Relating To The Department Of The Attorney General.
The enactment of SB133 would amend existing provisions in the Hawaii Revised Statutes, specifically section 28-11, which pertains to investigators appointed by the Attorney General. This change mandates that the Attorney General must commission at least one investigator per county, thus improving the ability to address legal issues locally and in a timely manner. Furthermore, the bill allows for the creation of security investigators whose role will involve providing security for state officials while also conducting investigations when not assigned to security duties. This reorganization aims to strengthen the overall efficacy of the Attorney General’s operations.
Senate Bill 133 (SB133) is focused on enhancing the operational capacity of the Department of the Attorney General in Hawaii. The bill arises from the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly the travel restrictions that hindered investigators' ability to perform their duties effectively across the islands. Recognizing the need for a proactive approach to law enforcement during emergencies, the bill proposes the requirement that at least one investigator be based in each county throughout the state, thereby ensuring that legal investigations can proceed without significant delays regardless of geographical challenges.
While the bill has garnered necessary support, discussions around its implementation could bring forth concerns regarding resource allocation and the feasible establishment of investigator positions in each county. Lawmakers and the Department may need to consider the logistical and budgetary implications of deploying personnel across the state, especially in less populated or resource-limited areas. Additionally, there might be discussions regarding the qualifications and roles of the new security investigators, particularly as to how their dual function will be managed without compromising the investigative capacities needed across the counties.