SB 181 which will require that all new homes being built are photovoltaic-ready, to make it easier for homeowners to make the switch to using solar energy. SB 201 will create an opt-out registry for people who are tired of receiving so many phone books that are a waste of paper and other resources. SB 209 would prohibit state funds from being used to purchase single-serving water bottles. To keep up with the status of these bills, submit testimony to support their passage, or find out about other important bills that Senator Gabbard is working on, visit the searchable database here- Hawai'i State Capitol

Senator Gabbard was also recently asked to give the closing speech at the Hawai'i Energy Policy Forum's Legislative Briefing. He eloquently stated, "Each Btu of fossil fuel that we import is a mortgage that we must pay for by sending our precious dollars to the tune of $4-6 billion out of the state every year. But each Btu or watt that we generate from renewable sources within the state is a down payment on the future of our keiki o ka aina by creating jobs and protecting the environment."

Let's do all we can to support Sen. Gabbard and these important bills.

Gabbard Is Off & Running!

Senator Mike Gabbard hasn't missed a beat between running for re-election, winning his bid, and jumping into the 2011 legislative session. He has recently been spotted all over the island at events such as the launch of hydrogen power stations for clean running cars, informational briefings on environmental & community health issues, as well as his popular "Listen Story" meetings.

Senator Gabbard also found time to take a goodwill trip to Taiwan with other senators. The visit was paid for by the Taiwanese government and provided an opportunity for Mike to make important connections and get ideas for ways we can improve life here at home.

I encourage everyone to get involved in the legislative process this year by regularly checking Mike's website and reading his newsletters. Let him hear from you when you agree or disagree with legislation. You'll be impressed with how responsive Senator Gabbard is to any and all of your concerns.