Bill > SB456

This bill addresses the growing problem of bed bug infestations by amending Hawaii's landlord-tenant laws to explicitly require landlords to ensure their rental properties are free of bed bugs at all times during a tenant's occupancy. The bill provides context about bed bugs, noting that they are blood-sucking insects considered a public health pest by federal agencies, and that while they do not transmit diseases, they can cause significant physical, mental, and economic harm. Specifically, the legislation modifies Section 521-42 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes to add a new requirement that landlords must "ensure that the premises is free of bed bugs" as part of their existing obligations to maintain habitable living conditions. This change means that a bed bug infestation would now be considered a violation of the implied warranty of habitability, giving tenants additional legal recourse if bed bugs are discovered in their rental unit. The bill acknowledges that over twenty states already have laws addressing bed bugs, and it aims to fill a gap in Hawaii's current housing regulations by providing clear guidance on landlord responsibilities regarding these pests.

Business and Industry, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=456&year=2026