Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

Hawaii House Bill HR66

Introduced
3/12/26  

Caption

Requesting The Legislative Reference Bureau To Conduct A Comprehensive Study On The Feasibility And Implications Of Electing The State's Attorney General.

Impact

The proposed study by HR66 seeks to explore the potential constitutional amendments necessary to facilitate the election of the Attorney General. It aims to compare existing states that either elect or appoint their Attorney Generals and assess their governance structures and oversight mechanisms. Additionally, the study intends to analyze the implications of such an electoral change, including the independence of the Attorney General from political influences, public accountability, and coordination with state agencies. Important operational and fiscal impacts related to these changes are also to be discussed.

Summary

House Resolution 66 (HR66) requests a comprehensive study by the Legislative Reference Bureau on the feasibility and implications of transitioning from an appointed Attorney General to an elected one in the State of Hawaii. The resolution emphasizes the significant role the Attorney General plays as the chief legal officer, responsible for law enforcement and public interest protection. Currently, the Attorney General is nominated and appointed by the Governor with Senate advice and consent, a method which raises concerns regarding the independence and accountability of the office. In many states, the position is elected by the voters, promoting direct accountability and public trust.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding the resolution involve the anticipated impacts of electing versus appointing the Attorney General. Supporters of the elected model argue it would enhance democratic accountability and independence, reducing potential conflicts of interest associated with gubernatorial appointments. Conversely, opponents may raise concerns that direct elections could politicize the role and create challenges in the Attorney General's ability to collaborate efficiently with state agencies. Through its study, HR66 aims to address these vital issues, ensuring any proposal to change the selection method is thoroughly vetted considering various operational implications.

Companion Bills

HI HCR72

Same As Requesting The Legislative Reference Bureau To Conduct A Comprehensive Study On The Feasibility And Implications Of Electing The State's Attorney General.

Previously Filed As

HI SCR179

Requesting The Legislative Reference Bureau To Conduct A Comprehensive Review Of The Hawaii Revised Statutes And Recommend Amendments To Incorporate Gender-neutral Terminology.

HI SR149

Requesting The Legislative Reference Bureau To Conduct A Comprehensive Review Of The Hawaii Revised Statutes And Recommend Amendments To Incorporate Gender-neutral Terminology.

HI HR132

Requesting The Legislative Reference Bureau To Conduct A Study To Understand The Implementation Process And Projected Financial Impact Of Adopting Fiscal Notes Into The State's Legislative Procedure.

HI HCR138

Requesting The Legislative Reference Bureau To Conduct A Study To Understand The Implementation Process And Projected Financial Impact Of Adopting Fiscal Notes Into The State's Legislative Procedure.

HI HR28

Urging The Legislative Reference Bureau To Conduct A Study On The Economic, Social, And Fiscal Impact Of The Kapiolani Hospital Nurses Strike And Lockout To The State.

HI HR102

Requesting The Hawaii State Energy Office To Conduct A Study Evaluating The Feasibility Of Establishing A Green Bonds Program In The State.

HI HR122

Requesting The Legislative Reference Bureau To Review All Reports Required To Be Submitted To The Legislature And Make Recommendations On Which Reports Should Be Discontinued.

HI HCR29

Urging The Legislative Reference Bureau To Conduct A Study On The Economic, Social, And Fiscal Impact Of The Kapiolani Hospital Nurses Strike And Lockout To The State.

HI HCR106

Requesting The Hawaii State Energy Office To Conduct A Study Evaluating The Feasibility Of Establishing A Green Bonds Program In The State.

HI SCR110

Requesting The Hawaii State Energy Office To Conduct A Study Evaluating The Feasibility Of Establishing A Green Bonds Program In The State.

Similar Bills

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CA SB605

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TX HB2530

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LA SB454

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LA HB719

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TX SB888

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Relating to the attorney general's defense of a district or county attorney against certain lawsuits in federal court.