Relating To Public Notice.
The proposed changes would amend Section 1-28.5 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, fundamentally altering how public notices are administered. Government agencies would have the discretion to choose between conventional publication methods and electronic means, effectively shifting some public communication processes toward digital platforms. This transition reflects a broader trend towards a less paper-dependent governance model, which aligns better with contemporary digital practices, fostering greater efficiency in governmental operations.
House Bill 108 aims to modernize the process of public notice dissemination by allowing government agencies in Hawaii to publish public notices on their official websites as an alternative to traditional print media. The bill recognizes that electronic publications may be more efficient and less costly, particularly when addressing urgent matters such as environmental hazards and disaster responses. By enabling online notice posting, the bill seeks to improve access to timely information for the public, ultimately enhancing civic engagement and governmental transparency.
While the bill is largely viewed positively by proponents advocating for modernization and cost reduction, it also raises questions concerning transparency and access. Critics may argue that certain populations who lack internet access could be left uninformed about significant governmental notices. Additionally, there are concerns about ensuring that electronic postings are adequately promoted so that all community members remain informed. The legislature also clarifies that this Act does not override existing statutes that mandate transparency in public administrative processes, thereby attempting to balance modern practices with traditional accountability measures.