HI HB2824

Requires distressed property consultants and distressed property purchasers to register with the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs beginning January 1, 2011, prior to conducting business in Hawaii.

Authorizes the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs to adopt rules implementing the registration requirement and to request copies of distressed property consultant contracts and conveyance contracts as part of the registration process.

Clarifies that licensed attorneys engaged in the practice of law in Hawaii are excluded from the definition of "distressed property consultant."

Adds certified public accountants licensed under Hawaii law or lawfully practicing with temporary permits as excluded categories from the distressed property consultant definition.

Effective upon approval; does not affect rights, duties, penalties, or proceedings that commenced before the act's effective date.