Hawaii Senate Bill SCR197

Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/23
• Refer: 3/15/23

Caption

Requesting The Office Of The Administrative Director Of The Courts Of The Hawaii State Judiciary To Collect, Compile, And Share Data On The Assessment Of Fees, Court Costs, Fines, And Restitution In Cases Against Minors.

Impact

The resolution is positioned within a broader context that critiques the practice of imposing fees and fines upon young people. Research presented indicates that these financial penalties are disproportionate and can lead to negative consequences—often exacerbating the cycle of poverty and recidivism among youth. The data gathered is intended to include various metrics, such as the total amounts assessed and collected over the past five years, thereby helping to inform future legislative decisions and potential reforms in juvenile justice.

Summary

Senate Concurrent Resolution 197 (SCR197) proposes a request for the Office of the Administrative Director of the Courts of the Hawaii State Judiciary to systematically collect, compile, and share data regarding the assessment of fees, court costs, fines, and restitution specifically in cases involving minors. The aim of this resolution is to enhance transparency and provide a clearer understanding of the financial burdens placed on youth within the justice system. It seeks to address potential disparities and the impact of these costs on youth, particularly among marginalized communities such as Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, and Black youth.

Contention

There are notable points of contention surrounding the assessment of fees and costs against minors. Advocates for reform argue that such financial penalties serve no effective purpose in promoting public safety and instead contribute to increased recidivism rates among young offenders. Conversely, the resolution encourages a reconsideration of current practices and aligns with a growing movement in several states to eliminate the imposition of such fees altogether for youth, reflecting a shift toward a more rehabilitative rather than punitive approach in juvenile justice.