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In a move to streamline and improve the arbitration process in Hawaii, new legislation was passed on March 1, 2026, with the aim of making the state’s arbitration system more efficient and effective for all parties involved. The Hawaii State Legislature approved the Arbitration Reform Act, a comprehensive bill that addresses key issues in the arbitration process and aims to enhance the overall arbitration experience in the state.One of the major changes brought about by the new legislation is the establishment of a mandatory pre-arbitration conference for all cases. This conference, which will be facilitated by a neutral arbitrator, will provide parties with the opportunity to discuss their issues, clarify any misunderstandings, and potentially reach a settlement before proceeding to formal arbitration hearings. This pre-arbitration conference is expected to expedite the resolution of disputes and reduce the time and costs associated with arbitration cases.In addition to the mandatory pre-arbitration conference, the Arbitration Reform Act also introduces new rules and procedures aimed at promoting transparency and fairness in the arbitration process. For example, arbitrators will now be required to disclose any potential conflicts of interest before accepting a case, and parties will have the right to challenge the appointment of an arbitrator if they believe there is a bias or conflict of interest.Furthermore, the new legislation includes provisions to expand the pool of qualified arbitrators in Hawaii by establishing a certification program for arbitrators. This program will ensure that arbitrators meet certain standards of training and experience, and will help to ensure that parties have access to competent and qualified arbitrators to hear their cases.Overall, the Arbitration Reform Act is expected to modernize Hawaii’s arbitration system and improve access to justice for parties seeking to resolve their disputes through arbitration. The new legislation is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, and stakeholders are optimistic that it will lead to a more efficient and effective arbitration process in the state.