Bill > SB1028

This bill addresses youth fees and fines in Hawaii, comprehensively prohibiting the assessment of financial penalties against minors and their parents for offenses committed during a person's minority. The legislation limits court-ordered community service for minors to no more than seventy-two hours, ensures such service does not interfere with school or work commitments, and eliminates monetary penalties across multiple areas of law including traffic violations, driver education assessments, vandalism, alcohol and drug-related offenses, and other juvenile infractions. The bill also voids all existing court-ordered fees, fines, and administrative costs previously imposed on minors, requiring any payments already made to be reimbursed. The legislative findings highlight that these fees disproportionately impact Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander minors and are not an evidence-based practice for rehabilitation or deterrence. By removing financial barriers, the bill aims to reduce the potential long-term economic consequences for youth and their families while maintaining accountability through alternative methods like community service and counseling. The changes apply to various legal contexts, including family court proceedings, criminal offenses, and administrative actions, and reflect a growing national trend toward reforming juvenile justice financial practices.

Health and Social Services, Housing and Urban Affairs, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1028&year=2026