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The Honolulu Advertiser
Posted on: Sunday, March 19, 2006

House Republicans to stand behind public notice

Advertiser Staff

House Republicans will oppose any attempt to waive the 48-hour public hearing notice at the state Legislature, Rep. Colleen Meyer announced Friday.

In a speech on the House floor, Meyer, R-47th (Ha'iku, Kahalu'u, La'ie), said that 48 hours is already a short time frame to let the public know when a meeting would be held and that waiving the notice period gives the public no notice at all.

The Republicans went further to suggest that the House actually extend the notice period from 48 to 72 hours, giving the public an extra day to prepare.

In lieu of that, they suggest adopting a policy that would give a longer period to review of the budget bill.

"It is extremely important that we move to strengthen the trust relationship between the public and government," Meyer said.

"The critical balance of access to information and the ability to move forward in government will create a more meaningful and fruitful democracy."