HI HB1309

Removes the exemption of nonadministrative functions of Hawaii courts from the definition of "agency" under the Uniform Information Practices Act, making courts subject to public records disclosure requirements.

Changes venue for actions to compel disclosure and civil actions for agency non-compliance from circuit court to the Hawaii Supreme Court.

Eliminates specific circuit court jurisdiction provisions and allows all appeals under the Uniform Information Practices Act to be brought directly to the Supreme Court.

Allows agencies to appeal Office of Information Practices decisions directly to the Supreme Court within thirty days, with the Supreme Court's review limited to the administrative record unless extraordinary circumstances justify additional evidence.

Effective upon approval.