Informing the Legislature that on June 26, 2026, the Governor signed the following bill into law: HB1721 HD2 SD2 CD1 (ACT 177).

This bill clarifies insurance and indemnification rules for architects and engineers participating in Hawaii's expedited housing permitting process to encourage their involvement. It requires professionals to carry specific liability insurance covering completed projects and provides indemnification for the state and counties against claims arising from their negligent acts. Additionally, the law mandates that state or county inspectors must actively inspect all projects receiving expedited permits to ensure compliance with approved plans. These changes aim to resolve ambiguities in a previous housing law that had discouraged design professionals from joining the fast-track system.