Bill > SB303

This bill amends Act 83, Session Laws of Hawaii 2012, by changing the sunset date for the repeal of section 46-19.8 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes from June 30, 2027, to June 30, 2025. The bill's legislative findings highlight the importance of fire safety, noting that national residential building codes have required fire sprinklers since 2009 and that twenty states allow counties to adopt codes requiring fire sprinkler installation. The legislature recognizes that counties face unique fire protection challenges and that the state building code council adopted a residential code in 2024 requiring automatic sprinkler systems in new one- and two-family dwellings. The bill acknowledges that residential fire sprinklers can significantly reduce fire spread, property damage, and loss, and can improve fire survivability by up to 80%. By adjusting the sunset date, the bill provides counties with continued flexibility in addressing fire safety measures while aligning with updated building code standards. The act will take effect on June 29, 2025, potentially allowing counties more autonomy in implementing fire protection requirements for residential buildings.

Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=303&year=2026