HI HB2453

Establishes an Ombudsman's Office for Condominium Owners and Associations within the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs to help resolve disputes involving governing documents and state laws.

Requires the ombudsman to be an attorney admitted to practice in Hawaii with at least five years of experience in real estate, condominium law, and alternative dispute resolution.

Grants the ombudsman authority to investigate complaints, facilitate meetings between parties, provide guidance to unit owners and boards, and make nonbinding recommendations that may be admissible in court if not followed.

Increases the biennial Condominium Education Trust Fund registration fee by $2.50 per year per unit beginning July 1, 2027, to fund the ombudsman's office.

Appropriates funds from the Condominium Education Trust Fund for fiscal year 2026-2027 to establish the office and hire staff, with an effective date of July 1, 2026.