Hawaii Senate Bill SB292

Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/15/25
• Refer: 1/21/25
• Refer: 1/27/25
• Report Pass: 2/28/25
• Engrossed: 3/4/25
• Refer: 3/6/25
• Report Pass: 3/13/25
• Refer: 3/13/25
• Report Pass: 3/31/25
• Report Pass: 4/24/25
• Enrolled: 5/1/25
• Chaptered: 7/1/25
• Passed: 7/1/25

Caption

Relating To Sexual Exploitation.

Impact

The proposed changes to the Hawaii Revised Statutes will prevent the prosecution of victims who are seeking help, thereby promoting a trauma-informed approach to care and support for these individuals. This legislation is set to amend existing laws concerning prostitution and related offenses, explicitly providing protections to individuals who report their status as victims. By allowing them to seek assistance without the fear of legal repercussions, the bill aims to foster a more supportive legal environment for survivors of sexual exploitation.

Summary

Senate Bill 292 aims to address the issue of sexual exploitation by establishing safe harbor protections for victims of sex trafficking and sexual violence who seek medical or law enforcement assistance. The bill highlights the alarming statistics surrounding sex trafficking in Hawaii, noting a significant number of adult male residents participating in online sex buying, as well as the disproportionate impact on Native Hawaiians. This legislation acknowledges that systemic social issues contribute to the higher victimization rates of certain groups, particularly Pacific Islanders.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB292 appears largely supportive among advocacy groups and legislators who see the necessity for victim protection in the context of sexual exploitation. However, there may be contention regarding the changes in legal definitions and what constitutes law enforcement assistance, as well as concerns from those who believe any form of prostitution should remain criminalized. Proponents argue this bill is a step toward systemic change that prioritizes the needs of victims, while opponents may fear it could unintentionally normalize certain aspects of the sex trade.

Contention

A notable point of contention may arise around the bill's potential implications for existing statutes related to prostitution and how they will be enforced post-amendment. While the bill champions the rights of victims, there are questions about how this will affect policing practices and the extent to which local ordinances can supersede state laws. Additionally, the framing of victims as individuals in need of support, rather than criminals, may challenge long-standing perceptions about those involved in the commercial sex trade.