Hawai‘i Law Affirms Decision-Making Rights For People With I/DD

On July 3, 2025, the state of Hawai’i enacted a law that establishes the legal principle that adults and emancipated minors living with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) can maintain assisted decision-making autonomy as an alternative to court-imposed guardianship arrangements. 

Act 284 (previously House Bill 320) enables adults with I/DD to select trusted individuals—including relatives, friends, or service provider organizations—to help them comprehend, evaluate, and express their choices, while preserving their legal authority to make final decisions independently as part of supported decision-making agreements.

Written documentation of supported decision-making agreements is required . . .