Testimony Before the House Judiciary Committee:
Ethics/Standards of Conduct Bills
March 1971
The League of Women Voters of Hawaii has studied Ethics in Government for several years. tie supported the original legislation passed in 1967. We were however, disturbed that "elected officials" were omitted from coverage in sections of Act 263, We have been lobbying to get that omission corrected since that time. We were very pleased when HB 111 finally passed both houses in the 1970 session. tie were terribly disappointed when Governor Burns vetoed that bill.
We support the intention of HB 249, HB 646, HB 652 but are concerned that they contain the phrase "undue advantage". Governor Burns said in his veto message "What constitute; 'undue advantage' is not defined In this instant case the lack of standards defining 'undue advantage' under HB 111 is objectionable on the grounds of vagueness. " Because of this, we feel these bills would also be subject to veto.
HB 898 calls for financial disclosure to the Lt. Governor's office. Chapter 84 -Section 18 requires in conflict of interest cases to the State Ethics Commission. Would it not be confusing to have disclosures made to both agencies? lie recommend that this bill be amended to have disclosures made to the Ethics Commission since the mechanics are already set up in this agency.
Alice Scott
Legislative Chairman
League of Women Voters of Hawaii
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January 1971
June 1971
Memo from State