HB 144 Summary

• Authorizes two or more members of the Mauna Kea Stewardship and Oversight Authority, including a quorum, to meet during the transition period to discuss matters related to the authority's business without complying with Hawaii's public meeting laws (Chapter 92).

• Prohibits commitment to vote or seeking votes at these informal meetings, with all decision-making required to occur only at duly noticed meetings held pursuant to Chapter 92.

• These informal interactions do not constitute meetings under Hawaii's public meeting law, allowing stakeholders to have frank and open discussions to build trust and resolve complex issues.

• Applies only during the five-year transition period specified in Section 195H-6, Hawaii Revised Statutes, during which the authority must develop management plans and prepare to assume full management of Mauna Kea.

• Maintains public transparency and accountability by ensuring actual decision-making actions remain subject to public meeting requirements.