Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SB3015

Introduced
1/23/26  
Refer
1/30/26  
Report Pass
2/20/26  

Caption

Relating To Personal Information.

Impact

If enacted, SB3015 would impose strict regulations on how government entities handle personal information, explicitly preventing them from making such information publicly accessible unless exempted by federal or state laws. It also allows individuals to report instances of publicly accessible personal information and compels the relevant entities to take corrective action within a specified timeframe. The legislation establishes legal repercussions for noncompliance, instituting statutory penalties and creating a cause of action for individuals seeking enforcement of their privacy rights. Annual reporting requirements would hold government entities accountable for their compliance with the law.

Summary

SB3015 is a legislative proposal aimed at enhancing the security and privacy of personally identifiable information (PII) held by government entities in Hawaii. The bill addresses increasing concerns regarding the misuse of PII for identity theft, financial fraud, and other cybersecurity threats. By standardizing and modernizing definitions and protections for PII, this legislation seeks to mitigate risks associated with publicly accessible government information systems. It emphasizes protecting sensitive information in the wake of evolving technological realities, particularly with the growth of artificial intelligence systems that could inadvertently disseminate personal data.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding SB3015 is largely supportive among those advocating for enhanced privacy measures and data protection. Proponents of the bill argue that it is a necessary step toward safeguarding individual privacy and rebuilding public trust in government data management practices. However, there may also be contention regarding the practical implications of restricting access to government records and the potential challenges posed to transparency and governmental efficiency.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB3015 include the balance between public access to government information and the protection of individual privacy rights. Critics may argue that restrictions on the public availability of data could hinder governmental transparency and accountability. Furthermore, the implementation of stringent data security measures may present resource challenges for smaller government entities that may struggle to comply with new regulations. This divide highlights an ongoing debate about the extent to which government should prioritize individual privacy over transparency.

Companion Bills

HI HB1935

Same As Relating To Personal Information.

Previously Filed As

HI SB1341

Relating To Energy Industry Information Reporting.

HI SB1038

Relating To Privacy.

HI SB318

Relating To Genetic Information.

HI SB451

Relating To Persons With Disabilities.

HI SB100

Relating To Intoxicating Liquor.

HI SB1451

Relating To Critical Infrastructure.

HI SB1255

Relating To Government Records.

HI SB1446

Relating To Parking For Disabled Persons.

HI SB1491

Relating To Departmental Data Sharing.

HI SB1651

Relating To Public Meetings.

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