Hawaii House Bill HB1059

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/23
• Refer: 1/30/23

Caption

Relating To Affordable Housing On Hawaiian Home Lands.

Impact

If enacted, HB1059 will continue the practice of issuing affordable housing credits that have supported the development of residential areas for Native Hawaiians. This measure is expected to streamline processes by making such credits a permanent fixture in state law, thereby ensuring that beneficiaries can acquire land and housing at reduced costs. The legislation is seen as crucial for addressing the ongoing housing crisis for Native Hawaiians, particularly in light of the high costs of real estate in Hawaii.

Summary

House Bill 1059 is legislation aimed at enhancing affordable housing opportunities for beneficiaries of the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands in Hawaii. The bill proposes to make permanent existing affordable housing credit programs, which have been previously established under Acts 141 and 98 of the Session Laws of Hawaii. These credits have allowed for the purchase of additional land in desirable areas for beneficiaries at no cost to the state, significantly contributing to reducing the costs associated with housing projects in Hawaiian Home Lands.

Contention

While the intent of HB1059 is to support affordable housing, there may be concerns regarding the sustainability of such programs over the long term and its implications for public land distribution. Some stakeholders might argue that permanent credits could limit the state’s flexibility in land use planning and that there needs to be a balance between development benefits and the preservation of land for public use. As discussions proceed, the bill's proponents and opponents may engage in debates regarding how best to support housing needs while ensuring responsible land management.