In 1988, I co-authored the Hawaii Telecommunications and Information Industries Act in an effort to establish Hawaii as the "Information Hub of the Pacific." The act developed a statewide state-of-the-art microwave telecommunications network and established a statewide information network and gateway. As part of this landmark legislation, I advocated for the diversification of Hawaii’s economy and hence established seed capital and venture capital programs, technology transfer programs, and software development initiatives.

Hawaii Telecommunications and Information Industries Act: The Legislature’s goals were to improve public access to government information; broaden the use of technology in providing efficient government services; and stimulate economic opportunities for high technology industries. Hawaii Telecommunications and Information Industries Act. The Legislature’s goals were to improve public access to government information; broaden the use of technology in providing efficient government services; and stimulate economic opportunities for high technology industries.

Hawaii's Statewide Information Network: This network was established to serve as the gateway for all public and private information providers to citizens of Hawaii. This network allowed a collection of information providers to disseminate information more efficiently and extensively than would otherwise be possible. Today, our network utilizes state-of-the-art microwave and telecommunications technology to link each neighbor island and Oahu into a comprehensive network that supports:

• users accessing numerous information services;
• videotex services for easy, interactive use;
• toll-free dial-up service for all islands.

Diversification of Hawaii’s Economy: I also spearheaded the State’s drive to establish seed capital and venture capital programs, technology transfer programs, and software development initiatives. I believe that Hawaii has the potential of establishing itself as the premier telecommunications center of the Pacific as well as building a new information industry that would expand economic development by providing new business opportunities and jobs for Hawaii’s citizens. To encourage this, the Legislature established programs to support individuals and companies that embrace new, technological advances.

Seed Capital and Venture Capital Programs: The Hawaii Strategic Development Corporation supports new businesses and start-ups by providing seed and venture capital for businesses in the incubation stage all the way to the initial public offering stage. The Legislature also established incubation facilities such as the Manoa Innovation Center and the Maui Research Technology Center to provide direct assistance to small, technology businesses.

Technology Transfer Programs: The Office of Technology Transfer and Economic Development at the University of Hawaii was established to serve as an engine to drive technology-based companies and to facilitate technology transfer from research activities in the UH to business start-ups.

Software Development Initiatives: The Legislature also expanded the High Tech Development Corporation to include a software services center that facilities software development by providing information on government contracts and department funded software projects.

Hawaii’s Future in the Information Industry: The explosion of the Internet has created an entire generation of entrepreneurs and Hawaii finds itself on the forefront of embracing this new and exciting opportunity. Under the guidance of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Consumer Protection, and Information Technology, the Legislature in partnership with organizations such as the University of Hawaii and the East West Center, can establish Hawaii as the information center of the Pacific Basin. In doing so, the State will be invigorating its economy by expanding its economic base beyond the tourism industry and providing its citizens with high-wage, high-skilled jobs.