Hawaii House Bill HR126

Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/23
• Refer: 3/15/23
• Report Pass: 4/4/23
• Passed: 4/4/23

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands To Identify Resources Needed To Execute A Plan To Repair Homes For Safe Habitation.

Impact

If enacted, HR126 would not directly allocate funding but would mandate the DHHL to systematically evaluate unoccupied properties and assess the repairs needed to restore them. The resolution lays out a clear plan requiring the DHHL to confirm occupancy statuses and reasons for disrepair, which could enhance community safety and revitalize neighborhoods. Additionally, connecting lessees with applicable funding sources such as the Native American Housing Assistance and Self Determination Act indicates a push toward more structured assistance for home repair.

Summary

House Resolution 126 calls for the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) to identify resources necessary for creating a plan aimed at repairing homes that are currently unsafe or uninhabitable. The resolution emphasizes the urgent need to address properties that remain unoccupied, which can lead to neighborhood deterioration and safety concerns due to potential squatter activity. By repairing these homes, the resolution aims to increase the number of habitable residences for individuals on the DHHL's waitlist, thereby alleviating housing shortages.

Contention

The resolution may raise concerns regarding the allocation of resources and the feasibility of identifying sufficient funding for the proposed repairs. Legislators and community members may debate the DHHL's capacity to manage these projects effectively. Furthermore, there might be discussions around prioritization of which properties should be addressed first, given the existing housing crisis, and the long-term sustainability of the repairs made under the proposed plan. The report, which the DHHL is expected to submit by the start of the next legislative session, will be crucial in determining the success and support for HR126.