HI HB398

Clarifies that the Department of Public Safety retains custody and jurisdiction over Hawaii inmates transferred to and incarcerated at out-of-state correctional institutions.

Authorizes the Department of Public Safety to transport Hawaii inmates housed in out-of-state facilities back to Hawaii at any time and for any reason.

Requires that Hawaii inmates incarcerated outside the State receive all rights and privileges available to inmates in Hawaii facilities, whether granted by law, rule, department policy, or other authority.

Addresses concerns about constitutional violations at private out-of-state prisons, including interception of attorney-client communications, violence, and disproportionate impacts on Native Hawaiians.

Effective date: July 1, 3050.