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SB 1514

RELATING TO THE LEGISLATURE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Ron Kouchi

SB 1514 proposes a year-round legislative session in Hawaii, enhancing responsiveness and efficiency, benefiting residents with timely action on pressing issues.

Reported from JDC (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 360) with recommendation of passage on Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referral to WAM.
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Bill Summary · SB 1514

Summary of SB 1514: Relating to the Legislature

Bill Number: SB 1514
Introduced On: January 22, 2025
Current Status: Reported from JDC with recommendation of passage on Second Reading, as amended (SD 1), and referred to WAM.
Companion Bill: HB 1425

Purpose and Intent

SB 1514 aims to enhance the legislative process in Hawaii by proposing a year-round legislative session. This bill seeks to improve the efficiency and responsiveness of the legislature to the needs of the state and its residents. By allowing for continuous legislative activity, the bill intends to facilitate timely discussions and decisions on pressing issues.

Key Provisions

  • Year-Round Legislative Session: The bill proposes the establishment of a year-round legislative session, which would allow legislators to meet and conduct business throughout the entire year rather than being confined to a traditional session schedule.

  • Appropriation of Funds: The bill includes provisions for appropriating funds necessary to support the operational costs associated with the year-round sessions. Specific dollar amounts for these appropriations are not detailed in the current summary.

  • Working Group Formation: SB 1514 calls for the creation of a working group tasked with evaluating the implementation of the year-round session and making recommendations for its operation.

  • Reporting Requirements: The bill mandates that the working group submit a report detailing its findings and recommendations, ensuring transparency and accountability in the process.

Affected Parties

  • Legislators: Members of the Hawaii State Legislature will be directly impacted as they will be required to adjust their schedules and operations to accommodate a year-round session.

  • State Agencies and Departments: Various state agencies may need to adapt to the new legislative schedule, potentially affecting their operations and interactions with the legislature.

  • Residents of Hawaii: The general public may benefit from more timely legislative action on issues that affect their lives, as the legislature would be more accessible year-round.

Procedural Timeline

  • January 22, 2025: Bill introduced and passed First Reading.
  • January 27, 2025: Referred to the Judiciary Committee (JDC) and the Ways and Means Committee (WAM).
  • January 31, 2025: Public hearing scheduled for February 7, 2025.
  • February 7, 2025: JDC recommended the bill be passed with amendments; the committee voted 4-0 in favor.
  • February 12, 2025: Report adopted; bill passed Second Reading as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM.

Conclusion

SB 1514 represents a significant shift in the legislative framework of Hawaii, proposing a year-round session to enhance legislative efficiency and responsiveness. With the establishment of a working group and the necessary appropriations, the bill aims to create a more dynamic legislative environment that can better address the needs of the state's residents. The ongoing legislative process will determine the final structure and implementation of these changes.

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

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