WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 2515

RELATING TO WORKFORCE HOUSING.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Terez Amato and 15 co-sponsors

HB 2515 establishes workforce housing policies in Hawaii to increase affordable housing availability for essential workers facing severe affordability constraints.

The committee(s) on HOU recommend(s) that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS. The votes in HOU were as follows: 4 Aye(s): Senator(s) Chang, Hashimoto, Elefante, Rhoads; Aye(s) with reservations: none ; 0 No(es): none; and 1 Excused: Senator(s) Fevella.
#advisorycouncil #affordablehousing #appropriation($) #hhfdc #permitting #reports #workforcehousing #workforcehousingregulatorysandboxprogram
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 2515

Legislative bill overview

HB 2515 addresses workforce housing in Hawaii by establishing policies or programs to increase the availability and affordability of housing for working-class residents. The bill was introduced in January 2026 and is currently in committee review, having passed its first reading.

Why is this important

Hawaii faces a severe housing affordability crisis, with median home prices among the highest in the nation and rental costs consuming disproportionate shares of worker income. Workforce housing initiatives directly impact economic stability for teachers, healthcare workers, service industry employees, and other essential workers who struggle to afford local housing.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding mechanism: Whether the bill requires state appropriations, tax incentives, or relies on developer contributions, which could affect state budgets or property tax structures
  • Definitional scope: How "workforce housing" is defined (income thresholds, eligible occupations) and whether requirements apply statewide or to specific regions
  • Developer obligations: Whether the bill mandates inclusionary zoning or density bonuses that could impact private development projects and property owner interests

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

Sign in to ask a question.