THE SENATE	S.B. NO.	10
THIRTIETH LEGISLATURE, 2019
STATE OF HAWAII

A BILL FOR AN ACT

relating to housing.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

SECTION 1. The Hawaii Revised Statutes is amended by adding a new chapter to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:

"Chapter

affordable housing ombudsman

§   ‑1 Affordable housing ombudsman office; qualifications; duties. (a) There is established the office of the affordable housing ombudsman which shall be headed by the affordable housing ombudsman. The affordable housing ombudsman shall be appointed, without regard to section 26-34, by the governor to serve a term of four years concurrent with the term of the governor.

(b) The person appointed as the affordable housing ombudsman shall be experienced in affordable housing issues and development; United States Department of Housing and Urban Development programs and regulations; interpretation of state and federal laws and rules; arbitration and negotiation; and investigation.

(c) The affordable housing ombudsman shall:

(1) Identify, investigate, and resolve complaints from tenants or homeowners in publicly-subsidized affordable or public housing;

(2) Monitor and comment on the State's production of affordable housing units; the development and implementation of federal, state, and local laws; applicable federal regulations; affordable housing policies; and actions that pertain to affordable housing, and shall recommend changes as necessary;

(3) Seek administrative, legal, or other remedies to carry out this chapter; and

(4) Carry out all other responsibilities as provided by state or federal law."

SECTION 2. This Act shall take effect upon its approval.

INTRODUCED BY:

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Report Title:

Affordable Housing Ombudsman Office; Publicly-subsidized Affordable and Public Housing

Description:

Establishes the office of the affordable housing ombudsman to monitor and comment on the State's production of affordable housing units; the development and implementation of laws, regulations, and policies relating to affordable housing; and to investigate and resolve complaints from tenants or homeowners in publicly-subsidized affordable or public housing.

The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.