S.B. 2223 Summary

• Amends Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 574-5 to allow family courts to change the name of a minor child during divorce proceedings if determined to be in the child's best interest

• Permits either party in a divorce to resume a middle name or last name used before the marriage or civil union, or a name used during any prior marriage or civil union

• Maintains existing restrictions prohibiting covered offenders subject to sex offender registration from obtaining name changes except through limited circumstances (marriage, legitimation, or court orders)

• Requires courts to determine that name changes for covered offenders serve the best interest of justice and do not adversely affect public safety

• Takes effect upon approval