Relating To Third-party Review Services.
If enacted, SB2447 will amend the Hawaii Revised Statutes to establish a new chapter dedicated to third-party review services. A licensing board will be created under the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, composed of experienced professional engineers and architects. The board will have the authority to set licensure requirements, renew licenses, enforce compliance, and take disciplinary actions against licensed providers that violate the established rules. This measure is expected to increase accountability among entities providing review services, thereby potentially improving the quality and reliability of project evaluations.
Senate Bill 2447, introduced in the Thirty-First Legislature of Hawaii, proposes the establishment of a third-party review services licensing program. This initiative aims to create an independent framework for reviewing proposed plans, specifications, and permit applications related to residential, commercial, and industrial development projects. By ensuring compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws, the bill seeks to enhance the oversight of development practices in Hawaii, aiming to protect public interest and streamline the permitting process.
Notable points of contention surrounding SB2447 include concerns regarding the establishment of the recovery fund, which allows individuals harmed by negligent acts of licensed review service providers to seek compensation. The $10,000 capping on recoverable amounts raises questions about sufficiency and fairness in protecting the rights of claimants. Critics have expressed fears that while the bill aims to regulate third-party services, it may inadvertently lead to increased bureaucratic red tape or financial burdens for entities seeking licenses. Furthermore, the requirement for a $50,000 fee for deposit into the recovery fund has sparked discussions over the financial implications for small businesses and new entrants into the development industry.