HI SB416

Increases per diem payment for witnesses traveling from outside Hawaii from $200 to $250 per 24-hour day.

Increases per diem payment for witnesses traveling from other Hawaii islands requiring overnight stay from $145 to $195 per 24-hour day.

Establishes new provisions for expert witness compensation, allowing reasonable fees for testimony, consultation, and preparation in addition to travel reimbursement.

Expert witnesses traveling from outside the State receive actual round-trip airfare plus $250 per 24-hour day; those from other islands receive actual round-trip airfare plus $55 per day, or $55 plus $195 additional per day if overnight stay required.

Defines "expert witness" as any witness subpoenaed for specialized knowledge, skill, experience, training, or education to assist court proceedings in criminal cases.