Hawaii Administrative Rules Title 21 - LEGISLATIVE AGENCIES
Hawaii Administrative Rules (HAR)
Title 21: Legislative Agencies
Overview
Title 21 of the Hawaii Administrative Rules covers the rules, policies, and procedures governing the various legislative agencies of the State of Hawaii.
Legislative agencies support the Hawaii State Legislature by providing research, administrative support, fiscal analysis, legal advice, and other services necessary for effective legislative functioning.
These rules define the organization, functions, responsibilities, and internal operations of these agencies.
Key Provisions
Scope and Applicability
Establishes which agencies fall under the umbrella of “legislative agencies” (e.g., Legislative Reference Bureau, Legislative Auditor, Office of the Auditor, Legislative Services).
Clarifies the relationship between these agencies and the Hawaii State Legislature.
Agency Functions and Duties
Details the specific functions of each legislative agency, such as:
Conducting audits and evaluations of state programs (Legislative Auditor).
Providing legal research and bill drafting support.
Preparing fiscal notes and budget analysis.
Offering public access to legislative information.
Describes the scope of authority and limitations for each agency.
Administration and Personnel
Rules relating to agency leadership, appointment of officers, staff roles, and responsibilities.
Policies on hiring, conduct, and employee ethics within legislative agencies.
Records and Reports
Procedures for maintaining, accessing, and releasing public records held by legislative agencies.
Rules on confidentiality, record retention, and compliance with open records laws.
Budget and Funding
Guidelines on how legislative agencies manage their budgets.
Requirements for fiscal accountability and reporting to the Legislature.
Public Interaction and Hearings
Regulations about how legislative agencies interact with the public and other government bodies.
Procedures for public hearings, testimony, and input on legislative matters.
Compliance and Oversight
Framework for internal and external oversight of legislative agencies.
Ensures agencies operate in accordance with statutory mandates and administrative rules.
Purpose
To establish a clear, transparent, and accountable framework for the operation of Hawaii’s legislative support agencies.
To ensure these agencies effectively assist the Legislature in making informed decisions.
To promote ethical conduct, fiscal responsibility, and public transparency.
Enforcing Authority
The respective heads of the legislative agencies are responsible for enforcing these rules.
Oversight may also be provided by legislative committees or other designated bodies.
The Hawaii State Legislature has ultimate authority over these agencies’ mandates and budgets.
Significance
Supports the smooth functioning of the legislative process through well-regulated administrative support.
Helps maintain public trust in government operations by promoting transparency and accountability.
Provides legislative members with the tools and information necessary to serve constituents effectively.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Scope | Defines legislative agencies covered |
| Functions | Audit, research, legal support, fiscal analysis |
| Personnel | Staffing policies, ethical standards |
| Records Management | Rules for public records and confidentiality |
| Budgeting | Fiscal management and reporting |
| Public Interaction | Procedures for hearings, public input |
| Oversight | Compliance and agency accountability |
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