Requires mediation for certain condo disputes. (HB1231 HD1)

A BILL FOR AN ACT

SECTION 1. Chapter 514A, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:

"§514A- Mediation. If an apartment owner or the board of directors requests mediation of a dispute involving the interpretation or enforcement of the association of apartment owners' bylaws, or its house rules, or involving sections 514A-82, 514A-83, or 514A-84, the other party in the dispute shall be required to participate in mediation and make a good faith effort to resolve the dispute through the mediation process. If an owner or the board refuses to participate in the mediation of a particular dispute, the refusing party shall be precluded from being awarded its attorneys' fees and costs in any subsequent mediation, arbitration, or legal action concerning that dispute."

SECTION 2. New statutory material is underscored.

SECTION 3. This Act shall take effect upon its approval.