The bill's implications on state laws are significant, as it would curtail local governments' discretion in permitting housing projects, especially in counties deemed noncompliant according to their pro-housing scores. If a county fails to meet specified thresholds of housing production, the planning director or equivalent officer would be given authority to approve housing development applications based solely on objective standards. This shift aims to overcome bureaucratic hurdles that have historically hindered timely and adequate housing development, potentially leading to a more robust housing market that can better serve residents need.
Summary
House Bill 1922 addresses Hawaii's ongoing and significant housing shortage, which the Hawaii housing finance and development corporation estimates to be approximately 62,750 units short as of the end of 2022. The bill proposes to establish a Pro-Housing Score Program aimed at evaluating each county's performance in expanding housing opportunities and reducing regulatory barriers. This initiative is designed to encourage local governments to prioritize housing development and streamline processes that have contributed to the state's insufficient housing production rates. With the goal of producing an average of more than 15,000 homes annually from 2023 to 2027, this bill aims to reverse a trend where only an average of 7,000 homes were built per year from 2017 to 2022.
Contention
The Pro-Housing Score Program, while aimed at improving housing accessibility, may face criticism regarding local control and the issues of imposing state standards on counties. Advocates for the bill argue that central oversight is essential for overcoming the inertia created by local governments’ slow processes and regulatory barriers. Conversely, critics may argue that such measures could erode local autonomy, limiting the ability of communities to act in accordance with their unique needs and circumstances. As discussions around the bill unfold, the balance between state intervention and local control will likely be a prominent point of contention.