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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 4, 2001 |
Contact: Minority Research Office Tel.: 586-7033 |
GOP Wants Felony Bill Moved
The House Republicans are seeking recall of bills today allowing for streamlining and cost savings in the prosecution of felony cases. The bills are at the very top of City Prosecutor Peter Carlisle's legislative agenda.
SB 996 and 997 would allow for direct filing of felony charges in addition to the grand jury process. The bills would not allow for direct filing in murder related cases--that process would still require grand jury approval.
SB 996 addresses the required constitutional change and SB 997 the change in state statutes. The fundamental rights of an individual would remain intact under both bills.
Rep. Paul Whalen, (R-South Kona) said "Hundreds of police hours are wasted while they wait to testify in front of the grand jury. Direct filing will keep officers on the job protecting the public, not sitting in hallways waiting to testify; and it will prevent witnesses from being victimized again."
SB 996 and 997 are currently bottled up in the Judiciary Committee chaired by Rep. Eric Hamakawa (D-South Hilo, Puna)
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