Legislature to reconvene next week to discuss budget

HONOLULU — State lawmakers will reconvene starting Monday for at least six legislative days to address an estimated $1 billion budget shortfall brought on by the coronavirus pandemic, House and Senate leaders said Thursday.

House Speaker Scott Saiki acknowledged the governor’s stay-at-home order remained in effect through the end of May but said lawmakers felt it was necessary to address the budget.

Hawaii tax revenues have dropped sharply as the number of tourists arriving in the islands has slowed to a trickle, in part because of the 14-day quarantine imposed on travelers. The closure of retailers, restaurants and businesses has also depressed revenue.

Senate President Ron Kouchi said senators will also be voting on the governor’s appointments to boards and commissions. He said those bodies need to fill positions so they achieve quorum.

Read more: https://www.westhawaiitoday.com/2020/05/07/hawaii-news/legislature-to-reconvene-next-week-to-discuss-budget/