What's Being Discussed

The Juvenile Justice State Advisory Council (JJSAC) Policy Sub-Committee will meet on Thursday, July 9, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. The main focus is reviewing and discussing seven draft state House Bills related to youth justice reform:

• HB 0102: Would require the Department of Education to offer online classes and credit transfers for youth at the Hawaii Youth Correctional Facility, and require trauma-informed care training from the Department of Health.
• HB 0103: Would give the Office of Youth Services (OYS) oversight of all state contracts with community-based youth residential programs.
• HB 0104: Would require OYS to create a grant program for organizations wanting to run small residential facilities for youth who have been through the court system.
• HB 0105: Would establish and fund a Youth Residential Care Oversight Board.
• HB 0106: Would create a scholarship and loan forgiveness program through the University of Hawaii for workers in youth residential services.
• HB 0107: Would launch the Close to Home Hawaii Pilot Program within OYS, keeping youth closer to their families and communities.
• HB 0108: Would create a Youth Justice Transition Special Fund within OYS to support reform efforts.

Decisions Expected

The committee will review and discuss all seven draft bills. No formal votes on legislation are expected at this meeting, but the committee may provide feedback or recommendations on the proposals. The next meeting dates for the coming fiscal year will also be confirmed.

Who Should Pay Attention

• Parents and families of youth involved in the juvenile justice system
• Youth advocacy and community organizations
• Social workers, educators, and healthcare providers working with at-risk youth
• Anyone interested in juvenile justice reform in Hawaii