Hawaii · 2026 Regular Session · Bill
HB 12: RELATING TO TORT LIABILITY.
In committee Official data
- Introduced
- In committee
- Passed one chamber
- Passed both chambers
- Enacted
Last official action: ·Record last updated:
Plain-language summary
HB 12 is a bill introduced in the Hawaii House on January 9, 2025. According to its official title, it concerns: RELATING TO TORT LIABILITY. Primary sponsor: Sam Kong (Democratic). Most recent recorded action (December 8, 2025): Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
Generated automatically from the official title, sponsor list, and status record only. It does not characterize the bill’s purpose or effects. How summaries are written
Official summary
Abstract published by the legislature (via Open States). Text as published by the legislature; reproduced verbatim.
Clarifies that persons who enter private property for recreational purposes have no cause of action, unless exempted under law. Requires courts to award attorneys' fees and costs to landowners if plaintiffs bring unreasonable actions. Establishes, as a matter of law, that persons participating in outdoor recreational activities accept the inherent risks, dangers, or hazards in the activities. Clarifies the definitions for "recreational purpose" and "recreational user".
Sponsors
Sponsors by party (alphabetical): Democratic 1
| Name | Role | Party | Chamber | District |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sam Kong | Primary sponsor | Democratic | House | 33 |
“Support” is shown only as formal sponsorship recorded by the legislature. Roll-call votes are available on the official bill page.
Recent official actions
- Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
- The committee(s) on WAL recommend(s) that the measure be deferred.
- Bill scheduled to be heard by WAL on Tuesday, 01-28-25 9:00AM in House conference room 411 VIA VIDEOCONFERENCE.
- Referred to WAL, JHA, FIN, referral sheet 1
- Introduced and Pass First Reading.
- Prefiled.