SB 2107 Summary

• Adds new section 28- to Hawaii Revised Statutes allowing the Attorney General to appoint a special counsel when investigating matters that present a conflict of interest for the department.

• Special counsel must be selected from outside state government, have a reputation for integrity and impartial decision-making, and agree to prioritize the investigation which may require full-time dedication.

• Special counsel has full power and independent authority of the Attorney General within their assigned jurisdiction, including authority to investigate and prosecute crimes committed to interfere with the investigation, and cannot be subject to day-to-day supervision.

• Attorney General must report to the legislature upon appointment of special counsel, removal of special counsel, and conclusion of investigation, including any instances where the Attorney General blocked proposed actions by special counsel.

• Effective date: July 1, 2050.