HI SB2308

Appropriates $125,000 from general revenues for fiscal year 2014-2015 to fund programs and services for children of incarcerated parents and family reunification efforts.

Directs the department of public safety to expend the appropriated funds for these purposes.

Findings indicate that over 1,700,000 minors (2.3% of U.S. population) have at least one incarcerated parent, experiencing traumatic effects including unstable family relationships, poor academic performance, and financial hardship.

Recognizes that support services for children of incarcerated parents promote emotional and behavioral well-being while reducing recidivism and intergenerational criminal justice involvement.

Effective date: July 1, 2014.