Boards and Commissions

Hawaii's boards and commissions are the collective body of appointed state bodies that exercise regulatory, advisory, and quasi-judicial functions across all areas of state government, from professional licensing to environmental management. Governors appoint members to most boards and commissions, subject to Senate confirmation, and the bodies are governed by the Sunshine Law requiring open meetings and public notice. Together they represent the primary mechanism through which citizens outside the Legislature participate in governing Hawaii.

Boards and commissions make binding decisions that affect professional licensing, environmental permits, land use, public health, and dozens of other areas of daily life in Hawaii. Residents can apply for appointment to boards and commissions in their areas of expertise, attend open meetings, and submit public testimony.