Hawaii Senate Bill SR97

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/8/24

Caption

Amending The Rules Of The Senate To Prohibit Members And Officers Of The Senate From Consuming Alcohol Within The State Capitol.

Impact

If adopted, this resolution would officially change Rule 80 of the Senate, which currently includes smoking regulations. The new rule would explicitly ban both alcohol consumption and smoking in the capitol, reinforcing existing governance principles that emphasize a sober and responsible approach to legislative affairs. By standardizing the conduct expected within the capitol, SR97 aims to enhance the professionalism of the legislative body and ensure that all proceedings reflect the values and expectations of the public.

Summary

Senate Resolution 97 (SR97) proposes to amend the Senate Rules of the State of Hawaii to prohibit the consumption of alcohol by members and officers of the Senate within the premises of the state capitol. The resolution is driven by concerns over maintaining professionalism and decorum in legislative proceedings, as alcohol consumption is believed to undermine the integrity of the legislative process. The Hawaii State Capitol serves as the central venue for governance in Hawaii, and proponents of this resolution argue that a sober environment is crucial for effective decision-making and public trust.

Contention

While SR97 appears largely uncontroversial, it reflects broader discussions about the conduct of public officials and the image that state legislatures project. Critics may argue about the effectiveness of such rules, questioning whether prohibiting alcohol truly addresses related issues of professionalism. However, the resolution is generally positioned as a proactive measure to prevent potential misconduct and preserve decorum within the legislative heart of Hawaii.