HI HB1818

Authorizes the Department of Public Safety to offer reentry/reintegration programs in Hawaii's correctional facilities that combine cognitive behavioral therapy with cultural interventions addressing domestic violence, addictions, and community connections.

Programs focus on helping inmates transition successfully from incarceration to the community through self-examination of belief systems, development of relapse prevention plans, and reconnection with Hawaiian cultural values.

Targets the disproportionately high rate of arrest and incarceration among young people of Hawaiian ancestry under forty years of age by providing rehabilitation opportunities.

Requires the Department of Public Safety to submit annual reports to the legislature beginning in 2011, including program descriptions, participation numbers by ethnicity, completion rates, recidivism data at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months, and program challenges.

Takes effect upon approval and allows implementation with all new contracts for reentry/reintegration programs.