Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SB296

Introduced
1/19/23  
Refer
1/23/23  
Introduced
1/19/23  
Report Pass
2/6/23  
Refer
1/23/23  
Report Pass
2/6/23  
Report Pass
2/21/23  
Refer
2/6/23  
Engrossed
3/2/23  
Report Pass
2/21/23  
Refer
3/9/23  
Engrossed
3/2/23  
Report Pass
3/24/23  
Refer
3/9/23  
Report Pass
3/24/23  
Report Pass
4/4/23  
Refer
3/24/23  

Caption

Relating To Submission Deadlines.

Impact

The legislature recognized that both the number of reports and the absence of submission deadlines create administrative burdens that waste resources. With a significant number of vacant positions reported in state agencies, the effective use of available workforce is critical. SB296 suggests reducing redundancy in report requirements, potentially minimizing the workload on already stretched resources. This could, in turn, guide agencies to concentrate on more essential services rather than meeting excessive reporting demands.

Summary

SB296 aims to improve the efficiency of state government operations by establishing uniform submission deadlines for reports required from state agencies. The bill directs the governor to work with principal departments to recommend a date by which various statutorily mandated reports should be submitted to the legislature. Currently, there is no standard deadline for many of these reports, which can hinder timely legislative review and resource allocation. By setting these deadlines, the bill seeks to streamline the reporting process, allowing agencies to focus on core functions that directly benefit citizens.

Sentiment

General sentiment around SB296 is supportive among lawmakers who believe it will enhance governmental efficiency and accountability. However, there may be some apprehension regarding the adequacy of oversight if deadlines influence the thoroughness of report preparation. The bill has garnered bipartisan interest, highlighting a shared goal of improving governmental operations, albeit acknowledging the potential risks associated with implementing strict submission timelines.

Contention

While the intent of SB296 is to streamline government reporting practices, concerns may arise regarding which reports should be excluded from uniform submission deadlines. The act requires recommendations from departments to identify obsolete or redundant reports, but factors such as regulatory compliance and public accountability could become points of contention in debates. Ultimately, the effectiveness of the proposed changes hinges on the careful balance between efficiency and thorough legislative oversight.

Companion Bills

HI SB296

Carry Over Relating To Submission Deadlines.

Similar Bills

CA AB1398

San Diego Association of Governments: San Diego County Regional Transportation Commission: transactions and use tax: expenditure plan.

CA AB972

Local Assistance and Grant Program Streamlining Workgroup.

CA AB1702

Homeless Coordinating and Financing Council.

UT HCR014

House Concurrent Resolution Supporting Streamlining Utah Housing Policies

HI SB418

Relating To Regulatory Sunset Review In Hawaii.

CA AB1111

Postsecondary education: common course numbering system.

CA SB638

California Education and Workforce Development Coordinating Entity: Career Technical Education and Career Pathways Grant Program.

TX SB8

Relating to the administration, powers, and duties of the Texas Health Services Authority.