HI SB2244

Clarifies that the Hawaii Civil Rights Commission has jurisdiction over disability discrimination claims under section 368-1.5, Hawaii Revised Statutes, even when federal protections under section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act also apply.

Removes the word "solely" from section 368-1.5(a) to broaden protections for individuals with disabilities in state-funded programs and activities.

Adds a new subsection defining "program or activity receiving state financial assistance" to explicitly include programs receiving both federal and state financial assistance.

Excludes cases within the scope of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (P.L. 101-476) from the Hawaii Civil Rights Commission's jurisdiction to avoid duplication of services and appeals processes.

Takes effect upon approval and overrides the Hawaii Supreme Court's 2017 decision in Hawaii Technology Academy v. L.E. that had restricted the Commission's jurisdiction over disability discrimination claims.