Kauai’s Derek Kawakami appointed to State House

HONOLULU—Derek Kawakami, former Kauai County Councilmember, has been appointed as the newest member of the State House of Representatives. Kawakami was appointed by Gov. Neil Abercrombie to fill the vacant seat of former Rep. Hermina Morita (District 14—Hanalei, Anahola, Kealia, Kapaa, Waipouli) with a term expiring November 6, 2012. Morita stepped down after the Governor appointed and the State Senate confirmed her as the Public Utilities Commission Chair.

“I am pleased to welcome Derek Kawakami to the House of Representatives,” said Speaker of the House Calvin K.Y. Say. “Mr. Kawakami joins the Legislature during a critical session, with our main focus on balancing the budget and revitalizing the economy. He has already proven his dedication to the public good through his service on the Kauai County Council.” 

Rep. Derek Kawakami’s committee assignments will be set later this week. He can be reached at the State Capitol in Room 314, (808) 586-8435, and at [email protected].