Hawaii Senate Bill SCR89

Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/23
• Refer: 3/15/23
• Report Pass: 4/4/23
• Engrossed: 4/5/23
• Refer: 4/11/23

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Health And Department Of Public Safety To Work In Collaboration To Preserve The Health And Safety Of Special Needs Inmates And Others In The State's Jails And Prisons.

Impact

By mandating collaboration between the Department of Health and the Department of Public Safety, SCR89 addresses a critical gap in services for special needs inmates. This resolution calls for the Departments to leverage their respective expertise to provide comprehensive medical and mental health support to inmates defined as having special needs, thereby potentially transforming the state’s approach to corrections. It also proposes revisions to the training programs for correctional officers, focusing on mental health issues and rehabilitation techniques, preparing staff to better handle the challenges posed by diverse inmate populations.

Summary

SCR89, introduced during the Thirty-second Legislature of Hawaii in 2023, is a Senate Concurrent Resolution aimed at enhancing the collaboration between the Department of Health and the Department of Public Safety. The resolution calls for these two entities to work together to preserve the health and safety of special needs inmates and others within the state's jails and prisons. It emphasizes the need for improved communication and support systems in addressing the unique needs of individuals with medical or mental health disabilities who may struggle to engage in normal activities.

Contention

The notable contention surrounding SCR89 lies in the implications of emphasizing a rehabilitative and therapeutic model in correctional facilities. Supporters argue that such a model may lead to better outcomes for inmates, ultimately reducing recidivism and enhancing public safety. However, skeptics might question the ability of the system to implement these new protocols effectively, highlighting concerns about budget allocation, training efficacy, and whether the proposed changes can genuinely address the complex issues faced by these vulnerable groups. Moreover, there remains a need for ongoing oversight by the Hawaii Corrections System Oversight Commission to ensure that the goals outlined in the resolution are met and maintained.