Urging The Department Of Law Enforcement To Develop And Implement A U Visa Certification Policy.
Impact
The implementation of a U visa certification policy in Hawaii would provide immigrant victims with a temporary nonimmigrant status while they assist law enforcement. This measure is expected to enhance community safety by encouraging individuals who might otherwise remain silent due to fear of legal repercussions to come forward. Currently, the lack of such a policy discourages immigrant victims from reporting crimes and contributes to a cycle of victimization and fear, particularly in cases involving serious offenses like sexual assault and trafficking. SR35 outlines the benefit of having a structured approach to allow immigrant victims to report crimes in a safe environment.
Summary
Senate Resolution 35 (SR35) urges the Department of Law Enforcement in Hawaii to develop and implement a U visa certification policy. This policy is designed to assist immigrant victims of crimes who have cooperated or will cooperate with law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of crimes. The resolution emphasizes the need for such a policy as a means to encourage victims, particularly those without legal immigration status, to report crimes without fear of deportation. It aligns with the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Prevention Act of 2000, highlighting the importance of combatting crimes like human trafficking and domestic violence, particularly against vulnerable populations such as women and children.
Contention
While SR35 is generally aimed at supporting immigrant victims and encouraging crime reporting, there may be points of contention in its discussions, particularly with respect to the responsibilities of law enforcement agencies in balancing public safety with the rights of vulnerable populations. Some stakeholders might raise concerns about the potential implications of granting legal status to victims before criminal cases are resolved. Additionally, the resolution requires an interim report on the proposed legislation and the implementation of the policy by the Department of Law Enforcement, which may spark debates on resource allocation and the effectiveness of such a policy.
Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training; requiring development and implementation of a probationary period for certifications. Effective date.
Urging The Department Of Education To Develop And Implement A Program To Recruit And Employ Qualified Blind Persons To Serve As Orientation And Mobility Instructors, And In Other Positions, As Teachers Of Visually Impaired Students.
Establishes sexual assault victim's right to appeal prosecutor decision not to file criminal charges; directs sexual assault unit in DLPS to review appeals.