HI HB381

Creates a Condominium Dispute Resolution Commission within the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs consisting of seven voting members appointed by the governor, including unit owners, association board members, an attorney, a real estate commission member, and a public member.

Establishes a Commission Ombudsman position appointed by majority vote of the commission to receive and investigate complaints regarding disputes between associations and unit owners, with a maximum five-year initial term and ability to serve no more than two terms.

Authorizes the commission to charge associations up to $4.25 per unit to cover the costs of the Commission Ombudsman, with all collected fees deposited into a special fund.

Creates the Condominium Dispute Resolution Commission Special Fund to pay the ombudsman's salary and fund additional staff, specialists, and consultants necessary to carry out the commission's duties.

Requires the commission to meet at least four times annually, adopt rules approved by the governor and department director, provide annual reports to the legislature, and handle alternative dispute resolution matters under chapters 514A and 514B.