Bill > SB1545

This bill eliminates the existing exemption that previously allowed employees in the legislative and judicial branches of Hawaii's state government to engage in nepotistic employment practices. Currently, state employees are prohibited from hiring, promoting, supervising, or retaining relatives or household members in their agencies, but these restrictions did not apply to legislative and judicial branch employees. The bill would now subject these branches to the same ethical standards as other state agencies, meaning employees cannot appoint, hire, promote, or supervise relatives or household members in their workplace. The bill defines "relative" broadly, including not just immediate family members but also in-laws, step-relations, and even those connected through the traditional Hawaiian hanai custom of informal family adoption. If an employee violates these nepotism rules, they could face administrative fines, and any employment actions taken in violation of the rules could be voided. The bill includes some exceptions, such as when an employee has a physical impairment requiring a specific relative's employment or when the employee discloses the potential conflict and disqualifies themselves from direct official actions affecting the relative. The legislation aims to enhance transparency, accountability, and fairness across all branches of Hawaii's state government.

Government Affairs, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1545&year=2026