Hawaii House Bill HB366

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/21
• Refer: 1/27/21

Caption

Relating To State Departments.

Impact

The potential impact of HB366 on state laws is significant, as it inherently restructures the existing governmental framework, promoting accountability and efficiency within state operations. By mandating audits every six years leading to the possibility of repeal, the bill encourages departments to maintain high performance standards and respond appropriately to the evolving needs of the public. This legislative measure could also lead to the reallocation of resources as consolidated departments may streamline operations, thus enhancing overall governmental productivity.

Summary

House Bill 366 aims to create a framework for the systematic review and potential repeal of state departments in Hawaii. This legislation establishes sunset provisions that require periodic evaluations of each department's effectiveness and necessity, specifically mandating audits before a department's scheduled dissolution. Additionally, advisory committees associated with those departments will also be dissolved unless extended by law. The bill sets definitive repeal dates for various departments, starting as soon as 2027, ensuring that departments do not operate indefinitely without justification of their continued need.

Contention

While supporters argue that this bill will lead to more efficient government and a proper allocation of taxpayer resources, critics voice concerns regarding the implications of dismantling vital governmental functions without thorough understanding. The proposed sunset law could unintentionally lead to the gap in essential services if departments that might still serve the public good are repealed due to financial or operational inefficiencies. Stakeholders worry that this approach may overlook the complexities of departmental contributions to the overall governance structure, leading to unnecessary disruptions in public services.