HI SB2565

Extends the deadline for the Hawaii Civil Rights Commission to adopt administrative rules conforming state disability discrimination law to the federal Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act of 2008 from December 31, 2010 to twelve months after the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunities Commission publishes final rules in the Federal Register.

Modifies section 368-4, Hawaii Revised Statutes, to clarify that factual matters from complaints may be disclosed unless a witness requests and the commission approves confidentiality.

Establishes criteria for the commission to consider when deciding whether to approve witness confidentiality requests: relevance and materiality of the statement, likelihood the statement could not be obtained without confidentiality, and reasonable fear of serious bodily/economic harm or retaliation.

Designates non-factual investigation records as confidential, including settlement discussions, financial records, attorney communications, investigatory procedures, and confidential witness statements.

Requires the commission to maintain complete complaint records and provide annual statistical reports to the governor and legislature at least thirty days before the legislative session convenes.