HI HB448

Allows minors 16 years of age or older to petition for domestic abuse protective orders on their own behalf without parental or legal guardian consent.

Allows emancipated minors to petition for domestic abuse protective orders under section 577-25.

Amends section 586-3(b) of Hawaii Revised Statutes to add two new categories of eligible petitioners for domestic abuse protective orders.

Addresses concerns that adolescents in abusive relationships may be reluctant to seek parental help and need independent access to protective orders.

Becomes effective upon approval.