Bill > SB48

This bill requires the State Building Code Council to conduct a more comprehensive analysis of the financial implications of building codes and standards, specifically focusing on their impact on housing construction costs and utility expenses in Hawaii. The bill mandates that when the council considers adopting new building codes or standards, it must consult with building industry trade associations to gather cost data and assess the likely financial impact on constructing single-family and multi-family homes. Additionally, the council must evaluate the potential effect of these codes and standards on amortized utility costs for residential properties. The bill also updates the council's annual reporting requirements, stipulating that its yearly report to the governor must now include a detailed assessment from building industry trade associations that determines whether each adopted code or standard substantially benefits Hawaii residents. This legislative effort comes in the context of Hawaii's high housing costs, with the median single-family home price at $985,000 in 2022 and construction costs ranging from $280 to $535 per square foot, aiming to ensure that building regulations do not unnecessarily increase housing expenses.

Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=48&year=2026