Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SB780

Introduced

1/17/25

Refer

1/23/25

Refer

1/29/25

Report Pass

2/18/25

Engrossed

2/19/25

Refer

2/28/25

Caption

Relating To Elections.

Impact

The proposed changes will modify existing laws related to elections and candidate eligibility, shifting the responsibility to exclude disqualified candidates from ballots to the Chief Election Officer or county clerks. This bill specifies that any candidates found to be disqualified under the mentioned constitutional provisions will not be included on election ballots. Furthermore, it lays out a formal mechanism for challenging the inclusion or exclusion of candidates on ballots, thereby aiming to enhance the integrity of election processes within the state.

Summary

SB780 aims to establish specific provisions regarding the disqualification of candidates for public office based on constitutional grounds. This bill asserts that individuals who engage in insurrection, rebellion, or actions that threaten democracy shall be ineligible to hold public office in Hawaii. It reinforces Section 3 of the Fourteenth Amendment and Article XVI, section 3 of the Hawaii State Constitution. Through this legislation, the state seeks to ensure that voters have the right to elect candidates who have not engaged in actions that undermine democratic principles.

Contention

One point of contention surrounding SB780 includes the balance between state authority and federal guidelines, as the Supreme Court has clarified that while Congress retains exclusive enforcement capabilities over federal offices, states may regulate the eligibility of candidates for state offices. Critics of the bill may argue that it could be perceived as politically motivated, potentially leading to disputes over candidate eligibility that could complicate election administration. The bill's clarifications about the disqualification process and grounds for contesting results will be closely scrutinized for potential implications on electoral fairness.