HI SB879

Increases per diem payment for out-of-state witnesses in criminal cases from $110 to $145 per twenty-four-hour day, plus actual round-trip plane travel costs.

Provides an additional $90 per twenty-four-hour day for witnesses traveling from any other island in Hawaii who are required to stay overnight, in addition to the $55 base per diem.

Maintains existing provisions for witness fees of $20 per day of attendance and reasonable mileage reimbursement for ground travel and airport transportation.

Per diem payments cover all personal expenses including board, lodging, and food, calculated on quarter-day period increments.

Takes effect July 1, 2030.