Hawaii House Bill HR85

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/24
• Refer: 3/13/24

Caption

Requesting The Department Of The Attorney General To Conduct A Study Evaluating The Feasibility Of Creating A Domestic Violence Registry That Would Be Used Similarly To The Sex Offender Registry.

Impact

If the study results in favorable findings, Hawaii could implement a domestic violence registry, which may alter current state laws concerning the registration and public disclosure of domestic violence offenders. This registry would serve not only as a tool for law enforcement but also as a resource for communities to access information regarding offenders, potentially preventing future incidents of domestic violence. The proposed registry could reflect a significant shift in how domestic violence is approached legally within the state, emphasizing community safety and offender accountability.

Summary

House Resolution 85 (HR85) requests the Department of the Attorney General of Hawaii to conduct a comprehensive study evaluating the feasibility of creating a domestic violence registry. This proposed registry is envisioned to function similarly to the existing sex offender registry, aiming to enhance public safety and community awareness regarding domestic violence offenders. The resolution highlights the need for a structured approach towards monitoring and controlling domestic violence, similar to measures taken in other states like Texas and Indiana.

Contention

While there is support for the establishment of such a registry, there may also be points of contention regarding privacy rights and the implications for individuals identified as domestic violence offenders. Concerns may arise around the legal and constitutional challenges of maintaining a registry that publicly discloses offenders' information. The study will be tasked with evaluating these complexities, alongside logistical and cost implications, to ensure that any ensuing registry is both effective and legally sound.