Bill > HB997

This bill modifies Hawaii's statutes regarding court-ordered payments, primarily focusing on improving collection processes and judicial oversight. The Judiciary is now required (rather than merely permitted) to contract with collection agencies or licensed attorneys to collect delinquent court-ordered fees, fines, sanctions, and court costs, with collection fees limited to 50% of the amount collected. Courts are expressly allowed to specify payment periods or installment plans for fees, fines, and restitution, and must now hold annual (or more frequent) payment compliance hearings to track defendant payment progress. If a defendant fails to pay within the specified timeframe or misses three consecutive installments, they must appear in court and show cause for their non-payment. The bill defines a "default" as either missing the court-specified payment deadline or failing to make three consecutive installments. Additionally, the legislation ensures that restitution to victims maintains priority over fine payments and provides mechanisms for courts to address non-payment, including potential imprisonment, payment plan modifications, or conversion of unpaid amounts to community service. The bill aims to create a more structured and accountable system for collecting court-ordered financial obligations while providing some flexibility for defendants facing financial hardship.

Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=997&year=2026