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Bill

SB 919

RELATING TO THE PENAL CODE.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Dru Kanuha

Hawaii SB 919 proposes unspecified penal code modifications; advanced through first reading but stalled in committee and carried to 2026 session.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
#penalcode #shortform
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Bill Summary · SB 919

Legislative bill overview

SB 919 is a Hawaii penal code bill introduced by Senator Dru Kanuha that has advanced through initial legislative stages but lacks publicly available detailed provisions. The bill was referred to the Judiciary and Civil Law Committee (JDC) in January 2025 and carried over to the 2026 session, indicating it did not pass in the 2025 legislative cycle.

Why is this important

Penal code bills directly affect criminal law enforcement, sentencing guidelines, and the justice system's operational framework in Hawaii. Without knowing the specific provisions, the bill's impact could range from minor procedural changes to significant alterations in criminal penalties, defendant rights, or prosecutorial authority—all matters affecting public safety, criminal justice equity, and individual liberties.

Potential points of contention

  • Lack of transparency: The bill's specific provisions are not publicly detailed in available sources, making informed public debate difficult
  • Committee referral stage: As a JDC referral without passage, the bill may address contested issues within criminal justice reform or enforcement that prevented advancement
  • Scope uncertainty: Penal code bills can be narrow (targeting specific crimes) or broad (restructuring sentencing systems), creating varying stakeholder opposition

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

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