HB985 Summary

• Establishes a new class C felony offense of government fraud in Chapter 708, Hawaii Revised Statutes.

• Makes it illegal to intentionally or knowingly engage in a course of conduct using materially false pretenses, representations, or promises to obtain money, property, services, employment, or contracts from the government.

• Defines "material" as a false statement having a natural tendency to influence the decision of the individual or entity receiving it, excluding exaggerated commendations (puffing).

• Does not require proof of reliance by any person as an element of the offense.

• Takes effect upon approval.