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GM 1249

Informing the Legislature that on June 3, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: HB359 HD2 SD2 CD1 (ACT 149).

2025 Regular Session

Act 149 enhances public safety in Hawaii by expanding sex offender registration, ensuring public access to information, and protecting minors from potential offenders.

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Bill Summary · GM 1249

Summary of Bill GM 1249: Informing the Legislature of Act 149

Overview

Bill GM 1249 serves as a proclamation to inform the Hawaii State Legislature that on June 3, 2025, Governor Josh Green signed into law House Bill 359 (H.B. NO. 359, H.D. 2, S.D. 2, C.D. 1), which is now designated as Act 149. This act amends existing laws regarding the registration of covered offenders, particularly focusing on sexual offenses.

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of Act 149 is to enhance public safety by closing gaps in the current covered offender registration laws. The legislation aims to ensure that relevant information about convicted sex offenders is publicly accessible, particularly concerning offenses committed against minors. The act acknowledges the high rates of recidivism among sex offenders and seeks to mitigate the risks they pose to the community.

Key Provisions

Act 149 introduces several significant changes to the covered offender registration laws:

  1. Expanded Definition of Covered Offenses:

    • Includes offenders convicted of:
      • Sexual assault in the fourth degree (e.g., exposing genitals in a threatening manner).
      • Sexual assault in the fourth degree against minors (ages 16 and older) while acting in a professional capacity.
      • Incest.
      • Sexual assault of an animal.
      • Using a computer in the commission of a covered offense.

  2. Mandatory Public Disclosure:

    • Requires public disclosure of registration information for all covered offenses committed against minors, regardless of whether it was a first-time misdemeanor.

  3. Reporting Requirements:

    • Clarifies that offenders must report their residence annually during the thirty-day period following their birthday, rather than on their actual birthday.

  4. Tiered Registration for Offenses:

    • Specifies how certain covered offenses will be categorized for the purpose of seeking termination of registration requirements.

  5. Amendments to Definitions:

    • Updates the definition of "sexual offense" in the Hawaii Revised Statutes to include various acts against minors and other specified offenses.

  6. Exemptions for Certain Offenders:

    • Offenders convicted of only one misdemeanor covered offense that was not against a minor will not be subject to public access requirements.

Impact

The enactment of Act 149 is expected to have a significant impact on public safety in Hawaii by:
- Increasing transparency regarding the presence of sex offenders in communities.
- Enhancing the protection of minors from potential offenders who may exploit their professional positions.
- Providing law enforcement and the public with more comprehensive information about individuals required to register as covered offenders.

Procedural Aspects

  • Date of Signing: June 3, 2025
  • Status: The bill has been received and is now law as Act 149.

This summary provides a clear understanding of the legislative changes introduced by Act 149 and their implications for public safety and offender registration in Hawaii.

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

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