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GM 1336

Informing the Legislature that on June 26, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: SB694 HD1 CD1 (ACT 234).

2025 Regular Session

Act 234 limits minors' detention to 24 hours, ensures separation from adults, mandates court reviews every 30 days, and enhances protections in Hawaii's juvenile justice system.

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Bill Summary · GM 1336

Summary of Bill GM 1336: Informing the Legislature of Act 234

Overview

Bill GM 1336 serves as a proclamation to inform the Hawaii State Legislature that on June 26, 2025, Governor Josh Green signed into law Senate Bill 694 (SB 694), which is designated as Act 234. This legislation pertains to the detention of minors in the state of Hawaii.

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of Act 234 is to amend existing laws regarding the detention of minors, ensuring that their rights are protected while also addressing public safety concerns. The bill establishes clearer guidelines on how long minors can be held in detention facilities and under what circumstances.

Key Provisions

Act 234 introduces several significant changes to the handling of minors in detention:

  1. Detention Duration:

    • Minors cannot be held in a juvenile detention facility or shelter for more than 24 hours (excluding weekends and holidays) unless:
      • A petition or motion for revocation of probation or protective supervision has been filed.
      • A judge orders otherwise after a court hearing.

  2. Conditions for Adult Jail Detention:

    • Minors may only be held in adult jails under specific conditions:
      • For processing or release, or for a court appearance within 48 hours.
      • If no acceptable alternative placement is available and the jail is outside a metropolitan statistical area.
      • In cases of severe weather or safety concerns that prevent timely court appearances.

  3. Sight and Sound Separation:

    • Minors held in adult facilities must not have sight or sound contact with adult inmates.

  4. Court Review:

    • Courts must review the detention of minors at least once every 30 days (or every 45 days in rural jurisdictions) to determine if continued detention is in the interest of justice.

  5. Room Confinement:

    • Minors may be placed in room confinement only under strict conditions, such as posing an immediate risk to themselves or others.

Impact

The enactment of Act 234 affects:
- Minors: It provides enhanced protections for minors in the juvenile justice system, ensuring they are not held longer than necessary and are kept separate from adult inmates.
- Judicial System: Courts will have increased responsibilities to review detention cases regularly, ensuring that minors' rights are upheld.
- Detention Facilities: Facilities will need to comply with the new regulations regarding the treatment and detention of minors.

Procedural Aspects

  • Date of Signing: The bill was signed into law on June 26, 2025.
  • Legislative Status: The bill has been received and is now part of the legislative record.

In summary, GM 1336 serves to inform the legislature about the signing of Act 234, which aims to reform the detention practices for minors in Hawaii, emphasizing their rights and safety within the judicial system.

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

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