House Committee on Judiciary (JUD) - chair: Waters, vice chair: Oshiro

Thursday, March 22, 2007, 2:00 p.m. Room 325

Testifier: JoAnn Maruoka, Legislative Committee member, LWV-Hawaii

Click here to view SB1957 SD1

The League of Women Voters of Hawaii supports SB 1957 SD1 (SSCR 428), because the amendment addresses our expressed concern about requiring public financial disclosure by members of "every" state board and commission whose term of office exceeds one year, by narrowing its application to specific ones. We feel that when board or commission members are responsible for decisions or advice on matters such as contractual issues, rulings, rule-making or contested case hearings, it is in the public interest to be able to know if any member has a personal financial or economic stake in the matter. It is appropriate and necessary to ensure propriety, and to help maintain public confidence. The amendment addresses that. However, we do recommend adding the University of Hawaii board of regents to the specified list of entities with significant discretionary and fiscal powers whose members are required to make public financial disclosures. This would be in consonance with the scope and power associated with their responsibilities and authority. It is also consistent with the existing requirement for the members of the board of education. And, we believe it is in the best interest of the public. Thank you for the opportunity to testify on SB 1957 SD1.