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GM 1225

Informing the Legislature that on May 29, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: HB732 HD2 SD2 CD1 (ACT 125).

2025 Regular Session

Act 125 raises shoreline development permit limits to $750,000, impacting developers and local communities while ensuring environmental protections in Hawaii.

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Bill Summary · GM 1225

Summary of GM 1225: Informing the Legislature of Act 125

Bill Information:
- Bill Number: GM 1225
- Title: Informing the Legislature that on May 29, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: HB732 HD2 SD2 CD1 (ACT 125).
- Status: Received
- Introduced: May 29, 2025
- Classification: Proclamation
- Subject: Act 125

Purpose and Intent

GM 1225 serves as a formal notification to the Hawaii State Legislature that the Governor has signed into law House Bill 732, which is now designated as Act 125. The primary focus of Act 125 is to amend regulations concerning shoreline management areas in Hawaii, specifically regarding the permitting process for development within these areas.

Key Provisions

Amendments to Shoreline Management Area Permits

  1. Definition Changes:
    • The bill revises the definitions of two types of permits:
      • Special Management Area Minor Permit:
      • Now allows for developments valued up to $750,000 (previously $500,000) that do not have substantial adverse environmental or ecological effects.
      • Developments located on shoreline parcels or those affected by waves, storm surges, high tide, or erosion are limited to a valuation of $500,000.
      • The valuation will be adjusted for inflation every five years based on the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers.
 - **Special Management Area Use Permit:**
   - This permit is required for developments exceeding **$750,000** in valuation or those that may have substantial adverse environmental or ecological effects.
   - Similar to the minor permit, this valuation will also be subject to inflation adjustments every five years.
  1. Effective Date:
    • The provisions of Act 125 will take effect immediately upon approval.

Impact

Who is Affected?

  • Developers and Property Owners: The changes in permit valuation thresholds will directly impact developers and property owners looking to undertake construction or development projects in shoreline management areas.
  • Environmental Agencies: Agencies responsible for monitoring environmental impacts will need to adapt to the new definitions and thresholds for permits.
  • Local Communities: Residents and communities near shoreline areas may experience changes in development activity, which could affect local ecosystems and community planning.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Process:
    • Act 125 was passed by both the House of Representatives and the Senate of the Thirty-Third Legislature of Hawaii on April 30, 2025.
    • The Governor signed the bill into law on May 29, 2025, and the notification (GM 1225) was subsequently received by the legislature on the same day.

Conclusion

GM 1225 serves as an important legislative proclamation that informs the Hawaii State Legislature of the enactment of Act 125, which modifies the regulatory framework for shoreline management area permits. By adjusting the valuation thresholds for permits, the bill aims to streamline the development process while considering environmental impacts in Hawaii's coastal regions.

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

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