Bill > HB199

This bill expands the authority of the Hawaii Public Housing Authority (HPHA) to close certain areas to the public in order to reduce vandalism, property damage, and nuisances. Specifically, the bill allows the HPHA to close any parcels owned by the authority, not just housing projects, by posting clear signage that reads "Closed to the Public - No Trespassing" with specific requirements for sign size and placement (at least two-inch tall letters, three signs per mile along boundary lines and at all entrances). The bill also adds a new provision allowing HPHA offices and facilities to be closed to the public during non-business hours, with signs indicating closure times. The legislature's intent is to empower law enforcement to prosecute unauthorized individuals as committing criminal trespass in the second degree when they enter these closed areas, thereby addressing ongoing issues of litter, noise, and property damage caused by non-residents in public housing areas. The bill defines affected areas as including public housing projects, elder housing, and state low-income housing projects, and is set to take effect on July 1, 3000 (which appears to be a typographical error and likely means a future date).

Housing and Urban Affairs, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=199&year=2026