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GM 1331

Informing the Legislature that on June 26, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: HB280 HD3 SD1 CD1 (ACT 229).

2025 Regular Session

Act 229 establishes a Community Outreach Court in Hawaii to support homeless individuals facing nonviolent offenses, offering accessible services and alternative sentencing.

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Bill Summary · GM 1331

Summary of GM 1331: Informing the Legislature of Act 229

Bill Information:
- Bill Number: GM 1331
- Title: Informing the Legislature that on June 26, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: HB280 HD3 SD1 CD1 (ACT 229).
- Status: Received
- Introduced: June 26, 2025
- Classification: Proclamation
- Subject: Act 229

Purpose and Intent

GM 1331 serves as a formal notification to the legislature that the Governor of Hawaii, Josh Green, M.D., signed into law House Bill 280 (H.B. 280), which is now designated as Act 229. The primary purpose of Act 229 is to establish a Community Outreach Court aimed at addressing nonviolent offenses, particularly those affecting the homeless population in Oahu.

Key Provisions of Act 229

  1. Establishment of Community Outreach Court:

    • The Act creates a new division within the District Court of the First Circuit, specifically designed to handle nonviolent, nonfelony offenses.
    • The court will operate in community locations to enhance accessibility for defendants who may struggle to attend traditional court settings.

  2. Target Population:

    • The court will focus on individuals cited for minor offenses related to homelessness, such as public drinking, trespassing, and illegal camping.
    • It aims to assist those who may have difficulty attending court due to their transient lifestyles.

  3. Collaboration with Social Services:

    • The court will work in conjunction with social service providers to assess defendants' needs for mental health services, substance abuse treatment, and other support.
    • Participants may be offered alternative sentencing options, such as community service, instead of traditional penalties.

  4. Jurisdiction and Case Management:

    • The Community Outreach Court will have concurrent jurisdiction with other district courts to adjudicate relevant cases.
    • The court will emphasize early identification of eligible defendants and encourage cooperation between the prosecuting attorney and public defender.

  5. Outreach and Support:

    • A social worker will be assigned to help defendants access necessary services and support systems, facilitating their participation in the court's programs.

Impact

  • Affected Individuals: The legislation primarily impacts homeless individuals facing nonviolent offenses, providing them with a more supportive judicial process.
  • Community Benefits: By resolving cases in community settings and offering alternative sentencing, the Act aims to reduce recidivism and improve access to essential services for vulnerable populations.
  • Judicial Efficiency: The Community Outreach Court is expected to alleviate some of the burdens on the traditional court system by addressing cases more effectively and compassionately.

Procedural Aspects

  • Date of Signing: The bill was signed into law on June 26, 2025.
  • Implementation: The Community Outreach Court is set to be operational as a division of the District Court of the First Circuit, with specific locations to be designated for court proceedings.

In summary, GM 1331 serves as a proclamation of the establishment of Act 229, which aims to create a more accessible and supportive judicial process for nonviolent offenders, particularly those experiencing homelessness in Hawaii.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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