HI HCR171

Urges the Department of Public Safety to recognize the value of culture-based rehabilitation activities in Hawaii's correctional system and increase their use and access.

Requests the Hawaii Paroling Authority promote inmate participation in culture-based rehabilitation activities and provide appropriate credit for parole decision purposes.

Requires any new state correctional facility to include specific space and facilities designed for culture-based rehabilitation activities.

Acknowledges that Native Hawaiians are disproportionately impacted by the criminal justice system and that culture-based programs (such as hula, oli, Hawaiian language, and religious ceremonies) have demonstrated transformative rehabilitation benefits for inmates.

References the documentary "Out of State" which documented the positive impacts of culture-based rehabilitation on Hawaii-born inmates serving sentences in Arizona prisons.