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HB 394

MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR THE VICTIM WITNESS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Nadine Nakamura

Hawaii appropriates funds for the Victim Witness Assistance Program to expand crime survivor support services including counseling, court advocacy, and emergency financial assistance.

Reported from JHA (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 734) as amended in HD 1, recommending passage on Second Reading and referral to FIN.
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Bill Summary · HB 394

Legislative bill overview

HB 394 appropriates funding for Hawaii's Victim Witness Assistance Program, which provides support services to crime victims and witnesses involved in criminal proceedings. The bill has passed the Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs Committee with amendments and is currently moving through the budget approval process in the Finance Committee.

Why is this important

Victim Witness Assistance Programs provide critical services such as counseling referrals, court accompaniment, emergency financial assistance, and protection order advocacy to vulnerable individuals navigating the criminal justice system. Adequate funding directly affects the accessibility and quality of these support services for crime survivors across Hawaii.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding amount unclear: The bill summary provided does not specify the appropriation amount, making it impossible to assess whether funding is sufficient, excessive, or represents a significant change from previous years
  • Budget priorities in tight fiscal environment: Hawaii, like many states, faces budget constraints, so competing spending requests may create debate over whether this program should receive priority funding
  • Program scope and effectiveness: Questions may arise about which services the program covers, how effectively funds are currently used, and whether additional accountability measures should accompany the appropriation

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

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