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HCR 66

REQUESTING THE STATE BUILDING CODE COUNCIL TO ADOPT, AMEND, OR UPDATE THE STATE BUILDING CODE TO AUTHORIZE POINT ACCESS BLOCK CONSTRUCTION FOR RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS UP TO SIX STORIES IN THE STATE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Terez Amato and 7 co-sponsors

Hawaii requests its building code council authorize point access block construction for residential buildings up to six stories to reduce housing costs and development timelines.

Report and Resolution Adopted. Transmitted to House.
#pointaccessblocks #statebuildingcode #statebuildingcodecouncil
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Bill Summary · HCR 66

Legislative bill overview

HCR 66 is a non-binding resolution requesting that Hawaii's State Building Code Council modify building codes to permit point access block (PAB) construction for residential buildings up to six stories tall. Point access block is a construction method using hollow concrete blocks with reinforced cores, designed to reduce costs and construction time. The resolution has been adopted and directs the council to study feasibility and implement changes if appropriate.

Why is this important

Hawaii faces a severe affordable housing shortage and high construction costs. Authorizing PAB construction could lower building expenses and accelerate residential development, potentially increasing housing supply. However, this requires the building code council to validate that PAB meets safety, durability, and structural standards before implementation.

Potential points of contention

  • Safety and durability questions: PAB is less common in Hawaii than traditional methods; engineers may require extensive testing to ensure it withstands local conditions (seismic activity, salt air, high winds, moisture)
  • Labor and industry impact: Adoption could disrupt established construction practices and workforce training; local unions and contractors may resist unfamiliar building methods
  • Code compliance burden: Implementing new construction standards requires inspector training, documentation updates, and enforcement mechanisms—adding regulatory costs that may offset savings

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

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