HI HB2421

Establishes a three-year women's court pilot program within the first circuit of Hawaii's judiciary to address the distinct pathways that lead women into the criminal justice system using trauma-informed and evidence-based practices.

Program shall provide services including mental health and trauma treatment, family support, life-skills training, education and vocational training, domestic violence prevention, medical services, substance abuse treatment, mentoring, and housing support.

Appropriates $695,236 for fiscal year 2022-2023 to fund equipment, mental health and substance abuse services, and seven temporary positions including one social worker V, four social worker IVs, one circuit court clerk II, and one judicial clerk.

Judiciary must submit reports to the governor and legislature prior to the 2023, 2024, and 2025 legislative sessions detailing program status, participant numbers, completion rates, and recommendations regarding continuation, expansion, or discontinuation.

Act becomes effective July 1, 2022, and sunsets on June 30, 2025.