Requires the department of accounting and general services, together with the department of education where appropriate, to establish videoconferencing capable facilities in public buildings throughout the State. Requires DAGS to adopt rules for use and management of facilities. Appropriates funds.

A BILL FOR AN ACT

SECTION 1. Chapter 27, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:

"§27- Videoconferencing facilities; use and management. (a) Section 92-3.5 notwithstanding, the department of accounting and general services shall establish at least one videoconferencing capable facility in each of the twenty-eight districts as described in section 4-1. Each videoconferencing capable facility shall be in a public building, and the department of accounting and general services shall work together with the department of education to the extent necessary to develop the videoconferencing capability for each facility that is in a public school building. The department of accounting and general services shall establish one of the videoconferencing capable facilities within the state capitol building or within walking distance from the state capitol.

(b) The department of accounting and general services shall adopt rules under chapter 91 to administer use of the videoconferencing facilities, including the priority of users. The department shall give first priority to members of the legislature to assist them in attending public meetings and communicating with constituents."

SECTION 2. There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $          , or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2006-2007, to establish videoconferencing capable facilities throughout statewide districts as defined in section 4-1, Hawaii Revised Statutes.

SECTION 3. The sum appropriated shall be expended by the department of accounting and general services for the purposes of this Act.

SECTION 4. New statutory material is underscored.

SECTION 5. This Act shall take effect upon its approval, except that sections 2 and 3 shall take effect on July 1, 2006.