HI SB740

Creates a new Department of Housing as a principal state department, headed by a Director of Housing appointed by the governor.

Consolidates housing-related functions by placing the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation, Hawaii Community Development Authority, Office of Planning, and Hawaii Public Housing Authority under the Department of Housing for administrative purposes.

Transfers all rights, powers, functions, and duties related to housing from the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism and Department of Human Services to the new Department of Housing.

Establishes that the Department of Housing shall be responsible for planning and implementing affordable housing policy, coordinating with stakeholders, and overseeing compliance with housing-related statutes and financial agreements.

Takes effect on July 1, 2021, with all transferred employees retaining their civil service status, salary, seniority, and benefits.