HI HB996

Abolishes joint and several liability for government entities in claims relating to maintenance and design of highways, including guardrails, utility poles, street signs, and directional signs under Hawaii Revised Statutes chapter 663.

Limits government entity liability to only the percentage share of damages actually attributable to the government entity, rather than full joint and several liability.

Amends section 663-10.5(a) to remove the exception that previously retained joint and several liability for government entities in highway-related tort claims.

Removes the prior provision (section 663-10.9(4)) that allowed joint and several liability for noneconomic damages in highway-related motor vehicle accidents when the government entity had reasonable prior notice of similar occurrences.

Takes effect upon approval; does not affect rights, duties, or proceedings that began before the effective date.