On Friday, Governor Josh Green signed several bills into law including those focusing on short term rentals and good governance.

Senate Bill 2919 clarifies the counties’ authority to control the time, place, manner, and duration of land uses, particularly transient accommodations including short-term rentals. the bill will expand the counties’ zoning powers and broaden the scope of the Transient Accommodations Tax Law. SB 2919 also aims to alleviate Hawaiʻi’s housing crisis and increase housing levels throughout the state as it provides counties with home rule authority to see that vacation rentals are not allowed in communities that do not want them. Although it helps to clear up any issues of state preemption, counties will still need to craft their policies to avoid other legal or constitutional issues.

In terms of good governance, the bills signed include House Bills 1598, 1599, and 1600 whcih focus on bolstering Hawaiʻi’s open meetings law. They seek to facilitate greater public input by ensuring timely distribution of written testimony to board members (HB 1598), allowing audio and video participation in remote meetings (HB 1599), and setting clear time standards between board meetings (HB 1600), enabling adequate review and compliance with open meetings law requirements.

House Bill 1879 addresses the equitable release of digital voter information guides, preventing selective access before public release. Additionally, House Bill 1881 updates administrative fine amounts for violations of conduct and lobbying laws, aiming to deter unethical behavior.

Lastly, House Bill 2072 promotes transparency in disaster relief fund solicitations by requiring disclosures, safeguarding donors, and fostering confidence in relief efforts.

The bills collectively reinforce Hawaiʻi’s commitment to accountability, transparency, and citizen participation in governance.

 

 

Photo credit: Office of Governor Josh Green