Hawaii Senate Bill SR117

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/11/22
• Refer: 3/16/22
• Report Pass: 4/6/22
• Passed: 4/7/22

Caption

Urging The State Commission On The Status Of Women To Establish A Task Force To Develop And Implement An Outreach Program Aimed At Informing Domestic Violence Victims Of Available Sources Of Assistance.

Impact

If adopted, the resolution would catalyze efforts to better inform domestic violence victims about the available resources and assistance. It calls for collaboration between various stakeholders, including the Domestic Violence Action Center and the Filipino Chamber of Commerce, to develop culturally sensitive approaches, such as multilingual outreach materials. This approach aims to leverage community knowledge and resources to ensure that victims are aware of their options for help, thereby potentially improving the response rates to domestic violence situations.

Summary

Senate Resolution 117 urges the State Commission on the Status of Women in Hawaii to establish a task force aimed at creating and implementing an outreach program for domestic violence victims. The resolution highlights the concerning statistics surrounding domestic violence in Hawaii, noting that one in three women and one in four men experience some form of physical abuse by their partner. Additionally, it emphasizes the increased rates of domestic violence during the COVID-19 pandemic and the specific vulnerabilities of Asian and Pacific Islander communities, particularly Filipinos who are overrepresented among victims.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding this resolution is largely positive, reflecting a shared commitment to address and mitigate domestic violence in Hawaii. Legislators and stakeholders appear united in recognizing the need for more cohesive outreach efforts and support structures. The initiative is seen as not just a necessary program but as a proactive step towards preventing further tragedies related to domestic abuse, fostering a collective approach to community safety and wellness.

Contention

While the general consensus aligns with the goals of SR117, there may be discussions around resource allocation and the effectiveness of outreach methods. Stakeholders must consider how to ensure that the program is adequately funded and well-coordinated among participating organizations, particularly given the diverse cultural needs of Hawaii's population. Additionally, the potential challenges in reaching hidden victims of domestic violence could lead to debate on optimal strategies for outreach and support.