Bill > HB280

This bill permanently establishes the Community Outreach Court as a division of the District Court of the First Circuit in Honolulu, Hawaii, targeting nonviolent, nonfelony offenses that disproportionately impact homeless individuals. The court aims to make legal proceedings more accessible by holding hearings at community sites, resolving cases through negotiated plea agreements that may include alternative sentencing like community service, and connecting defendants with social services such as mental health treatment, substance abuse programs, and assistance with basic needs. The legislation builds on a successful pilot project that has already addressed over ten thousand cases, recalled nearly a thousand bench warrants, and helped participants access critical support services. To support this initiative, the bill appropriates funding for new positions, including a deputy sheriff, a paralegal at the Office of the Public Defender, and another paralegal at the Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney's Office. The court's key principles include early identification of eligible defendants, cooperation between prosecutors and public defenders, alternative sentencing, a coordinated response to defendant compliance, and developing partnerships with community organizations to enhance the court's effectiveness.

Budget and Finance, Housing and Urban Affairs, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=280&year=2025