HI HB1692

Requires members of the clergy to report suspected child abuse or neglect to the Department of Human Services or police, adding them to Hawaii's mandatory reporting law alongside doctors, teachers, social workers, and other professionals.

Defines "member of the clergy" as a minister, pastor, priest, rabbi, Christian Science practitioner, or other similar functionary of any religious organization.

Eliminates the clergy-penitent privilege under Hawaii Rules of Evidence for confidential communications relating to known or suspected abuse or neglect of persons under age eighteen.

Makes the Act effective upon approval, with no retroactive application to rights, duties, penalties, or proceedings that existed before the effective date.