Bill > HB1255

This bill aims to improve Hawaii's permit application process by establishing specific deadlines and creating new resources to streamline permit approvals. The bill modifies existing law to require the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism (DBEDT) to notify all relevant agencies within ten days of approving a facilitated application, and mandates that agencies issue their permits within 45 days (with flexibility for complex projects). Additionally, the bill requires DBEDT to develop a single digital portal for uploading and tracking permit applications, create a fast-track process for low-impact projects, establish a permit-by-rule process that allows licensed design professionals to review certain applications, and develop criteria for classifying low-impact projects. The legislation specifically defines a "licensed design professional" as a professional engineer, architect, surveyor, or landscape architect licensed under state law. The bill appropriates funds for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 to implement these new processes, with the goal of reducing bureaucratic delays and supporting economic development by making the permit application process more efficient and transparent.

Business and Industry

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1255&year=2026