HI HR153

Requests the Judiciary to establish a three-year working group to research landlord-tenant issues and identify code improvements to increase rental housing availability in Hawaii.

Working group to evaluate challenges faced by landlords and tenants, identify best practices, determine problem areas, and explore potential regulatory improvements and educational resources.

Initial meeting required no later than July 1, 2025, with an initial report due twenty days before the 2026 Regular Session convenes.

Working group membership includes the Judiciary (as chair), representatives from the Senate and House, a landlord-tenant attorney, property managers, tenant advocates, and other members with relevant expertise.

Addresses Hawaii's housing shortage where 38.2 percent of residents are renters and aims to reduce court burden by clarifying complex landlord-tenant laws.