Senate Committee on Commerce and Consumer Protection (CPN) - chair: Baker, vice chair: Ige Senate Committee on Water, Land, Agriculture and Hawaiian Affairs (WTL) - chair: Hee, vice chair: Tokuda

Wednesday, February 10, 2010, 11:00 a.m.. Conference Room 229

Testifier: JoAnn Maruoka, LWV of Hawaii

Click here to view SB2224

The League of Women Voters of Hawaii supports SB 2224 to help provide a more complete, uncensored view of government decision-making. The bill requires that the financial disclosure statements of the executive director of the division of consumer advocacy of the department of commerce and consumer affairs; the commissioners of the public utilities commission; and the members of the board of land and natural resources be deemed public records and available for inspection and duplication. This brings these positions in parity with other key state personnel. We agree with the need for fully disclosed relevant information about those who will make important financial decisions on public funds for major projects. This should make transparent to the public any potential conflicts of interest. Such increased transparency provides the accountability that citizens demand and absolutely deserve, and that helps build public confidence. It also promotes government efficiency and effectiveness. Further, it is to the benefit of legislators in that it helps to demonstrate understanding of and actual support for openness and transparency in the best interest of the public. SB 2224 is sound legislation, and we urge you to pass it. Thank you for this opportunity to testify.