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SCR 147

REQUESTING THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT TO PROVIDE SUPPLEMENTAL FUNDING TO INCREASE COMPENSATION FOR ADULT CORRECTIONS OFFICERS EMPLOYED BY THE STATE OF HAWAII'S DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS AND REHABILITATION.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Stanley Chang and 4 co-sponsors

Hawaii legislature petitions federal government to fund higher pay for state corrections officers to improve recruitment and retention.

Referred to PSM.
#federalgovernment #funding #stateadultcorrectionsofficers
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Bill Summary · SCR 147

Legislative bill overview

SCR 147 is a concurrent resolution requesting that the federal government provide supplemental funding to increase compensation for Hawaii's state corrections officers. The bill does not directly appropriate funds or mandate pay increases; rather, it formally petitions the federal government to provide financial support for this purpose. This type of resolution expresses the state legislature's position and requests federal action.

Why is this important

Corrections officer compensation directly affects recruitment, retention, and working conditions in Hawaii's prison system. Low pay contributes to staff shortages, burnout, and safety concerns in correctional facilities. The resolution acknowledges these challenges and seeks federal partnership to address compensation gaps that the state may struggle to fund independently.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal responsibility: Critics may question whether requesting federal funds for state employee compensation is appropriate, or whether Hawaii should prioritize corrections funding within its own budget
  • Federal-state authority: Debate over whether corrections staffing is a state responsibility that shouldn't rely on federal supplemental funding, or a legitimate area for federal partnership
  • Adequacy and targeting: Questions about whether supplemental federal funding would be sufficient, temporary, or sustainable; and whether other state agencies with compensation challenges would make similar requests

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

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