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SB 781

RELATING TO THE JUDICIARY'S ‘OLELO HAWAI‘I INITIATIVES.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Karl Rhoads and 1 co-sponsor

Bill SB 781 integrates the Hawaiian language into the judiciary, enhancing accessibility for Hawaiian speakers and promoting cultural preservation through funding and resources.

Reported from JDC/HWN (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 435) with recommendation of passage on Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referral to WAM.
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Bill Summary · SB 781

Summary of Bill SB 781: Relating to the Judiciary's ‘Olelo Hawai‘i Initiatives

Overview

Bill SB 781 aims to support and enhance the ‘Olelo Hawai‘i initiatives, which focus on the promotion and preservation of the Hawaiian language within the judiciary system. This legislation seeks to allocate necessary funding and resources to ensure that the Hawaiian language is integrated into judicial processes, thereby fostering greater accessibility and cultural relevance in legal proceedings.

Key Provisions

  • Appropriations: The bill includes provisions for financial appropriations to support the ‘Olelo Hawai‘i initiatives. Specific dollar amounts are not detailed in the current summary but are expected to be outlined in subsequent discussions and amendments.
  • Judicial Integration: The bill emphasizes the importance of incorporating the Hawaiian language into various judicial functions, including court proceedings, legal documentation, and public outreach.
  • Cultural Preservation: By promoting the use of ‘Olelo Hawai‘i, the bill aims to preserve and revitalize the Hawaiian language, ensuring its continued relevance in contemporary society.

Impact

  • Judiciary: The bill will directly affect the judiciary by requiring the integration of the Hawaiian language into its operations. This may involve training for judicial staff and the development of bilingual resources.
  • Community: The initiatives are expected to benefit Hawaiian-speaking communities by making the legal system more accessible and culturally sensitive. This could encourage greater participation from native speakers in legal matters.
  • Cultural Organizations: Organizations focused on language preservation and cultural education may receive support through this bill, enhancing their capacity to promote the Hawaiian language.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: January 17, 2025
  • First Reading: January 21, 2025
  • Committee Hearings:
    • Scheduled for February 7, 2025, at 9:15 AM.
    • Reports from the Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs (JDC/HWN) committees were adopted on February 13, 2025.
  • Second Reading: The bill passed its second reading on February 13, 2025, with amendments and was referred to the Ways and Means Committee (WAM) for further consideration.

Related Legislation

  • HB 146: This bill serves as a companion measure to SB 781, indicating a broader legislative effort to support the ‘Olelo Hawai‘i initiatives across both chambers.

Conclusion

Bill SB 781 represents a significant step towards integrating the Hawaiian language into the judicial system, promoting cultural preservation, and enhancing accessibility for Hawaiian-speaking individuals. As it progresses through the legislative process, further details regarding appropriations and specific implementations are anticipated.

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

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