State Sen. David Ige is criticizing Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s decision this week to signal that he may veto a bill that would require the disclosure of financial statements by members of 15 state boards and commissions.

“I think it’s incredible that the governor is planning to veto a bill that increases government transparency and accountability and was unanimously passed in both the House and the Senate,” Ige said in a press release. “The Legislature listened to the many citizens who want a more open government, and I call on the governor to do the same.”

Ige added, “If the governor’s concern is that the bill will discourage certain individuals from accepting these positions, then so be it. We need people in our government who are willing to be forthcoming and transparent. If I were governor, I would have signed this bill immediately because I believe in an open government that is held accountable and  discourages conflicts of interest.”

Ige is competing against Abercrombie in the Democratic primary.

Sen. David Ige at a candidates forum at the Japanese Cultural Center in Moiliili, June 24, 2014.

PF Bentley/Civil Beat

State Sen. Slam Slom, a Republican, has also called for passage of SB 2682.

Abercrombie’s campaign referred inquiries to the governor’s office, explaining that it is an administrative matter.

“The Hawaii State Constitution requires the governor to provide 10 working days’ notice for any measures that he may veto by July 8, 2014,” said Justin Fujioka. “The purpose of (Monday’s) notice, as required by the state Constitution, is to allow for more review time to conduct a detailed analysis of the measures in question. When final decisions are made next month, any bill on the veto list will include a statement of objections, which will clearly outline the administration’s position.”

The governor is also reviewing similar bills vetoed by Govs. Linda Lingle and Ben Cayetano.

A veto override would require the Legislature to convene a short special session.