HI SCR144

Requests the Legislative Reference Bureau to conduct a study on amending existing prostitution laws in Hawaii by December 1, 2018.

Study must examine the scope of sex trafficking in the state, health and well-being of individuals engaged in sex trafficking, and law enforcement experiences with trafficking victims.

Study must analyze arrest and incarceration impacts on individuals charged with prostitution offenses and costs to state and local law enforcement and corrections budgets.

Study must evaluate potential costs and benefits of partial or full decriminalization of prostitution, including possible effects on sex trafficking rates.

Legislative Reference Bureau may consult with state agencies (Health, Human Services, Public Safety), police departments, and organizations including Amnesty International, ACLU, Hawaii Anti-Trafficking Task Force, and harm reduction groups.