Sen. Les Ihara

Authorizes the construction of tiny homes for residential use within agricultural districts, on farms that are engaged in agricultural production. Provides that a tiny home shall be subject to county ordinances or permitting requirements that are directly applicable to residential uses of tiny homes in agricultural districts.

Clarifies that "subsistence farming" is included as a protected activity under the Hawaii Right to Farm Act.

Establishes that effective January 1, 2019, rent for all residential dwelling units shall be established at an amount equal to the amount of rent charged for the same dwelling unit in 2015 and shall not be increased more than three per cent annually or three per cent per lease term. Establishes that each county may adjust rents to a fair rental value for specific areas in each county. Establishes that for any residential dwelling unit for which rent was not collected in 2015, the county shall determine the effective base rent for the dwelling unit. Requires each county to establish a process for granting exemptions from the rent control requirements for those property owners who have invested an unspecified amount to improve or upgrade a residential dwelling unit to meets codes.

Establishes a nonrefundable income tax credit for small business research and development activities within the State.

Prohibits the sale of sunscreen or personal care products that contain oxybenzone or octinoxate in Hawaii, beginning 1/1/2023.

Establishes a working group to examine and advise on amendments that can be made to the department of health's statutory powers, duties, functions, and responsibilities to include population-based approaches to public health and prevention that recognize the multiple factors beyond health care and the collaborative approach required to create health. Appropriates funds to support the activities of the working group.

Repeals Act 137, SLH 2017, relating to the pass on of vehicle license recovery fees to lessees of motor vehicle rentals.

Provides limited liability protection for county lifeguards and counties providing lifeguard services on beaches or in the ocean.

Requires certain commercial agricultural entities to disclose use of pesticides. Requires certain commercial agricultural entities to disclose production of genetically engineered crops. Establishes pesticide buffer zones. Prohibits open air testing of experimental pesticides and experimental genetically engineered crops. Places a moratorium on all experimental use and commercial production of genetically engineered crops until the DOA completes an environmental impact statement and implements a permitting process. Establishes requirements for the environmental impact statement and genetically engineered crops permitting process. Imposes penalties for violations. Requires DOA to adopt rules.

Authorizes the issuance of general obligation bonds to fund the planning, design, and construction of six classrooms at Pa‘ia elementary school on Maui.