HI SR103

Requests the Judiciary to convene a three-year working group to research landlord-tenant issues affecting rental housing availability and landlord-tenant relationships in Hawaii.

Working group charged with identifying unavailable rental housing stock, evaluating challenges faced by landlords and tenants, identifying best practices and regulatory improvements, determining problem areas, and exploring potential solutions.

Working group membership includes the Chief Justice (as chairperson), Senate President, House Speaker, Attorney General, Consumer Protection Executive Director, a landlord-tenant law attorney, individual property owner, two professional property manager representatives, two tenant advocacy representatives, and other members with relevant expertise.

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

Resolution cites that 38.2 percent of Hawaii residents are renters and that clarifying landlord-tenant laws would reduce court cases while increasing housing provider confidence in renting properties.