Environment

Education

Economy

Healthcare

Your Ideas

Supporting Diversified Agriculture & the New Economy

 

The tourist, military, and construction industries are pillars of Hawaii’s economy.  However, we must support a broadening of Hawaii’s economic base to include diversified agriculture and high tech industries as denoted by the “New Economy.”  As agricultural lands become available for other uses, Della will support efforts that keep these valuable lands available for farming crops that can feed our own people and provide exports to other markets.  She will also help to support advances in the agricultural sector through funding for research and other agricultural initiatives.  Della will also advocate for comprehensive land use and water use planning that considers and balances the needs of communities and future generations.

 

The New Economy of the 21st century requires citizens, businesses, and government agencies to function in a technologically advanced world and develop a culture that supports innovation, initiative, and enterprise.  To build the capacity of our workforce, Della will support more and improved use of technology in public schools.  To encourage innovation, initiative, and enterprise, Della will support investment in research and development that takes advances from the academic to the commercial setting where appropriate. She will also advocate for policies that encourage innovation within government and assist entrepreneurs and businesses through appropriate streamlining of government requirements.

 

 

Energy Efficiency & Reducing Our Dependence on Oil

 

During the 2006 legislative session, steps were taken to encourage development and use of fuels other than coal, oil, and petroleum.  These include renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and ocean thermal energy and alternative energy sources such as biofuel and hydrogen energy. Efforts such as these not only support energy efficiency but reduce our dependence on traditional fossil fuels and external markets, enabling Hawaii to be more energy self-sufficient.  Della will support legislation that continues to fund research, development, and application of these alternative and renewable energy sources.

 

 

Developing a Vibrant Workforce

 

A vibrant workforce is one that is educated and well-trained.  Individuals and families also thrive where there are affordable housing options and assistance programs that enable them to afford the high cost of paradise. Della will introduce and support legislation that strengthens post-secondary education and increases affordable housing options and access to loans for first-time home buyers.  

 

Working individuals and families would also be greatly empowered by an equitable tax system that does not burden the most disadvantaged.  Della will lobby for comprehensive examination of Hawaii’s tax system and advance measures that will provide real tax relief while balancing the needs of government to pay for important government services.  These measures include increasing the standard deduction, refundable medical tax credits, and refundable earned income tax credits.