Bill > HB614

This bill aims to improve hate crime reporting and response in Hawaii by expanding the definition of hate crimes and mandating comprehensive data collection and training. The bill introduces a new definition of "reported hate crime" as any incident where bias or prejudice may have been a motivating factor, even if no criminal charges are filed. It requires law enforcement agencies to collect and report detailed information about potential hate crimes, including the nature of the offense, demographic information of victims and suspects, location and date of the incident, and investigation status. The bill mandates that law enforcement officers receive annual training to identify, investigate, and document hate crimes, including guidance on recognizing bias indicators and interacting with affected communities. The Attorney General will be responsible for developing a system to collect, store, and analyze hate crime data, and must establish or update guidelines and training materials within 90 days of the act's effective date. Agencies that fail to comply with reporting requirements may face administrative penalties. The overall goal is to enhance transparency, accountability, and the ability of policymakers and law enforcement to address bias-motivated violence more effectively.

Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=614&year=2026