Bill > SB699

This bill addresses hurricane preparedness in Hawaii by establishing a grant program for low-income residents and condominium owners to fortify their properties against potential hurricane damage. The bill is motivated by findings that climate change is increasing hurricane risks in the region, with warmer ocean waters leading to more frequent and intense storms, and projections suggesting Category 5 hurricanes could become annual events by 2080. The legislation specifically targets residents earning up to 80% of the area median income, offering grants ranging from $10,000 for condominiums to $50,000 for houses to strengthen residential structures against hurricanes with sustained winds up to 200 miles per hour. The Office of the Governor, in collaboration with the Insurance Division of the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, will oversee and administer these grants for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027. Applicants will be prohibited from seeking additional funds for hurricane fortification, and the program aims to increase residential resilience, potentially reducing future recovery and housing crisis costs by preventing widespread home destruction during major hurricane events.

Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=699&year=2026