Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SR181

Introduced
3/11/22  

Caption

Requesting The Legislative Reference Bureau To Conduct A Study On The Benefits And Drawbacks Of Implementing A Unicameral Legislature In Hawaii.

Impact

The proposed study seeks to evaluate several key areas, including the representativity and responsiveness of the legislature, the stability of the law, and the accountability and authority of legislators. Additionally, it will address the concentration of power and the overall quality of legislative decision-making. Should Hawaii choose to move forward with a unicameral system, it could lead to significant changes in how laws are formulated and debated, with implications for both efficiency and governance.

Summary

Senate Resolution 181 requests a study from the Legislative Reference Bureau on the potential benefits and drawbacks of transitioning Hawaii from a bicameral legislature to a unicameral one. The resolution arises from public concerns regarding the state’s current legislative structure, which some citizens find to be cumbersome and inefficient, often hindering accessibility and accountability. As Hawaii’s legislative body is currently divided into two chambers, the study will examine whether consolidating into a single chamber could streamline processes and improve public engagement.

Contention

Despite the potential benefits of a unicameral legislature, such as cost savings and reduced duplicative work, there are concerns that this change may undermine the system of checks and balances inherent in the current bicameral setup. Critics argue that the bicameral structure allows for more thorough deliberation and prevents hasty legislation, ensuring that all voices are heard. The study will also review unicameral experiences in other states, particularly Nebraska, to inform the discussion on whether Hawaii should consider a similar transformation.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

HI SR39

Requesting The Legislative Reference Bureau To Conduct A Study Of A Continuous Legislative Session, Extending The Legislative Session, And Adding Additional Recess Days.

HI HCR187

Requesting The Legislative Reference Bureau To Conduct A Study On Best Practices For Nurse Staffing In Health Care Facilities.

HI HR167

Requesting The Legislative Reference Bureau To Conduct A Study On Best Practices For Nurse Staffing In Healthcare Facilities.

HI HCR138

Requesting The Legislative Reference Bureau To Conduct A Study Of A Continuous Legislative Session, Extending The Legislative Session, And Adding Additional Recess Days.

HI SCR51

Requesting The Legislative Reference Bureau To Conduct A Study Of A Continuous Legislative Session, Extending The Legislative Session, And Adding Additional Recess Days.

HI SCR189

Requesting The Legislative Reference Bureau To Conduct A Study To Determine The Implementation And Standards Of Various Sexual Health Education Policies Within The Department Of Education.

HI HCR222

Requesting The Legislative Reference Bureau To Conduct A Study To Examine The Implementation And Standards Of Various Sexual Health Education Policies Within The Department Of Education.

HI HR202

Requesting The Legislative Reference Bureau To Conduct A Study To Examine The Implementation And Standards Of Various Sexual Health Education Policies Within The Department Of Education.

HI HCR55

Requesting The Legislative Reference Bureau To Conduct A Study To Understand The Implementation Process For A Continuous Legislative Session And Its Relative Impacts On The State.

HI HR42

Requesting The Legislative Reference Bureau To Conduct A Study To Understand The Implementation Process For A Continuous Legislative Session And Its Relative Impacts On The State.

Similar Bills

HI SCR191

Requesting The Legislative Reference Bureau To Conduct A Study On The Benefits And Drawbacks Of Implementing A Unicameral Legislature In Hawaii.

CT HB05458

An Act Establishing A Task Force To Study Implementation Of A Unicameral Legislature.

DE SR22

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LA SR35

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VT H0221

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LA HR73

Welcomes the president of the National Assembly of Côte d'lvoire, Adama Bictogo, and his delegation to Louisiana