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HB 166

RELATING TO THE DEFENSE OF STATE EMPLOYEES.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jackson Sayama

HB 166 mandates the state to provide legal defense for certified state employees sued for job-related actions, ensuring job security and encouraging responsible decision-making.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
#ag #certified #dutytodefend #professionallylicensed #stateemployees
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 166

Summary of HB 166: Relating to the Defense of State Employees

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 166 (HB 166) aims to enhance the legal protections afforded to state employees, particularly those who are certified and professionally licensed. The bill seeks to ensure that these employees receive adequate legal defense when they are sued for actions taken in the course of their official duties. This legislation is designed to support state employees by providing them with the necessary resources to defend themselves against legal claims, thereby promoting job security and encouraging responsible decision-making in their professional roles.

Key Provisions

  • Duty to Defend: The bill establishes a clear obligation for the state to provide legal defense for state employees who are sued for actions performed within the scope of their employment.
  • Coverage for Certified and Professionally Licensed Employees: The provisions specifically target employees who hold certifications or licenses in their respective professions, ensuring they are protected in their specialized roles.
  • Legal Representation: The bill mandates that the state will cover the costs associated with legal representation for these employees, thereby alleviating the financial burden that may arise from legal proceedings.

Affected Parties

  • State Employees: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are state employees who are certified or licensed professionals. This includes individuals working in various sectors such as education, healthcare, and public safety.
  • State Government: The bill also impacts the state government, which will be responsible for funding the legal defense of employees under the provisions of this legislation.

Legislative Timeline and Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: January 14, 2025
  • First Reading: January 16, 2025
  • Committee Review: The bill was referred to the Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs (JHA) Committee and subsequently reported with amendments on February 5, 2025.
  • Second Reading: Passed on February 13, 2025, with no votes against and some representatives excused.
  • Next Steps: Following its passage in the JHA Committee, the bill has been referred to the Finance (FIN) Committee for further consideration.

Related Legislation

  • SB 336: This bill has a companion measure in the Senate, which may address similar issues regarding the defense of state employees.

Conclusion

HB 166 represents a significant step towards safeguarding the interests of state employees by ensuring they have access to legal defense when necessary. By clarifying the state's responsibility to defend its employees, the bill aims to foster a supportive work environment that encourages public service without the fear of personal legal repercussions.

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

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