Your House Representatives on the 2025 Opening Day pictured from left to right:
Chris L. Muraoka, Garner M. Shimizu, Diamond Garcia, Elijah Pierick, Lauren Cheape Matsumoto, David Alcos, Julie Reyes Oda
OPENING DAY AT THE STATE CAPITOL

The 2025 Legislative Session officially began this week with the Opening Day Ceremony. The House Republican Caucus is ready to work toward a stronger future for the state. They remain committed to addressing critical issues that impact the lives of the people of Hawaii.
LEGISLATIVE MEASURES PROPOSED TO ENHANCE PUBLIC SAFETY

This legislative session, Representative Pierick is introducing bills aimed at improving Hawaii, including one that would impose the death penalty or life imprisonment without parole for sex trafficking convictions. Additionally, he is proposing a ban on all fireworks in the state and increasing penalties for bodily injury resulting from a dog attack to a Class C felony.
HAWAII REALTORS
Meeting with a team from Hawaii Realtors to discuss the current state of our housing market and hear about their priorities for this year's Legislative Session was a great opportunity for Representative Matsumoto. Their input will be invaluable as our caucus works toward sustainable solutions during this Legislative Session.
ADDRESSING LOCAL CHALLENGES TOGETHER
Representative Muraoka is dedicated to enhancing safety in Waianae by partnering with Prosecuting Attorney Steve Alm to address violent crimes. Through collaboration and improved enforcement strategies, he supports crime prevention and accountability for offenders. His efforts reflect a commitment to justice and restoring peace for Waianae families.
MEET YOUR 2025 LEGISLATIVE TEAM FOR
DISTRICT 42
Representative Garcia and his team are dedicated to serving you and your 'ohana.
Have questions? Reach out to us at 808-586-8500. We're here to support our community!
PBS INSIGHTS: LEGISLATIVE PREVIEW
On PBS Insight’s Legislative Preview, Representative Matsumoto had the opportunity to discuss the key issues for the upcoming 2025 legislative session, including lowering the cost of living, tax reforms, and addressing increases in housing insurance. Click here ([link removed]) to watch the full interview, and let’s stay connected and proactive this session!
BEER SUMMITS ARE BACK IN 2025!

Representative Ward’s Hawaii Kai Beer Summits have returned, with Representative Diamond Garcia kicking off 2025 by providing a thorough overview of what we can expect to see this upcoming legislative session. This also was a fantastic opportunity for community members to connect over various matters of shared concern, such as possible new developments in Hawaii Kai.

Interested in a full analysis of what we will see from our policymakers this year? Be sure to attend the next Beer Summit on February 6th at 6 PM at the Oahu Club, where Rep. Ward will welcome political analyst Colin Moore.
LIMU TASTING COMPETITION
Judging the Marine Science Class’s Top Chef Limu contest at Mililani High School is always a highlight for Representative Matsumoto! This year, her husband, Scott, who shares her enthusiasm for sampling the creative dishes came along. The students outdid themselves with unique and delicious recipes featuring limu. The winning dish, limu sourdough bread, was impressive. Other standout entries were wakame salad and a decadent limu-infused chocolate lava cake. It’s always great to hear the students share how they created their dishes and the meaning behind them. All the dishes were a delight and she is already looking forward to next year’s contest!
GROUNDBREAKING FOR HALE MOʻILIʻILI

Representative Shimizu pictured with Governor Josh Green and Stanford Carr at the groundbreaking event for Hale Mōʻiliʻili. This is the first high-rise rental project by the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands, exclusively for DHHL beneficiaries. This 271-unit development is a transformative step toward addressing the housing crisis and providing long-overdue opportunities for stability, pride, and a brighter future for our Native Hawaiian community.
WAIANAE HIGH SCHOOL FIRST ANNUAL CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING
The first tree-lighting ceremony at Waianae High School celebrated hope, resilience, and unity, bringing the community together in a heartwarming display. Adorned with lights and ornaments crafted by students and families, the tree symbolizes cultural pride, strength, and the possibilities that come with collaboration. The event underscored the power of community involvement in overcoming challenges and building a brighter future for Waianae.
CELEBRATING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF LENA ALCOS: A HEART FULL OF FAITH, LOVE, AND ALOHA
Representative Garcia was honored to join Representative David Alcos along with other Councilmember Augie Tulba, and Representative Julie Reyes Oda in honoring the life of Representative David Alcos’s beloved wife, Lena Alcos. Her steadfast faith in God, profound love for her family, and dedication to her husband and community leave a lasting inspiration for all who knew her. Lena’s legacy of grace, kindness, and service will endure in our hearts. Thoughts and prayers are with the Alcos family as we remember Lena with gratitude and Aloha!
COMMUNITY TOUR WITH HECO
Reprsentative Muraoka had an informative tour with Hawaiian Electric Company (HECO), gaining valuable insights into wildfire prevention and safety for the Waianae-Makaha district. The visit highlighted the importance of advanced technology and strategies to enhance community resilience and sustainability. Representative Muraoka remains committed to supporting initiatives that balance environmental safety with affordable energy solutions.
HAWAII BUSINESS ROUNDTABLE

