Status as of 2/6/25:
This bill has passed out of its first committee (HSG) with amendments however, was not heard by the House WAL committee before the first lateral deadline. This bill is dead.
Why Hawaiʻi YIMBY Supports This Bill:
Historical review is an important process to preserve the cultural and historical importance of any given place or structure.
However, an overly broad definition of "historical property," which requires review by the State Historical Preservation Program before redevelopment, is causing a backlog, delaying permitting review and adding time and cost to building housing. Currently, any property over 50 years old, must go through this historical review process, regardless of any relevant cultural or historical importance.
This bill seeks to better define the meaning of "historical property" to encompass places that have a relevant cultural or historical importance. In turn, proposed housing redevelopment can be streamlined and more housing can be permitted faster.
Bill Description:
- Redefines "historic property" with respect to the State Historic Preservation Program.
- Requires historic review for proposed projects on existing privately-owned single-family detached dwelling units or townhouses only if the unit or townhouse is historic property, rather than over 50 years old.
This page will be updated periodically throughout the legislative session. For the most up-to-date status, please visit the bill's page on the Hawai'i State Legislature's website.