HI SB2494

Prohibits landlords from recovering possession of a dwelling unit if the habitability is significantly impaired by the landlord's failure to comply with maintenance and safety requirements under section 521-42(a), provided the tenant cooperates with repairs and continues paying rent equal to the fair rental value or agreed rent, whichever is less.

Limits tenant liability for rent to the fair rental value of the dwelling unit from the date habitability becomes significantly impaired, rather than the full agreed-upon rent.

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

Amends section 521-74 to provide tenants wrongfully evicted in violation of retaliation protections with damages equal to two months' rent plus cost of suit and reasonable attorney's fees.

Takes effect upon approval and does not affect rights, penalties, or proceedings that matured or began before the effective date.