HI HB1055

Amends Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 353-64 to allow eligible non-violent female offenders to be paroled into structured community placement programs monitored by private organizations.

Findings indicate that community-based substance abuse treatment programs are more effective than in-prison treatment for rehabilitating non-violent female offenders and reducing recidivism.

Recognizes that most incarcerated female offenders are mothers of minor children and that community placement facilitates family reunification and smoother reentry and resocialization.

Allows paroled females access to gender-responsive services through private organization-monitored programs rather than traditional incarceration.

Takes effect upon approval.