Bill > SB1002

This bill addresses the housing shortage in Hawaii by modifying the review process for historic preservation when developing affordable housing projects. Specifically, the bill requires the State Historic Preservation Division (SHPD) of the Department of Land and Natural Resources to contract third-party consultants to review proposed state projects and projects affecting historic properties under certain conditions, beginning July 1, 2027. The bill aims to expedite the review process, which currently faces a 6-month to 1-year backlog, by allowing qualified external consultants to conduct initial reviews of affordable housing projects. These third-party consultants must meet specific educational and experience standards set by the SHPD and cannot review projects they have previously been involved with. The project proponent will be responsible for paying the full costs of the third-party consultant, with the option to partner with counties, housing authorities, non-profit organizations, or other entities to cover these fees. The bill includes an appropriation of funds for the SHPD to recruit and retain these qualified consultants and requires the department to publish proposed rules within one year and present final rules to the Board of Land and Natural Resources. The provisions will sunset on July 1, 2032, reverting the law to its original form, and the bill will take effect on July 1, 3000, with sections 2 and 3 specifically taking effect on July 1, 2027.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1002&year=2026