HI SB40

Creates civil liability for persons who knowingly cause law enforcement to contact another person based on protected characteristics (race, color, ancestry, ethnicity, national origin, place of birth, sex, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity) with intent to infringe rights, discriminate, harass, expel them from lawful locations, damage reputation, or harm financial/business interests.

Allows injured persons to bring civil action for injunctive relief, damages (including punitive damages), and other appropriate relief; courts must enjoin violations without requiring proof of actual damages.

Establishes minimum damages of $1,000 plus attorneys' fees and costs for successful plaintiffs.

Requires the Department of the Attorney General, in consultation with the Hawaii Civil Rights Commission, to provide public guidance on civil liability and remedies under this Act (responsibility transfers to Department of Law Enforcement effective January 1, 2024).

Takes effect upon approval.