Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

Hawaii House Bill HR78

Introduced
3/12/26  

Caption

Requesting The State Building Code Council And The Counties To Adopt, Amend, Or Update The State Building Codes And County Building Codes To Incorporate Certain Standards For Off-site Construction.

Impact

If implemented, HR78 would facilitate consistency and clarity for stakeholders in Hawaii's construction industry, which could lead to increased innovation in building practices. The ICC/MBI standards for off-site construction focus on critical aspects such as planning and design, inspection and regulatory compliance, and the integration of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. By aligning local practices with nationally recognized standards, Hawaii can enhance its resilience against natural disasters like hurricanes and tsunamis, which is particularly crucial given the state's susceptibility to such events.

Summary

House Resolution 78 (HR78) seeks to address Hawaii's growing housing shortage by encouraging the adoption and amendment of state and county building codes to incorporate standards for off-site construction. This resolution recognizes the high construction costs, labor issues, and limited land available for building in the state. Off-site construction methods, including modular and prefabricated options, promise to reduce costs, enhance quality, and speed up the construction process while minimizing environmental impacts compared to traditional methods. The proposed incorporation of standards from the International Code Council (ICC) and the Modular Building Institute (MBI) would support these goals.

Contention

The resolution has the potential to create discussions around the balance of state versus local control over building regulations. There may be concerns regarding the adequacy of the standards in fully addressing Hawaii's unique geographic and climatic challenges, and whether local governments will feel empowered or constrained by the adoption of state-level regulations. Additionally, the response from industry stakeholders, labor organizations, and housing advocates will be vital in ensuring that the guidelines meet the needs and expectations of all parties involved in the building process.

Companion Bills

HI HCR86

Same As Requesting The State Building Code Council And The Counties To Adopt, Amend, Or Update The State Building Codes And County Building Codes To Incorporate Certain Standards For Off-site Construction.

Previously Filed As

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 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 SCR48

Requesting The Office Of The Governor, State Building Code Council, Building 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.

HI SR30

Requesting The Office Of The Governor, State Building Code Council, Building 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.

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.

HI HB356

Relating To The State Building Codes.

HI SB698

Relating To The State Building Codes.

HI SB48

Relating To The State Building Code Council.

HI HB1

Relating To Building Codes.

HI SCR163

Requesting The Counties To Adopt Flexible Setback Requirements Or Establish Variance Procedures For State Buildings And Facilities To Enhance Land Use Efficiency And Public Service Delivery.

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