Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SB710

Introduced
1/20/23  
Refer
1/25/23  
Report Pass
2/17/23  
Refer
2/17/23  
Report Pass
3/2/23  
Engrossed
3/7/23  
Refer
3/9/23  
Report Pass
3/20/23  
Refer
3/20/23  

Caption

Relating To Incarcerated Women.

Impact

If passed, SB710 would formalize and expand upon existing educational programs aimed at incarcerated women, representing a shift in how the state approaches female incarceration and rehabilitation. The bill proposes appropriating funds for these educational services, which are expected to be administered by the University of Hawaii Windward Community College. By funding these programs, the state seeks to increase the educational attainment of incarcerated women, offering them better prospects for successful reentry into society and reducing recidivism rates.

Summary

SB710 aims to enhance educational opportunities and support for incarcerated women in Hawaii. The bill seeks to establish a partnership between the McKinley Community School for Adults and Hawaii Friends of Restorative Justice to provide essential counseling services for women participating in an education and reentry program. This initiative is designed to assist these individuals in achieving their educational goals and easing their transition back into the community after incarceration. The bill underscores the importance of education as a critical component of rehabilitation for incarcerated women, and it acknowledges the successes of previous pilot programs in this domain.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB710 appears generally positive, with supporters advocating for its potential to reform and improve the lives of incarcerated women through education. The bill is likely to receive backing from advocacy groups focused on rehabilitation and women's rights. However, there may be some contention regarding funding sources and the effectiveness of implemented programs, especially amid concerns over budget priorities and allocation of state resources.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise around the administration of the proposed grants and the efficacy of the existing partnership with Hawaii Friends of Restorative Justice. There have been challenges in rolling out previous funding appropriations, leading some lawmakers to question the management of funds and the execution of educational initiatives. Ensuring accurate distribution of resources and monitoring outcomes will be crucial to address any skepticism regarding the bill's implementation and impact.

Companion Bills

HI HB1129

Same As Relating To Incarcerated Women.

Previously Filed As

HI SB710

Relating To Incarcerated Women.

HI HB1129

Relating To Incarcerated Women.

HI SB711

Relating To Gender Parity In Programs For Incarcerated Women.

HI HB1176

Relating To Incarceration.

HI HB1131

Relating To Gender Parity In Programs For Incarcerated Women.

HI HB453

Relating To Assistance For Persons Completing A Term Of Imprisonment.

HI HCR160

Requesting The Women's Corrections Implementation Commission To Develop A Strategy And Make Recommendations To Reduce The Number Of Women Incarcerated At The Women's Community Correctional Center By Twenty-five Percent Over The Next Five Years.

HI SCR31

Requesting The Women's Corrections Implementation Commission To Develop A Strategy And Make Recommendations To Reduce The Number Of Women Incarcerated At The Women's Community Correctional Center By Twenty-five Percent Over The Next Five Years.

HI HR139

Requesting The Women's Corrections Implementation Commission To Develop A Strategy And Make Recommendations To Reduce The Number Of Women Incarcerated At The Women's Community Correctional Center By Twenty-five Percent Over The Next Five Years.

HI SR20

Requesting The Women's Corrections Implementation Commission To Develop A Strategy And Make Recommendations To Reduce The Number Of Women Incarcerated At The Women's Community Correctional Center By Twenty-five Percent Over The Next Five Years.

Similar Bills

HI HB1129

Relating To Incarcerated Women.

HI SB710

Relating To Incarcerated Women.

HI HB1129

Relating To Incarcerated Women.

HI SB2773

Relating To Educational Programs.

HI SB2640

Relating To Incarcerated Women.

HI HB1779

Relating To Incarcerated Women.

HI HB67

Making An Appropriation For The Pu`uhonua Program.

HI HB67

Making An Appropriation For The Pu`uhonua Program.