Informing the Legislature that on June 5, 2026, the Governor signed the following bill into law: HB1962 HD2 SD1 (ACT 089).

This bill, signed into law as Act 089, updates Hawaii statutes to protect individuals alleging domestic abuse from being forced into mediation during family court cases. It applies to parentage, divorce, and child custody proceedings, ensuring that courts cannot require a victim to attend mediation against their wishes. Under the new rules, mediation can only proceed if the alleged victim explicitly agrees and if a specially trained mediator is used to ensure their safety. Additionally, mediators must screen for domestic abuse and cannot conduct sessions if abuse is suspected unless these safety conditions are met. The law also allows parties to bring an attorney or advocate to mediation sessions to support the alleged victim.