Bill > SB2671

This bill authorizes mayors to create a pilot program to speed up, improve accountability, and enhance the quality of permit processing within participating counties. This program will involve targeted staffing, performance incentives, and interdepartmental competition, building on previous efforts to address delays in development. Mayors can designate certain positions as "essential permitting positions," which are crucial for permit review or processing. To attract and retain employees for these roles, these positions will receive a minimum additional payment of 15% of their salary, and hiring can occur at salaries above the minimum within the approved range. Personnel departments will prioritize hiring for these essential positions, making conditional offers within 14 days of an interview. Counties can use revenue from a surcharge on state taxes to fund the pilot program's expenses, including differential payments, new hires, and financial awards for meeting performance goals. Participating agencies will set specific goals for improving permit times and will report their progress quarterly to the county council. A countywide permitting program coordinator will oversee the process, troubleshoot issues, and submit annual reports to the Legislature with recommendations. This pilot program is set to end on June 30, 2031, unless extended.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=2671&year=2026