As Maui's eviction moratorium comes to a close on February 4, Governor Josh Green is highlighting resources for those who may be affected by the transition. Laid out in Act 202, a measure signed in July 2024, the state of Hawaii provides a structured mediation process to handle disputes over rent between tenants and landlords without immediate legal obstructions, according to the Office of the Governor's news release.

"The end of the eviction moratorium marks a significant milestone in Maui’s recovery, but it’s essential that we provide a compassionate and structured way forward," Governor Green stated. This new approach is to ensure fairness, for both landlords and tenants, the governor aims to curb the potential wave of evictions that could follow the end of the moratorium. Starting February 5, state-funded mediation services via Maui Mediation Services will become available, marking a new phase in the evolving landscape of Maui's housing crisis.

Under the new process, before landlords can proceed with filing an eviction in court, they are required to present their tenants with a written notice regarding overdue rent and inform Maui Mediation Services. Tenants are then given a 15-day window to respond and agree to a mediation session. Should tenants opt out of the mediation after receiving notice, landlords will be able to move forward with filing an eviction case in court, however, not until 30 days following the date on the notice for due rent.

The mediation timeline varies, depending on the amount of rent overdue. Tenants owing four months of rent or more are given precedence from February 5 to March 6, to request mediation. As the system rolls out, those with less overdue rent will inch their way into the eligible bracket for assistance during subsequent periods, stretching into February 2026. The mediated sessions, conducted in person or via Zoom, are designed to forge an agreement, prevent abrupt homelessness, and the sessions are intended to be mutually beneficial for both parties involved.

The contact information for Maui Mediation Services is available for those needing assistance, and tenants are encouraged to reach out. They can be reached at 808-344-4255 or 808-446-0511, or via email at [email protected]. For more details, individuals can also pay a visit to their website or office at 95 Mahalani Street, Suite 25, Wailuku, Monday to Friday, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. The Governor's office has also put together a list of FAQs for those seeking more information on the process.