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Bill

Bill

SB 2197

RELATED TO HOUSING.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Stanley Chang and 4 co-sponsors

Hawaii SB 2197 addresses housing issues but stalled in committee hearings; specific provisions and policy direction remain unclear from available legislative records.

The committee on HOU deferred the measure.
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Bill Summary · SB 2197

Legislative bill overview

SB 2197 is a Hawaii housing-related bill introduced by six legislators that has progressed through initial readings and committee referrals. The measure was scheduled for public hearing in early February 2026 but was deferred by both the Housing and Consumer Protection & Commerce committees, indicating the bill requires further development or negotiation.

Why is this important

Hawaii faces a severe affordable housing shortage with some of the nation's highest costs relative to local incomes. Housing legislation in Hawaii directly affects residents' ability to afford shelter and impacts the state's economic competitiveness and quality of life.

Potential points of contention

  • The bill's specific provisions are not detailed in available records, making it unclear whether it focuses on affordability, zoning, development incentives, or rental protections
  • Committee deferrals suggest stakeholders may have concerns about unresolved issues, fiscal implications, or competing interests between consumer protection and housing development
  • Housing bills in Hawaii often face tension between environmental preservation, development feasibility, and affordability goals

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

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