HI HB670

Establishes a two-year pilot program within the Department of Public Safety on the island of Oahu to reduce recidivism through intervention, prevention, cultural support, and education initiatives.

Program shall be administered at Oahu correctional facilities and centers, and may also be delivered through community-based programs such as furlough programs and clean and sober houses for individuals transitioning back into society.

Participants engage in weekly meetings (10-12 weeks) for facility-based programs or monthly meetings for community-based programs to discuss current events and develop civic engagement, critical thinking, and personal reflection skills.

Department of Public Safety must submit findings, recommendations, and a statewide implementation plan to the legislature no later than twenty days prior to the 2021 regular session.

Appropriates general revenues for fiscal years 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 to fund the pilot program and necessary staff, with the program set to terminate on June 30, 2021.