Hawaii's legislature has approved several bills to improve the judicial system. These include a fully funded judiciary budget, the addition of two new district court judge positions, and funding for a new South Kohala courthouse. The First Circuit Women's Court Program in Oʻahu has been made permanent and will expand to Hawaii Island. Other approved initiatives include a two-year pre-litigation eviction mediation pilot program and a program to assist incapacitated individuals who need court resources. Chief Justice Mark E. Recktenwald said, "Their support of our efforts was outstanding," according to the Hawaiʻi State Judiciary.
The state has raised compensation rates for court-appointed attorneys and private examiners in felony cases, correcting a pay gap that persisted for up to two decades. Chief Justice Recktenwald noted, "It is in everyone’s interest to attract and retain highly competent individuals to serve in these capacities." The Senate also appointed eight judges to key positions, including on the Hawaiʻi Intermediate Court of Appeals and in various family and circuit courts. Additionally, funding has been directed toward civil legal services and a new Children’s Justice Center, further supporting those in need, as reported by the Hawaiʻi State Judiciary.
Hawaii's legislature has approved several bills to improve the judicial system. House Bills 280, 396, and 398 support programs like the permanent Community Outreach Court on Oʻahu and expanded family court proceedings. Senate Bills 264 and 825 address issues such as compensating private-sector examiners and creating support roles, as stated by the Hawaiʻi State Judiciary.
