May 12, 2006- Results of 2006 Legislative Session

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The 2006 legislative session was a collaborative process that will prove to have positive long-term benefits for all the people of Hawai`i.

Together with the legislature, we now have a comprehensive strategy to promote energy self-sufficiency and reduce Hawai`i’s dependence on oil.

We passed a new Three Strikes law to protect the community from violent criminals.

We focused on the needs of the homeless and the affordable housing shortage, allocating close to $50 million in new funding.

We worked to enhance our emergency and natural disaster preparedness.

And while I believe lawmakers did not go far enough in providing tax relief, I am encouraged that they increased the standard deduction for the first time since 1989 and widened tax brackets. 

I want to thank everyone who got involved in the legislative process.  Your voices truly made a difference.

Mahalo.  This is Governor Linda Lingle.