STAND. COM. REP. NO. 972

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: S.B. No. 871

S.D. 1

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2025

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Judiciary, to which was referred S.B. No. 871, S.D. 1, entitled:

"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO ARSON,"

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose and intent of this measure is to:

(1) Authorize periods of imprisonment for individuals with previous arson convictions;

(2) Authorize additional penalties for arson crimes that endanger vulnerable areas; and

(3) Require restitution for victims of arson who experienced property damage.

Your Committee received testimony in support of this measure from the Honolulu Police Department and one individual.

Your Committee received comments on this measure from the Department of the Attorney General.

Your Committee finds that protecting communities statewide from dangerous activities is of paramount importance. While existing law provides for penalties for repeat offenders convicted of arson-related offenses, these provisions are insufficient to deter would-be offenders. Further, existing provisions may not be commensurate with the consequences incurred by the local community that must seek restitution. Therefore, enhanced penalties, including longer mandatory minimum sentences, may deter individuals from engaging in arson. This measure prioritizes public safety while deterring individuals from engaging in dangerous activities.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Judiciary that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of S.B. No. 871, S.D. 1, and recommends that it pass Third Reading.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Judiciary,

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KARL RHOADS, Chair