Bill > HB29

This bill authorizes counties to implement a new enforcement mechanism for addressing persistent public nuisances by allowing them to sell private property through a power of sale process after all other remedies have been exhausted. Specifically, the bill amends existing law to enable counties to satisfy unpaid civil fines by selling a property, provided they first enact specific ordinances defining the process. The bill requires that if the property is sold, any proceeds exceeding the amount of unpaid civil fines must be returned to the property owner. The legislative findings emphasize that this new power is intended as a last resort for addressing severe public nuisances that continue to pose risks to public health and safety, even after multiple notices and attempts to compel property owners to address violations. The bill is designed to give counties an additional tool to enforce public nuisance laws when property owners consistently fail to remedy serious issues that threaten community well-being. The mechanism is similar to non-judicial foreclosure for delinquent property taxes and requires counties to establish clear administrative procedures and provide opportunities for property owners to contest actions before a sale can occur.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=29&year=2026