Government and Politics
May 3, 2024
From: Hawaii Governor Josh Green, M.D.HONOLULU – Governor Josh Green, M.D., today signed six good governance bills into law, furthering the state’s commitment to accountability and transparency in government actions. These bills, part of ongoing efforts to promote public trust and citizen participation, aim to enhance openness in decision-making processes across Hawai?i.
Among the bills signed, House Bills 1598, 1599, and 1600 focus on bolstering Hawai?i’s open meetings law. They seek to facilitate greater public input by ensuring timely distribution of written testimony to board members (HB 1598), allowing audio and video participation in remote meetings (HB 1599), and setting clear time standards between board meetings (HB 1600), enabling adequate review and compliance with open meetings law requirements.
House Bill 1879 addresses the equitable release of digital voter information guides, preventing selective access before public release. Additionally, House Bill 1881 updates administrative fine amounts for violations of conduct and lobbying laws, aiming to deter unethical behavior.
Lastly, House Bill 2072 promotes transparency in disaster relief fund solicitations by requiring disclosures, safeguarding donors, and fostering confidence in relief efforts.
These bills collectively reinforce Hawai?i’s commitment to accountability, transparency, and citizen participation in governance, marking significant strides towards ensuring good governance and upholding public trust.
Photos from today’s bill signing, courtesy Office of the Governor, will be uploaded here.
Video from today’s bill signing is here.