SB2166 Summary

• Amends Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 383-7.6 to establish that individuals who are victims of domestic or sexual violence have good cause for not accepting otherwise suitable, available work if they reasonably believe the employment will subject them to unreasonable risk of violence.

• Expands the definition of "compelling family reason" for job separation to include domestic or sexual violence verified by reasonable and confidential documentation, encompassing stalking, fear of future violence at work, relocation anxiety, need for treatment, and employer refusal to grant protective leave.

• Specifies acceptable documentation forms including notarized statements from the victim, signed statements from victim services organizations, attorneys, advocates, or medical professionals, and police or court records demonstrating risk of further violence.

• Requires strict confidentiality by employers and the department regarding all information related to domestic or sexual violence claims, with limited exceptions for court orders or employee consent.

• Takes effect July 1, 2010.