HawaiiHarassment tied to public servants’ duties is a misdemeanor
People who harass public servants because of, or while they are performing, official duties can face misdemeanor penalties under a law effective July 13, 2026.
What it does
Harassment against a public servant because of, or while they are performing, official duties is a misdemeanor. The person must intend to harass, annoy, or alarm.
Argument forThe misdemeanor penalty may discourage some harassment that threatens public servants’ safety while they carry out government work.
Argument againstA person could face a misdemeanor penalty for conduct covered by the harassment rules when it targets a public servant because of, or during, official duties.
More detail
Harassment is a misdemeanor when committed against a public servant because of, or while that person is performing, official duties. A public servant has the meaning given in section 710-1000 of Hawaii law. The person must intend to harass, annoy, or alarm. The harassment must be because of, or while the public servant is performing, official duties. The law took effect when the governor approved it on July 13, 2026.
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Where it stands
- Introduced
- Adopted
Looking ahead
No hearings or votes scheduled.
History
- 2026
- Jul 14Received.Introduced
Criminal JusticePublic Safety