Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

Hawaii House Bill HB298

Introduced

1/17/25

Refer

1/21/25

Caption

Proposing An Amendment To Article Iii, Section 4, Of The Constitution Of The State Of Hawaii To Establish Term Limits For Legislators.

Impact

This bill responds to a growing public call for reform regarding career politicians and public integrity, highlighted by a 2023 study indicating significant support for such measures among Americans. By establishing these term limits, HB298 aims to encourage fresh perspectives in the legislature and reduce the potential for long-term incumbency, which research suggests can lead to stagnation and corruption within governmental bodies. This change could further align Hawaii's legislative structure with the practices of at least fifteen other states that have already implemented similar limitations.

Summary

House Bill 298 proposes an amendment to Article III, Section 4 of the Constitution of the State of Hawaii, introducing term limits for members of the state's legislature. Specifically, it seeks to limit legislators to a maximum of twelve years of service in either the House of Representatives or the Senate, starting from terms that begin after the general election in 2026. The bill includes a grandfather clause ensuring that current legislators who have served beyond the proposed limit are not disqualified from continuing their service.

Contention

Points of contention surrounding HB298 may arise from differing views on the efficacy of term limits. Supporters often argue that limiting terms fosters a healthier political environment by allowing citizens new representation and preventing entrenched interests from dominating the legislative process. Conversely, opponents may express concerns that term limits could lead to a loss of experienced lawmakers and disrupt the continuity and effectiveness of governance. Additionally, questions about how these limits might interact with existing laws and the practical implications for governance could also be debated among legislators and constituents alike.

Companion Bills

HI HB298

Carry Over Proposing An Amendment To Article Iii, Section 4, Of The Constitution Of The State Of Hawaii To Establish Term Limits For Legislators.

Previously Filed As

HI HB298

Proposing An Amendment To Article Iii, Section 4, Of The Constitution Of The State Of Hawaii To Establish Term Limits For Legislators.

HI HB570

Proposing An Amendment To Article Iii, Section 4, Of The Constitution Of The State Of Hawaii To Establish Term Limits For Legislators.

HI HB764

Proposing An Amendment To Article Iii, Section 4, Of The Constitution Of The State Of Hawaii To Establish Term Limits For Legislators.

HI HB495

Proposing An Amendment To Article Iii, Section 4, Of The Hawaii State Constitution To Establish Legislative Term Limits.

HI SB1594

Proposing An Amendment To Article Iii, Section 4, Of The Hawaii State Constitution To Establish Legislative Term Limits.

HI HB287

Proposing Amendments To Article X, Section 2 And Article Xviii, Section 12, Of The Constitution Of The State Of Hawaii To Establish Local Elected School Boards.

HI HB140

Proposing Amendments To Article Iv, Sections 4 And 6, Of The Hawaii State Constitution Regarding Reapportionment.

HI SB124

Proposing Amendments To Article Iv, Sections 4 And 6, Of The Hawaii State Constitution Regarding Reapportionment.

HI HB582

Proposing Amendments To Article X, Section 2 And Article Xviii, Section 12, Of The Constitution Of The State Of Hawaii To Establish A School Board Comprised Of Appointed And Elected Members.

HI HB770

Proposing Amendments To The Hawaii State Constitution To Establish A Continuous Legislative Session.

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