HI HR243

Supports a policy for broadcasting all House of Representatives hearings and floor sessions through the Internet or public television beginning with the 2012 Regular Session to increase citizen awareness, participation, and transparency.

Recognizes that residents of the neighbor islands (Hawaii, Maui, Molokai, Lanai, Kauai, Niihau) and rural Oahu are disadvantaged by the centralized location of state government in Honolulu.

Documents Hawaii's history of expanding public participation in the legislative process, including milestones such as opening the Capitol's Public Access Room (1990), broadcasting committee hearings on ʻŌlelo (1993), launching the Legislature's website (1996), and accepting e-mail testimony (2000).

Directs certified copies of the resolution be transmitted to the Governor, President of the Senate, the Board of Directors of ʻŌlelo Community Television, and members of the Access Hawaii Committee.