Bill > SB3179

This bill requires the Department of Education and public charter schools to implement new procedures to protect educational workers, defined as any administrator, specialist, counselor, teacher, or employee of the department or a public charter school, or a contractor performing their functions, from harassment. If an educational worker believes they are being harassed by someone not employed by their institution due to their position, they can report it to their supervisor, who must take action such as changing their workstation, developing a safety plan, or granting administrative leave. Educational workers seeking judicial protection, like a temporary restraining order, from such harassment are entitled to paid leave to attend court proceedings, with reimbursement for serving restraining orders but not for attorney fees or court costs. Both the Department of Education and public charter schools must conduct formal internal investigations of harassment claims, report incidents involving potential physical harm to law enforcement within 48 hours, and implement procedures for handling harassment, which must be annually communicated to employees and posted online. They are also mandated to develop written emergency safety plans, considering input from educational workers, and provide annual training on handling harassment and de-escalation techniques.

Education, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=3179&year=2026