Hawaii House Bill HB2202

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/24
• Refer: 1/26/24

Caption

Relating To The Department Of Law Enforcement.

Impact

If enacted, HB2202 would fundamentally alter the structure of law enforcement administration in Hawaii by transitioning from a director of law enforcement model to an elected Sheriff as the executive head of the Department of Law Enforcement. This change would not only institutionalize the election process for the Sheriff but also involve amendments to various existing statutes that reference the director. As a result, local governance and public accountability could see an enhancement, with the Sheriff being directly accountable to the electorate.

Summary

House Bill 2202 seeks to amend various sections of the Hawaii Revised Statutes concerning the Department of Law Enforcement and the office of the Sheriff. This bill introduces significant changes, including establishing a nonpartisan electoral process for the Sheriff. The bill specifies how the election will be conducted depending on the number of candidates, ensuring a streamlined approach. It further outlines the process for filling vacancies in the office of the Sheriff, enhancing the operational efficiency of law enforcement governance at the state level.

Contention

However, the bill may bring about contentious debates especially regarding the focus on a nonpartisan election and the implications it might have on local governance. Opponents may argue that this could lead to politicizing what has traditionally been a non-political office. Additionally, there may be concerns regarding whether the shift to an elected position could impact law enforcement operations if electoral politics interfere with law enforcement priorities.