Requesting A Study Examining How Certain Other Jurisdictions Produce Fiscal Notes.
Impact
Currently, Hawaii's legislative process does not formally produce fiscal notes, despite relying on budget committees to estimate fiscal impacts with assistance from the executive branch. This absence of structured fiscal notes may lead to less informed decision-making, potentially affecting the state's budget and fiscal management. HCR61 proposes analyzing the best practices adopted by other states, which could facilitate the development of a standardized fiscal note process within Hawaii, thereby improving transparency and accountability in legislative financial assessments.
Summary
HCR61, a House Concurrent Resolution introduced in Hawaii's 33rd Legislature, seeks to initiate a study on how various jurisdictions, such as Iowa, Louisiana, Maryland, Oregon, Texas, and the District of Columbia, produce fiscal notes. These fiscal notes are critical tools that detail the projected budget impacts of proposed legislation, enabling legislators to make informed decisions regarding financial implications during the legislative process. The resolution emphasizes the need for accurate fiscal information to enhance the effectiveness of Hawaii's legislative proceedings.
Contention
The resolution highlights that while several other states have established nonpartisan processes for generating fiscal notes, Hawaii's legislative framework lacks a similar mechanism. Although there is an Office of the Legislative Analyst designed to perform fiscal analyses, it has not been implemented due to insufficient funding. This point raises concerns about the legislative body's preparedness to handle financial evaluations effectively, which is particularly pressing considering the ongoing discussions regarding budgetary constraints and fiscal responsibility in the state.
Requesting The Hawaii State Energy Office To Convene A Renewable Liquid Fuels Working Group To Study Local Production, Development, And Incentives For Renewable Liquid Fuels.
Requesting The Department Of Education To Develop A Strategic Plan To Meet The Locally Sourced Food Goals Established In Acts 175 And 176, Session Laws Of Hawaii 2021.
Requesting The Legislative Reference Bureau To Report On Systems Of Firearms Insurance And Other Financial Responsibility Requirements Pertaining To Firearms.