Bill > HB1487

This bill proposes several changes to Hawaii's criminal law by increasing the severity of certain offenses. Specifically, the bill elevates criminal trespass in the first degree from a misdemeanor to a class C felony, and criminal trespass in the second degree from a petty misdemeanor to a misdemeanor. Additionally, the bill upgrades criminal property damage offenses: second-degree property damage becomes a class B felony (instead of a class C felony), third-degree property damage becomes a class C felony (instead of a misdemeanor), and fourth-degree property damage remains a misdemeanor. These changes mean that individuals convicted of these offenses could face more serious legal consequences, including longer potential prison sentences and more significant criminal records. The bill also makes related technical amendments to the state's sentencing guidelines, updating references to these offenses in sections describing mandatory minimum sentences and prior conviction considerations. The changes will take effect immediately upon the bill's approval and do not affect any legal proceedings or penalties that occurred before its implementation.

Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1487&year=2026