RELATING TO THE STRENGTHEN HAWAII HOMES PROGRAM.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Ron Kouchi

SB 1375 boosts the Strengthen Hawaii Homes Program, funding home resilience improvements to protect residents from natural disasters like hurricanes and floods.

Referred to CPN, WAM.

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Overview

Bill Number: SB 1375
Title: Relating to the Strengthen Hawaii Homes Program
Status: Referred to CPN (Commerce, Consumer Protection), WAM (Ways and Means)
Introduced: January 21, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Appropriation, Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, Insurance Commissioner, Insurance Division, State Treasury, Strengthen Hawaii Homes Program

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of SB 1375 is to enhance and support the Strengthen Hawaii Homes Program, which aims to improve the resilience of homes in Hawaii against natural disasters. This program is particularly significant given Hawaii's vulnerability to hurricanes, floods, and other climate-related events. By strengthening homes, the bill seeks to protect residents and reduce potential damages from such disasters.

Key Provisions

Appropriation of Funds: The bill proposes the allocation of state funds to the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, specifically targeting the Insurance Division and the Insurance Commissioner. The exact amount of funding is not specified in the provided information but is crucial for the implementation of the program.

Program Enhancement: The bill aims to expand the existing Strengthen Hawaii Homes Program, which may include:

Increasing public awareness and education on home resilience.
Providing financial incentives or subsidies for homeowners to undertake necessary improvements.
Collaborating with local governments and organizations to facilitate program outreach and effectiveness.

Affected Parties

Homeowners: The primary beneficiaries of the Strengthen Hawaii Homes Program will be homeowners in Hawaii, particularly those in high-risk areas.

Insurance Division: The Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, through its Insurance Division, will play a critical role in administering the program and ensuring compliance with new regulations.

Local Governments: Local authorities may be involved in the implementation and promotion of the program, working alongside state agencies.

Procedural Aspects

Legislative Timeline:

January 21, 2025: Bill introduced and pending introduction.
January 23, 2025: Passed First Reading.
January 27, 2025: Referred to the Committees on Commerce, Consumer Protection (CPN) and Ways and Means (WAM).

Related Legislation: SB 1375 has a companion bill, HB 1056, which may address similar issues or provide additional context to the Strengthen Hawaii Homes Program.

Conclusion

SB 1375 represents a proactive approach to enhancing home resilience in Hawaii, addressing the pressing need for disaster preparedness in the face of climate change. By appropriating funds and expanding the Strengthen Hawaii Homes Program, the bill aims to safeguard residents and their properties, ultimately contributing to the overall safety and sustainability of communities across the state.

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