Bill > SB1031

This bill establishes a new process for advisory referendums in Hawaii specifically related to general obligation bonds, allowing the state legislature to propose non-binding referendum questions that will appear on general election ballots. Under this legislation, the legislature can place a single advisory referendum question on the ballot, which voters can answer with a "yes" or "no" vote, with a clear disclaimer that the results are recommendations and not legally binding. The Chief Election Officer is required to publish notice of the referendum in newspapers and public libraries, certify and report the election results to both the public and the legislature, and include a standardized statement on the ballot explaining the advisory nature of the vote. While the legislature must consider the results of the advisory referendum when authorizing general obligation bonds, they retain the ability to act contrary to the majority vote, but would be required to provide a written explanation for any such contradictory action in the legislative record. The bill sets its effective date far in the future, on January 1, 2491, and does not impact any existing rights, penalties, or ongoing proceedings.

Government Affairs, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1031&year=2026