Hawaii Senate Bill SB2248

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/21/22
• Refer: 1/24/22

Caption

Proposing An Amendment To Article Ix, Section 6, Of The Hawaii State Constitution, To Require The State And Its Political Subdivisions To Plan For The Production Of Sufficient Housing Inventory To Meet Demand In Their Management Of Population Growth.

Impact

If passed, the amendment would significantly influence how housing policies are developed at both the state and local levels. It would compel the state government and its subdivisions to adopt proactive measures in forecasting and responding to housing needs, fostering a more structured approach to urban planning. A shift in will occur in legal frameworks, where adequate housing metrics will become a standard requirement in strategic planning, thus potentially affecting zoning laws, urban development policies, and public resource allocation.

Summary

Senate Bill 2248 proposes an amendment to Article IX, Section 6, of the Hawaii State Constitution, mandating that the state and its political subdivisions plan for the production of sufficient housing inventory to meet demand. This initiative is driven by the pressing need to address housing shortages exacerbated by increasing population growth in Hawaii. By incorporating housing production into population management strategies, the bill aims to ensure public health and welfare are protected through adequate housing availability.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB2248 may arise from the implications of such a mandate on existing local regulations and the potential financial burdens on municipalities tasked with compliance. There could be concerns about the feasibility of rapidly increasing housing inventory to meet projected demand and whether this approach adequately addresses the diverse housing needs across different communities within the state. Moreover, public debate may center around the balance between state oversight and local autonomy in managing community growth and welfare.