HI SB1293

Establishes the special operations K9 unit special fund to receive legislative appropriations and grants/donations for canine detection operations.

Appropriates $7,000,000 for fiscal years 2017-2018 and 2018-2019 to the special fund for deployment of canine handlers and deputy canines to detect explosives, narcotics, and currency.

Authorizes hiring of 50 total full-time equivalent permanent canine handler positions and 50 deputy canines across the islands: 30 handlers and 30 canines on Oahu, 10 and 10 on Hawaii island, 6 and 6 on Maui, and 4 and 4 on Kauai.

Requires appropriated funds to be spent at one-third rate per year over three years, with Oahu positions funded before other islands.

Mandates annual independent audit of the special fund by the state auditor with annual legislative reporting.