Requesting The Judiciary To Convene A Task Force To Examine And Make Recommendations Regarding Existing Procedures Of The Hawaii Paroling Authority Setting The Minimum Terms Of Imprisonment.
Currently, Hawaii is the only state that requires a parole board to determine the minimum sentence of imprisonment resulting in a two-step process which consumes approximately thirty percent of the Hawaii Paroling Authority's resources. The proposed task force would evaluate whether other states' parole models may be applicable in Hawaii and compare the minimum sentences decided by the Paroling Authority and the courts to identify discrepancies. This evaluation could lead to significant changes in how parole minimums are determined, thereby freeing up resources for the Paroling Authority to focus more on rehabilitation and fitness assessments for parolees.
Senate Resolution 104 (SR104) requests the establishment of a task force by the Judiciary of Hawaii. The task force's mandate is to examine and provide recommendations regarding the current procedures employed by the Hawaii Paroling Authority in setting minimum terms of imprisonment. Hawaii operates under an indeterminate sentencing system, where maximum and minimum terms are set, yet only the parole board has the authority to determine the actual time served, leading to a perceived redundancy in the existing process. The resolution aims to streamline these procedures, potentially increasing the efficiency of the justice system within the state.
Opponents of the current dual-process system argue that the model is inefficient and could threaten the timely administration of justice. By simplifying the process, the task force could aid the state in better allocating judicial resources, potentially reducing backlog issues. However, any modifications will need to ensure that the rights of inmates and victims are balanced. The task force’s recommendations could lead to statewide reforms in parole procedures, impacting both future sentencing frameworks and how judicial bodies interact with the parole system.