Dear Friends,

It is my pleasure to serve the residents of the Kaimuki, Kapahulu, Waikiki, Ala Wai, and Diamond Head areas.

As one of the youngest members of the Hawaii State Legislature, I am committed to finding solutions to assist individuals who are entering the workforce and starting families. I am particularly committed to working toward developing more affordable housing in Hawaii.

I welcome your input regarding issues that concern you.

Sincerely,
Scott Nishimoto
State Representative
21st District

TOPICS OF INTEREST

• Chiropractic Care Coverage
  The full range of medical services available to current medical consumers includes chiropractic care. Chiropractic care provides invaluable therapy for many who suffer from chronic or acute muscle injuries or conditions. House Bill No. 2680 would have extended this type of care to members enrolled in Medicaid and QUEST programs. However, this measure failed to gain legislative approval.
  
  
• Healthcare - Uninsured Children
  As a member of the House Committee on Health, Representative Nishimoto is concerned about health care in our state, especially as it pertains to our keiki. House Bill No. 3116, C.D. 1, creates a three-year pilot program which requires the Department of Human Services to pay half of the health care premiums for uninsured children who are ineligible for other state or federal coverage.
  
  
• Kakaako Affordable Housing
  The runaway housing market has priced many local families out of the housing market, especially in the urban core of Honolulu. Representative Nishimoto has introduced House Bill No. 2566, H.D. 1, to address this serious concern. This bill would have established the Kakaako Affordable Housing Development Fund which would have been used to provide subsidies and other assistance to construct housing targeted at low- and middle- income families. However, this measure failed to gain Senate approval.
  
  
• Emergency Shelters
  Representing parts of Waikiki and neighboring areas, Representative Nishimoto understands the necessity of ensuring public safety in times of natural disaster. House Bill No. 2183, H.D. 1, would have provided funding to retrofit existing shelters. However, this measure failed to gain legislative approval.
  
  
• Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program
  The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program (Program) is responsible for advocating on behalf of, and defending, persons residing in long-term care facilities. To support this Program, Representative Nishimoto has introduced House Bill No. 2938, H.D. 1, which would have provided funding for the Program's Neighbor Island operations. However, this measure failed to gain legislative approval.