The impact of SB3384 on state law will be significant, as it amends Section 612-8 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes. By raising the payment for jurors, the bill encourages participation from a broader demographic, especially low- to moderate-income individuals who may have previously been deterred by the low compensation. This adjustment recognizes the essential role of jurors in the judicial system and aims to ensure that jury duty does not impose a financial burden on participants.
Summary
SB3384 aims to significantly increase the compensation rates for jurors in Hawaii. The bill proposes that each juror or prospective juror shall be paid $100 for each day of actual attendance at court. This represents a substantial increase from the previous rate of $30 per day. In addition, jurors will be entitled to reimbursement for travel expenses incurred while attending court, either through a mileage fee or bus fare. The introduction of this bill is grounded in findings that a better compensation structure can lead to more diverse jury pools, benefitting the judicial process.
Contention
Despite the positive implications of increased juror pay, there could be contention surrounding the financial sustainability of this measure. Critics may argue that elevating juror pay to $100 per day could place additional strain on state resources. This concern echoes similar debates in other states, where increases in juror compensation have faced pushback due to budgetary constraints. Additionally, some may highlight the importance of adequate funding for other judicial initiatives that could be affected by reallocating resources to juror pay.
Notable points
Overall, SB3384 seeks to modernize and improve the juror compensation framework in Hawaii, aligning it with other states that have made strides in this area. The legislative intent is clear: to bolster civic engagement by making jury service feasible for all citizens, thereby enhancing the fairness and representativeness of jury pools.