Native Hawaiians are overrepresented in prison and in every other stage of the criminal justice system.  That's according to a recent study by the Office of Hawaiian Affairs and Justice Policy Institute.

Click here for the full report.

A nine-member task force has announced 38 recommendations aimed at making significant changes to the problem.

In a recent study by OHA, Native Hawaiians make up 40 percent of those incarcerated and typically spend more time in jail.

"This is a tragic reality that cannot be denied," said Michael Broderick, chairman of the Native Hawaiian Justice Task Force.

"Is this a priority for the legislature?  If it’s a priority for the legislature, they will fund it."

- Michael Broderick, Native Hawaiian Justice Task Force chairman

In an effort to turn the numbers around, the state legislature created a Native Hawaiian Justice Task Force.

Statewide meetings over the summer and interviews with inmates were compiled into a 28-page report.

"Our report, although a good start, is just that.  A good start," said Broderick.

Among the 38 recommendations: