HI HCR81

Requests the State Auditor to conduct an audit of child custody proceedings involving family violence allegations to assess use and application of Section 571-46, Hawaii Revised Statutes.

Addresses concerns that Family Court judges may not be correctly applying or enforcing Section 571-46(a)(9)-(14), which addresses family violence in child custody disputes.

Recognizes that psychological abuse is a damaging form of domestic violence that leaves little evidence and that custody litigation often provides perpetrators with means to continue abuse.

Received testimony in support from the Angel Group, Hawaii Children's Rights Council, and concerned individuals, while the Hawaii State Bar Association opposed the resolution.

Committee on Human Services concurs with the intent and purpose and recommends referral to the Committee on Judiciary.