HI SR68

Requests the State Auditor to conduct an audit of all no-bid contracts issued by state and county agencies under emergency proclamations during January 1, 2020 through December 31, 2025.

Audit scope includes reviewing justifications and standards used by agencies to issue no-bid contracts, vendor selection criteria, and price valuations to determine if contracts were appropriately priced.

Cites concerns about public contracts with the National Kidney Foundation of Hawaii and City and County of Honolulu during the COVID-19 pandemic as raising questions about emergency spending.

Notes that while emergency proclamations under HRS section 127A-14 can suspend normal procurement requirements, agencies retain responsibility for prudent use of public funds.

Auditor must submit findings, recommendations, and proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2027 Regular Session.