HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES	H.B. NO.	675
THIRTY-FIRST LEGISLATURE, 2021
STATE OF HAWAII

A BILL FOR AN ACT

RELATING TO COMMUNITY MEETINGS.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

SECTION 1. The legislature finds that informational meetings and presentations open to the public provide an opportunity for individuals who have an interest to attend and learn more about the subject matter being discussed. The State's sunshine law currently limits the number of attendees at these meetings and presentations, which may prevent county council members, who wish to participate in their individual capacity, from attending.

The purpose of this Act is to specify that the limit on the number of attendees at an informational meeting or presentation that is open to the public on matters relating to official board business does not apply to members of a county council.

SECTION 2. Section 92-2.5, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by amending subsection (e) to read as follows:

"(e) Two or more members of a board, but less than the number of members which would constitute a quorum for the board, may attend an informational meeting or presentation on matters relating to official board business, including a meeting of another entity, legislative hearing, convention, seminar, or community meeting; provided that the meeting or presentation is open to the public and is not specifically and exclusively organized for or directed toward members of the board. The board members in attendance may participate in discussions, including discussions among themselves; provided that the discussions occur during and as part of the informational meeting or presentation; and provided further that no commitment relating to a vote on the matter is made or sought.

At the next duly noticed meeting of the board, the board members shall report their attendance and the matters presented and discussed that related to official board business at the informational meeting or presentation.

Notwithstanding section 92-3.1, the limit on the number of attendees for meetings described in this section shall not apply to members of a county council."

SECTION 3. New statutory material is underscored.

SECTION 4. This Act shall take effect upon its approval.

INTRODUCED BY:

_____________________________

Report Title:

Open Meetings; Sunshine Law; Permitted Interactions; County Councils

Description:

Specifies that the limit on the number of attendees at an informational meeting or presentation that is open to the public on matters relating to official board business does not apply to members of a county council.

The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.