HI HB1449

Amends Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 580-11 to require courts to issue a temporary custody order upon request of either party during a divorce or separation proceeding, effective until a final order is awarded or the action concludes.

Establishes that if parties live in the same county or school district, custody and visitation shall be shared equally as the default arrangement.

Permits courts to deviate from equal custody sharing if a party is unable to provide for the best interest of minor children or if there is evidence of past or current spousal abuse or family violence between the parties or by a party in the presence of the children.

Specifies that temporary custody orders remain in effect during the pendency of the divorce or separation action and become final if no other custody proceeding commences during that time.

Takes effect upon approval.