Bill > SB601

This bill establishes new requirements for law enforcement during searches of properties, both with and without warrants. It mandates that officers post a notice after conducting a search, which must include details such as the report number, date, time, reason for entry, and a contact number for at least one of the officers involved. The bill requires law enforcement agencies to develop policies for securing entrances to buildings after searches are completed, and allows officers to break doors, gates, or other barriers when entering a property for a search, but only when such actions are reasonable and no other means of entry are available. The legislation also clarifies that officers can seek technical assistance from individuals or entities (both within and outside Hawaii) when searching electronic devices, provided they submit a sworn statement to a judge certifying the reliability and necessity of such assistance. These provisions aim to increase transparency and accountability in law enforcement search procedures, ensuring that property owners are informed about searches and that any damage to property during a search is minimized and justified.

Government Affairs, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=601&year=2025