Bill > HB147

This bill updates Hawaii's real property exemption rules by increasing the amount of property value protected from attachment or execution (legal processes where property can be seized to pay a debt). Currently, the law allows a head of household or person 65 and older to exempt up to $30,000 in property value, and other individuals to exempt up to $20,000. The bill raises these amounts to $90,000 and $60,000 respectively, reflecting the significant inflation that has occurred since the exemption levels were last set in 1978 (which the bill notes has been approximately 300%). The bill specifies that only one exemption can be claimed per property parcel, and the fair market value will be determined by appraisal, considering liens and encumbrances. Any existing exemption claims will be automatically adjusted to the new amounts as of January 1, 2026, without impairing the rights of creditors who have already executed on the property. The legislation will take effect on July 1, 2025, providing property owners with increased protection from property seizure to satisfy debts.

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https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=147&year=2026