HI HB1589

Amends Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 707-711 to add a new subsection (n) making it a class C felony to intentionally or knowingly cause bodily injury to any owner, employee, or agent of a retail mercantile establishment who is engaged in enforcing governmental health or safety requirements related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Establishes prima facie evidence that a person knows they are injuring a retail establishment worker if the worker identifies themselves as such, is wearing identifying clothing or name tag, or is performing typical retail tasks like greeting customers or operating a cash register.

Recognizes that retail workers across the country have faced verbal abuse, threats, and physical violence while enforcing COVID-19 health and safety measures and deserve additional legal protections.

Applies the same protections previously extended to other workers such as correctional officers, educational workers, emergency medical services providers, and health care facility employees.

Takes effect upon approval and does not affect rights, duties, or proceedings that began before the bill's effective date.