HI HB1395

Appropriates funds from general revenues to the Department of Public Safety for fiscal year 2021-2022 to provide programs and services for children of incarcerated parents and assist with family reunification (specific dollar amount left blank in bill).

Amends Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 571-46(a) to establish presumption that custody should be awarded to ensure both parents have equal continuing physical, emotional, and meaningful contact with the child in divorce and custody proceedings, unless court finds clear and convincing evidence otherwise.

Establishes legislative findings that over 1,700,000 minors in the United States have at least one incarcerated parent and that parental incarceration causes traumatic effects including unstable family relationships, poor academic performance, and financial hardship.

Recognizes that supporting children of incarcerated parents and preserving family connections reduces recidivism, decreases intergenerational criminal justice involvement, and improves healthy child development.

Effective date set for July 1, 2050.