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4. Earthquake costs, $5,500,000. The earthquake in October, 2006 caused great <br /> damage in Hawaii County. Last year's Legislature passed an emergency <br /> appropriation bill that was meant to help, and we did receive $850,000 for some <br /> of our parks repairs, for which we thank you and the Governor. However, we are <br /> told by the State Department of Defense that it is difficult to tap the rest of the <br /> funding because the Legislature appropriated the money from the Rainy Day <br /> Fund rather than the General Fund, and the Governor does believe that this is <br /> warranted. The County of Hawaii is left with matching requirements of <br /> $1,344,089 for Federal Highways fund match; $665,000 for FEMA match; and <br /> $3,761,621 for Department of Water Supply FEMA match and other excess <br /> costs. Any help you can give us in covering these County out-of-pocket costs <br /> would be appreciated. <br /> 5. Increase funding for maintenance of veterans' cemeteries. Current funding for <br /> maintenance of these cemeteries is far below the actual cost, which is <br /> approximately $165,000. <br /> Issues <br /> 1. Firearms. Exempt the State and counties from absolute liability as firearm <br /> owners under HRS 663-9.5. <br /> 2. Fireworks. Allow counties to enact fireworks ordinances that are more <br /> stringent than the State statute (HRS Chapter 132D). <br /> 3. "Hire the Retiree." Allow state and county retirees to return to work without <br /> <br /> forfeiting their retirement benefits. <br /> <br />