HI SB2970

Prohibits state agencies from contracting for goods, services, or construction with businesses owned, operated, or controlled by relatives or household members of directors or deputy directors of principal state departments.

Defines "relative" broadly to include parents, grandparents, children, siblings, in-laws, first cousins, and individuals who have become family through the Hawaiian hanai custom.

Requires directors, acting directors, and deputy directors of principal state departments to ensure all department contracts comply with ethics provisions governing contract conduct.

Holds directors, acting directors, or deputy directors personally accountable for any violations, with assessments made against whoever held the position when the violation occurred.

Takes effect January 1, 2525.