Bill Would Allow Electronic TRO
Sen. Robert Bunda (D-Wahiawa, North Shore) introduced a bill last week that would establish a pilot project allowing temporary restraining orders (TRO) to be filed electronically, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
National statistics show that night and weekend filings constitute approximately 40 percent of domestic violence cases, and Senate Bill 2806 would allow persons in potentially-dangerous situations to obtain a TRO during hours when the courts are closed.
The bill was co-introduced by Sen. Will Espero (D-’Ewa Beach, ‘Ewa by Gentry, Ocean Pointe, ‘Ewa Villages, West Loch, Honouliuli, Lower Waipahu) and Sen. Fred Hemmings (R-Kailua, Lanikai, Waimanalo, Hawai’i Kai).
A companion measure was also introduced in the House by Rep. John Mizuno.