HI HB580

Expands the victim-counselor privilege under Hawaii Rules of Evidence to include confidential advocates designated by the University of Hawaii pursuant to section 304A-120

Adds dating violence, stalking, and sexual harassment to the list of issues covered under victim-counselor privilege (previously only covered sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse)

Defines a confidential advocate as a University of Hawaii-designated person who must complete a minimum of 35 hours of training and whose primary function is providing advice, counseling, or assistance to victims

Increases the minimum training requirement for domestic violence victims' counselors from 25 hours to 35 hours to align with sexual assault counselor and confidential advocate standards

Takes effect upon approval