HI SR139

Requests the federal government provide supplemental funding to increase compensation for adult corrections officers employed by Hawaii's Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.

Hawaii's adult corrections officer vacancy rate has remained at approximately 24% despite aggressive recruitment efforts, creating a severe staffing shortfall across state correctional facilities.

Low pay relative to Hawaii's high cost of living, combined with demanding and dangerous working conditions, contributes to ongoing attrition and difficulty attracting qualified applicants.

Requests federal funding be structured to support both recruitment and long-term retention through base pay adjustments, differential pay, and other compensation mechanisms.

Directs certified copies be transmitted to the President, Vice President, Congressional leadership, and Hawaii's Congressional delegation.