Hawaii House Bill HCR126

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/11/22
• Refer: 3/14/22
• Report Pass: 3/31/22
• Engrossed: 3/31/22
• Refer: 4/1/22
• Report Pass: 4/25/22
• Passed: 4/26/22

Caption

Urging All State And County Agencies To Follow The True Intent Of Chapter 201h, Hawaii Revised Statutes, And The Express Provisions Of Section 201h-38, Hawaii Revised Statutes, Rather Than Impose Additional Restrictions And Processes, To Address The Shortage Of Affordable Housing In Hawaii.

Impact

By calling for state and county agencies to reaffirm their commitment to the provisions of Section 201H-38, HCR126 seeks to significantly ease the regulations that hamstring housing development. The resolution points to the urgent need for approximately 50,000 new housing units in Hawaii between 2020 and 2025. It asserts that the imposition of unnecessary bureaucratic processes contributes to high housing prices, thereby further complicating the state's housing crisis. The potential benefits of adherence to this resolution could lead to accelerated housing projects that serve low- to moderate-income families, aligning with the state's goals for affordable living spaces.

Summary

HCR126 is a House Concurrent Resolution urging all state and county agencies in Hawaii to adhere strictly to the intent and provisions of Chapter 201H, Hawaii Revised Statutes, particularly Section 201H-38, which relates to the development of affordable housing. This resolution emphasizes the necessity for agencies to eliminate any additional restrictions that might complicate the process of building affordable housing in the state. The resolution acknowledges the historical context of housing shortages in Hawaii, dating back to the creation of the Hawaii Housing Authority in 1935 and subsequent legislative actions aimed at addressing the rising costs associated with housing development.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HCR126 is largely supportive among those who recognize the need for immediate action to combat Hawaii's housing affordability crisis. Proponents of the bill emphasize the positive implications of relaxed regulations, arguing that it will allow for the creation of more housing opportunities for families struggling to afford living in Hawaii. However, there may be concerns from some community members and advocacy groups about the potential for reduced oversight in housing development, which could impact quality and safety standards if not carefully monitored.

Contention

A point of contention in discussions surrounding HCR126 may arise from the potential resistance by certain state and county agencies to fully implement the intended provisions. The resolution highlights a history of reluctance among these agencies to grant the necessary deference to Chapter 201H provisions, which could hinder the effectiveness of the bill. Furthermore, while the urgency for affordable housing is widely acknowledged, there is dialogue regarding how to balance rapid development with maintaining essential health and safety standards in housing projects.