Hawaii House Bill HB1137

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/23
• Refer: 1/30/23

Caption

Proposing To Amend The Constitution Of The State Of Hawaii To Authorize The Recall Of Officials Holding State Elected Offices.

Impact

If enacted, this amendment would significantly modify the existing framework governing accountability for elected officials in Hawaii. The proposed processes would empower voters to remove officials under specific circumstances, thereby increasing the potential for direct citizen oversight in government. The implications could foster a heightened sense of responsibility among elected officials, as the threat of recall may serve to discourage malfeasance and improve governance overall. Such an amendment reflects a growing movement towards more participatory governance, allowing for citizen intervention when representative bodies fail to act in the public’s interest.

Summary

House Bill 1137 proposes an amendment to the Constitution of the State of Hawaii, introducing a provision that allows qualified voters to recall officials holding state elected offices. The intent behind the bill is to enhance public accountability by creating standards and procedures for the recall process, ensuring that elected officials remain answerable to their constituents. This amendment outlines specific grounds for initiating a recall, including misconduct in office, violation of oath, and failure to perform prescribed duties. By explicitly defining these grounds, the bill aims to establish a clear framework within which voters can act if they believe an official is not fulfilling their responsibilities.

Contention

Notably, the proposed bill may generate discussions regarding the appropriateness of the recall mechanism and its potential political ramifications. Critics may argue that it could lead to politically motivated recalls or instability in governance by encouraging frequent disruptions. Additionally, concerns may arise about the fairness of the defined grounds for recall, as some may interpret them as vague or subject to manipulation. The balancing act between enabling public action against misconduct and preventing political misuse will likely be a focal point in the debates surrounding HB 1137.