Bill > HB129

This bill aims to prohibit the assessment of fees, fines, and court costs against minors and their parents or guardians for offenses committed during the minor's youth. The legislation seeks to address the disproportionate impact of financial penalties on Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander youth, recognizing that such fees are ineffective for rehabilitation and rarely collected. Key provisions include: limiting court-ordered community service for minors to no more than 72 hours, ensuring such service does not interfere with school or work commitments; voiding all existing court-ordered fees and fines for youth offenses; and repealing certain penalties related to unaccompanied children in streets and unmarried minors in dance halls. The bill applies across multiple areas of law, including traffic violations, juvenile justice proceedings, and school-related infractions, with the overarching goal of removing financial barriers that can perpetuate cycles of punishment and economic hardship for young people and their families. If any fees have already been paid, the bill requires that they be reimbursed. The legislation reflects a growing national trend of juvenile justice reform that prioritizes rehabilitation and support over punitive financial measures.

Budget and Finance, Housing and Urban Affairs, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=129&year=2026