HI HB1477

Prohibits transfer of Hawaii inmates to any correctional facility outside the State effective July 1, 2015, requiring all inmate transfers to facilities owned and operated by the State or its political subdivisions.

Removes mandatory minimum sentencing requirements for methamphetamine trafficking in the first degree, establishing instead an indeterminate term of 20 years imprisonment with a maximum fine of $20,000,000.

Removes mandatory minimum sentencing requirements for methamphetamine trafficking in the second degree, establishing instead an indeterminate term of 10 years imprisonment with a maximum fine of $10,000,000.

Addresses findings from the Native Hawaiian Justice Task Force that Native Hawaiians are disproportionately represented in the criminal justice system and more likely to be charged with methamphetamine offenses.

Amends section 353-16.2 to add language clarifying that despite prior authority to transfer inmates to out-of-state institutions, such transfers are prohibited beginning July 1, 2015.