Hawaii Senate Bill SB1470

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/23
• Refer: 1/30/23
• Report Pass: 2/9/23
• Report Pass: 3/3/23
• Refer: 2/9/23
• Engrossed: 3/7/23
• Refer: 3/9/23

Caption

Relating To Corrections.

Impact

By requiring the Department of Public Safety to install cameras by July 1, 2024, SB1470 aims to enhance the safety and monitoring of staff interactions with inmates. This measure seeks to deter further incidents of abuse and misconduct while also serving as a safeguard against potential future legal claims. The presence of video evidence is expected to hold staff accountable and promote a safer environment in correctional facilities.

Summary

SB1470, relating to corrections, mandates the installation of digital cameras in all guard control rooms at correctional centers housing women in Hawaii. This legislative measure is a response to serious allegations of sexual assaults against female inmates that occurred from 2013 to 2016. The bill highlights the prior civil lawsuits that exposed significant vulnerabilities in the women’s correctional facilities, including the lack of monitoring equipment in sensitive areas where assaults allegedly occurred. Notably, a previous case resulted in a $100,000 settlement due to these issues.

Contention

While the bill is designed to increase safety in correctional centers for women, there may be points of contention regarding the implementation of surveillance measures. Advocates for inmate rights may raise concerns regarding privacy, while supporters argue that the risks of abuse necessitate stringent monitoring practices. Additionally, the transfer of responsibilities from the Department of Public Safety to the newly established Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation by January 1, 2024, raises questions about oversight and resource allocation for the camera installations.

Additional_notes

The appropriations for the installations are to come from the general revenues of Hawaii, specifically designated for fiscal years 2023-2024 and 2024-2025. The overall aim of SB1470 is not only to mitigate the risks of sexual violence in correctional settings but also to implement a forward-thinking approach to inmate safety and staff accountability.