Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SB2339

Introduced
1/21/26  
Refer
1/26/26  
Refer
1/30/26  
Report Pass
2/20/26  
Refer
2/20/26  
Engrossed
3/6/26  

Caption

Relating To The State Building Code Council.

Impact

The bill is expected to significantly impact the management and strategic oversight of building codes. By increasing membership and ensuring that knowledgeable representatives are continuously involved, the council can respond more effectively to the complexities of updating building codes, which are based on the International Building Code. As a result, the quality and relevance of building practices in Hawaii may improve, aiming to ensure better public health and safety standards, while minimizing delays in implementation that often burden the construction industry and consumers with increased costs.

Summary

SB2339 aims to amend the structure and membership of the State Building Code Council in Hawaii. The bill makes representatives from the Building Industry Association of Hawaii and the General Contractors Association of Hawaii permanent members of the council, rather than alternating members serving four-year terms. Additionally, it adds new representatives from labor organizations, specifically the Plumbers and Fitters United Association, Local 675, and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 1186. This shift is designed to provide the council with more expertise and continuity in decision-making regarding state building codes.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB2339 is largely positive among industry stakeholders who advocate for the enhancement of professional expertise within the council. Supporters argue that having permanent representatives from key sectors of construction will lead to more timely and informed updates to the building code. However, there may be some contention regarding the level of influence these industry representatives might wield compared to public interests, particularly regarding health and safety considerations.

Contention

A context of contention arises around balancing industry perspectives with public accountability. Some critics argue that the bill could lead to a bias in favor of construction interests over public health needs, raising concerns that the council may prioritize economic factors over safety regulations. The effective date of July 1, 2050, provides ample time for discussion and potential amendments to address these concerns, aiming to create a framework that serves both industry efficiency and public welfare.

Companion Bills

HI HB1712

Same As Relating To The State Building Code Council.

Previously Filed As

HI SB48

Relating To The State Building Code Council.

HI SB698

Relating To The State 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 HB356

Relating To The State Building Codes.

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 SB120

Relating To Building Codes.

HI SB632

Relating To The State Building Code.

HI SB1540

Relating To Building Codes.

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.

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