Bill > SB1031

This bill establishes a new process for advisory referendums in Hawaii specifically related to general obligation bonds, allowing the legislature to propose non-binding referendum questions that voters can answer during general elections. Under the proposed law, the legislature can create a referendum question about issuing general obligation bonds (government debt), which will be printed on the ballot with "yes" or "no" voting options. The chief election officer must publish notice of the referendum at least 30 days before the election, make the notice available at public libraries and county clerks' offices, and include a disclaimer that the referendum is advisory and does not automatically become law. After the election, the chief election officer must certify and report the results to the public and legislature. While the legislature is required to consider the referendum results when deciding about bond issuance, they are not legally bound by the vote and can choose to act differently, but must provide a written explanation in the legislative record if they do so. The bill sets a unique future effective date of January 1, 2491, and is designed to give voters a formal channel to express their opinions on potential government bond issuances without creating a binding mandate.

Government Affairs, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1031&year=2025