Bill > HB224

This bill establishes a comprehensive legal procedure for property owners to quickly remove unauthorized occupants from residential properties with law enforcement assistance. The bill creates a new legal process where property owners can request immediate removal of trespassers by submitting a verified complaint form to law enforcement, with specific conditions that must be met, such as the property being a residential dwelling, the occupants having no legal right to be there, and the owner having first directed them to leave. Law enforcement officers are required to verify the complaint and, if valid, serve an immediate vacate notice and restore the property to the owner. The bill also introduces additional provisions making unlawful occupants liable for unpaid utility bills and expanding criminal property damage laws to include intentional damage to property while trespassing, which would be considered a felony if the damage exceeds $999. To prevent abuse, the bill includes safeguards such as potential misdemeanor charges for fraudulent complaints and civil remedies for wrongful removals. The Department of the Attorney General must develop a standardized complaint form, and law enforcement can charge fees for serving notices and keeping the peace during property recovery. Critically, the bill does not apply to legitimate tenants or immediate family members of the property owner.

Business and Industry, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=224&year=2025