STAND.
COM. REP. NO. 1060-26
Honolulu, Hawaii
, 2026
RE: H.B. No. 1593
H.D. 1
Honorable Nadine K. Nakamura
Speaker, House of Representatives
Thirty-Third State Legislature
Regular Session of 2026
State of Hawaii
Madame:
Your Committee on Consumer Protection & Commerce, to which was referred H.B. No. 1593, H.D. 1, entitled:
"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO AFFORDABLE HOUSING,"
begs leave to report as follows:
The purpose of this measure is to require, for any affordable rental housing development project that receives financing or any financial assistance from the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation, that the Corporation require the housing development lease or occupancy agreement to allow residents to own or otherwise maintain one or more common household pets.
Your Committee finds that many Hawaii families consider companion animals integral to their household well-being, yet renters, particularly in publicly assisted affordable housing, frequently encounter restrictive pet policies that limit stable housing options. These limitations contribute to housing instability, create emotional hardship for residents, and increase the number of animals surrendered to shelters across the State. This measure expands stable housing options for families with pets and supports overall community well‑being, while still respecting landlords' rights and duties related to preventing harm and damage caused by common household pets.
As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Consumer Protection & Commerce that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of H.B. No. 1593, H.D. 1, and recommends that it pass Third Reading.
Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Consumer Protection & Commerce,
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____________________________ SCOT Z. MATAYOSHI, Chair |
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