HI SB3294

Appropriates $200,000 from general revenues for fiscal year 2022-2023 to fund reentry planning circles for incarcerated individuals in Hawaii.

Directs the Department of Public Safety to expend the appropriated funds for reentry planning circles, also known as huikahi restorative circles.

Authorizes reentry planning circles to bring together inmates, their families, and prison staff to develop written transition plans covering housing, employment, and other reentry necessities.

Recognizes that inmates participating in reentry planning circles have significantly lower recidivism rates and that the process helps repair familial relationships and encourage accountability.

Takes effect on July 1, 2022.