HI HB164

Requires arbitrators to disclose "direct and material" financial interests and "substantial" relationships before accepting appointment, clarifying the standard for required disclosures.

Maintains arbitrator's continuing obligation to disclose any facts learned after appointment that could affect impartiality.

Removes the presumption that an arbitrator who fails to disclose a known, direct, and material interest automatically acts with evident partiality; instead allows courts to determine if nondisclosure constitutes evident partiality on a case-by-case basis.

Specifies that if a court determines an arbitrator failed to disclose required facts, the court may vacate the award based on evident partiality under Hawaii arbitration law.

Takes effect July 1, 2050.