Bill > SB854

This bill establishes a Universal Representation in Immigration Proceedings Program within the Office of Community Services to provide free legal representation to immigrants in Hawaii facing immigration-related proceedings. The program will prioritize services for detained individuals, those at risk of deportation, or those vulnerable due to immigration status, and will focus on cases such as deportation defense and asylum applications. Eligibility will be primarily based on state residency and income at or below 150% of the federal poverty level, with potential case-by-case exceptions. The program aims to partner with community organizations to ensure culturally and linguistically appropriate services, conduct community outreach, and collect data on case outcomes. The Office of Community Services will be responsible for implementing the program, which may involve contracting with nonprofit organizations and legal service providers. The agency must submit an annual report to the legislature detailing the number of individuals served, types of cases handled, case outcomes, and recommendations for improving legal representation access. Funding for the program will be appropriated from the state's general revenues, with the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations overseeing expenditures. The program is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, addressing the legislature's recognition that many immigrants face significant challenges navigating complex immigration proceedings without legal counsel.

Labor and Employment

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=854&year=2026