STAND. COM. REP. NO. 370-22

Honolulu, Hawaii

, 2022

RE: H.B. No. 2421

Honorable Scott K. Saiki

Speaker, House of Representatives

Thirty-First State Legislature

Regular Session of 2022

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Judiciary & Hawaiian Affairs, to which was referred H.B. No. 2421 entitled:

"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO WOMEN'S COURT,"

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose of this measure is to establish a three-year women's court pilot program in the First Circuit of the Judiciary to acknowledge the distinct pathways that lead women into the criminal justice system and address their individualized needs. Specifically, this measure:

(1) Requires the pilot program to implement trauma-informed and evidence-based practices, employ gender-responsive programming, collaborate with stakeholders, and provide services to women in the court system with the goal of diverting participants from incarceration, supporting their success in the community, and reducing recidivism;

(2) Appropriates $695,236 for equipment; mental health, substance abuse treatment, and other services; and the establishment of seven temporary positions for the pilot program; and

(3) Requires the Judiciary to submit annual reports on the pilot program throughout its duration.

Your Committee received testimony in support of this measure from the Judiciary, Hawaii State Bar Association, Women's Prison Project, and two individuals. Your Committee received comments on this measure from the Department of Budget and Finance.

Your Committee finds that research has shown that gender-responsive approaches result in far better outcomes for women who face unique barriers to success after incarceration. Women offenders are more likely to be primary caregivers for young children, have lower educational attainment, lack stable work history, and experience economic or social marginalization. This measure seeks to address these barriers and improve outcomes for women offenders.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Judiciary & Hawaiian Affairs that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of H.B. No. 2421 and recommends that it pass Second Reading and be referred to your Committee on Finance.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Judiciary & Hawaiian Affairs,

____________________________

MARK M. NAKASHIMA, Chair