Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SCR126

Introduced
3/7/25  
Refer
3/12/25  
Report Pass
4/1/25  
Engrossed
4/2/25  

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Corrections And Rehabilitation To Incrementally And Systematically Reduce The Number Of Inmates Incarcerated In Private, Out-of-state Correctional Facilities.

Impact

The resolution acknowledges that previous legislative efforts, such as Act 208 enacted in 1994, intended to limit transfers of inmates with strong local ties, have been neglected. The ongoing practice of transferring inmates to out-of-state facilities not only exacerbates issues of prison overcrowding but also violates the original intent of community integration. By calling for a reduction in the reliance on these facilities, SCR126 aims to realign corrections policy with the principles of rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

Summary

Senate Concurrent Resolution 126 (SCR126) requests the Hawaii Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation to incrementally and systematically reduce the number of inmates housed in private, out-of-state correctional facilities. This resolution stems from a longstanding reliance on contracted, for-profit facilities over two decades, which has led to detrimental effects on inmates' psychological and emotional well-being as they are separated from their families and support networks thousands of miles away. The resolution advocates for reform in correctional practices, emphasizing the importance of keeping inmates closer to their communities.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SCR126 include the balance between managing state correctional populations and ensuring humane treatment of inmates. Opposition to widespread transfer practices respects the agonizing implications for inmates and their families, yet there may be economic arguments related to the costs associated with operating state facilities compared to utilizing private out-of-state ones. The resolution necessitates that the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation report progress towards this goal every two years until 2030, providing a framework for accountability and continual assessment of state corrections policies.

Companion Bills

HI HCR153

Same As Requesting The Department Of Corrections And Rehabilitation To Incrementally And Systematically Reduce The Number Of Inmates Incarcerated In Private, Out-of-state Correctional Facilities.

HI SR105

Same As Requesting The Department Of Corrections And Rehabilitation To Incrementally And Systematically Reduce The Number Of Inmates Incarcerated In Private, Out-of-state Correctional Facilities.

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