Bill > SB2378

This bill clarifies insurance requirements for single-family and multi-family housing projects seeking expedited permitting from county agencies, building upon a previous law passed in 2025 to address housing shortages. Specifically, it amends existing law to require licensed professionals involved in these projects to provide policies of insurance that name the State and county as additional insureds for general liability, be for at least $2,000,000, and cover the completed project for a specific period. These professionals must also provide a statement indemnifying the State and county from claims arising from their negligence. The bill also clarifies that state or county inspectors will inspect all projects with expedited permits, and that licensed professionals or contractors are responsible for addressing any construction defects identified by these inspectors, with specific procedures for disagreements or plan changes. Finally, it states that the county will issue a certificate of occupancy, noting it was approved by the licensed professional under an expedited permit agreement rather than a county official, and this law will take effect on July 1, 2050.

Business and Industry, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=2378&year=2026