HI SB1422

Expands police officer discretion to issue citations in lieu of arrest for nonviolent class C felonies, misdemeanors, petty misdemeanors, and violations under Hawaii Revised Statutes section 803-6.

Officers may issue citations when reasonably satisfied that the person will appear in court, has no outstanding arrest warrants, and the offense will not result in further police contact in the immediate future.

Prohibits citation issuance for specified offenses including operating a vehicle under the influence, sexual assault, domestic violence, robbery, solicitation of a minor for prostitution, aggravated harassment by stalking, theft in the second degree, and all offenses in chapter 707.

Intended to reduce incarceration in police cellblocks, county jails, and courthouse holding cells for low-risk offenders who do not pose a flight risk or public safety concern.

Effective date: July 1, 2050.