Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SCR8

Introduced
1/28/26  
Refer
2/13/26  
Report Pass
4/8/26  
Engrossed
4/9/26  
Refer
4/10/26  
Report Pass
4/20/26  
Refer
4/20/26  
Report Pass
4/27/26  

Caption

Urging The Counties To Act On Any Building Permit Application For Modification Of A Residence That Is Prescribed By A Licensed Health Care Provider And Found By The County To Be Essential To The Safety Or Health Of An Older Adult Or Person With A Disability Within Forty-five Days Of Receipt Of A Complete Application.

Impact

The impact of SCR8 is multifaceted, particularly concerning public health goals and the support of older adults in Hawaii. By establishing a clear timeline for permit approvals, the resolution aims to reduce the risk of fall-related injuries and fatalities, which are notably high among seniors, accounting for over 200 preventable deaths in 2023 alone. Timely permitting is also expected to alleviate the strain on emergency services and health care systems, reinforcing the resolution’s commitment to improving community welfare and public health outcomes. Moreover, the initiative exemplifies an effort to streamline processes within local governments, ensuring that necessary safety modifications are not hindered by bureaucratic delays.

Summary

SCR8, a Senate Concurrent Resolution from the Thirty-third Legislature of Hawaii in 2026, seeks to address significant delays faced by older adults and individuals with disabilities in obtaining building permits for essential modifications to their residences. As highlighted in the resolution, these modifications, often prescribed by licensed health care providers, can include crucial features such as ramps, grab bars, and widened doorways. The resolution urges counties to act promptly on these applications, mandating a response within forty-five days of receipt of a complete application. This initiative is aimed at enhancing the safety and health of vulnerable populations by enabling them to age in place and reducing their reliance on institutional care.

Contention

While the bill is primarily a resolution urging action rather than a legislative mandate, it could spark debates regarding local government efficiency and resource allocation. Advocacy groups, health care providers, and community members may express concerns over the adequacy of county resources to handle the proposed expedited process. Furthermore, there might be discussions about the balance between regulatory oversight and the necessity for prompt action in safeguarding the well-being of older adults and those with disabilities. Stakeholders may argue about the implications on local autonomy and accountability in managing building permits, as well as the potential need for supporting frameworks to assist counties in meeting the proposed timelines effectively.

Companion Bills

HI HCR8

Same As Urging The Counties To Act On Any Building Permit Application For Modification Of A Residence That Is Prescribed By A Licensed Health Care Provider And Found By The County To Be Essential To The Safety Or Health Of An Older Adult Or Person With A Disability Within Forty-five Days Of Receipt Of A Complete Application.

HI SR10

Same As Urging The Counties To Act On Any Building Permit Application For Modification Of A Residence That Is Prescribed By A Licensed Health Care Provider And Found By The County To Be Essential To The Safety Or Health Of An Older Adult Or Person With A Disability Within Forty-five Days Of Receipt Of A Complete Application.

Previously Filed As

HI SCR68

Requesting The Counties To Authorize A Percentage Of Taxes Generated By The General Excise And Fuel Taxes Collected By The Counties To Be Used For The Maintenance Of Privatelyowned Roadways That Are Open To The Public.

HI SCR25

Requesting The State Health Planning And Development Agency And Department Of Health To Hold A Public Meeting For All Certificate Of Need Applications For Any Proposed Special Treatment Facility In Neighborhoods With Community Associations.

HI SCR176

Urging The City And County Of Honolulu To Compensate The Residents Of Any Council District That Is Chosen To Host A New Landfill.

HI SR52

Requesting The Counties To Authorize A Percentage Of Taxes Generated By The General Excise And Fuel Taxes Collected By The Counties To Be Used For The Maintenance Of Privatelyowned Roadways That Are Open To The Public.

HI SR15

Requesting The State Health Planning And Development Agency And Department Of Health To Hold A Public Meeting For All Certificate Of Need Applications For Any Proposed Special Treatment Facility In Neighborhoods With Community Associations.

HI HCR26

Requesting The State Health Planning And Development Agency And Department Of Health To Hold A Public Meeting For All Certificate Of Need Applications For Any Proposed Special Treatment Facility In Neighborhoods With Community Associations.

HI HCR130

Urging Congress, The Counties Of The State, And Other Relevant Agencies To Provide Increased And Sustained Funding To The Invasive Species Committees And Hawaii Ant Lab Within The Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit Of The University Of Hawaii At Mnoa.

HI SCR171

Requesting The Department Of Health To Adopt Rules Or Otherwise Permit Restaurants To Allow Dogs In Designated Areas Of Their Establishments While Adhering To Health And Safety Regulations.

HI HR25

Requesting The State Health Planning And Development Agency And Department Of Health To Hold A Public Meeting For All Certificate Of Need Applications For Any Proposed Special Treatment Facility In Neighborhoods With Community Associations.

HI HR126

Urging The State, Counties, And Other Relevant Agencies To Provide Increased And Sustained Funding To The Invasive Species Committees And Hawaii Ant Lab Within The Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit Of The University Of Hawaii At Mnoa.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.