Bill > SB942

This bill modernizes Hawaii's rental application process by prohibiting landlords from rejecting rental applications solely because an applicant cannot provide a recent paycheck. Instead, landlords are now required to accept alternative forms of income verification, such as evidence of unearned income or liquid assets that can cover the rental costs. Specifically, the bill allows landlords to request documentation dated within 90 days of the application that demonstrates the applicant's financial ability to pay rent, which could include sources like pensions, social security, investments, savings, or other non-traditional income streams. If the documentation is not from a recognized financial institution, government entity, or official source, the landlord can either request authorization to verify the documentation or require cross-referencing with another official document like a tax return. The legislative intent behind this bill is to create a more inclusive rental market that recognizes diverse income sources and prevents discrimination against retirees, self-employed individuals, and those with alternative financial situations. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2050, and does not impact any existing rights, penalties, or proceedings that were established before its effective date.

Business and Industry, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=942&year=2026