HI HB186

Establishes a new Office of Legislative Exchange under the supervision of the joint legislative management committee to develop and implement one-month internship programs for lawmakers from Pacific Island nations, newly emerging democracies in Eastern Europe, and other parts of the world.

President of the Senate and Speaker of the House jointly appoint a Director for a six-year term, with removal only by two-thirds vote of the legislature for cause, and the committee sets the director's salary.

Director must work with foreign governments to assess internship interest and available funding, establish application procedures, create program guidelines and standards, identify appropriate legislative offices for placements, seek grant funding, and develop evaluation mechanisms.

Office shall submit the legislative exchange program plan to the committee for approval and provide annual reports to the legislature no later than twenty days before each regular session.

Takes effect upon approval.