Bill > SB276

This bill modifies Hawaii's existing law regarding orders for protection by eliminating the previous distinction between domestic and non-domestic violations and reinstating mandatory minimum jail sentences for repeated violations. Specifically, the bill establishes a standardized sentencing structure where a first violation of a protection order results in a mandatory 48-hour jail sentence and a fine up to $150, a second violation results in a mandatory 30-day jail sentence and a fine up to $250, and any subsequent violations lead to a mandatory 45-day jail sentence and a fine between $250 and $1,000. The bill also removes the court's previous ability to suspend jail sentences for certain violations and requires that individuals convicted of violating a protection order complete an assessment at a domestic violence program and an intervention or anger management course. Additionally, the bill maintains the court's discretion to impose additional sanctions and specifies that fines will only be imposed if the defendant can pay them. The legislation does not affect rights, penalties, or proceedings that existed before its effective date, and it will take effect upon approval.

Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=276&year=2026