Hawaii starts Legislation today on O’ahu

Jim Finnel

Fallen Cannabis Warrior & Ex News Moderator
Below is a summary of what is to unfold in the next 2 weeks. Testimonies are needed in support or opposition to any bills this is the info center below and the how to’s if you want to become involved in any bills put for the by Hawaii Legislation.


As the Hawaii Legislature opens its 2011 session tomorrow, we encourage everyone to learn how to participate in the legislative efforts. We will learn more specifics in a week or two on what bills are being introduced, but undoubtedly, there will be bills:
-to decriminalize marijuana from the current criminal penalty (petty misdemeanor) to a civil fine
-to establish medical marijuana dispensaries
-to improve the current medical marijuana program by increasing the amount a patient is allowed to possess and to increase the patient/caregiver ratio, and to make other changes
-allow medical marijuana research in the state

Kanu Hawaii and Common Cause Hawaii are sponsoring two workshops, information below, register at:
Citizen Lobbyist Workshops - Sign up today! - Common Cause

If you cannot attend these workshops, the Public Access Room conducts free one hour workshops for those who are interested in learning more about how the legislative process works and how to support or oppose bills through legislative testimony. Please visit their website at Hawaii Legislature's Public Access Room Workshops for more information.

Citizen Lobbyist Workshops

The 2011 legislative session opens next week at the Hawaii State Capitol, and we need you join us as a citizen lobbyist! Join us for two workshops to learn about the legislative process and get ready to take action:

Workshop #1 - "Find Your Voice"
When: Thursday, January 20, 2011, 5:30pm to 7:00pm
Where: Hawaii State Capitol, Room 329
Details:This workshop provides an overview of the legislative process and how to get involved. Participants will learn how to find bills of interest to them, track a bill, and submit testimony at critical moments in the lawmaking process. Confirmed speakers include Suzanne Marinelli, Public Access Room Coordinator, who will explain the ins and outs of the legislative process; State Representative Hermina Morita, who will share tips on how to reach legislators; and Deborah Zysman of the Coalition for a Tobacco Free Hawaii, who will share her experience on how to promote issues at the legislature.

Workshop #2 - "Use Your Voice"
When: Thursday, January 27, 2011, 5:30pm to 7:00pm
Where: Hawaii State Capitol, Room 329
Details: A follow up to “Find Your Voice," this workshop is designed for those who want to do more than watch the action and send in testimony. This workshop is for those who want to be active at the Capitol by attending a hearing, testifying in person, and engage in citizen lobbying. Participants will learn how to write effective testimony and deliver verbal testimony at public hearings, conduct an effective meeting with legislators, understand the politics that affect policy decisions, and mobilize other citizens. A professional lobbyist, a citizen activist, a legislator, and a civic leader will share their tips for greater impact at the Capitol.

The workshops are co-sponsored by Common Cause Hawaii and Kanu Hawaii. Admission is free and refreshments are provided. Space is limited, so register today!

Mahalo
 
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