On February 5, 2025, the House Committee on Judiciary & Hawaiian Affairs convened a public hearing to discuss House Bill 900, which aims to address critical issues surrounding domestic violence in Hawaii. The meeting highlighted the importance of including diverse voices in legislative discussions, particularly those of domestic violence survivors and advocates.

Dara Carlin, an independent domestic violence survivor advocate, was among the key speakers. She emphasized the necessity of having representation from domestic violence agencies in any working groups or task forces formed as a result of the bill. Carlin argued that without such representation, the perspectives and needs of victims, survivors, and their families could be overlooked. Her call for an amendment to include a representative from these agencies was met with support from other committee members, underscoring the collective recognition of the issue's significance.

The hearing also featured testimony from six individuals, reflecting a community deeply invested in the outcomes of the proposed legislation. The discussions pointed to a growing awareness of the complexities surrounding domestic violence and the need for comprehensive support systems that include survivor voices.

As the committee continues to deliberate on House Bill 900, the inclusion of domestic violence advocates in the legislative process appears to be a pivotal step toward ensuring that the needs of vulnerable populations are adequately addressed. The outcome of this bill could have lasting implications for domestic violence policy and support services in Hawaii, making the committee's next steps crucial for the community's well-being.