Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SR185

Introduced
3/16/26  
Refer
3/19/26  
Refer
4/1/26  
Report Pass
4/10/26  

Caption

Requesting The Office Of The Auditor To Conduct A Comprehensive Performance Audit Of The Department Of Education's Capital Improvement Program.

Impact

If SR185 is enacted, it could lead to enhanced accountability and transparency regarding how the DOE manages its capital improvement projects. The audit will evaluate the policies and procedures the department has in place, assessing their effectiveness and identifying potential delays in project completion. This initiative could streamline processes and ensure that public funds are utilized efficiently, which is crucial for maintaining the state's educational infrastructure.

Summary

Senate Resolution 185 (SR185) requests the Office of the Auditor to perform a comprehensive performance audit of the Department of Education's (DOE) capital improvement program. The DOE manages a significant public infrastructure portfolio, including schools that need regular maintenance and upgrades to maintain functional and modern learning environments. This resolution arises from concerns about the backlog of capital improvement projects and the speed at which these projects are implemented, highlighting the need for better oversight.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SR185 appears to be supportive, with recognition that an audit could yield tangible benefits not only for the DOE but also for the education sector as a whole. Stakeholders believe that the increased oversight may help to address long-standing concerns about project backlogs and funding lapses, potentially leading to improvements in school facilities that directly affect student learning outcomes.

Contention

While the resolution has garnered support for its intent to enhance educational infrastructure, there may be contention regarding the resources allocated for the audit itself and any changes that could result from its findings. Some may question the priorities of funding for audits versus direct improvements to schools. Nonetheless, the overall aim is to ensure that the DOE's capital improvement program meets its goals and efficiently serves the educational needs of Hawaii.

Companion Bills

HI SCR197

Same As Requesting The Office Of The Auditor To Conduct A Comprehensive Performance Audit Of The Department Of Education's Capital Improvement Program.

Previously Filed As

HI SCR27

Requesting The Auditor To Conduct An Audit Of The Department Of Education's Capital Improvement Project Finances.

HI HCR110

Requesting The Auditor To Conduct An Audit Of The Department Of Education's Capital Improvement Project Finances.

HI HR106

Requesting The Auditor To Conduct An Audit Of The Department Of Education's Capital Improvement Project Finances.

HI SR154

Requesting The Office Of The Auditor To Conduct A Performance Audit Of The University Of Hawaii Foundation.

HI SCR137

Requesting The Office Of The Auditor To Conduct A Performance Audit Of The University Of Hawaii Foundation.

HI SR155

Requesting The Auditor To Conduct A Management And Performance Audit Of The Office Of The Vice President For Academic Strategy Of The University Of Hawaii.

HI SR160

Requesting The Office Of The Auditor To Conduct An Audit Of The University Of Hawaii At Manoa Athletics Department's Use And Management Of Its Funds.

HI SCR138

Requesting The Auditor To Conduct A Management And Performance Audit Of The Office Of The Vice President For Academic Strategy Of The University Of Hawaii.

HI SCR142

Requesting The Office Of The Auditor To Conduct An Audit Of The University Of Hawaii At Manoa Athletics Department's Use And Management Of Its Funds.

HI SR10

Requesting The Auditor To Conduct A Sunrise Analysis Of Lactation Consultant Licensure.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.