GOVERNOR LINGLE CALLS ON HARBIN TO RESIGN

For Immediate Release:  September 27, 2005

HONOLULU – Governor Linda Lingle today called on Rep. Bev Harbin to resign immediately from the 28th House District seat after learning that Harbin had criminal convictions that she failed to disclose prior to her appointment to the Legislature. 

“When I selected Bev Harbin I believed she would be a strong advocate for the small business community and the 28th District,” said Governor Lingle.  “However, in light of additional information which was recently uncovered on her background, I now believe she should resign her seat.  I am asking Bev to do the right thing for the integrity of the legislative process and the good of the residents of the 28th House District.”

During interviews prior to her appointment, Harbin failed to disclose three 1987 convictions for passing bad checks and information that her company owed state taxes, despite being repeatedly asked whether there was any embarrassing information in her past.

Should Harbin resign, the Governor is again reviewing the backgrounds and credentials of the other candidates in anticipation of naming a replacement to fill the vacant seat. 

Harbin was one of six candidates who met the requirements as outlined by the State Constitution to fill the seat left vacant by the resignation of Kenneth Hiraki.  All six candidates were interviewed by the Governor’s staff, and the top three individuals were interviewed by the Governor.  The Governor’s Office conducted background checks on all candidates. 

The Governor’s Office is reviewing the procedures used in the selection process for appointed positions and has already established new guidelines whereby all potential appointees will be required to provide tax information and to grant permission to allow a check of tax and other financial records.  The Governor’s Office will determine what additional steps can be taken to improve the screening of applicants.

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For more information, contact:
Lenny Klompus  
Senior Advisor – Communications  
Phone:  (808) 586-7708

Russell Pang
Chief of Media Relations
Phone: (808) 586-0043