Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SCR40

Introduced

3/7/23

Refer

3/9/23

Report Pass

4/4/23

Engrossed

4/5/23

Refer

4/11/23

Report Pass

4/17/23

Refer

4/17/23

Report Pass

4/24/23

Passed

4/25/23

Caption

Requesting The Honolulu Police Department, In Conjunction With The Department Of Education, To Establish And Operate A Junior Police Program At Department Of Education High Schools.

Impact

The introduction of the Junior Police Pilot Program is intended to expand the pool of quality police recruits by engaging students at a formative age. The resolution emphasizes that only a small percentage of individuals who apply for police officer positions meet the department's rigorous standards, indicating a need to foster interest and prepare potential candidates early on. Establishing this program has the potential to improve police-community relationships by fostering interactions between young people and law enforcement at the school level.

Summary

SCR40 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution from the State of Hawaii that requests the Honolulu Police Department (HPD) to collaborate with the Department of Education (DOE) to establish and operate a Junior Police Pilot Program at high schools within the DOE. The resolution highlights a significant staffing shortage within the HPD, which has resulted in inadequate police presence in certain districts and poses challenges to effective community policing. By introducing this program in high schools, the resolution aims to actively involve students in law enforcement processes and increase awareness of police work, while also generating interest in potential careers within the police force.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SCR40 is largely supportive, as it addresses the pressing issue of staffing shortages within the HPD while also promoting community engagement. Lawmakers believe that involving youth in policing initiatives could yield positive outcomes in public safety and mutual understanding between officers and the community. However, there may also be concerns regarding the appropriateness of introducing police programs in educational settings, perhaps leading to debates on the role of law enforcement in schools and the implications for students' perceptions of authority.

Contention

Notable points of contention may revolve around the effectiveness and implementation of the Junior Police Pilot Program. Critics could question whether educational institutions should serve as a training ground for future police recruits, potentially raising issues regarding the nature of student-police interactions and the influence on students’ views toward law enforcement. Furthermore, concerns might be raised about the adequacy of resources provided for the successful establishment of such a program amidst existing budgetary constraints and staffing limitations within the HPD.

Latest SCR40 Activity

Companion Bills

HI SR34

Same As Requesting The Honolulu Police Department, In Conjunction With The Department Of Education, To Establish And Operate A Junior Police Program At Department Of Education High Schools.

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