RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF LAW ENFORCEMENT.

2024 Regular Session Introduced by Lynn DeCoite and 4 co-sponsors

Bill SB 3009 boosts Hawaii's Department of Law Enforcement by enhancing security for courts and legislative bodies, providing funding, training, and resources for better safety.

Reported from JHA (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 1184-24) as amended in HD 1, recommending passage on Second Reading and referral to FIN.

#dle #judicialandlegislativesecurity #sheriffdivision

Purpose and Intent

Bill SB 3009 aims to enhance the operational capabilities and security measures of the Department of Law Enforcement (DLE) in Hawaii, specifically focusing on the Judicial and Legislative Security and the Sheriff Division. The bill seeks to address current challenges faced by law enforcement in maintaining safety and security in judicial and legislative environments.

Key Provisions

Enhanced Security Measures: The bill proposes to implement new protocols and resources aimed at improving security for judicial and legislative proceedings.

Funding Allocations: It includes provisions for financial support to bolster the capabilities of the Sheriff Division, ensuring they can effectively respond to security threats.

Training and Resources: The bill emphasizes the need for ongoing training and the provision of necessary resources to law enforcement personnel involved in judicial and legislative security.

Affected Parties

Department of Law Enforcement: The primary agency impacted by this bill, which will receive additional resources and support.

Judicial and Legislative Bodies: Courts and legislative offices will benefit from improved security measures, enhancing the safety of officials and the public.

Law Enforcement Personnel: Officers within the Sheriff Division and other related units will receive training and resources to better perform their duties.

Legislative Timeline and Procedural Aspects

Introduced: January 24, 2024

First Reading: January 24, 2024

Committee Reviews: The bill has undergone multiple reviews and amendments through various committees, including:

Public Safety, Intergovernmental, and Military Affairs (PSM)
Ways and Means (WAM)
Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs (JHA)

Amendments: The bill has been amended several times, with the most recent version being HD 1, which was reported from JHA on March 19, 2024.

Current Status: As of March 19, 2024, the bill has passed its Second Reading and is referred to the Finance Committee (FIN) for further consideration.

Conclusion

Bill SB 3009 represents a significant step towards strengthening the security framework surrounding Hawaii's judicial and legislative processes. By enhancing the capabilities of the Department of Law Enforcement, the bill aims to ensure a safer environment for both officials and the public. The ongoing legislative process will determine the final form and funding of the proposed measures.

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