Bill > HB1318

This bill modifies Hawaii's legal definitions of public lands to explicitly exclude lands set aside by the Governor to counties specifically for affordable housing purposes. The bill amends two sections of Hawaii Revised Statutes to add a new exception to the definition of "public lands" that removes lands designated for affordable housing from the general category of public lands. These lands will now be treated similarly to other specialized land designations, such as those for housing finance, public housing, and other specific state development purposes. The bill also ensures that lands set aside for affordable housing will require legislative approval for any sale or transfer, which adds a layer of oversight to prevent these lands from being easily disposed of without proper governmental review. By making this change, the legislation aims to provide more clarity and protection for land designated to address housing affordability, which is an ongoing challenge in Hawaii. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 3000, which appears to be a placeholder date typically used when the exact implementation date is not yet determined.

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

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1318&year=2026