Statement on Proposed Maui County TVR Conversion Bill

We are one step closer to ensuring our residents come first! I support the intent of this bill and policies that provide long-term housing for our people. With our ongoing housing shortage plus the shortage of housing as a consequence of the fires, we must increase long-term housing inventory, especially affordable housing, for our residents.

The passage of SB2919 in both the House and Senate allowing individual counties the Power to Phase out short term rentals is a milestone. Coupled by Governor Green stating his intent to sign the Bill into law effective tomorrow, May 3, 2024.

Councilmember Keani Rawlins-Fernandez and the Bissen Administration has announced today a Bill that will repeal decades old transient vacation rentals (TVRs) operating in the Apartment District, commonly known as the Minatoya list.

Although not a done deal, this Bill needs to follow the legal process for approval with an anticipated effective date of July 1, 2025 for units within the West Maui area. The remaining units within Maui County would become effective January 1, 2026.

Mahalo to Lāhainā Strong for their persistence and for standing for what is right for our people. Mahalo to Councilmembers Tamara Paltin and Keani Rawlins-Fernandez for their enduring advocacy to better regulate short-term rentals through Council action. Mahalo to the community for always pulling together to take care of each other and to share manaʻo on what matters to all of us. Mahalo to the Bissen Adminstration for announcing their intent to propose this Bill with the aim of helping our people stay here on Maui.

As an advocate for ʻāina, wai, ea and our people, I stand in solidarity with all like-minded kiaʻi!!!