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Bill

HB 2035

RELATING TO TIME LIMITATIONS FOR CRIMES.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by David Alcos and 8 co-sponsors

HB 2035 modifies criminal statutes of limitations in Hawaii, affecting prosecution timeframes for various offense categories with implications for victims, defendants, and law enforcement.

Referred to JHA, referral sheet 3
#crime #prosecution #sexualassault #timelimitations
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Bill Summary · HB 2035

Legislative bill overview

HB 2035 modifies Hawaii's statutes of limitations for criminal prosecutions. The bill has been introduced and passed first reading but specific statutory changes are not detailed in the provided information, making it difficult to assess exact modifications to timeframes for different crime categories.

Why is this important

Statutes of limitations determine how long prosecutors have to charge someone with a crime after it occurs. Changes to these timeframes directly affect law enforcement's ability to pursue cases and individuals' rights to resolution or closure, impacting both public safety and due process protections.

Potential points of contention

  • Victim advocacy concerns: Extending limitations periods for serious crimes (particularly sexual assault or abuse) could help victims come forward later, but may also create uncertainty for defendants regarding old allegations
  • Law enforcement resources: Shorter limitations periods protect against stale evidence and fading witness memory, while longer periods may burden prosecutors with difficult cold cases
  • Due process balance: Determining appropriate timeframes requires weighing the state's interest in prosecution against defendants' right to fair trials with reliable evidence and available witnesses

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

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