Hawaii Senate Bill SB1287

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/23
• Refer: 1/30/23
• Report Pass: 2/17/23
• Report Pass: 3/3/23
• Refer: 2/17/23
• Engrossed: 3/7/23
• Refer: 3/9/23

Caption

Relating To The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism.

Impact

The bill signifies a critical step towards improving the work environment for personnel working under DBEDT while ensuring compliance with safety standards. By providing funding for these renovations, the legislation underscores the state’s commitment to maintaining safe and conducive working conditions for its departments. This appropriation will allow DBEDT to effectively manage its workspace and facilitate better service delivery to the public.

Summary

Senate Bill 1287 is an act aiming to appropriate general funds to the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism (DBEDT) for expenses related to necessary renovations of its offices located on the fifth floor of the No. 1 Capitol District Building in Honolulu. The bill addresses significant health and safety concerns due to the deteriorating condition of the building, necessitating a complete gutting of the fifth floor. The renovations will be undertaken by the Department of Accounting and General Services, but additional expenses that are not covered in the bidding process will be the responsibility of DBEDT.

Contention

While the bill passed with unanimous support in the Senate, its implications may still provoke discussions on budget allocations and prioritization of funds within the state’s revenue system. The necessity for appropriated funds raises questions regarding financial oversight and the allocation of state resources, especially in a context where other departments may also be seeking funding for critical needs. Additionally, the long-term effect of this bill, given its effective date of January 6, 2050, may raise concerns about urgency and responsiveness to current conditions.