On the surface, a bill signing may seem like the end of a process. But for all of us who worked on Senate Bill 1044 (SB1044), it marks the culmination of months – and in many ways, 2 years – of advocacy, collaboration, listening, and a diligent commitment to addressing a monumental problem in Hawaii.

When I first introduced SB1044, it came from an understanding that our communities were demanding an immediate solution to the pain of the property insurance crisis. Too many condo and townhome residents were shocked and blindsided by massive premium increases to their property insurance, or downright cancellation of their existing policies. Those shopping for coverage were often forced to seek it offshore, unregulated insurers at much higher rates and more stringent terms. This issue was not just about legislation; it was about stepping up to address an issue that impacts real people in real ways every single day. So it was an immensely proud moment to stand beside stakeholders, community leaders, and the Governor for the signing of SB1044 into law.

What Is SB1044?

SB1044 is a targeted and transformative piece of legislation designed to reactivate the Hawaiʻi Hurricane Relief Fund and expand the powers of the Hawaiʻi Property Insurance Association to help stabilize the property insurance market in the State. It establishes the Condominium Loan Program and the Condominium Loan Revolving Fund, to be administered by the Hawaiʻi Green Infrastructure Authority for the purpose of providing financing for essential repairs and deferred maintenance to condominium associations. It also requires the Insurance Commissioner to conduct a study to develop long-term solutions to help stabilize the property insurance market in the State. It will require regular reports to the Legislature and authorizes the issuance of reimbursable general obligation bonds to facilitate the initial issuance of policies to condominium associations.  

In clear terms: SB1044 is a step forward. It reflects our shared belief that our systems should work better for the people who depend on them. It brings practical, actionable change with both immediate and long-term benefits.

Yes it matters – because of spiking insurance costs or outright denial of insurance coverage… this is placing tremendous strain on our property owners across the state. This bill reactivates programs put in place after Hurricane ʻIniki to provide property owners–particularly in condominiums–with an alternative for coverage until the market softens. 

  The Work Behind the Bill

Bringing SB1044 to life was not easy. It required a coordinated effort from the very beginning. That meant:

• Meeting with experts and frontline workers to understand the day-to-day challenges
• Listening to constituents whose stories brought clarity and urgency to the problem
• Navigating committees, amendments, negotiations, and political headwinds
• Building bipartisan support and maintaining open dialogue with both advocates and critics
• Leaning on the hard work and dedication of legislative staff who carried this effort forward with persistence and integrity

From drafting the first version of the bill to adjusting language based on feedback from stakeholders and testifiers, this was a team effort through and through. I’m especially proud of how transparent and inclusive we made the process. Public input shaped SB1044 at every stage, and it made the legislation stronger.

Leadership in Action

In moments like this, I’m reminded that leadership isn’t about getting credit – it’s about getting results. My role was to convene, to push when needed, and to keep our collective vision in focus when things got complicated.

We knew this bill would face challenges. That’s part of legislating. But we never lost sight of the outcome we were fighting for. Leadership meant making sure every voice was heard, that the process remained steady, and that our north star was always the well-being of Hawai‘i’s people.

Mahalo to the Team

I want to take a moment to recognize the many hands that made this possible. To my colleagues in the Legislature who co-sponsored and supported the bill, to the community advocates who never let up, and to every resident who testified, emailed, or shared their story – mahalo. Your engagement made the difference.

To my staff and team, thank you for the long hours, the detailed work, and the heart you put into this from day one. SB1044 is a shared achievement that we can all be proud of.

Looking Ahead

Passing SB1044 is a major milestone—but it’s not the end. Implementation is where we now focus our energy. I’ll continue working closely with agencies and community leaders to ensure this law delivers on its promise.

Progress is possible when we work together, stay focused on the people we serve, and remain grounded in our values. SB1044 is proof of that.

Let’s keep going.

— Senator Jarrett Keohokalole