Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

Hawaii House Bill HB2215

Introduced
1/28/26  

Caption

Relating To The State Building Code Council.

Impact

If enacted, the bill would lead to the standardization of data reporting frameworks across counties to ensure timely and accurate metrics are available to assess permitting performance. Apart from creating a new full-time position, each county would be required to report various metrics related to their permitting processes, including average timelines and identified bottlenecks. This systematic approach is expected to benefit stakeholders by promoting greater regulatory transparency and accountability.

Summary

House Bill 2215 aims to improve the efficiency and transparency of the building permitting process in Hawaii by establishing a permanent position within the State Building Code Council. The legislation identifies current issues in the existing permitting processes, such as delays and inconsistencies across counties, which adversely affect housing costs and infrastructure development. To address these challenges, the bill calls for better data collection and reporting mechanisms, aimed at enhancing the regulatory efficiency and capacity of county agencies.

Contention

While the bill's proponents argue that it will streamline the permitting process and drive economic development, the debate also touches on potential resistance from local counties that currently operate independently. Critics may raise concerns about overreach from the state level, fearing that mandated data reporting could impose additional burdens on county staff and hinder localized decision-making. The success of this initiative hinges on collaboration between state and local entities to create a workable framework for reporting and accountability.

Companion Bills

HI SB3048

Same As Relating To The State Building Code Council.

Previously Filed As

HI SB48

Relating To The State Building Code Council.

HI HB356

Relating To The State Building Codes.

HI HB1321

Relating To The Hawaii State Building Codes.

HI HB1

Relating To Building Codes.

HI HCR66

Requesting The State Building Code Council To Adopt, Amend, Or Update The State Building Code To Authorize Point Access Block Construction For Residential Buildings Up To Six Stories In The State.

HI HR60

Requesting The State Building Code Council To Adopt, Amend, Or Update The State Building Code To Authorize Point Access Block Construction For Residential Buildings Up To Six Stories In The State.

HI HB745

Relating To Building Codes.

HI SB120

Relating To Building Codes.

HI SB698

Relating To The State Building Codes.

HI HCR67

Requesting The Governor, State Building Code Council, Planning Departments Of Each County, Mayors Of Each County, And Chairs Of The Senate And House Of Representatives Standing Committees On Housing To Develop A Comprehensive Strategy For Adopting Updated Building Codes.

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HI SB3048

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