Bill > SB3285

This bill establishes a voluntary, temporary program called the Workforce Housing Regulatory Sandbox, administered by the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation (HHFDC), to help increase the supply of workforce housing, which is defined as housing for households earning between 60% and 140% of the area median income. This program allows for temporary waivers or modifications of certain regulatory requirements for approved workforce housing projects, with the consent of participating counties, to test innovative housing solutions without permanently changing existing laws. An advisory council, composed of representatives from various state and county agencies, as well as experts in sustainable development and Native Hawaiian practices, will provide nonbinding guidance on environmental, cultural, and infrastructure considerations. The program is designed to be project-specific and time-limited, expiring upon project completion or a set date, and requires developers to ensure continued affordability through deed restrictions. The HHFDC will establish a dedicated position to manage the program and will report annually to the legislature on its findings and recommendations. The bill appropriates funds for the program's operation and the new position, and it is set to be repealed on June 30, 2031, with an effective date of July 1, 2050.

Budget and Finance, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=3285&year=2026