Committee approves resolution directing strategy to update state building codes, adds amendment to reinstate and fund council

The House Committee on Housing on March 21 passed HCR 67, a concurrent resolution requesting the Office of the Governor, the State Building Code Council, county building departments and mayors to develop a comprehensive strategy for adopting updated building codes.

The committee adopted an amended form (HD 1) that removes the chairs of the Senate and House standing committees on housing as recipients of the resolution and adds a provision directing that the comprehensive strategy include reinstating and adequately funding the State Building Code Council so the council can resume its mandate effectively.

Committee staff recorded two pieces of written testimony on the measure: the Grassroots Institute of Hawaii in support and the American Institute of Architects, Hawaii State Council in opposition. No testifiers were present in the live hearing to speak to the item.

The amendment adopted in committee specifically adjusts the list of named recipients and adds explicit language about funding and reinstatement of the council; the resolution itself asks the listed offices and agencies to craft a strategy for adopting updated codes rather than directly changing code language.

Committee members took no recorded dissenting votes in the committee roll call. The vice chair’s recommendation to pass with amendments was adopted; the record notes excused absences for several members. The resolution will be transmitted consistent with committee procedure.

Votes at a glance: HCR 67 (HD 1) — Vice chair recommendation: pass with amendments; outcome: adopted by committee.