Office of Governor George R. Ariyoshi

Corporate body

Office of Governor George R. Ariyoshi

1974-1986

The records created during the administration of Governor George R. Ariyoshi between 1974 and 1986 consist of memoranda and correspondence. There are a few record items dated prior to 1974. The records were received in several accessions between 1975 and 1986; transfer documentation consisting of transmittal memoranda is available, although not complete.

The executive power of the State is vested in a Governor who is the Chief Executive Officer of the State of Hawaii. The Governor is elected by the voters to a full term of four years. The 1978 Constitutional Convention limits an individual to serve as Governor for no more than two consecutive full terms.

The general duties of the Governor include the execution of all State laws, determining broad goals for the state, formulating and administering the policies and budget of the Executive Branch, and maintaining general control of Executive Branch departments and agencies, and the programs and activities administratively assigned to the Governor's Office.

Generally, the Governor nominates and, by and with the advice and consent of the State Senate, the Governor appoints executive department heads, Supreme Court justices, intermediate appellate and circuit courts judges, and members to boards and commissions. Vacancies in the State House of Representatives, certain vacancies in the State Senate, and vacancies on various boards and commissions are filled by the Governor. The Governor appoints the chief justice, Supreme Court justices, and judges to the intermediate appellate and circuit courts from a list of nominees transmitted by the Judicial Selection Commission.

The Governor's authority includes the approval or veto of legislation passed by the Legislature and the power to call the Legislature into special session. At the beginning of each legislative session, the Governor may report to the legislature the current affairs of the state and recommend measures for consideration.

Additionally, the Governor is the commander in chief of the armed forces of the State; is responsible for arranging of interstate compacts; and empowered to grant reprieves and pardons in quasi-judicial actions.

Commission on Population and the Hawaiian Future (1973-1983)