HI HB2589

Creates an elected Secretary of State position to administer Hawaii's elections, replacing the current system where a chief election officer is appointed by an elections commission.

Eliminates the elections commission and repeals sections 11-7, 11-7.5, 11-8, 11-8.5, and 11-9 that established the commission's structure, duties, and political activity restrictions.

Removes the Office of Elections from the Department of Accounting and General Services and places it under the Secretary of State's direct administration.

Adds the Secretary of State to the list of positions whose salaries are reviewed and recommended by the commission on salaries per section 26-56.

Makes the bill effective July 1, 2011, contingent upon ratification of a constitutional amendment to establish the elected Secretary of State position.