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SCR 1

REQUESTING THE CHIEF JUSTICE OF THE HAWAII SUPREME COURT TO ADDRESS THE LEGISLATURE ASSEMBLED IN JOINT SESSION FOR THE STATE OF THE JUDICIARY ADDRESS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Brenton Awa and 1 co-sponsor

Hawaii resolution requests Chief Justice present annual State of the Judiciary Address to joint legislature session to report on court system conditions and needs.

Received from House (Hse. Com. No. 3).
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Bill Summary · SCR 1

Legislative bill overview

SCR 1 is a concurrent resolution requesting that Hawaii's Chief Justice deliver the State of the Judiciary Address to the legislature during a joint session. This is a procedural measure that formally invites the state's highest judicial officer to present an annual report on the condition and needs of Hawaii's court system.

Why is this important

The State of the Judiciary Address provides the Chief Justice a platform to communicate directly with lawmakers about judicial challenges, funding needs, systemic reforms, and priorities affecting court operations. This annual address helps shape legislative discussion around court budgets, staffing, and legal system improvements that affect public access to justice.

Potential points of contention

  • Judicial independence concerns: Some may view direct judicial-legislative communication as blurring the separation of powers, though these addresses are standard practice nationwide
  • Lobbying for resources: The Chief Justice's platform could be seen as the judiciary directly petitioning for budget increases or legislative action, raising questions about appropriate advocacy roles
  • Limited accountability: Unlike elected officials, justices have no direct electoral accountability, yet this address gives them prime access to influence lawmakers without public campaign scrutiny

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

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