Bill > SB1200

This bill establishes the Workforce Housing Regulatory Sandbox Program within the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation (HHFDC) to address the state's critical housing shortage by creating innovative housing solutions. The program will allow developers to test new workforce housing projects under temporarily modified regulatory requirements, targeting households earning between 60% and 140% of the area median income. A diverse Advisory Council will be created to provide guidance, ensure cultural and environmental considerations, and monitor project compliance. Developers can apply to the program by submitting proposals that demonstrate affordability, sustainability, and potential for expedited construction, and may receive benefits such as streamlined permitting, reduced fees, and flexible zoning requirements. Participating developers must ensure that housing units remain affordable for at least ten years, are occupied by full-time residents, and are not used as short-term rentals. The HHFDC will monitor projects and submit annual reports to the Legislature, and the program is funded with $5 million over two fiscal years, with a sunset date of June 30, 2030. The bill aims to create approximately 10,000 workforce housing units and help address Hawaii's significant housing shortage by providing a flexible, innovative approach to residential development.

Budget and Finance, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1200&year=2026