HI HB1678

Amends section 46-71.5, Hawaii Revised Statutes, to require the State to automatically indemnify counties when the legislative branch uses county property for official legislative duties and public purposes.

Eliminates the requirement for the governor and comptroller to approve indemnification requests for legislative use of county facilities, bypassing the current multi-step approval process.

Requires the legislative branch to provide a written copy of any indemnity agreement to the comptroller at least ten days before using county property.

Allows the comptroller to obtain insurance coverage for potential liability or determine that insurance is not necessary, but this determination is made after rather than before use is approved.

Takes effect on July 1, 2016.