HI SB26

Prohibits landlords from recovering possession of a dwelling unit or involuntarily removing a tenant if the habitability of the premises is significantly impaired due to the landlord's failure to materially comply with maintenance and safety obligations.

Caps tenant rent liability at the fair rental value of the premises from the date of significant habitability impairment, regardless of the agreed-upon rent 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, provided the tenant continues paying rent.

Increases damages for unlawful retaliatory evictions to not less than two months' rent plus court costs and reasonable attorney's fees.

Effective July 1, 2050.