Bill > HR170

This resolution requests the Department of Human Services' Office of Youth Services and Juvenile Justice State Advisory Council to investigate aina-based learning programs for youth in the juvenile legal system. The resolution highlights the disproportionate impact of court costs on Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, and African-American youth and argues that traditional community service opportunities fail to help youth reconnect with their culture and land. Aina-based learning, which is grounded in teaching through the land, ocean, air, and living things, is presented as an alternative approach that can strengthen families, communities, and provide meaningful rehabilitation. The resolution specifically asks the advisory council to examine the availability of such programs, create a list of organizations offering aina-based learning that courts can use for community service assignments, and transmit copies of the resolution to key administrative leaders. The underlying goal is to provide more culturally meaningful and healing alternatives for youth involved in the juvenile justice system, potentially reducing recidivism and supporting intergenerational healing.

Housing and Urban Affairs, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HR&billnumber=170&year=2025