Mark Nakashima Email and Phone Number

Mark Nakashima was elected to the Hawaii State House of Representatives in 2008. In 2021, Mark was selected to Chair the Committee on Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs.As a legislator, Mark has consistently ADVOCATED for systemic reform in the Hawaii Education system; SOUGHT meaningful staff evaluation that would improve the quality and level of state services; and SUPPORTED the expansion of local agriculture and renewable energy enterprises.During the 2017 Legislative session, Mark has supported legislation that would expand the Work Force Creation Efforts in the Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism, and the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations (DLIR) allowing for expansion of workforce opportunities in manufacturing, aerospace technology, astronomy, agriculture, health care, and other STEM related fields. As Chair of the Economic Development Committee he supported state efforts to support a basalt fiber products industry , small satellite launches, expansion of the manufacturing sector and support for business accelerators and small business development.In October, 2017, following a special session of the legislature, Mark was elected Vice Speaker of the House. In assuming this leadership role The Vice Speaker assumes the role of guiding state policy goals and direction of the majority caucus and assist in the administration of the House.In 2021, Mark stepped down from Vice Speaker and assured the challenge of taking on the Committee on Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs. Mark looks forward to this new challenge to expand his knowledge and shape the future of Hawai’i.Before joining the legislature, Mark served in various positions with the Hawaii State Teachers Association, including Legislative Specialist, Governance Specialist, and UniServ Director. While at HSTA, Mark directed lobbying and political action programs, served as conference and training staff, coordinated civil rights programming, provided leadership training and induction activities, and advocated for member rights.Community Involvement - Junior Chamber International Senator #63596, Past United States Junior Chamber National Vice President, Past Hawaii Jaycees State President and 46th President of the Honolulu Chinese Jaycees. JCI PRIME Training Fellow. Member of the Hāmākua Lions since 1989.