Hawaii lawmakers file 2,000 bills on lottery, ferry, guns

By CATHY BUSSEWITZ and MARINA RIKER
The Associated Press

HONOLULU (AP) - Hawaii lawmakers have filed more than 2,000 new bills in the 2016 legislative session. They're racing to turn in their proposals before a legislative deadline.

But the mood at the state Capitol Wednesday was quieter than usual the day after state Sen. Gilbert Kahele died. Senators are honoring Kahele's memory with songs and speeches.

Wednesday is the last day to submit all new proposals for the session.

One bill seeks to start a state lottery and aims to help Hawaii's homeless population with its excess funds.

And there are several bills that would force the government to issue concealed carry gun permits to eligible candidates.

A group of state senators wants to bring back an inter-island ferry, and their plan includes tax credits for ferry operators.

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