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Bill Summary · HB 391

Legislative bill overview

HB 391 relates to the interception of wire, oral, or electronic communications in Hawaii, though the specific provisions are not detailed in the available legislative history. The bill was introduced by Rep. Nadine Nakamura and has progressed through initial procedural steps before being carried over to the 2026 legislative session.

Why is this important

Laws governing communications interception directly affect privacy rights, law enforcement capabilities, and the balance between public safety and individual privacy. Hawaii residents and businesses operating in the state are impacted by how strictly wiretapping, phone monitoring, and digital surveillance are regulated under state law.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of law enforcement authority – Whether existing interception powers are too broad or insufficiently constrained by judicial oversight and warrants
  • Digital privacy protections – How the law addresses modern electronic communications (texts, encrypted apps, social media) versus traditional phone calls
  • Consent and notification requirements – Whether individuals must be informed of interceptions and under what circumstances consent is required versus judicial authorization alone

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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