HI SB933

Amends Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 586-5(b) to require courts to allow petitioners to attend temporary restraining order (TRO) hearings remotely when allegations include domestic abuse as defined in Section 586-1.

Changes statutory language from requiring parties to "be present at" hearings to "attend" hearings, enabling remote participation for eligible petitioners.

Applies to TRO hearings that must be held within 15 days of a TRO being granted, or within 90 days if service has not been effected.

Addresses concerns that physical presence of alleged abusers in court can cause re-traumatization and intimidation of petitioners, and removes barriers related to transportation, childcare, and work constraints for domestic violence survivors.

Effective upon approval.