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SB 1321

RELATING TO THE HAWAII CORRECTIONAL SYSTEM OVERSIGHT COMMISSION.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Ron Kouchi

SB 1321 establishes an Oversight Coordinator for Hawaii's correctional system, enhancing accountability and improving conditions for inmates and staff in state facilities.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
#hawaiicorrectionalsystemoversightcommission #oversightcoordinator
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Bill Summary · SB 1321

Summary of SB 1321: Hawaii Correctional System Oversight Commission

Bill Number: SB 1321
Title: Relating to the Hawaii Correctional System Oversight Commission
Status: Pass First Reading
Introduced: January 21, 2025
Primary Sponsor: Senator Kouchi
Classification: Bill
Subject: Hawaii Correctional System Oversight Commission, Oversight Coordinator

Purpose and Intent

SB 1321 aims to enhance the oversight of the Hawaii correctional system by establishing a dedicated Oversight Coordinator within the Hawaii Correctional System Oversight Commission. The intent of this bill is to improve accountability, transparency, and effectiveness in the management of correctional facilities in Hawaii.

Key Provisions

  • Establishment of Oversight Coordinator: The bill proposes the creation of an Oversight Coordinator position within the Hawaii Correctional System Oversight Commission. This role will be responsible for overseeing the operations of correctional facilities and ensuring compliance with established standards and regulations.

  • Enhanced Oversight Functions: The Oversight Coordinator will have the authority to conduct inspections, review policies, and recommend improvements to the correctional system. This is intended to address issues related to inmate treatment, facility conditions, and overall system performance.

  • Reporting Requirements: The bill mandates regular reporting from the Oversight Coordinator to the Commission, which will include findings from inspections and recommendations for policy changes.

Affected Parties

  • Correctional Facilities: The bill will directly impact all state-operated correctional facilities in Hawaii, as they will be subject to increased oversight and evaluation.

  • Inmates and Staff: Inmates may benefit from improved conditions and treatment as a result of enhanced oversight. Additionally, correctional staff will be required to adhere to new standards and practices established by the Oversight Coordinator.

  • Hawaii Correctional System Oversight Commission: The Commission will gain additional resources and authority to fulfill its mandate effectively.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 21, 2025: Bill introduced and passed First Reading.
  • February 3, 2025: The committee on Public Safety, Intergovernmental, and Military Affairs (PSM) recommended the bill pass with amendments.
  • February 12, 2025: The bill passed Second Reading, as amended, and was referred to the Judiciary Committee (JDC).
  • February 20, 2025: The JDC recommended the bill pass with further amendments.
  • March 4, 2025: The bill passed Third Reading in the Senate and was transmitted to the House.
  • March 6, 2025: The bill was referred to the House committees on Public Safety, Judiciary, and Finance.

Related Legislation

  • HB 1002: This bill serves as a companion measure to SB 1321, indicating parallel legislative efforts to address oversight in the correctional system.

This summary provides an overview of SB 1321, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, affected parties, and legislative timeline, making it accessible for both experts and general readers interested in the bill's implications for Hawaii's correctional system.

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

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