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104th Regular Session Introduced by Chris Welch

HB 998 standardizes citation contents for misdemeanors, ensuring clarity on offenses, penalties, and rights, helping individuals better understand legal processes.

Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee

Overview

Bill Number: HB 998
Title: Relating to Contents of Citations
Status: Act 002, effective April 10, 2025
Introduced: January 21, 2025
Primary Sponsor: Representative Nakamura
Classification: Bill
Subject: Citations, Misdemeanor, Petty Misdemeanor, Violation

The purpose of HB 998 is to amend the existing regulations concerning the contents of citations issued for misdemeanors, petty misdemeanors, and violations. This legislation aims to enhance clarity and consistency in the information provided to individuals receiving citations.

Key Provisions

Standardization of Citation Contents: The bill mandates specific information that must be included in all citations, ensuring that individuals understand the nature of the offense, potential penalties, and their rights.

Clarity in Language: The language used in citations will be simplified to improve comprehension for the general public, reducing confusion regarding legal terminology.

Mandatory Information: Citations must include:

The specific offense being charged
The date, time, and location of the alleged offense
Instructions on how to respond to the citation
Information regarding the potential penalties for the offense

Impact

Affected Parties: This bill will primarily affect individuals who receive citations for misdemeanors, petty misdemeanors, and violations. Law enforcement agencies and legal entities involved in the issuance and processing of citations will also be impacted by the new requirements.

Legal Clarity: By standardizing citation contents, the bill aims to reduce legal disputes arising from misunderstandings about citation information, potentially leading to more efficient legal proceedings.

Legislative Process

Committee Review: The bill was reviewed by the Judiciary Committee (JDC) and the Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs Committee (JHA), both of which recommended the bill be passed unamended.

Voting Record: The bill passed through various readings in both the House and Senate with significant support, ultimately passing the Third Reading in the Senate with 21 votes in favor and 2 against.

Governor's Approval: HB 998 was transmitted to the Governor and signed into law, becoming Act 002 on April 10, 2025.

Conclusion

HB 998 represents a significant step toward improving the legal framework surrounding citations for misdemeanors and violations. By ensuring that citations are clear and standardized, the bill aims to enhance public understanding of legal processes and rights, ultimately fostering a more informed citizenry.

Bill