HB131

Allows government agencies to disclose records to researchers for non-commercial purposes.

This bill amends Hawaii Revised Statutes to allow government agencies to disclose records to researchers for non-commercial purposes. It defines "research purpose" and "researcher" and specifies that such disclosures are not considered contested cases. The office of information practices gains additional powers and duties, including reviewing agency denials of access to information, providing advisory opinions, and adopting rules for records collection practices and fees. The office must also report annually to the governor and the state legislature on its activities and findings.