HI HR51

Request the Judiciary to convene a working group to study the effectiveness of existing laws on domestic violence temporary restraining orders (TROs), protective orders (POs), and harassment by stalking in improving victim safety.

Working group composition includes representatives from all four county police departments, all four county prosecuting attorneys, Hawaii State Coalition Against Domestic Violence, Hawaii State Commission on the Status of Women, a nonprofit victim services organization, and a domestic violence/stalking victim from each county.

Study shall analyze issuance and enforcement of TROs and POs, judicial and law enforcement responses to violations, and prosecution and adjudication of harassment by stalking cases, incorporating data from law enforcement, victim services providers, legal practitioners, and individuals who sought protection orders.

Judiciary must submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2027 Regular Session convenes.

Working group shall be dissolved on December 31, 2026.