HCR55

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES	H.C.R. NO.	55
THIRTY-THIRD LEGISLATURE, 2025
STATE OF HAWAII

HOUSE CONCURRENT

RESOLUTION

requesting the judiciary to conduct a study analyzing HOW EFFECTIVE existing LAWS ON domestic violence temporary restraining orders and harassment by stalking are in preventing continued abuse and HARASSMENT.

WHEREAS, domestic violence and stalking continue to be pervasive and serious public safety concerns affecting individuals and families throughout the State; and

WHEREAS, temporary restraining orders (TROs) serve as a critical legal tool by providing immediate protection for victims of domestic violence and harassment by stalking; and

WHEREAS, concerns have been raised regarding the effectiveness of the laws on domestic violence temporary restraining orders and harassment by stalking in preventing continued abuse and harassment; and

WHEREAS, it is essential to evaluate whether these laws are adequately protecting victims, whether enforcement mechanisms are sufficient, and whether additional legislative measures may be necessary to enhance their effectiveness; and

WHEREAS, a comprehensive study conducted by the Judiciary would provide valuable data and insights into the strengths and weaknesses of these legal protections, including the rate of compliance, enforcement challenges, and victim outcomes; and

WHEREAS, such a study should consider feedback from key stakeholders, including law enforcement agencies, victim advocacy organizations, the legal community, and individuals impacted by domestic violence and stalking; and

WHEREAS, findings and recommendations from the study could inform potential legislative improvements to better safeguard victims and prevent future harm; now, therefore,

BE IT RESOLVED by the House of Representatives of the Thirty-third Legislature of the State of Hawaii, Regular Session of 2025, the Senate concurring, that the Judiciary is requested to conduct a study analyzing how effective the existing laws on domestic violence temporary restraining orders and harassment by stalking are in preventing continued abuse and harassment; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the study is requested to include an analysis of the issuance, enforcement, and impact of temporary restraining orders, as well as an examination of the prosecution and adjudication of harassment by stalking cases; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the study is requested to incorporate data from law enforcement agencies, victim services providers, legal practitioners, and individuals who have sought protective orders; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Judiciary is requested to submit a report of its findings and recommendations, including any proposed legislation, to the Legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the Regular Session of 2026; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that certified copies of this Concurrent Resolution be transmitted to the Chief Justice, Administrative Director of the Courts, Attorney General, and Executive Director of the Hawaii State Coalition Against Domestic Violence.

	OFFERED BY:	_____________________________