HI SB26

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

Caps tenant rent liability at the fair rental value of the premises when habitability is significantly impaired, beginning from the date of impairment.

Allows a landlord to recover possession rights only upon termination of the rental agreement or restoration of the premises to habitable condition, whichever comes first, provided the tenant continues paying rent.

Increases damages for wrongful evictions or involuntary dispossession in violation of retaliation protections to a minimum of two months' rent plus court costs and attorney's fees.

Takes effect on July 1, 2050.