HI HR21

Urges the Hawaii Chapter of the American Judicature Society and the Hawaii State Bar Association to analyze and assess the role of the Judiciary within Hawaii's constitutional framework of government.

Directs analysis to include topics such as the political question doctrine, the Judiciary's relationship with the legislative and executive branches, the Judiciary's role in ensuring workable government, protection of individual rights and freedoms, and judicial independence.

References the Hawaii Supreme Court's separation of powers doctrine from Trustees of Office of Hawaiian Affairs v. Yamasaki (1987), which establishes that the three branches should be co-equal, separate but interdependent, and autonomous but reciprocal.

Emphasizes the importance of an independent judiciary in resolving disputes impartially and preserving the rule of law, citing former Chief Justice William S. Richardson.

Requires certified copies of the resolution be transmitted to the Chair of the Board of Directors of the Hawaii Chapter of the American Judicature Society, the President of the Hawaii State Bar Association, the Chief Justice of the Hawaii Supreme Court, and the Governor of Hawaii.