Informing the Legislature that on July 9, 2024, the Governor signed the following bill into law: SB3033 HD1 CD1 (ACT 242).

This bill, signed into law on July 9, 2024, amends the Hawaii Revised Statutes to update the definition and language of the crime of tampering with physical evidence. The key change aligns the state's statute with the Model Penal Code by explicitly including the fabrication of false physical evidence alongside the destruction or alteration of real evidence. This update applies to anyone who destroys, conceals, or alters evidence, or introduces false evidence, with the intent to interfere with a pending or upcoming official investigation or legal proceeding. The law clarifies that "physical evidence" covers a broad range of items, including documents, records, and objects of physical substance. Finally, the act specifies that it does not affect cases or penalties that existed before its effective date and takes effect immediately upon approval.