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Bill Summary · SB 1364

Legislative bill overview

SB 1364 is an emergency appropriations bill introduced in the Hawaii Legislature that allocates funding specifically for law enforcement personnel costs. The bill was sponsored by Senator Ron Kouchi and underwent committee review in early 2025 before being deferred and carried over to the 2026 Regular Session.

Why is this important

Emergency appropriations bills allow legislatures to allocate funds outside of regular budget cycles, typically to address urgent needs. Law enforcement personnel costs—including salaries, benefits, and operational expenses—directly affect police department staffing levels and public safety service capacity across Hawaii.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding source and sustainability: Emergency appropriations raise questions about whether these are one-time funds or establish ongoing budget commitments, and where the money comes from in an already-constrained state budget
  • Lack of specificity in available records: The bill's exact funding amount, which agencies benefit, and whether it addresses recruitment, retention, or operational gaps are not detailed in the legislative history provided
  • Budget prioritization: Directing emergency funds to law enforcement may compete with other pressing state needs and raises questions about whether these costs should be addressed through standard budget processes rather than emergency measures

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

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