Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

Hawaii House Bill HB394

Introduced

1/17/25

Refer

1/21/25

Report Pass

2/14/25

Refer

2/14/25

Caption

Making An Appropriation For The Victim Witness Assistance Program.

Impact

The passing of HB 394 would have a notable impact on state laws by providing essential funding to local prosecutorial resources aimed at aiding victims and witnesses. By specifically designating funds for this program, the bill underscores the state’s commitment to bolstering public safety initiatives and facilitating participation in the justice system for those affected by crime. The grant-in-aid structure also reflects a systemic support for local governance in dealing with victim services, potentially improving overall response capabilities.

Summary

House Bill 394, introduced in the 2025 legislative session, seeks to make an appropriation for the Victim Witness Assistance Program in Hawaii. The bill outlines the allocation of funds to the City and County of Honolulu's Department of the Prosecuting Attorney to enhance support services for victims and witnesses involved in criminal proceedings. This allocation is intended to cover necessary operational costs, including the hiring of additional staff to ensure that victims receive adequate assistance throughout the legal process.

Sentiment

Public sentiment around HB 394 appears to be largely supportive, recognizing the importance of victim assistance in fostering a holistic justice system. Advocates of the bill argue that improved resources for victims and witnesses lead to greater community safety and can enhance the reporting of crimes, thereby positively contributing to the overall judicial process. However, discussions may also exist regarding budget priorities, with some stakeholders advocating for a careful evaluation of funding allocations across various public safety programs.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 394 may include discussions around funding adequacy and potential administrative oversight regarding the effective use of appropriated funds. Critics could raise questions about whether the proposed financial support is sufficient to meet the demands of the program or if it adequately considers the scale of victimization in Honolulu. Moreover, there might be debates about the long-term sustainability of such funding in alignment with state fiscal policies, ensuring that victim witness programs remain effective and resourced.

Companion Bills

HI HB394

Carry Over Making An Appropriation For The Victim Witness Assistance Program.

Previously Filed As

HI HB394

Making An Appropriation For The Victim Witness Assistance Program.

HI SB287

Making An Appropriation For The Victim Witness Assistance Program.

HI SB286

Making An Appropriation For Career Criminal Prosecution.

HI HB393

Making An Appropriation For Career Criminal Prosecution.

HI SB428

Relating To Witness Fees.

HI HB1167

Making An Emergency Appropriation To The Department Of Transportation.

HI HB990

Making Appropriations For Claims Against The State, Its Officers, Or Its Employees.

HI SCR208

Requesting The Judiciary To Urge Courts To Prioritize Victim And Witness Rights To Speedy Trials.

HI SR183

Requesting The Judiciary To Urge Courts To Prioritize Victim And Witness Rights To Speedy Trials.

HI SB1309

Making Appropriations For Claims Against The State, Its Officers, Or Its Employees.

Similar Bills

MD HB390

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2027)

MD SB282

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2027)

MD HB350

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

MD SB319

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

PA HB1330

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of certain agencies of the Executive Department for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.

PA SB160

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024.

PA SB280

PA SB1161

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.