summary
Introduced
01/15/2025
01/15/2025
In Committee
01/21/2025
01/21/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2025 Regular Session
Bill Summary
Authorizes a tenant to change the date on which the tenant's rent is due by making a one-time payment to cover the period between the original due date and the newly established due date. Clarifies that a landlord may only assess a late fee on any unpaid rent and not the entire monthly rent. Reduces the maximum amount of a late charge for unpaid rent from 8% of the unpaid amount to 5% of the unpaid amount. Specifies that if rent is increased, the landlord may also proportionately increase the amount due as a security deposit; provided that a continuing or renewing tenant shall have at least 30 days to pay the additional amount due. Makes conforming amendments.
AI Summary
This bill aims to improve landlord-tenant relations in Hawaii by making several key changes to existing rental laws. The bill allows all tenants (not just those receiving public assistance) to change their rent due date by making a one-time payment that covers the period between the original and new due dates. It reduces the maximum late fee for unpaid rent from 8% to 5% of the unpaid amount and clarifies that late fees should only be assessed on the specific portion of rent that was not paid, rather than the entire monthly rent. Additionally, the bill specifies that when rent is increased, landlords can proportionally increase the security deposit, but continuing or renewing tenants must be given at least 30 days' notice to pay the additional deposit amount. These changes are designed to provide more flexibility and fairness for tenants, addressing concerns about high late fees and sudden financial burdens, while maintaining protections for landlords' financial interests. The legislature noted that Hawaii's previous late fee caps were significantly higher than most other states, and these modifications aim to create a more balanced approach to rental agreements.
Committee Categories
Business and Industry
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Carried over to 2026 Regular Session. (on 12/08/2025)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=347&year=2026 |
| State Bill Page | https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=347&year=2025 |
| BillText | https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/sessions/session2026/bills/SB347_.HTM |
| BillText | https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/sessions/session2025/bills/SB347_.HTM |
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