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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2017-03-28 Letter to Sylvia Luke re SB 272 SD 2 HD 1 relating to Rat Lungwork Disease •/.4-kiS., .\, Will Okabe Managing Director..• .S"`",-., 14 ', 1 • ,,:' -. ., Harry Kim (*i4‘- "....:-. 1•*!, Mayor -. -1, . . . . . Barbara J.Kossow Deputy Managing Director : .'.. i.;;.-.i.i..i.t.t .s.,.: a ountv oribitini`i c• Mffire afthe cillagur 25 Aupuni Street,Suite 2603 • Hilo,Hawai`i 96720 • (808)961-8211 • Fax(808)961-6553 KONA: 74-5044 Me Keohokalole Hwy.,Bldg.C • Kailua-Kona,Hawai`i 96740 (808)323-4444 • Fax(808)323-4440 March 28, 2017 Rep. Sylvia Luke, Chair Committee on Finance Hawai'i State Capitol Honolulu, HI 96813 Dear Chair Luke and Committee Members: RE: SB 272, SD 2, HD 1 Relating to Rat Lungworm Disease SB 272, SD2, HD1 says that rat lungworm disease has stricken more than 70 people in the State, claiming lives and causing grave disabilities. While primarily affecting the Big Island, it has now been identified on Maui as well. Although the disease is not well known, it has devastating effects on its victims. One can only hope that we can get a handle on this disease before it destroys more lives. Fortunately, our University is willing and able to assist with research and education, but substantial funding is needed to support its efforts. We certainly believe that such an investment of state dollars is warranted. Please approve funding for SB 272 and provide an appropriate effective date. Resiectfully submitted, . \ Harry Kim Mayor County of Hawaii is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer.