Hawaii Senate Bill SB2477

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/21/22
• Refer: 1/24/22
• Refer: 1/31/22

Caption

Relating To Boards And Commissions.

Impact

The implications of this bill are extensive as it preempts any previous laws that conflicted with its provisions concerning the terms of holdover members. By standardizing the expiration of these terms, the bill aims to eliminate any ambiguity that could arise from existing inconsistent regulations. If implemented, it will streamline the process for transitioning between board members and reduce the chance of prolonged vacancies that might hinder the effective functioning of crucial state boards and commissions.

Summary

SB2477 is a significant piece of legislation aimed at amending the existing provisions relating to the appointment and terms of members of various state boards and commissions in Hawaii. The bill seeks to establish clearer regulations surrounding holdover members of these bodies. Specifically, it provides that the term expiration for a holdover member who has not been replaced by a successor nominated by the governor will end at the conclusion of the first regular legislative session following the expiration of their term. This change is geared towards ensuring that positions on these boards and commissions are filled in a timely manner, thus enhancing governance and accountability.

Contention

One notable point of contention revolves around the balance of power between the governor and the legislature. The bill allows the President of the Senate to appoint a successor if the governor fails to do so in a timely manner, which some may perceive as encroaching upon the governor's appointive powers. This element of the bill has the potential to stir debate regarding the appropriate distribution of authority in state government and the mechanisms in place to hold the executive accountable for timely nominations.