Nominating John D. Waihee Iii For Induction Into The Aloha Order Of Merit.
Summary
SR110 is a Senate Resolution that nominates former Governor John D. Waiheʻe III for induction into the Aloha Order of Merit. The resolution recites his career achievements and public service, emphasizing that he was the first Native Hawaiian elected governor of any U.S. state, served as Hawaii’s governor from 1986 to 1994, and held prominent leadership roles in national organizations and education policy. It also highlights his work on the QUEST Medicaid managed care program, his role in the 1978 Constitutional Convention, his advocacy for Native Hawaiian rights and reconciliation, and his continuing civic engagement after leaving office.
The measure does not create new programs or regulatory requirements; instead, it is an honorary legislative nomination under section 5-7.6, Hawaii Revised Statutes, for recognition by the Aloha Order of Merit Committee. If adopted and acted on by the committee, it would advance a formal state honor for Waiheʻe, and the resolution directs certified copies to the committee, the Governor, legislative leaders, and Waiheʻe himself. Its practical legal effect is limited to the nomination and recognition process, with no direct changes to substantive state law.
Impact
SR110 affects Hawaii’s honorary recognition framework under section 5-7.6, HRS, by formally nominating John D. Waiheʻe III for the Aloha Order of Merit. It does not amend statutes, appropriate funds, or alter agency duties; its effect is symbolic and ceremonial, operating within the existing state honors process for individuals who have achieved national recognition and provided extraordinary service to the state.
Sentiment
The available record shows strong support and no recorded opposition. The resolution passed both the Senate Water, Land, and Agriculture Committee and the Senate Hawaiian Affairs Committee unanimously, 4-0, and there were no committee transcripts indicating controversy. The tone of the bill text is highly laudatory, presenting Waiheʻe as a distinguished statesman, advocate, and lifelong public servant whose work brought honor to Hawaii.
Contention
There is little visible contention in the available materials. Because the resolution is honorary, debate would likely center only on whether Waiheʻe meets the Aloha Order of Merit criteria and on the significance of his legacy, including his role in Native Hawaiian leadership, the QUEST health care program, and the 1978 Constitutional Convention. No dissenting viewpoints or substantive policy objections appear in the provided votes or transcripts.
Endorsing And Reaffirming Support For The Progress Achieved By The Aloha+ Challenge Through Its Integrated Approach And Six Ambitious Targets To Be Reached By 2030.
Urging The Stadium Authority To Finalize A Contract For The Construction Of The New Aloha Stadium And To Continue Its Efforts In Earnest To Create The New Aloha Stadium Entertainment District.
Urging The Stadium Authority To Finalize A Contract For The Construction Of The New Aloha Stadium And To Continue Its Efforts In Earnest To Create The New Aloha Stadium Entertainment District.
Endorsing And Reaffirming Support For The Progress Achieved By The Aloha+ Challenge Through Its Integrated Approach And Six Ambitious Targets To Be Reached By 2030.
Requesting The University Of Hawaii To Explore The Feasibility Of Establishing An Alzheimer's Disease Research Center And Identify The Requirements For Receiving Federal Funding From The National Institute On Aging For Alzheimer's Disease Research.
Urging The Governor, Mayors Of Each County, And The State To Work Towards A Just Climate Future By Integrating Indigenous Knowledge Into Policy And Decision-making Processes Related To Climate Adaptation, Climate Mitigation, And Climate Resiliency.