Director of corrections and rehabilitation; powers and duties.

(a) The director shall be responsible for the formulation and implementation of state goals and objectives for correctional programs, including ensuring that correctional facilities and correctional services meet the present and future needs of persons committed to the correctional facilities. In the administration of these programs, the director may:

(1) Train, equip, maintain, and supervise correctional personnel and other employees of the department;

(2) Perform other duties as may be required by law;

(3) Adopt, pursuant to chapter 91, rules that are necessary or desirable for the administration of corrections; and

(4) Enter into contracts on behalf of the department and take all actions deemed necessary and appropriate for the proper and efficient administration of the department, including contracts for the custody and care of Hawaii inmates housed outside of the State.

(b) The department of corrections and rehabilitation shall report to the legislature not later than twenty days prior to the commencement of the regular session of 2024, and every session thereafter, with its achievements, continuing improvements, and ongoing problems in providing the appropriate mental health care to committed persons under its jurisdiction. [L 2022, c 278, pt of §18]