Senate President Ronald Kouchi and House Speaker Scott Saiki have announced  that the Hawai’i State Legislature will reconvene on Monday, June 22, 2020 and is expected to adjourn sine die on July 10.

The legislative session was abruptly adjourned March 17 because of concerns about the coronavirus after a member of the legislature tested positive.  The legislature reconvened May 11 through 17, but there are still a number of bills to consider.  In addition, with the state facing a budget shortfall with the complete shutdown of the economy, less money collected in General Excise Tax and the Transient Accommodations Tax (aka Hotel Tax), the legislators need to consider how the state can move forward.  The bodies will also review COVID-19-related legislation.

House Speaker Saiki said they’re working with committee chairs to prioritize legislation that must be enacted.

The chairs of the House Judiciary and Labor and Public Employment committees are expected to consider police reform measures, such as HB 285 (requiring the disclosure of the identity of a police officer upon suspension or discharge of the officer).

The State Capitol will be closed to the general public to conform with state and federal recommendations for physical distancing and avoiding large gatherings. The public will have an opportunity to submit written testimony and to observe proceedings through livestream.

Legislators and legislative staff will be allowed into the Capitol through a single entrance where everyone will be under a temperature check. Masks must be worn in all public spaces, physical distancing rules will be mandatory, and anyone exhibiting signs of illness will be denied entry into the Capitol.

All House floor sessions and some committee hearings will be televised on ‘Olelo Community Television and live-streamed at https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/broadcasts.aspx. Check olelo.org/ or www.capitol.hawaii.gov for the broadcast schedule.

For more information, go to https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/