HI SB306

Prohibits landlords from recovering possession of a dwelling unit or involuntarily removing a tenant if the landlord's failure to maintain habitability significantly impairs the premises, provided the tenant continues paying rent equal to the fair rental value or agreed rent (whichever is less).

Caps a tenant's liability for rent at the fair rental value of the premises from the date habitability becomes significantly impaired, even if the lease specifies a higher amount.

Restores a landlord's ability to recover possession only upon termination of the rental agreement in accordance with law or restoration of the premises to habitable condition, whichever occurs first.

Establishes a minimum remedy of two months rent plus court costs and reasonable attorney's fees for tenants who are wrongfully evicted in violation of retaliation protections under HRS §521-74.

Takes effect July 1, 2021 and does not apply retroactively to rights, duties, or proceedings that matured or began before the effective date.