In the latest “What’s the Law” topics, host of the KHON2 Podcast, Coralie Chun-Matayoshi discusses the 2024 legislative session in Hawaii that concluded with significant measures aimed at aiding Maui wildfire survivors and preventing future catastrophes. Lawmakers appropriated approximately $1 billion for various emergency needs, including food, shelter, and rental assistance. Notably, $72 million was allocated to develop 450 temporary modular homes on state land for fire survivors who are not eligible for FEMA assistance. Additionally, the One Ohana Fund received $65 million to compensate families for deaths and serious injuries, provided they forgo litigation.
In anticipation of the upcoming hurricane season and addressing the fact that 99% of fires in Hawaii are human-caused, legislators increased penalties for fire protection law violations. They also elevated the criminal penalty for fourth-degree arson to a felony when committed during a red flag warning.
Addressing the critical issue of affordable housing, the legislature passed a bill granting counties the authority to regulate or ban short-term vacation rentals. Another measure mandates counties to allow at least two accessory dwelling units on residential lots by the end of 2026, potentially increasing housing density. However, the affordability of these new units remains uncertain.
Following the tragic hit-and-run death of Sara Yara, a new law was introduced to enhance penalties for repeat traffic offenders. Named after Sara, this law makes a third conviction a felony, punishable by up to five years in prison and potential vehicle forfeiture. Another bill expands the use of red-light traffic cameras to catch speeding at ten intersections on Oahu.
And finally on Marijuana, despite the momentum for cannabis reform, bills to legalize recreational marijuana and further decriminalize possession failed to pass. Currently, medical use is legal, and fines remain for possession over three grams.
For more details on these legislative developments and more, visit http://KHON2.com’s “What’s the Law.”
