Action Alert: Support Pretrial Reform
Support HB2413- Relating to Pretrial Reform
Hearing in Senate Committee on Judiciary on Tuesday, April 7, 2026 at 10:15 am; Conference Room 16 & Zoom
(Decision making Hearing: Only Written Testimony Accepted)
Why Support HB2413?
HB 2413 is a step toward a more fair, evidence-based pretrial system in Hawaiʻi. Many people remain in jail before trial not because they are dangerous, but because they cannot afford bail. Even a short time in jail can cause people to lose jobs, housing, or custody of their children and can increase the likelihood of future arrests.
The bill would prioritize release for eligible nonviolent offenses while maintaining judicial discretion and public safety protections. It does not eliminate bail, but encourages courts to use non-monetary conditions when appropriate.
Why this bill matters:
Protects the presumption of innocence by reducing detention based solely on ability to pay
Reduces jail overcrowding - about 50-70% of people in Hawaiʻi jails are pretrial detainees
Saves taxpayer dollars - jail costs over $300 per person per day, while community supervision costs far less
Supports safer communities by avoiding unnecessary pretrial detention
Follows successful reforms in states like Illinois and New Jersey that reduced jail populations without increasing crime.
What Does This Bill Do?
Creates a presumption of release for many low-risk, nonviolent offenses
Encourages non-monetary release conditions instead of cash bail
Allows detention when someone poses a real safety or flight risk
Overall, HB 2413 helps reduce unnecessary incarceration while maintaining community safety.
Sample Testimony
Dear Chair Rhoads, Vice Chair Gabbard and Members of the Committee:
I am writing in support of H.B. 2413, H.D. 1 S.D. 1 Relating to Pretrial Reform. Many people locked up in our overcrowded jails are accused but not convicted of any crime simply because they cannot afford money bail.
Other states have successfully enacted pretrial reforms and saved taxpayer dollars by investing in robust pretrial services in the community instead of locking people up while awaiting their day in court. It’s time for Hawai'i to make similar changes to our two-tiered system of justice based on wealth and implement pretrial“best practices.” This will increase fundamental fairness in our criminal legal system and reduce the number of legally innocent people held in our jails without compromising community safety.
Please pass H.B. 2413, H.D. 1 S.D. 1 Relating to Pretrial Reform.
Thank you,
Name
Town, Island
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Mahalo for taking action!
