HCR 295 Summary

• Requests the Legislative Reference Bureau to conduct a study on the effects of information charging on Hawaii's criminal justice system since Act 62 was enacted in 2004.

• Directs the study to examine the number of cases initiated by information charging versus preliminary hearings and grand jury indictments, case dismissal rates, trial rates, and conviction outcomes.

• Requires analysis of cost savings claims related to reduced court costs, police overtime, and witness fees resulting from information charging procedures.

• Mandates that the Judiciary, Attorney General, county Prosecuting Attorneys, Public Defender, and Police Departments cooperate by providing all requested data and information.

• Requires the Legislative Reference Bureau to submit findings to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2011 regular session convenes.