KAILUA-KONA — Hawaii’s governor plans to allow a bill into law mandating the disclosure of the identities of county police officers who have been fired or suspended.
KAILUA-KONA — Hawaii’s governor plans to allow a bill into law mandating the disclosure of the identities of county police officers who have been fired or suspended.
Democratic Gov. David Ige does not intend to veto the bill, although he did not immediately say whether he will sign the legislation, West Hawaii Today reported Tuesday.
“Certainly, those that are not on the veto list, I’ll be allowing to become law without my signature or I will be signing,” Ige said, adding that he will announce his intention at a later date.
The measure requires Hawaii’s four county police chiefs to disclose the identities of officers following suspensions or discharge after any grievance procedure has concluded.
The names will be disclosed in annual reports to the state Legislature.
The current form of the report submitted to lawmakers outlines misconduct, discipline and the conclusion of a grievance procedure. But it does not include a requirement to disclose officer identities.
County police suspended or discharged this year are expected to be included in the next report to the Legislature, which is due by Jan. 31, 2021.
The bill also eliminates an exemption for county law enforcement officers under the Uniform Information Practices Act allowing the release of information retroactively upon request.
The measure additionally clarifies the power of the state law enforcement standards board to revoke certifications and requires the panel to make recommendations to the Legislature regarding policies and procedures, such as rules dictating the use of force.
