Relating To Third-party Review Services.
The introduction of HB2453 would have significant implications for the construction industry in Hawaii. By requiring third-party review services, the state intends to enhance the reliability of compliance checks related to construction projects. This could lead to expedited project approvals, supporting economic growth by increasing the efficiency of getting developments off the ground. However, the establishment of a licensing system also introduces a layer of regulatory oversight that must balance with the need for timely project completions.
House Bill 2453 aims to establish a licensure program for third-party review services in the state of Hawaii. This bill amends the Hawaii Revised Statutes to include the formation of a third-party review services licensing board within the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs. The primary purpose of this board is to regulate independent reviews of development projects to ensure compliance with applicable laws and codes at federal, state, and local levels. This move is seen as a means to streamline the permit application process in construction by introducing standardized reviews.
Critics of HB2453 may raise concerns regarding the costs associated with obtaining third-party reviews, particularly the $50,000 application fee that entities must pay to the recovery fund upon applying for a license. This fee, along with potential ongoing costs for licensure, could be viewed as a financial burden on developers, especially smaller firms or new entrants to the market. Moreover, questions may arise about the quality of reviews conducted by the licensed third-party services and the effectiveness of the proposed disciplinary measures against any violations of the established rules.