Bill > SB2671

This bill authorizes the mayor of each county in Hawaii to implement a pilot program for four fiscal years, starting July 1, 2026, to improve how permits are processed by making them faster, more accountable, and of higher quality. This program will allow mayors to designate certain positions involved in permit review or processing as "essential permitting positions," which will receive a minimum pay differential of 15% of their salary, with the possibility of higher pay to attract and keep qualified workers. Additionally, these essential positions can be hired at salaries above the minimum to attract candidates, and county personnel departments must prioritize hiring for these roles, making conditional offers within 14 days of an interview. Participating counties must also set aside funds for these pay differentials, new hires, and financial awards for employees who meet specific performance goals, such as reducing permit review times or increasing the number of permits processed. Each county will appoint a permitting program coordinator to oversee the process and report annually to the legislature, and participating agencies will submit quarterly reports to their respective county councils. The pilot program is scheduled to end on June 30, 2030, unless extended by the legislature.