Bill > SB1448

This bill makes an emergency appropriation of $10,660,000 to the Hawaii Department of Health to address significant construction defects at the Hale Ho'ola Building in the Hawaii State Hospital. The building, constructed in 2018 through a $140 million design-build contract, has experienced serious issues including water leaks, mold growth, and potential safety violations that compromise patient and staff well-being. The appropriation will fund remediation efforts and associated legal fees, with any civil fines or settlements from potential litigation to be deposited into the state's general fund. The bill acknowledges that this appropriation will cause the general fund expenditure ceiling for fiscal year 2024-2025 to be exceeded by an additional $10,660,000, but argues that this is necessary to serve the public interest and address critical infrastructure problems. The Department of Health may delegate implementation of remediation projects to other state agencies if deemed advantageous, and the appropriated funds will not lapse until June 30, 2026, providing flexibility in addressing the complex construction defects.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1448&year=2025