SB 2229 Summary

• Establishes the Uniform Power of Attorney Act as a new chapter in Hawaii Revised Statutes, replacing the prior Uniform Durable Power of Attorney Act (Chapter 551D).

• Defines agent authority in powers of attorney, requiring agents to act in good faith, within the scope of granted authority, and in accordance with the principal's reasonable expectations or best interest.

• Specifies that powers of attorney are durable by default (surviving principal's incapacity) unless expressly stated otherwise, and requires signature by the principal or notarization to establish presumption of genuineness.

• Provides detailed authority categories including real property, financial institutions, business operations, insurance, taxes, retirement plans, and gifts, with specific limitations on agent conduct and fiduciary duties.

• Includes statutory form power of attorney templates and repeals Chapter 551D; effective upon approval.