HI HB1436

Expands county authority to regulate transfer of development rights to protect areas vulnerable to sea level rise, coastal erosion, storm surge, and flooding associated with climate change.

Adds protection of climate-vulnerable lands as a new purpose for transfer of development rights programs in Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 46-161, alongside existing purposes of protecting natural and agricultural lands and enhancing areas of special character or historical value.

Amends Section 46-163 to include protection of lands at risk from sea level rise, coastal erosion, storm surge, or flooding as an explicit purpose for counties to exercise development rights transfer authority.

Authorizes counties to transfer development rights from at-risk areas to locations more appropriate for development, creating a market-based mechanism for property owners to receive just compensation while reducing future property losses and economic impacts.

Takes effect upon approval.