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HRS §844D-82

Who can see DNA and other forensic identification information

This section explains how the state keeps DNA and other forensic identification information private. It says this information is not part of a person's general criminal history, but the fact that samples were collected can be included. Only certain law enforcement people can see the information, and defense lawyers need a court order.

courtsstate agencies

The statute, as written — Confidentiality

(a) Non-DNA forensic identification information may be filed with the other computerized data bank or database systems maintained by the department. (b) The DNA and other forensic identification information retained by the department pursuant to this chapter shall not be included in the state summary criminal history information. However, nothing in this chapter precludes law enforcement personnel from entering into a person's criminal history information or offender file maintained by the department, the fact that the specimens, samples, or print impressions required by this chapter have or have not been collected from that person. (c) The fact that the specimens, samples, or print impressions required by this chapter have been received by the department shall be included in the state summary criminal history information as soon as administratively practicable. (d) The print impressions of each hand shall be filed and maintained by the department of the attorney general, and may be included in the state summary criminal history information. (e) DNA samples, DNA profiles, and other forensic identification information shall be released only to law enforcement agencies, including but not limited to the department of the attorney general, parole officers of the department of corrections and rehabilitation, hearing officers of the parole authority, probation officers, the department, and prosecuting attorneys' offices, unless otherwise specifically authorized [by] this chapter. (f) Dissemination of DNA specimens, samples, and DNA profiles, and other forensic identification information to law enforcement agencies and prosecutors outside this State shall be performed in conformity with the provisions of this chapter. (g) A defendant's DNA and other forensic identification information developed pursuant to this chapter shall be available to the person's defense counsel upon court order. (h) Except as provided in subsection (g) and to protect the confidentiality and privacy of state DNA database and data bank identification program information, the department and DNA laboratories shall not otherwise be compelled in a criminal or civil proceeding to provide any DNA profile or database or data bank information, or information on its computer database program software or structures to any person or party seeking such records or information whether by subpoena or discovery, or other procedural device or inquiry.
Read the official text at capitol.hawaii.gov ↗as published Jan 6, 2026our copy taken Aug 20, 2026

LawTrove is not legal advice. The summary above is a computer-generated restatement — the authoritative text is the official version linked above.