State Sens. Sam Slom, a Republican, and Will Espero, a Democrat, have separately issued objections to Gov. Neil Abercrombie‘s intent-to-veto list.

Slom is upset that Senate Bill 2682 is on the list. It would make public the financial disclosure statements of members of important state boards, commissions and agencies.

“Why shouldn’t the public and the media know if state board or commission members or their immediate family members have a financial interest or an association that may affect the member’s decision making?” Slom said in a press release. “This is just an example of the ‘same old, same old,’ where the governor and his appointees get to wield power with a distinct lack of public scrutiny.”

Slom continued: “Let’s face it, this veto doesn’t help the people of Hawaii establish any confidence in their government.”

The senator noted that SB 2682 passed the Legislature unanimously. If vetoed, he wants his colleagues to convene to override the governor’s action.

State Sen. Will Espero at the Capitol, February 2014.

PF Bentley/Civil Beat

Meantime, Espero is concerned about Senate Bill 2589, which transfers the law enforcement functions of the Harbors Division of the Department of Transportation to the Department of Public Safety.

In an email, Espero said the bill received lots of support and no opposition during the hearing process. Indeed, DPS Director Ted Sakai and then-DOT Director Glenn Okimoto were among the supporters.

SB 2589 “makes common sense,” said Espero. “We are working to improve the sheriffs now, and together they can improve and be better. To veto the bill would be a terrible mistake; a bad decision.”

The governor has until July 8 to sign the bills, veto them or let them become law without his signature.