Bill > HB203

This bill modifies a provision in Hawaii's housing development law that relates to the timeline for county legislative bodies to review and approve low- and moderate-income housing projects. Currently, county councils have 45 days to approve, modify, or disapprove preliminary plans and specifications for housing projects developed by the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation (HHFDC). The bill extends this review period from 45 to 90 days, giving county councils more time to evaluate proposed housing developments. If the county does not take action within the 90-day period, the project is automatically deemed approved. This change is part of a broader set of provisions that allow the HHFDC to develop housing projects with certain exemptions from standard zoning, planning, and construction regulations, provided the projects meet specific conditions such as consistency with health and safety standards and approval by the county legislative body. The bill aims to provide more flexibility and time for local governments to review affordable housing projects while maintaining a streamlined approval process.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=203&year=2026