S.B. 2162 Summary

• Expands the definition of "major developments" in crime victims' notification rights to include findings that an offender is unfit to proceed or acquitted based on mental/physical condition, transfer to psychiatric facilities, and regaining fitness to proceed.

• Requires the Department of Health to notify county victim witness assistance divisions within one hour of an offender's unauthorized absence from a psychiatric facility or secure rehabilitation program.

• Mandates victim notification of changes to an offender's custodial status under Department of Health supervision, including escape and discharge, through the county prosecuting attorney's victim witness assistance division.

• Establishes that the Department of Health must cooperate with the criminal justice system to ensure victims receive notification rights and services under Hawaii's crime victims' bill of rights.

• Becomes effective upon approval.