HI HB2265

Amends Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 571-46(b) to expand the list of factors family courts must consider when determining the best interest of a child in custody cases.

Adds seven new factors to the existing list: child's fears about family situation, new partner's parenting contribution, asset preservation for child support, teaching life skills, child's views and preferences, parental willingness to protect child from inter-parental conflict, and parent's criminal history posing threat to child.

Clarifies that courts are not limited to the enumerated factors and may consider additional relevant criteria in custody determinations.

Retains existing provision that requires clear and convincing evidence of willful misuse of the protection from abuse process under chapter 586 before considering it as a factor in custody decisions.

Takes effect on January 1, 2050.