Bill > SB776

This bill establishes a legal framework for supported decision-making agreements in Hawaii, allowing qualified adults (including those with disabilities, mental illness, or who are 65 and older) to voluntarily enter into agreements with trusted individuals who can help them make informed decisions. The bill defines supported decision-making as a process where trusted friends, family members, or professionals assist the qualified adult by helping them understand options, answer questions, and communicate decisions, without making decisions on their behalf. The agreement must be voluntary, signed in the presence of witnesses, and include details such as the specific decisions for which support is requested and terms that protect the qualified adult from coercion. The bill specifies that supporters cannot be compensated and must keep any accessed personal information confidential. The agreement can be terminated by either party at any time and will automatically end if the supporter is found to have abused or mistreated the qualified adult. Importantly, the existence of such an agreement cannot be used as evidence of the adult's incapacity, and persons relying on the agreement in good faith are protected from liability. The goal is to empower qualified adults to maintain their decision-making autonomy while receiving supportive assistance.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=776&year=2026