Hawaii House Bill HR185

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/5/22
• Passed: 5/5/22

Caption

Authorizing And Empowering The Speaker To Perform And Carry Out Any Official Legislative Business During The Interim Between The 2022 And 2023 Regular Sessions.

Impact

The provisions of HR185 allow the Speaker to engage in various activities that are critical to maintaining legislative operations even when the full legislature is not in session. This includes the handling of budgeting for the legislative body, which could affect how resources are allocated for upcoming sessions. By enabling the Speaker to act with this authority, the bill aims to streamline processes that may otherwise lag during the transition between sessions.

Summary

House Resolution 185 (HR185) seeks to grant the Speaker of the House the authority to carry out any official legislative business during the interim period between the 2022 and 2023 regular sessions of the Hawaii Legislature. The resolution was introduced to ensure that necessary legislative functions could continue without disruption during this interim. It specifies the powers granted to the Speaker, including the ability to expend funds, hire personnel, and authorize committee actions.

Contention

While the resolution is primarily administrative, there may be points of contention regarding the extent of powers granted to the Speaker. Critics might argue that centralizing too much authority in one position can lead to imbalances in legislative oversight and decision-making. Additionally, concerns may arise around transparency and accountability, especially if significant actions are taken by the Speaker without full legislative approval or input from other members during the interim period.