Hawaii Senate Bill SB2131

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/22
• Refer: 1/21/22
• Report Pass: 2/15/22
• Refer: 2/15/22

Caption

Relating To The Crime Victim Compensation Special Fund.

Impact

If enacted, SB2131 will exempt the Crime Victim Compensation Special Fund from certain assessments by the director of finance, effectively shielding it from obligations that could further deplete its resources. This measure is positioned as crucial for maintaining adequate funding for victim support services, especially during periods of economic difficulty and legal system closures due to health crises like COVID-19. The changes introduced by the bill are intended to enhance the commission’s financial resilience during challenging times.

Summary

Senate Bill 2131 seeks to address critical funding shortfalls faced by the Crime Victim Compensation Commission in Hawaii. The bill highlights the financial struggles resulting from judges' failure to order the necessary crime victim compensation fees and the disruptive impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has significantly decreased revenue collections. By introducing amendments to existing laws, the bill aims to provide a more stable financial framework for the compensation commission, ensuring it can meet the needs of crime victims effectively.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around SB2131 appears to be supportive among those who recognize the importance of financial stability for crime victim services. Advocates argue that ensuring the fund's viability will provide necessary resources for aiding victims in their recovery and legal proceedings. However, there may be concerns from fiscal watchdogs about the implications of exempting funds from standard financial oversight procedures, indicating a need for a balance between support for victims and responsible state fund management.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding SB2131 is the balance of financial responsibility. While legislators and advocates for crime victims support the need for this bill, there may be apprehensions regarding the long-term sustainability of funding streams and the exemptions from financial assessments. Stakeholders must consider how these changes might affect other state funds and whether similar mechanisms could be implemented in other areas of public service to foster support without undermining fiscal oversight.