HI HB635

Requires each house of the legislature to establish rules enabling remote testimony at legislative committee hearings using video conferencing or other Internet-based technology.

Mandates procedures for the public to present oral testimony remotely during legislative hearings and proceedings, addressing barriers faced by neighbor island residents and persons with disabilities.

Appropriates $17,000 for fiscal year 2019-2020 and $3,400 for fiscal year 2020-2021 to the department of accounting and general services to implement remote testimony infrastructure.

Defines "remote testimony" as video conferencing or telecommunications technology that facilitates real-time interaction between the public and legislature members during hearings.

Takes effect July 1, 2019.