HI SB569

Clarifies legislative intent that the Hawaii Civil Rights Commission has jurisdiction over disability discrimination claims under HRS §368-1.5 even when federal Section 504 Rehabilitation Act protections apply.

Adds new subsection (d) to HRS §368-1.5 explicitly stating that "program or activity receiving state financial assistance" includes programs that also receive federal financial assistance.

Removes the word "solely" from HRS §368-1.5(a) to broaden the scope of disability discrimination protections under state law.

Excludes claims cognizable under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) from the Hawaii Civil Rights Commission's jurisdiction to avoid duplication of services and appeals processes in public and charter schools.

Takes effect upon approval and responds to the Hawaii Supreme Court's 2017 decision in Hawaii Technology Academy v. L.E., which had limited the Commission's jurisdiction over disability discrimination claims.