HI HR143

Urges Hawaii's Judiciary to partner with supporting agencies and request grant funds under the Victims of Crime Act to establish restorative justice programs in each county.

Authorizes restorative justice participation for both victims and offenders who voluntarily participate, with offenders required to admit to the crime.

Identifies restorative justice benefits including crime reduction, decreased recidivism, diversion from criminal justice system, reduced court backlogs, and increased victim satisfaction.

References successful pilot programs in Hawaii including Pono Kaulike on Oahu and the Restorative Justice Program of the Hawaii County Prosecuting Attorney's Office.

Requires certified copies of the resolution be transmitted to the Chief Justice of the Hawaii Supreme Court and each county prosecutor.