S.B. 1244 Summary

• Defines "serious crime" as murder or attempted murder in the first or second degree, class A felony, or class B or C felony involving violence or threat of violence.

• Allows courts to deny bail for serious crimes if the court determines there is serious risk that the person will flee, obstruct justice, pose danger to others, or engage in illegal activity.

• Requires the judicial council to appoint a committee to review the Hawaii penal code and recommend revisions regarding mandatory sentencing provisions, drug offense decriminalization, and alternative sentencing options.

• Committee must include representatives from judiciary, legislature, prosecution, defense, law enforcement, advocacy groups, and private citizens; committee must report findings to governor and legislature by 20 days before the 2022 regular session.

• Takes effect July 1, 2025.