Doe v. State Ethics Commission

OPINION OF THE COURT BY

ABE, J.

The issue in this case is whether the State Ethics Commission has the power to consider complaints, make investigations, and prosecute charges concerning individuals who have terminated their employment with the State.

Plaintiffs are former employees of the State of Hawaii. Charges were brought against them for violation of sections of H.R.S. Chapter 84. While investigations relating to the charges were being conducted, both employees resigned. The circuit court enjoined the Ethics Commission’s proceedings noting that the plaintiffs were no longer in the…