HI HB2580

Establishes an Ombudsman's Office for Condominium Associations within the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs to serve as a neutral resource for resolving disputes between unit owners, boards, and association management without costly litigation.

Requires the ombudsman to be a Hawaii-licensed attorney with extensive experience in real estate, condominium law, and alternative dispute resolution, appointed by the DCCA director with governor approval.

Grants the ombudsman authority to investigate complaints, issue subpoenas, compel testimony and document production, impose fines (minimum $250 for false filings), and remove board members found guilty of willful misconduct.

Makes participation in dispute resolution mandatory for all parties, with board members who refuse to participate subject to personal fines and removal from the board.

Funds the office entirely through the existing Condominium Education Trust Fund with no impact on the state general fund, and caps filing fees at $100 to maintain accessibility.