For years, the Hawaii Government Employees Association has advocated for stronger protections against assault and harassment for Hawaii’s educators. Educational employees across the state can finally breathe a sigh of relief, with the signing of HB 1888 into law this week.
Named after Natalie Iwamoto, associate athletic director at Moanalua High School, the law ensures that violence against school employees will no longer be tolerated.
Iwamoto, a Unit 6 HGEA member, was allegedly assaulted by a parent on campus – an incident caught on camera – after a sporting event. In the wake of the assault and public outcry, our union demanded swift action be taken to protect all employees.
The new legislation elevates harassment to a misdemeanor when it is committed against a public servant because of, or during, the performance of their official duties.
Standing alongside Iwamoto at the bill signing was former state Department of Education Communications Director Lindsay Chambers. Her brave trailblazing efforts after her own experience with harassment years earlier helped pave the way for this legislation.
Chambers was among the many dedicated advocates who worked tirelessly to ensure Natalie’s Law crossed the finish line.