HONOLULU -- Members of the State Legislature unveiled the final package of successful bills, resolutions and appropriations in support and appreciation of Hawaii’s military community.
The package includes 11 bills, seven resolutions, more that $66 million in fiscal year 2011-2012 funds and more than $63 million in fiscal year 2012-2013 capital improvements funds to build or improve facilities.
“The Military Appreciation Package was created to support the efforts of our men and women who have served throughout our history, and all who now serve in uniform and their families, as well as those Americans who have given their lives in defense of our freedoms we all enjoy today,” said Rep. K. Mark Takai, coordinator of the Legislature’s Military Appreciation Package.
“The pieces of legislation that comprise the Military Appreciation Package address some of the many challenges facing our military personnel and their families, including significant recruitment and retention issues, especially for the National Guard and Reserves,” Takai said. “It honors, remembers, recognizes and appreciates all military personnel.”
The highlights of the package include the following:
Designating a new, specially designed Gold Star family plate for children, parents, grandparents, spouses and siblings of fallen Soldiers, to be provided no later than Oct. 1.
Making the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children permanent, effective June 30, 2011.
Awarding the Hawaii Medal of Honor for military personnel with Hawaii ties who have been killed in action since 2003.
Authorizing members of the Army and Air National Guard, qualified by training and authorized by commanders, to use electric guns when assisting civil authorities in disaster relief, civil defense or law enforcement functions.
Funding for improvements to the Hawaii State Veterans Cemetery and other veterans cemeteries statewide.
“‘Freedom isn’t Free’ isn’t just a catchy bumper sticker; it’s a declaration that those who defend our country with their lives do so for the millions of other Americans they have never and will never meet,” Takai said.
For additional information on the Military Appreciation Package, call 586-8455 or email reptakai@capitol.hawaii.gov.
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