HB 1301 Summary

• Establishes a sunset law requiring Hawaii's principal departments to be repealed on staggered dates between June 30, 2025 and June 30, 2039, with associated advisory committees repealing on the same dates unless expressly continued by law.

• Requires the state auditor to conduct comprehensive reviews of each department prior to its repeal date, evaluating performance against 15 criteria including efficiency, mission achievement, duplication of services, and compliance with state and federal laws.

• Mandates departments submit reports to the auditor before September 1 of the odd year preceding repeal, containing information about their operations and performance against established criteria.

• Requires the auditor to submit findings and recommendations to the legislature at least 20 days before the regular legislative session in the year of repeal, including recommendations on whether to repeal, continue, or reorganize the department.

• Allows the legislature to continue any department for up to 12 additional years and permits earlier termination; establishes procedures for department wind-down, including continuation through June 30 of the following year, transfer of assets, and preservation of existing obligations and bonded indebtedness.