HI HB980

Amends Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 346-229(b) to broaden the Department of Human Services' authority to enter vulnerable adult premises without a warrant.

Expands warrantless entry authority from situations involving probable cause of physical injury to any situation where there is probable cause a vulnerable adult will be "subject to imminent abuse" as defined in Section 346-222.

Extends protection to cover all forms of abuse including psychological abuse, sexual abuse, financial exploitation, caregiver neglect, and self-neglect, not just physical abuse.

Authorizes DHS employees investigating vulnerable adult abuse to request police assistance to gain entrance when warrantless entry is needed.

Becomes effective upon approval.