Hawaii House Bill HR139

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/8/24
• Refer: 3/14/24
• Report Pass: 3/22/24
• Report Pass: 4/4/24
• Refer: 3/22/24
• Passed: 4/4/24

Caption

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.

Impact

The bill is a response to alarming trends noted in recent years, where the population of women inmates has significantly increased, leading to concerns about recidivism and the effectiveness of the current system. Arguments presented within the bill highlight that many incarcerated women are non-violent offenders and struggle with issues such as poverty, substance abuse, and past abuses. By setting measurable goals and investing in community-based rehabilitation programs, HR139 seeks to provide women with the necessary support and resources to reintegrate into society and reduce their chances of reoffending.

Summary

House Resolution 139 (HR139) addresses the pressing issue of incarceration rates among women in Hawaii, particularly at the Women's Community Correctional Center. The bill introduces a request for the Women's Corrections Implementation Commission to strategize and recommend measures aimed at reducing the number of incarcerated women by 25% over the next five years. This resolution reflects a recognition of the unique circumstances and needs of women in the criminal justice system, emphasizing a shift from punitive measures to rehabilitative approaches.

Contention

While HR139 has garnered support from those seeking reform, potential points of contention revolve around resource allocation and the feasibility of achieving a 25% reduction in the short timeframe proposed. Discussions may arise regarding the necessary investments in community programs that can effectively address the underlying causes of incarceration, given that current models often fail to divert women from the criminal justice system. Critics might argue about the potential challenges in implementing such systemic changes across various departments and ensuring coordinated efforts among the judiciary, correctional facilities, and community organizations.