Hawaii Senate Bill SR189

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

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

Caption

Requesting The Office Of The Administrative Director Of The Courts To Collect, Compile, And Share Data On The Assessment Of Fees, Court Costs, Fines, And Restitution In Cases Against Minors.

Impact

If enacted, SR189 would promote a systematic approach to data collection on financial penalties imposed on minors. This initiative is particularly significant in light of the fact that judges in Hawaii rarely impose such fees despite state laws permitting them. The resolution aims to provide a clearer understanding of the financial landscape regarding youth offenders over the past five years. The collected data is intended to support future legislative decisions and reforms regarding juvenile financial penalties, with a focus on equitable treatment across various demographics.

Summary

Senate Resolution 189 requests the Office of the Administrative Director of the Courts in Hawaii to collect, compile, and share data regarding the imposition of fees, court costs, fines, and restitution in cases against minors. This resolution arises from research indicating that such financial penalties can adversely affect young people and their families, particularly among marginalized groups, including Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, and Black youth, who are disproportionately impacted by arrests and financial obligations resulting from court cases. The bill emphasizes that these fees and fines often serve no public safety purpose and may, in fact, increase youth recidivism rates.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SR189 appears favorable, especially among advocates for juvenile justice reform who view this resolution as a step towards addressing the systemic issues tied to financial penalties imposed on youth. There is a growing perspective, supported by national consensus, that such fees should not be levied against young individuals, emphasizing rehabilitation rather than financial burden. The discussions suggest a recognized need for accountability and transparency in how such financial penalties affect youth and their families.

Contention

Notably, there is a contention regarding the current practice of imposing fees and fines against minors, as many experts and organizations argue that such practices do not contribute positively to public safety and may exacerbate the cycle of poverty and crime. This resolution signals a shift towards reevaluating how juvenile cases are handled financially, potentially leading to significant legislative changes. By seeking the judiciary's data, the resolution highlights the complexities and challenges associated with criminal justice fees affecting minors.