Hawaii Senate Bill SCR216

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/11/22
• Refer: 3/16/22
• Report Pass: 3/30/22
• Engrossed: 3/31/22
• Refer: 4/4/22
• Report Pass: 4/19/22
• Refer: 4/19/22
• Report Pass: 4/25/22
• Passed: 5/5/22

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Education To Assess And Report To The Legislature Whether And To What Extent Existing Curriculum And Training Align With Erin's Law.

Impact

The resolution highlights a proactive approach to child safety and welfare by calling for an evaluation of educational practices regarding child sexual abuse. If the Department of Education finds gaps in alignment with Erin's Law, it will likely lead to recommendations for changes in the curriculum or additional training resources. This assessment aims to enhance the effectiveness of child protection programs within Hawaii's public schooling system and ensure that students receive proper education on recognizing and reporting abuse.

Summary

Senate Concurrent Resolution 216 (SCR216) requests the Department of Education in Hawaii to assess the alignment of its existing curriculum and training programs with Erin's Law. This law mandates that public schools implement programs aimed at preventing child sexual abuse, focusing on educating students about recognizing abuse and telling trusted adults, informing school personnel about abuse issues, and providing parents with resources and warning signs of potential abuse. The resolution expresses the need for a thorough evaluation of whether the current educational materials meet Erin's standards, which has been adopted in thirty-seven states since its inception in Illinois.

Sentiment

Generally, the sentiment surrounding SCR216 is supportive, as it emphasizes the importance of child safety in educational settings. Stakeholders, including advocacy groups and parents, are likely to view the resolution favorably, as it reflects a commitment to protecting children from sexual abuse. The call for collaboration with advocacy organizations also indicates an inclusive approach to understanding the scope and effectiveness of current education efforts.

Contention

While the resolution's intent is largely positive, some challenges may arise during the assessment process. Concerns about the adequacy of existing resources or the potential need for legislative changes may provoke discussions among legislators and education officials. There may also be debates over resource allocation for enhanced training and curriculum development. Another point of contention could stem from ensuring the proposed changes accommodate diverse community needs and perspectives on child safety education.