Bill > HB1405

This bill aims to streamline and improve the permit application process in Hawaii by establishing specific deadlines and resources within the facilitated application process. The bill requires the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism (DBEDT) to serve as the lead agency for permit applications involving multiple state or county permits, mandating that agencies provide estimated timelines for permit issuance within ten days of notification. The bill introduces several key improvements, including the creation of a single digital portal for uploading and tracking permit applications in real time, establishing a fast-track process for low-impact projects, developing a permit-by-rule process that allows licensed design professionals to review certain applications, and creating criteria for classifying low-impact projects. Additionally, the bill requires DBEDT to submit an annual report to the legislature about the facilitated application process and appropriates funds to establish full-time equivalent positions needed to implement these new digital and streamlining processes. The overall goal is to reduce bureaucratic delays, minimize duplicate reviews, and support more efficient economic development by making the permit application process more transparent, predictable, and user-friendly.