Bill > SB188

This bill establishes a new State Permitting Office within the Department of Transportation to address delays in the state construction permit process. The office will have the authority to review and approve building and infrastructure construction plans for state-owned projects, ensuring compliance with state and county building codes. Specifically, the office will review applications for state buildings, state roads, highways, and other construction on state lands, and issue state permits that can replace county building or infrastructure permits. The bill provides legal protection for applicants who obtain a state permit, exempting them from liability for not obtaining separate county permits for the same work. The State Permitting Office will be responsible for developing rules for the permit application process, including submission requirements and fees, in consultation with the state building code council. The legislature recognizes that current permitting delays have increased construction costs and negatively impacted state contractors, and this new office aims to create a more efficient permitting process. The bill includes an appropriation of funds for establishing the office and is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=188&year=2026