HI HB438

Establishes the Due Process in Immigration Proceedings Program to be administered by the Hawaii Judiciary to provide legal representation to individuals facing immigration court proceedings regardless of ability to pay.

Authorizes the Judiciary to contract with nonprofit organizations, legal service providers, and other entities to implement the program and provide services including deportation defense, asylum applications, and other immigration relief processes.

Sets eligibility criteria requiring individuals to be State residents with income at or below 250 percent of the federal poverty level for Hawaii, with exceptions allowed for extraordinary circumstances.

Requires contracted entities to prioritize services for detained individuals and those at risk of deportation, partner with community organizations for culturally and linguistically appropriate services, and collaborate with the University of Hawaii at Manoa William S. Richardson School of Law for training legal practitioners.

Mandates annual reporting to the legislature on program outcomes including number of individuals served, case types, case outcomes, pending case duration, and recommendations for improving access to legal representation.