H.B. 1271 Summary

• Establishes a temporary Commission on Criminal Justice and Sentencing Reform within the Governor's Office, with the Chief Justice serving as chairperson, to operate until June 30, 2021.

• Commission comprises 16 members including judges, prosecutors, public defenders, legislators, correctional officials, Hawaiian Affairs representatives, academics, and former inmates appointed by the Director of Public Safety.

• Directs commission to develop a statewide plan to reduce Hawaii's prison population, reduce correctional spending, and reinvest savings in public safety and recidivism reduction strategies.

• Requires commission to review sentencing policies (including mandatory minimums and habitual offender statutes), probation and parole systems, and inmate housing, training, and rehabilitation services.

• Mandates commission report findings and legislative recommendations to the legislature no later than 20 days before the 2021 regular session; takes effect July 1, 2019.