HI SB1144

Exempts University of Hawaii faculty and professional/technical staff from the state ethics code (Chapter 84, Hawaii Revised Statutes) while engaged in technology transfer activities.

Requires exempt staff to comply with a regulatory framework and research compliance program approved by the University of Hawaii Board of Regents that incorporates ethical research principles and policies used by the U.S. federal government, including provisions on gifts, confidential information, use of position, contracts, post-employment activities, and financial disclosures.

Requires the Board of Regents to submit written reports to the legislature every two years (no later than twenty days before the regular session) on the development and implementation of its compliance program and on the status of the university's technology transfer activities.

Defines "technology transfer activities" as the process of transferring scientific findings from the public sector to the private sector for commercial development, including joint ventures, patent/copyright protection, commercialization strategies, and related activities.

Sunsets on June 30, 2025.