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SB 1557

PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION OF THE STATE OF HAWAII TO PROVIDE FOR A CITIZENS' ASSEMBLY AND TO AUTHORIZE THE CITIZENS' ASSEMBLY TO PROPOSE TO THE LEGISLATURE CONSTITUTIONAL AND STATUTORY REVISIONS OR AMENDMENTS TO THE LAWS GOVERNING ELECTIONS, POLITICAL CAMPAIGNS, CAMPAIGN FINANCE, ETHICS, REFERENDUM, REAPPORTIONMENT, LEGISLATIVE PROCESS, AND PUBLIC ACCESS TO INFORMATION.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Les Ihara

SB 1557 aims to create a Citizens' Assembly in Hawaii, empowering residents to propose constitutional changes, enhancing democratic participation and governance reform.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
#citizens'assembly(conam) #constitutionalamendment
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1557

Summary of SB 1557: Citizens' Assembly Proposal

Bill Overview

Bill Number: SB 1557
Title: Proposing an Amendment to the Constitution of the State of Hawaii to Provide for a Citizens' Assembly
Introduced On: January 22, 2025
Current Status: Referred to the Judiciary and Government Committee (JDC) and the Ways and Means Committee (WAM)
Classification: Bill
Subject: Citizens' Assembly (ConAm), Constitutional Amendment

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of SB 1557 is to establish a Citizens' Assembly in the State of Hawaii. This assembly would be empowered to propose revisions or amendments to the state's constitution and statutory laws. The focus areas for these proposals include:

  • Elections
  • Political campaigns
  • Campaign finance
  • Ethics
  • Referendum processes
  • Reapportionment
  • Legislative processes
  • Public access to information

The intent behind this bill is to enhance democratic participation by allowing citizens to have a direct role in shaping laws and policies that govern their lives.

Key Provisions

  • Establishment of a Citizens' Assembly: The bill proposes the creation of a Citizens' Assembly that would consist of a diverse group of citizens representing various demographics and interests within the state.

  • Authority to Propose Changes: The assembly would have the authority to propose constitutional and statutory changes related to the specified areas, which would then be submitted to the state legislature for consideration.

  • Focus on Democratic Processes: By involving citizens directly in the legislative process, the bill aims to improve transparency, accountability, and responsiveness in governance.

Impact

Who Would Be Affected?

  • Citizens of Hawaii: The establishment of the Citizens' Assembly would directly involve residents in the legislative process, potentially leading to laws that better reflect the will and needs of the populace.

  • State Legislature: The legislature would be required to consider proposals from the Citizens' Assembly, which could lead to significant changes in how laws are crafted and enacted.

Potential Outcomes

  • Increased Civic Engagement: The bill could foster greater civic engagement and awareness among citizens regarding legislative processes and issues.

  • Reform in Governance: If successful, the proposals from the assembly could lead to meaningful reforms in election laws, campaign finance regulations, and other areas of governance.

Procedural Timeline

  • January 22, 2025: Bill introduced and pending introduction.
  • January 23, 2025: Bill passed its first reading.
  • January 27, 2025: Bill referred to the Judiciary and Government Committee (JDC) and the Ways and Means Committee (WAM) for further consideration.

Conclusion

SB 1557 represents a significant step towards enhancing democratic participation in Hawaii by proposing the establishment of a Citizens' Assembly. If enacted, this assembly could play a crucial role in shaping the future of governance in the state through direct citizen involvement in legislative processes.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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