Informing the Legislature that on July 9, 2024, the Governor returned the following bill without approval: HB1633 HD1 SD1 CD1

This bill, which was vetoed by the Governor, aimed to help address Hawaii's housing shortage by allowing homeowners and tenants to build or improve their own residential or farm properties without needing a contractor's license. The legislation sought to remove the requirement that such owner-built structures be used only by the owner or immediate family, thereby permitting them to be leased to others. While the bill maintained safety rules like requiring licensed professionals for electrical and plumbing work, the Governor objected because it would allow unlicensed contractors to work on rental projects, potentially lowering quality and safety standards for renters. Ultimately, the bill did not become law because the Governor returned it without approval, citing concerns that the changes could negatively impact consumer protection.