HI SB626

Amends section 84-13 of Hawaii Revised Statutes to clarify that the fair treatment ethics provisions apply to legislators' "official action" only when taken "in the exercise of the legislator's legislative functions."

Removes an unintended exemption created by Act 208 (Session Laws of Hawaii 2012) that allowed legislators serving on task forces to use their official position to secure unwarranted privileges or advantages.

Maintains existing prohibitions against legislators using their position to seek employment, accept improper compensation, misuse state resources, or engage in conflicted financial transactions with subordinates.

Preserves the right of legislators to introduce bills, serve on task forces, and make public disclosures of potential conflicts without ethics violations.

Takes effect upon approval.