HI SR26

Urges Governor Lingle to consider and use gender equality when appointing judges and justices to Hawaii courts

Documents increasing gender gap in Hawaii State Judiciary, particularly in the First Circuit Court due to retirements of female Circuit Court Judges Blondin, Wong, Marks, Hifo, Hirai, Radius and Intermediate Court of Appeals Judge Watanabe

Notes that current judicial vacancies provide opportunity to address gender disparity and ensure public confidence in the legitimacy and impartiality of the justice system through equal representation of men and women

Received testimony in support from the Domestic Violence Action Center, Hawaii Women Lawyers, Hawaii Women's Political Caucus, Hawaii Women's Coalition, and related organizations

Committee on Judiciary and Government Operations recommends adoption with technical amendments for consistency and clarity