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Hawaii's Panic Button Program Delayed Amid Scrutiny

3/6/2026

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Story summary
  • Hawaii's Department of Education faces delays implementing a $7 million panic button program started two years ago, with only one school receiving buttons not yet in use.
  • SaferWatch, the contracted provider, is under federal scrutiny for misconduct by its former CEO.
  • The Department of Education is negotiating with employee unions and finalizing law-enforcement agreements on usage.
  • Costs remain undetermined as the state plans to buy more buttons and install cameras.