Proposing An Amendment To Article Iii, Section 4, Of The Constitution Of The State Of Hawaii To Limit The Total Number Of Years That Any Person May Serve As A State Legislator.
If enacted, the amendment would establish a constitutional framework that restricts service for state legislators to a total of sixteen years, reducing the potential for career politicians and fostering new leadership within the Hawaii legislature. The bill specifically excludes any service completed through the general election of 2026, which means current legislators could potentially serve beyond the proposed limit, allowing for a transitional phase as the new limits are adopted. The intent of the bill is to ensure a balance of power, preventing the governor's role from overshadowing that of the legislators, given that the governor is already subject to an eight-year term limit.
Senate Bill 12 proposes an amendment to Article III, Section 4, of the Constitution of the State of Hawaii, which seeks to limit the total number of years any person may serve as a state legislator to a maximum of sixteen years. This proposal highlights the legislature's concern about the potential benefits of term limits found in at least fifteen other states, which have imposed various durations ranging from six to twelve years. The amendment intends to promote fairness and maintain an equitable balance between the legislative and executive branches of government while addressing the longstanding debate regarding legislative term limits in Hawaii.
While proponents of SB12 argue that limiting legislative terms will enhance democratic engagement, reduce entrenchment in power, and encourage fresh perspectives within the legislature, opponents raise concerns that such limits could hinder experienced legislators from effectively navigating complex governance issues. Critics also fear that imposing term limits may have unintended consequences, such as decreasing legislative efficiency or pushing experienced members out of office before they can fully realize their policy goals. The discussion surrounding this bill reflects broader political dynamics and differing philosophies regarding governance and representation.