Requires that the governor conduct a public hearing on any proposed restriction or withholding of funds budgeted and appropriated by the legislature, prior to implementing the restriction or withholding.

A BILL FOR AN ACT

SECTION 1. Chapter 37, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to part II to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:

"§37- Restriction or withholding of funds lawfully budgeted and appropriated; public hearing required. (a) Prior to the imposition of any restriction or withholding of any funds lawfully budgeted and appropriated by the legislature, the governor or the director of finance shall conduct a public hearing on the proposed restriction or withholding and the reasons therefor.

(b) The public hearing shall be subject to chapter 92."

SECTION 2. New statutory material is underscored.

SECTION 3. This Act shall take effect upon its approval.