Bill > SB1114

This bill addresses housing challenges in Hawaii by creating a new pathway for large landowners with at least 30 contiguous acres of agricultural land to petition the Land Use Commission (LUC) to reclassify up to 15 acres for elderly housing, assisted living homes, or low-density apartments. The bill requires petitioners to submit a financial plan that includes a mixed pricing strategy where some units are priced higher to subsidize more affordable units, with those lower-priced units reserved for individuals earning 80% or less of the area median income. To qualify as "elderly housing," at least 80% of the units must be occupied by at least one person 55 years or older. The LUC will have significant discretion in approving these petitions, requiring six affirmative votes and the ability to impose additional requirements such as obtaining federal subsidies or grants. The bill is motivated by Hawaii's high living costs, particularly in housing, and aims to create more affordable senior housing options in a state where senior apartment waitlists can range from three months to four years. The legislation provides a targeted approach to housing development by allowing limited residential development on agricultural lands while maintaining income-based affordability provisions.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1114&year=2026