Bill > SB2567

This bill establishes a two-year pilot project, effective January 1, 2077, and concluding on June 30, 2028, to address increasing harassment against public employees. It amends existing law to allow "public employers," which include the State, its political subdivisions, federal agencies, and public corporations, to petition courts for temporary restraining orders and injunctions against harassment directed at "public servants." Public servants are broadly defined to include elected officials, legislative and judicial branch employees, and certain federal judges residing in or with ties to the state. The bill clarifies that this authorization for public employers to seek protection is discretionary and does not create a duty or a private right of action against the state or public employers for decisions made regarding these petitions. It also appropriates funds to the Department of the Attorney General to establish a system for retaining private attorneys to represent public employers in these cases, with specific provisions for the judiciary to use its own funds or staff attorneys.

Justice, Labor and Employment

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=2567&year=2026