HI SB497

Repeals the privacy exemption in Hawaii Revised Statutes section 92F-14 that previously shielded county police department officers' misconduct records from public disclosure.

Requires disclosure of police officer employment misconduct information resulting in suspension or discharge, including the officer's name, nature of misconduct, agency summary of allegations, findings of fact, and disciplinary action taken.

Changes the waiting period for disclosure of county police officer misconduct from 30 calendar days to 90 calendar days after a final written decision sustaining suspension or discharge is issued.

Applies the same public disclosure standards to police officers as to all other government employees, ensuring police misconduct records are treated equivalently to those of other public sector workers.

Takes effect upon approval and addresses concerns raised by the September 2014 incident involving a Honolulu police sergeant accused of domestic violence, which sparked criticism about inconsistent disciplinary practices within the department.