Stricter ethics laws proposed for lawmakers and lobbyists

Several Hawaii lawmakers want tougher ethics laws for lobbyists and public officials.

Rep. Kaniela Ing (D, South Maui) introduced a bill Thursday that requires lobbyists to submit monthly disclosures during the legislative session and requires lawmakers to file their financial disclosures at the beginning of the session.

The Democrat representing southern parts of Maui said the goal is to increase accountability and public trust.

Sen. Les Ihara (D, Moiliili-Kaimuki-Palolo) is pushing for several similar bills in the Senate. He wants lawmakers to report gifts worth at least $100 and the state Ethics Commission to keep electronic copies of disclosure information for 10 years.

Hawaii State Ethics Commission Executive Director Les Kondo said he supports reforming the lobbying law. He said information disclosed under the current law is not very informative or meaningful.