On January 8, 2025, Representative Julie Reyes Oda attended the Hawai'i Business Round Table & The Hawai'i State Legislature 2025 Annual Luncheon. The Roundtable’s mission is to promote the overall economic vitality and social well-being of Hawai’i. Pictured here are HPU President John Y. Gotanda J.D., Representative Reyes Oda and Chaminade President Lynn M. Babington, PhD.
OUR LADY OF PEACE ANNUAL RED MASS
Representative Matsumoto and Representative Shimizu enjoyed attending the annual Red Mass at Our Lady of Peace Cathedral. an event that marks the opening of the Hawaii State Legislature. Led by Bishop Larry Silva, this year’s theme, "Blessed are the Peacemakers: Reflections on Servant Leadership," served as a reminder of the values of humility, wisdom, and service. The Red Mass provides an opportunity to pray for guidance and clarity for Hawaii’s public servants as they embark on another legislative session, striving to serve the community with dedication and integrity.
GENKI TOSS WITH MOANALUA MIDDLE SCHOOL
Representative Shimizu joined Moanalua Middle School’s Science classes to toss Genki Balls at Moanalua Gardens. The Genki Balls made for this project are mud balls that contain billions of Effective Microorganisms®, which sink to the bottom of the canal to digest the sludge and act as a “probiotic” for the environment. This initiative is a great way to connect with our youth with hands-on conservation efforts.
MILILANI IKE ELEMENTARY STUDENT COUNCIL VISIT

Meeting with the Mililani Ike Elementary Student Council and Campus Patrol Officers was a wonderful opportunity for Representative Matsumoto share her personal experience in leadership and community service. The discussion with the group highlighted teamwork and perseverance, and it was inspiring for her to hear the positive impact they’re making in their school. She was also thrilled to perform her jump rope demonstration, sharing a fun and personal element of her journey with them.
KALAELOA AIRPORT AND HARBOR VISIT

Representative Shimizu toured the Kalaeloa Airport to view airport facilities, current projects, and future plans. Upcoming capital improvement projects include plans of Pier Cargo Yard expansion and pier improvements. He also toured the Kalaeloa Harbor to see harbor operations, infrastructure, and ongoing improvements.
HANALANI SCHOOLS WORLD CHANGERS

The Hanalani 3rd graders invited Representative Matsumoto back to kick off their Project-Based Learning Unit: World Influencers! She shared how a simple jump rope shaped her journey and led her to serve her community and advocate for issues that matter to her district. She also encouraged them to see how consistent small actions can make a big difference. It was also an opportunity to share her activity book to help them understand how the Hawaii legislature works. Their project includes researching global influencers, presenting their findings, and hosting a community event to raise funds for missionaries creating their global impact!
PORT OF HONOLULU SITE VISIT

Representative Shimizu also toured the Port of Honolulu at the beginning of the month. The Port of Honolulu, also known as Honolulu Harbor, is the principal seaport of Honolulu. One of the projects scheduled to be completed this year, in Fall 2025, is the Kapalama Container Terminal.
MOANALUA BOY SCOUT TROOP 9 EAGLE SCOUT COURT OF HONOR

Representative Shimizu joined Councilmember Radiant Cordero for Moanalua Boy Scout Troop 9’s Eagle Scout Court of Honor. Representative Shimizu had the privilege of being a part of the ceremony. Nicholas Lin, John Kai Demarco, and Brandon Samiano were all honored as Eagle Scouts.
2025 OHA INVESTITURE CEREMONY

Representative Shimizu attended the 2025 OHA Investiture Ceremony. Four trustees were formally inducted into their terms of office during the ceremony at Central Union Church in Honolulu. Representative Shimizu is pictured with Kai Kahele who was elected chair by the board in December.
CLICK TO LISTEN NOW! ([link removed])
Representative David Alcos
House District 41 ([link removed])
Ewa Beach, Ocean Pointe, and Barbers Point


Room: 324
Phone: 808-586-6080
Fax: 808-586-6081
[email protected] (mailto:[email protected])

Representative Diamond Garcia
House District 42 ([link removed])
Varona Village, Ewa, Kapolei, and Fernandez Village


Room: 303
Phone: 808-586-8500
Fax: 808-586-8504
[email protected] (mailto:[email protected])

Representative Lauren Cheape Matsumoto
House District 38 ([link removed])
Mililani and Mililani Mauka


Room: 302
Phone: 808-586-9490
Fax: 808-586-9496
[email protected] (mailto:[email protected])

Representative Chris L. Muraoka
House District 4 ([link removed]) 5 ([link removed])
Waianae and Makaha


Room: 313
Phone: 808-586-8460
Fax: 808-586-8464
[email protected] (mailto:[email protected])

Representative Elijah Pierick
House District 39 ([link removed])
Royal Kunia, Village Park, Honouliuli, Hoopili and Waipahu


Room: 318
Phone: 808-586-8490
Fax: 808-586-8494
[email protected] (mailto:[email protected])

Representative Julie Reyes Oda
House District ([link removed]) 40 ([link removed])
'Ewa Beach


Room: 310
Phone: 808-586-9730
Fax: 808-586-9738
[email protected] (mailto:[email protected])

Representative Garner M. Shimizu
House District ([link removed]) 32 ([link removed])
Ft. Shafter, Moanalua, Red Hill, AMR, Foster Village, Stadium, parts of Aliamanu, Halawa, Aiea, and Pearlridge


Room: 305
Phone: 808-586-8470
Fax: 808-586-9476
[email protected] (mailto:[email protected])

Representative Kanani Souza
House District ([link removed]) 43 ([link removed])
Kapolei and Makakilo


Room: 330
Phone: 808-586-8465
Fax: 808-586-8469
[email protected] (mailto:[email protected])

Representative Gene Ward
House District 18 ([link removed])
Portlock, Hawai'i Kai, and Kalama Valley


Room: 319
Phone: 808-586-6420
Fax: 808-586-6421
[email protected] (mailto:[email protected])

If you have any comments, questions, or concerns that you would like to be addressed by your Representatives, please do not hesitate to reach out! Visit the capitol website for contact information. ([link removed])
Mahalo,

Hawaii State House Republican Caucus

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