Bill > HB1098

This bill amends Hawaii's criminal statutes to expand protections for protective services workers, specifically those employed by the Department of Human Services who investigate or provide services in response to child abuse, neglect, or abuse of vulnerable adults. The bill adds a new provision to the assault in the second degree statute that makes it a class C felony to intentionally or knowingly cause bodily injury to a protective services worker while they are performing their job duties. Additionally, the bill modifies the terroristic threatening in the first degree statute to include protective services workers as a type of public servant who receives special legal protection when threats are made against them in connection with their official duties. These changes aim to provide enhanced legal safeguards for social workers, case managers, and other professionals who work in sensitive and potentially dangerous situations involving child and adult protection services. The bill will take effect upon its approval and does not retroactively impact rights, penalties, or proceedings that occurred before its implementation.

Health and Social Services, Housing and Urban Affairs, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1098&year=2025