Lingle Addresses Green Initiatives in Her 2009 State of the State Address

Everyone watched Lingle's State of the State Address this year with baited breath, because it was reported that this was the speech where she would announce the cuts. Alas, no specifics, just a lot of positives on what the state has done and caution with regard to the future. In the speech, Lingle alluded to the Clean Energy Initiative (HCEI) which hopes to have 70% of Hawaii's energy for clean sources by 2030. OK!

She also addressed the problem of Hawaii's importing 85% of our food, an issue discussed at length in an earlier blog entry. Again, Lingle didn't get into any specifics saying simply, "If we replace just 10 percent of the food we currently import, it would create more than $300 million in economic activity, generate $6 million in taxes, and create 2,300 new jobs. I will be asking state agencies such as schools, prisons and hospitals to take the lead by purchasing locally grown fruits, vegetables, poultry, eggs and meat. Under new rules, Hawai‘i farmers will receive a 15 percent price preference when placing their bids for state purchases."