Elections Commission formally adopts Robert's Rules of Order to govern meetings
February 05, 2026 | Office of Elections, Executive , Hawaii
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The Hawaii Elections Commission voted to adopt Robert's Rules of Order on Feb. 4, saying the formal procedure should provide a consistent foundation for conducting meetings and handling testimony.
Commissioner Dylan moved that Robert's Rules be the commission's parliamentary authority "except where superseded by our administrative rules or the Sunshine Law," a motion the panel approved by roll call. The change followed extensive discussion among commissioners and more than a dozen members of the public urging formal rules to keep meetings orderly.
Supporters said a uniform set of procedures will make meetings more transparent and predictable for commissioners and the public. "We owe it to the public to adopt Robert's Rules of Order so that there's some kind of semblance of order," Commissioner Ralph said during debate. Opponents cautioned that adopting new rules mid-term should allow time for public notice and for staff to prepare guidance.
The commission also agreed to add an "unfinished business" section to future agendas, a procedural change intended to keep prior directives visible for follow-up. Chair Curtis said the commission will implement the changes through staff guidance and bring refinements to future meetings.
The formal adoption takes effect immediately for internal meeting procedure; administrative rules and the Sunshine Law remain controlling where the laws conflict.
The commission plans related procedural updates and training for commissioners and staff as the new rules are implemented.
Commissioner Dylan moved that Robert's Rules be the commission's parliamentary authority "except where superseded by our administrative rules or the Sunshine Law," a motion the panel approved by roll call. The change followed extensive discussion among commissioners and more than a dozen members of the public urging formal rules to keep meetings orderly.
Supporters said a uniform set of procedures will make meetings more transparent and predictable for commissioners and the public. "We owe it to the public to adopt Robert's Rules of Order so that there's some kind of semblance of order," Commissioner Ralph said during debate. Opponents cautioned that adopting new rules mid-term should allow time for public notice and for staff to prepare guidance.
The commission also agreed to add an "unfinished business" section to future agendas, a procedural change intended to keep prior directives visible for follow-up. Chair Curtis said the commission will implement the changes through staff guidance and bring refinements to future meetings.
The formal adoption takes effect immediately for internal meeting procedure; administrative rules and the Sunshine Law remain controlling where the laws conflict.
The commission plans related procedural updates and training for commissioners and staff as the new rules are implemented.
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