The governor, anticipating a slow economic recovery, likely will present lawmakers with a much-reduced conservative spending plan.

Money for several programs will be eliminated from a current House budget bill as lawmakers press the fiscal reset button and ask agencies to justify their funding.

The House Finance Committee chair can be fearsome in budget briefings. She’s also not afraid to dive deep into state money matters, like the $3 billion tucked away in special funds.

Agencies should have to justify every penny they ask for, says the House Finance Committee chair.

Top Hawaii House and Senate leaders have given out nearly $200,000 to other candidates since 2006.

The Finance Committee’s cuts create a balanced budget over six years, but the spending plans could still change.

Legislative leaders warn that state revenues have slowed and pay raises for unions are not factored into the governor’s proposed budget.