Bill > SB1168

This bill establishes a comprehensive structural integrity assessment program within Hawaii's Department of Accounting and General Services to inspect multi-story buildings located on or near beachfront properties that were constructed before 1995. The program requires mandatory inspections of these structures, focusing initially on buildings in South Maui and West Maui, with the goal of protecting public safety and preventing potential structural failures. Inspections will involve a standardized methodology developed in collaboration with the University of Hawaii and Department of Land and Natural Resources, and will include detailed assessments of foundational and structural components, environmental conditions, and potential vulnerabilities. Property owners will be required to allow access for inspections and address any identified structural issues within specified timelines, with potential consequences for non-compliance including civil penalties up to $10,000, suspension of occupancy permits, or legal action. The department will be required to submit annual reports to the Legislature detailing inspection findings, trends, and recommendations, and the state has appropriated $500,000 for the program's establishment and operations in fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027. The bill was inspired by the 2021 Surfside, Florida condominium collapse and aims to proactively identify and mitigate potential structural risks in aging coastal buildings.

Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1168&year=2026