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HI HB2197
Bill
Status
Engrossed
3/10/2026
Primary Sponsor
Jenna Takenouchi
Click for details
AI Summary
- Creates a process for property owners to remove unauthorized occupants (squatters) from dwellings by posting a 24-hour notice to vacate and then filing a sworn affidavit with law enforcement
- Establishes squatting as a new class C felony when a person knowingly enters or remains unlawfully in a dwelling with intent to establish residence, evidenced by actions like refusing to leave after notice, changing locks, or presenting fraudulent documents
- Creates a class C felony for fraudulent sale or lease of residential property when someone lists, sells, or rents property they have no legal authority to convey
- Upgrades criminal trespass in the first degree from a misdemeanor to a class C felony when a person knowingly enters or remains unlawfully in a dwelling
- Provides civil remedies for individuals wrongfully removed under this process, including restoration of possession, actual damages, triple fair market rent as punitive damages, and attorney's fees
Legislative Description
Relating To Property.
Removal
Last Action
Referred to CPN/PSM, JDC.
3/12/2026
Committee Referrals
Commerce and Consumer Protection3/12/2026
Judiciary & Hawaiian Affairs2/19/2026
Human Services & Homelessness1/30/2026
Full Bill Text
No bill text available