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GM 1259

Informing the Legislature that on June 3, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: HB1409 HD1 SD1 CD1 (ACT 159).

2025 Regular Session

Act 159 boosts Hawaii's housing supply by promoting transit-oriented development, enhancing affordability, reducing emissions, and fostering vibrant communities near transit hubs.

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Bill Summary · GM 1259

Summary of GM 1259: Informing the Legislature of Act 159

Bill Number: GM 1259
Title: Informing the Legislature that on June 3, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: HB1409 HD1 SD1 CD1 (ACT 159)
Status: Received
Introduced: June 03, 2025
Classification: Proclamation
Subject: Act 159

Purpose and Intent

GM 1259 serves as a formal notification to the Hawaii State Legislature that the Governor, Josh Green, M.D., has signed into law House Bill 1409, which is now designated as Act 159. The primary focus of Act 159 is to address Hawaii's ongoing housing crisis by promoting transit-oriented development (TOD). This approach aims to enhance housing availability, reduce reliance on automobiles, and support environmental sustainability.

Key Provisions of Act 159

  1. Mixed-Income Subaccount: Establishes a temporary mixed-income subaccount within the rental housing revolving fund for five years to finance projects located in transit-oriented developments.

  2. Infrastructure Considerations: Mandates that the transit-oriented development infrastructure improvement district board must consider infrastructure needs when determining density requirements for transit-supportive developments.

  3. Strategic Planning: Requires the Hawaii interagency council for transit-oriented development to create a strategic plan that delineates TOD areas for each county.

  4. Amendments to Existing Laws: Updates Section 201H-202 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes to clarify the administration and permitted uses of the rental housing revolving fund, ensuring that funds are used effectively for housing development.

Impact of Act 159

  • Housing Supply: By promoting higher-density development near public transit, Act 159 aims to increase the availability of affordable housing, particularly for low- and moderate-income households.

  • Environmental Benefits: The act is designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by encouraging public transit use and minimizing urban sprawl, thereby supporting Hawaii's climate resilience goals.

  • Economic Equity: The availability of affordable housing near transit hubs is expected to lower transportation costs and improve access to essential services, thereby advancing social and economic equity in the state.

  • Community Development: The act seeks to foster vibrant, walkable communities that support local businesses and enhance the quality of life for residents.

Procedural Aspects

  • Date of Signing: The bill was signed into law by the Governor on June 3, 2025.
  • Legislative Action: GM 1259 was received by the legislature on the same day it was signed.

In summary, GM 1259 serves as a critical communication regarding the enactment of Act 159, which aims to tackle Hawaii's housing challenges through strategic transit-oriented development initiatives. The provisions outlined in the act are expected to have significant implications for housing availability, environmental sustainability, and economic equity in the state.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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