If enacted, SB269 will allow for the timely appropriation of state funds to meet pressing needs that may arise due to unforeseen circumstances. This could include funding for public health emergencies, natural disasters, or other urgent financial requirements that necessitate a rapid response from the state government. The bill's implementation promises to streamline the process of releasing funds to areas that require urgent attention and relief, thereby ensuring that the state can respond effectively to crises.
Summary
Senate Bill 269 (SB269) is a legislative measure aimed at making emergency appropriations from the general revenues of the State of Hawaii for the fiscal year 2021-2022. The bill seeks to allocate necessary funding, although specific amounts are not detailed within the text. The measure reflects a response to financial needs that arise suddenly and require immediate legislative action to address urgent matters affecting the state budget and its operations.
Contention
While SB269 addresses the need for flexibility in appropriating funds for emergencies, it could also raise concerns regarding oversight and governance. The lack of specific funding amounts and details about the expenditures may lead to questions about accountability and the potential for misuse of emergency funds. Stakeholders might argue for more stringent guidelines or parameters to ensure that the appropriations are used effectively and transparently, reflecting concerns that arise whenever emergency funding measures are enacted.
To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.