Report Title:

Constitutional Convention; Voter Education; Appropriation

 

Description:

Appropriates funds for the Office of Elections to provide voter education in print, radio, television, and other media on the reasons for and against holding a constitutional convention. (HB3293 HD1)

 


HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

H.B. NO.

3293

TWENTY-FOURTH LEGISLATURE, 2008

H.D. 1

STATE OF HAWAII

 

 

 

 

 

 

A BILL FOR AN ACT


 

 

RELATING TO A CONSTITUTIONAL CONVENTION.

 

 

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

 


     SECTION 1.  The legislature finds that the Hawaii Constitution allows for a constitutional convention every ten years.  A constitutional convention provides the public with a forum to discuss and recommend possible amendments to the Hawaii Constitution.  However, a constitutional convention is also a major investment for the State both in time and money and should not be voted on without careful consideration.

     The last constitutional convention was held in 1978, 30 years ago.  The question of whether to hold a constitutional convention will be on the general election ballot this year.

     In an effort to educate voters prior to voting on this question, the legislature finds that providing information on the pros and cons of holding a constitutional convention will help voters make an informed decision on the question during the general election.

     The purpose of this Act is to appropriate funds for the office of elections to provide voter education on issues relating to holding a constitutional convention, by means of print, radio, television, and other media, including a discussion of the reasons for and against holding a constitutional convention.

     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 2008-2009 for costs associated with voter education on issues relating to holding a constitutional convention, by means of print, radio, television, and other media, including a discussion of the reasons for and against holding a constitutional convention.

     The sum appropriated shall be expended by the office of elections for the purposes of this Act.

     SECTION 3.  This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2008.