Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

Hawaii House Bill HB839

Introduced
1/25/23  
Refer
1/30/23  
Introduced
1/25/23  

Caption

Relating To Proposed Housing Developments.

Impact

The enactment of HB 839 could significantly streamline the housing development approval process in Hawaii. By allowing HHFDC or eligible developers to bypass certain regulatory hurdles, the bill aims to expedite the development of affordable housing, which is crucial given the ongoing housing crisis in the state. However, local government oversight remains in play, as county legislative bodies are still required to approve projects within a specified time frame. This balance seeks to maintain a semblance of local governance while also addressing the pressing need for more housing.

Summary

House Bill 839 is focused on housing developments within the State of Hawaii. The bill outlines a framework wherein the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation (HHFDC) can develop housing projects, or assist eligible developers in these efforts. Importantly, the bill proposes exemptions from various laws and regulations concerning planning, zoning, and construction standards, which would accelerate the housing development process. However, this exemption is contingent upon meeting specific health and safety requirements and obtaining approval from local legislative bodies.

Contention

There are potential points of contention surrounding HB 839. Critics of the bill may argue that the proposed exemptions could undermine local authority and potentially lead to developments that do not align with community standards or planning goals. While the bill aims to facilitate housing development, questions about environmental impacts and community suitability of rapid developments on previously restricted lands may arise, particularly since the bill mandates an environmental impact statement if projects are located on preservation or conservation zoned lands.

Final_note

Overall, HB 839 represents a significant legislative initiative aimed at addressing housing shortages in Hawaii, while balancing the need for local approval and consideration of environmental impacts. As it moves through the legislative process, the discussions surrounding it will likely reflect broader concerns about growth, sustainability, and community governance.

Companion Bills

HI SB644

Same As Relating To Proposed Housing Developments.

HI HB839

Carry Over Relating To Proposed Housing Developments.

Previously Filed As

HI HB839

Relating To Proposed Housing Developments.

HI SB644

Relating To Proposed Housing Developments.

HI SB644

Relating To Proposed Housing Developments.

HI HB1125

Relating To Housing Development.

HI HB1125

Relating To Housing Development.

HI HB1526

Relating To Affordable Housing Development.

HI HB203

Relating To Affordable Housing Development.

HI SB2192

Relating To Housing.

HI HB1480

Relating To Housing.

HI SB806

Relating To Housing.

Similar Bills

TX HB3167

Relating to county and municipal approval procedure for land development applications.

TX SB2370

Relating to the procedure for approval of certain land development applications by a political subdivision.

TX HB866

Relating to approval of certain land development applications by a municipality or county.

CA AB2671

Regulations: legislative review: regulatory reform.

CA AB1986

State prisons: banned books.

TX HB4447

Relating to the procedure for approval of certain land development applications by a municipality or county.

TX HB2018

Relating to prompt review of land development applications.

TX HB4121

Relating to prompt review of land development applications and the award of court costs and attorney's fees against a political subdivision in certain actions.