Push to pass a bill, you can do it too. 

By Kuulei Kato

Lots of Problems and One Clear Answer

The conditions of the dorms are lacking, classrooms are falling apart, and price for public transportation is unreasonable.  So what.  What are you going to do about it?  For those of you who are intimidated by what may seem like a daunting task, a trail littered with confusing lingo, government building abound and an overload of information, the answer is simple and something we’ve all heard before, simply, talk to your representative.

The Politics of Politics

Before you dismiss the idea, District Representative Glen Wakai describes the power all U.S. citizens are entitled to as a registered voter. “The first people to get through my door are my constituents because ultimately those are my bosses.” “Politics is very personal,” he said. “Where if some guy gives you the shaft and doesn’t give you time of day and doesn’t even at least give you the courtesy of listening to your thoughts, then I'm sure you’re probably going to spread the word amongst your neighbors. Things spread.“  Know the power you wield as an individual and approach them said Wakai.  The ASUH and board of regents are alternative vehicles for change available to university students but according to Wakai, “Ultimately we as law makers hold the purse strings for the entire state budget.”

A Single Person Can Make it Happen

Although definitely attainable, Wakai doesn’t deny the difficulty of getting a bill passed. “The process is slow as molasses, it’s time consuming, there’s all kind of other things that come into play.”  Of the 3,000 bill introduced and passed by their particular committee at the House of Representatives as well at the Senate, only 8 percent or about 200 bill become law but the important thing the remember Wakai said is “It doesn’t take a whole industry or huge group of people. Could be one person with hopefully a really good solid idea that actually can effectuate change.” 

Resources

Daunting, as the process may seem, making a difference is easier today then ever before and that is especially true with a little known or maybe overlooked resource called the Public Access Room. Located at the major hub for Hawaii law making, the Capitol, all the information needed or at least a point in the right direction is a question anyway.  Met with a smile, Assistant Coordinator Robbie Watland described their capabilities. “We have computer banks here that are hooked up on line that the public can come and research legislation or to draft up their testimony” In addition, the room provides experienced staff, research assistance, free testimony printing, and informative workshops.  

Helpful Tips Before You Start: 

Known your district and who is your representative. 
Determine if your concern is at the state, city or federal level. 
If you are unsure about how to go about finding this information the Public Access Room can help. 

The Public Access Room was primarily set up for the public and is paid for by tax dollars.

Representative Glen Wakai is the district representative for Mililani and Pearl City.