HI HB239

Amends the definition of "child abuse or neglect" in Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 350-1 to exclude situations where a parent or guardian fails to provide adequate food, clothing, shelter, psychological care, physical care, medical care, or supervision solely due to lack of financial resources

Specifies that evidence of a parent requesting support services shall not be considered evidence of child abuse and neglect

Recognizes the distinction between a parent's incapacity to provide for a child due to poverty versus an unwillingness to provide care

Codifies current Department of Human Services practice of not removing children from homes solely based on poverty conditions

Takes effect July 1, 3000 (placeholder date indicating deferred implementation)