Bill > HB1961

This bill establishes new protections for health care facilities in Hawaii, making it illegal for any person to intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly interfere with another person's access to or from a health care facility or to disrupt its normal functioning. This interference can include physically blocking passage, making repeated calls to impede phone lines, or threatening injury to people or property associated with the facility, though exceptions are made for labor demonstrations or the right to strike. Violators face criminal penalties, including fines and jail time, with escalating punishments for repeat offenses, and are classified as committing a "petty misdemeanor," a less serious criminal offense. The bill also creates a "private right of action," allowing an "aggrieved party" – defined as someone present at the facility whose access or care is obstructed, or the facility itself, its employees, or owners – to sue for an injunction to stop further violations and recover damages, even without proving actual financial loss. The Attorney General is also authorized to seek court orders to prevent violations. These criminal and civil penalties are in addition to any other legal remedies available.

Health and Social Services, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1961&year=2026