Making An Emergency Appropriation To The Department Of Public Safety.
Impact
If passed, this appropriation aims to restore funding necessary for the operation of key correctional facilities across Hawaii. The bill addresses shortfalls in personnel funding that emerged due to previous legislation, which cut salaries for numerous positions within the Department of Public Safety. The implications extend to the facilities needing constant staffing to respond to both routine operations and challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, including health care service provision within prisons.
Summary
House Bill 1033 is designed to make an emergency appropriation to the Department of Public Safety in Hawaii. The bill was introduced in response to significant staffing shortages arising from prior budget cuts that eliminated funding for critical correctional positions. The bill appropriates $6,006,892 to address personnel costs for the state's correctional institutions, ensuring that essential staff, including adult corrections officers and health care professionals, can be retained and hired to maintain security and health standards in the state's prisons.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding HB 1033 appears to be supportive among those who recognize the importance of adequate staffing for public safety and health within correctional settings. Lawmakers stressing the urgency of this financial support highlight the critical environment that exists in these institutions, particularly under the pressures of the ongoing pandemic. Nonetheless, discussions may vary based on views regarding budget management and appropriations priorities in light of limited state revenues.
Contention
While the bill has garnered support, notable contention could arise from concerns over fiscal responsibility and how funds are allocated in light of broader economic challenges facing the state. Some legislators may propose alternatives or raise questions about the long-term sustainability of funding these positions without comprehensive restructuring or reform of budget priorities across state departments.
Requires reporting and investigation of alleged incidents of sexual harassment and sexual violence at institutions of higher education and requires institutions to provide employee training on such reports.
Requires reporting and investigation of alleged incidents of sexual harassment and sexual violence at institutions of higher education and requires institutions to provide employee training on such reports.