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Bill

HB 689

RELATING TO SEXUAL EXPLOITATION.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Tina Grandinetti and 4 co-sponsors

HB 689 protects sexual exploitation victims from prosecution, enhances medical and law enforcement support, and ensures timely assistance and legal resources for affected individuals.

Reported from HSH (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 520) as amended in HD 1, recommending passage on Second Reading and referral to JHA.
#medicalorlawenforcementassistance #safeharborprotections #sexualexploitation
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 689

Summary of HB 689: Relating to Sexual Exploitation

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 689 (HB 689) aims to address issues related to sexual exploitation by enhancing protections for victims and improving the response of medical and law enforcement agencies. The bill seeks to establish a framework that supports individuals affected by sexual exploitation, ensuring they receive necessary assistance and protection under the law.

Key Provisions

  • Safe Harbor Protections: The bill proposes the implementation of safe harbor provisions that would protect victims of sexual exploitation from criminal prosecution for offenses that may have occurred as a result of their victimization.

  • Medical and Law Enforcement Assistance: HB 689 emphasizes the need for coordinated efforts between medical professionals and law enforcement to provide timely and appropriate support to victims. This includes training for law enforcement on how to handle cases of sexual exploitation sensitively and effectively.

  • Reporting Requirements: The bill may introduce new reporting requirements for medical professionals and law enforcement to ensure that cases of sexual exploitation are documented and addressed promptly.

Affected Parties

  • Victims of Sexual Exploitation: The primary beneficiaries of HB 689 are individuals who have experienced sexual exploitation, as the bill aims to provide them with legal protections and access to resources.

  • Medical Professionals and Law Enforcement: The bill will impact how these entities interact with victims, requiring them to adopt new protocols and training to better serve and protect those affected by sexual exploitation.

Legislative Process and Timeline

  • Introduced: January 17, 2025
  • First Reading: January 21, 2025
  • Committee Review: The bill was referred to the House Committee on Health, Human Services, and Homelessness (HSH) and the Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs (JHA) committees.
  • Amendments: On February 11, 2025, the HSH committee recommended that the bill be passed with amendments, which were subsequently adopted.
  • Second Reading: The bill passed its second reading on February 12, 2025, and was referred to the JHA committee for further consideration.

Related Legislation

  • SB 292: This bill serves as a companion to HB 689, indicating that similar measures are being considered in the Senate to address sexual exploitation.

Conclusion

HB 689 represents a significant step towards enhancing protections for victims of sexual exploitation and improving the response mechanisms of medical and law enforcement agencies. By establishing safe harbor protections and promoting collaboration between these entities, the bill aims to create a more supportive environment for those affected by sexual exploitation. As it moves through the legislative process, further amendments and discussions will shape its final form and implementation.

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

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