Hawaii Senate Bill SR21

Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/2/23

Caption

Amending The Rules Of The Senate Of The Thirty-second Legislature Of The State Of Hawaii, Regular Session Of 2023, By Adopting A New Rule 27.5, Floor Session Attire.

Impact

By allowing aloha attire, SR21 aligns the Senate's dress code with the predominant clothing style of the community, where aloha shirts and other informal garments are more common than formal attire. The bill is seen as a way to demonstrate support for Hawaii's garment industry, potentially boosting local businesses that create these traditional outfits. The resolution suggests a shift towards a more relaxed and culturally relevant environment within the Senate, which could encourage a more approachable atmosphere for constituents.

Summary

Senate Resolution 21 (SR21) proposes a change to the dress code regulations for members of the Senate of Hawaii during their daily floor sessions. Traditionally, Senate members have been required to wear formal court attire, which includes coats and ties for men and jackets for women, except on Fridays. SR21 intends to amend these rules to allow the wearing of aloha attire at all times on the Senate floor. This change aims to reflect local customs more accurately and promote the state's cultural attire.

Contention

Some concerns have arisen regarding the implications of this change. While proponents argue that adopting aloha attire promotes cultural representation and inclusivity, critics fear that it may undermine the formality and seriousness expected of Senate proceedings. The debate highlights a broader conversation about how government bodies present themselves and the importance of tradition versus modernity in public institutions.