Bill > SB1607

This bill aims to expand the legal protections for farmers and ranchers under Hawaii's castle doctrine by modifying definitions in the state's justifiable use of force law. Specifically, the bill amends the definition of "dwelling" to explicitly include agricultural land used as a residence or place of lodging, and creates a new definition of "place of work" that encompasses agricultural land. The legislation addresses a current legal gap where the existing law did not clearly protect farmers and ranchers from intruders on their agricultural properties. By broadening these definitions, the bill allows individuals working or residing on agricultural land to use force, potentially including deadly force, to defend themselves against intruders without being required to retreat first, similar to protections already in place for traditional homes and workplaces. The bill is motivated by the legislature's recognition of dangerous altercations that farmers and ranchers have experienced with intruders and seeks to provide them with clearer legal protections when defending their property and personal safety.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1607&year=2026