Bill > SB2244

This bill amends existing state law to prohibit nepotism, which is the practice of favoring relatives or friends in employment or other official actions, for legislators and employees of the legislative and judicial branches, bringing them under the same ethical standards as other state employees. Specifically, it prevents legislators and these employees from appointing, hiring, promoting, or supervising relatives or household members in their employing agency, with limited exceptions for ministerial acts or when a physical impairment necessitates employing a specific relative. It also prohibits them from awarding contracts to businesses where a relative or household member has a substantial ownership interest or is an executive officer, unless specific disclosure and notification procedures are followed. The bill defines "household member" as someone residing in the same dwelling and "relative" broadly to include various familial relationships, including those established through the Hawaiian hanai custom. Violations can result in administrative fines, and any favorable action obtained in violation of these rules may be voided. This change is intended to enhance transparency and fairness across all branches of state government and will take effect on June 30, 2027.

Government Affairs, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=2244&year=2026