SB 1248 - Cranston Duke Pia Act Summary

• Establishes a new self-defense law allowing individuals on agricultural land to use deadly force without a duty to retreat, provided they are not engaged in criminal activity, have a legal right to be present, and were not the original aggressor.

• Amends Hawaii Revised Statutes Chapter 703 to add a new section permitting actors to "stand their ground" on agricultural land and justifiably use deadly force in self-protection.

• Modifies Section 703-304 to clarify that the duty to retreat does not apply on agricultural land, similar to existing exceptions for dwellings and places of work.

• Named in honor of rancher Cranston Duke Pia, who was fatally shot in 2024 during a confrontation with an intruder whose dogs were attacking Pia's cattle.

• Takes effect upon approval and does not affect rights, duties, or proceedings that existed before the law's effective date.