Hawaii Senate Bill SB1559

Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/23
• Refer: 1/30/23
• Report Pass: 2/16/23
• Refer: 2/16/23

Caption

Proposing An Amendment To Article Iii, Section 15, Of The Hawaii State Constitution To Allow Electronic Copies, As An Alternative To Printed Copies, Of A Bill To Be Made Available For Members Of A House In Which The Bill Is Being Voted Upon For Third Or Final Reading In Fulfillment Of The Forty-eight Hour Availability Requirement.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would effectively change the statutory requirement concerning the presentation of bills during the voting process, thus aligning with contemporary practices in legislative procedures. It would enhance efficiency by reducing reliance on physical documents, thereby streamlining the process for legislators and potentially reducing costs associated with printing and distributing paper copies. The amendment acknowledges the increasing digitalization of legislative activities and reflects a shift toward adopting technology in governance.

Summary

SB1559 aims to propose an amendment to Article III, Section 15 of the Hawaii State Constitution, allowing electronic copies of bills to be utilized as an alternative to printed copies during third or final readings. This amendment is intended to modernize the legislative process by facilitating the availability of legislative documents in a format that is more accessible and convenient for legislators, particularly in fulfilling the current 48-hour availability requirement before a bill can be voted upon.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding SB1559 appears to be positive among those advocating for modernization and efficiency in the legislative process. Supporters emphasize the benefits of flexibility and accessibility that electronic documents offer, arguing that it will improve legislative workflow. However, some concerns may arise regarding the transition from traditional methods to electronic formats, especially relating to digital literacy and access among all members of the legislature.

Contention

Notable points of contention could arise from discussions around ensuring that all members of the legislature are adequately equipped to manage electronic copies effectively. There may also be debates regarding the transparency and public accessibility of electronic material compared to printed versions. The bill’s implications for how the legislative process is conducted could lead to discussions about maintaining adequate standards for documentation and voting integrity.