Hawaii

What Are the Budget Issues Facing Hawaii?

In 2009, Hawaii faces a $232 million budget gap representing 4.0% of the general fund. In 2010, Hawaii is looking at an even greater $682 million shortfall, 11.9% of the general fund.

What the Federal Stimulus Proposal Will Mean for Children in Hawaii

The economic stimulus recently passed by the United States Congress and signed into law by the Obama Administration will provide significant investment in the health, education, and safety of America’s children over the next two years. It also provides significant support to their parents and grandparents. Highlights include:

• $360,000,000 in relief for Hawaii’s Medicaid costs. Medicaid provides health care coverage for low-income children and seniors.
• $157,200,000 in relief to the state of Hawaii to prevent cuts to programs for school-aged children.
• $42,500,000 for the Title I academic achievement of the disadvantaged program.
• $40,000,000 services to children with disabilities in Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) funding.
• $8,200,000 for other education programs in Hawaii’s schools.
• $66,000,000 in food stamps for 100,000 Hawaii men, women, and children.
• $6,200,000 in emergency shelter grants for 700 households.
• 45,000 Hawaii children will benefit from the child tax credit provisions of the legislation.
• $6,448,716 in Emergency Child Care and Development Block Grant funds to provide child care to 1,480 Hawaii children.
• An increase in unemployment benefits to 54,982 Hawaii families.
• $3,400,000 in additional child support enforcement matching funds.
• $2,900,000 in youth training employment services.

How Have Hawaii’s Senators Have Voted on Important Children’s Legislation in 2009?
Daniel Akaka (D)

Daniel Inouye (D)

Sources: State Budget Information, Stimulus Information