Laura’s Priorities
Vibrant Education
Public schools play a critical role in our democratic system and should serve as centers of community and collaborative learning. Laura is passionate about building a public education system that respects and values our public educators and that reaches all types of learners. Education must be relevant to our learners in Hawaiʻi with a place-based, experimental, dynamic, and interdisciplinary curriculum.
Local Economy
Laura believes we need a thriving, diversified local economy that can sustainably support our community. This includes support for our small-businesses through economic development. In the State Senate, Laura provided leadership on securing $13.5 million in CIP funding for Banyan Drive Revitalization. Laura will also champion resources for agriculture and agribusinesses. These State resources should align with the values that support food independence, diversified agriculture, and a circular economy.
Environmental Protection
With the current climate emergency, we must address how our actions impact our environment and island community. Laura believes that the solutions to our most pressing environmental challenges are rooted in kanaka ʻōiwi values of environmental stewardship. She will continue to be a staunch advocate for the wellbeing of our environment, mauka to makai. Laura also values the importance of partnering with the County to foster community-focussed sustainability.
Equitable Housing
Laura believes that Hawaiʻi’s housing crisis is one of the largest vulnerabilities to our communities. She is committed to working across State and County governments to chart a path forward for the betterment of our working families. While the need for additional affordable housing units may be clear, Laura also believes government solutions should seek to build equity into the systems that drive our housing market and industry. Building equity-focussed communities will enable individuals and families to thrive, not just survive.
