Susan Yoza, Associate Director of the Hawaii State Ethics Commission, testified in support of House Bill 180 before the House Committee on Judiciary on Friday, January 30. HB 180 clarifies reporting requirements for lobbyists and organizations engaging in lobbying activities during a special legislative session.

Last year, Act 224 required lobbyist reporting within 30 days of adjournment sine die of any special session. The Commission believes the legislature did not intend to require filing of reports following such a session if lobbyists and organizations did not lobby on any matters considered during the special session.

HB 180 clarifies the legislative intent and provides for special session reports only for those persons who engage in lobbying activities relating to matters considered during the session. Furthermore, it would prevent duplicative reporting, as those activities reported on a special session report will not need to be reported on any subsequent lobbying reports.