As an architect, I urge you to vote NO on HB 2089 HD2.

HB 2089 HD2 threatens the core purpose of HRS 107-24, which was established in 2007 to ensure that Hawaii\'s building codes remain current. At that time, Hawaii County lagged over fifteen years behind with an outdated building code based on UBC 1991, resulting in one of the highest risk ratings nationally. Legislators championed the mandatory adoption of the most current codes on a scheduled basis.

HB 2089 HD2 directly undermines Hawaii\'s climate and energy conservation goals for 2030 and 2045. The bill jeopardizes the coordination and safety provided by updated codes. This restriction is particularly concerning given the impending threat of climate change and the importance of building resilience against future disasters.

HB 2089 HD2 puts into jeopardy the State’s ability to receive critical FEMA funding in the future. This bill sends the wrong message to FEMA, particularly at a time when Hawaii relies on considerable FEMA funds to repair the destruction caused by the Lahaina Wildfire.

HB2089 HD2 exposes the need to fund the SBCC, something that has repeatedly been neglected by the legislature in the past. The budgeted funds should be released for their intended purpose. More effective coordination amongst the members of the SBCC would allow for coordinated distribution of updates and changes in a timely manner.

Please vote NO on HB2089 HD2, which prioritizes builder and developer interests over the safety and well-being of Hawaii\'s residents, and instead consider future funding and operational procedures that will support a more effective State Building Code Council (SBCC).

Mahalo,