FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 19, 2001 |
Contact: Rep. Nobu Yonamine Tel.: 586-6520 |
LEGISLATIVE REFORM
The 2001 Legislature promises to be an interesting and busy session, with some already dubbing it a history in the making. The House of Representatives, with 19 elected Republicans, is witnessing for the first time, a Minority that has enough votes to pull a bill out of committee. While some Majority Democrats might perceive that as a threat, in reality there will be a more balanced power structure resulting in lively debates and a recognition that both parties must work together to resolve tough issues.
Personally, I plan to re-introduce several reform measures aimed at making the Legislature itself more effective and efficient as a governing body representing the will of the people. Among the bills I plan to revive include:
Establishing legislative term limits as an amendment to Article III, Section 4 of the Hawaii Constitution. The amendment will propose that state Senators be limited to three consecutive four-year terms and that state Representatives to serve in office for no more than six consecutive two-year terms. This will ensure that new faces, new ideas and dynamic philosophies to stimulate necessary change are part of the fabric of the Legislature. It will help end the domination of organized special interest groups in the State's political dialogue.
Repealing the mandatory Legislative five-day recess as stated in Article III, Section 10 of the Hawaii Constitution. This recess has failed to meet the original intent of providing the public and legislators more time to meet and discuss issues. Held during the fifth week after Opening Day, many committees use the time to conduct additional public hearings, thus making it difficult for committee members to meet with constituents in their communities as intended. I propose to amend the Hawaii Constitution to convert the recess into five working days, thus lengthening the productive work time to 65 days, without lengthening the Session itself.
Prohibiting the extension of regular session of the Legislature as stated in Article III, Section 10 of the Hawaii Constitution. The elimination of legislative extensions will force legislators to complete their work within the legislation days.
Finally, changing the rules of the House and Senate with regard to the formulating the State Budget. Currently, the House prepares and passes a balanced budget bill to the Senate. The Senate then has four weeks to, critique, strategize and amend the House financial plan. Additionally, the Senate enjoys a significant advantage because during its review process, the State Council on Revenues will issue its March projection, which becomes the benchmark for the final budget. In fairness, both sides should adopt its own budget bill simultaneously and independently of each other.
These important issues need to be addressed and I hope that other legislators share my concerns and desire to improve the way we handle the people's business. I firmly believe open and inclusive decision-making will lead to broader public participation in the legislative process and foster greater public confidence in government itself.
I welcome any thoughts or opinions on this subject, or any other issue of public concern. My telephone number at the State Capitol is 586-6520.
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