House Committee on Judiciary (JUD) - chair: Keith-Agaran, vice chair: Rhoads

Tuesday, February 1, 2011, 2:00 p.m.. Conference Room 325

Testifier: JoAnn Maruoka, LWV of Hawaii

Click here to view HB549

The League of Women Voters of Hawaii agrees with the intent of HB 549. We are not concerned that notices of public agency meetings will no longer be filed and posted in the lieutenant governor’s office; rather, they will be filed and posted, according to the conditions and standards laid out. For state boards, this means on the central State of Hawaii Internet website. For county boards, this means in the appropriate county clerk’s office. Wherever posted, consistency is vital. However, we do strongly urge that every effort be made to widely notify the public of the change and where they can find public agency meeting notices. This is especially critical before the first meeting of a new body (commission, board, etc.). It is very important that clear, understandable information be given to ensure and enhance our citizens’ access to government. Thank you for the opportunity to testify on this bill.