HI HB1448

Proposes a constitutional amendment to change the opening day of the regular legislative session from the third Wednesday in January to the first Wednesday in February, effective beginning with the 2012 regular session.

Extends the maximum length of regular legislative sessions from sixty days to ninety days, beginning with the 2012 regular session.

Rationale includes providing legislators more time to consult with constituents and department officials, and allowing the public and legislature more time to carefully review proposed legislation.

Amendment to Article III, Section 10 of the Hawaii Constitution, with a mandatory recess period of not less than five days between the 20th and 40th days of the session and extension authority of up to fifteen additional days.

Ballot question asks voters whether to approve extending regular sessions to ninety days and moving the opening day to the first Wednesday in February, effective with the 2012 regular session.