High-tech bill, others on
governor’s desk

Star-Bulletin staff

Gov. Ben Cayetano this afternoon was to sign into law bills intended to develop the technology industry, strengthen driver safety and promote breastfeeding in the workplace.

Act 178 provides for high-tech tax breaks, including a 10 percent tax credit up to $500,000 for private investment in a company doing all of its research in the state.

The measure also consolidates all state agencies dealing with high technology under a special adviser for technology development and the governor's special advisory council. In addition, work force development programs under the Labor Department also are established.

The act becomes effective upon signing, except for the tax incentive provisions, which have different start dates but do not extend beyond Dec. 31, 2005.

Under another bill to be enacted, the state transportation director is required to establish a behind-the-wheel training course for all drivers under age 18.

Act 175 also raises the minimum age for obtaining a driver's instruction permit from 15 to 15 and for a driver's license from 15 to 16. Act 175 takes effect Jan. 1, 2001.

Taking effect upon signing is Act 172, which makes it a discriminatory employment practice to prohibit women from breastfeeding during meals or break periods. The measure also requires the Hawaii Civil Rights Commission to track cases of workplace discrimination against lactating women.

Other bills Cayetano was to sign into law:

Act 170: Requires telemarketers to immediately disclose the "true purpose" of their calls and to maintain records of their telemarketing in the state. They are also barred from misrepresenting or not fully disclosing all costs and terms of conditions involved with the sale of the product they're pitching. Effective upon signing.

Act 177: Requires the Agriculture Department to establish a certification program for importers of microorganisms. This is to allow researchers and scientists to take advantage of new biotechnological advances, while protecting the health and safety of isle residents. Effective today.