Rent Increases Still Prohibited Under Governor Green’s Emergency Proclamation

On September 11, 2025, Governor Josh Green signed the 26th Emergency Proclamation Relating to Wildfires, extending critical protections for Maui renters who continue to face the impacts of the August 2023 Lahaina fire.

One of the most important parts of this proclamation is clear: rent increases are still prohibited for residential dwellings on Maui. This means landlords cannot legally raise rent beyond what was charged as of August 9, 2023, unless specific exemptions apply (such as documented operating expenses or regulatory agreements for affordable housing projects).

Why this matters

In the wake of wildfire destruction, housing stability is more than a policy issue—it’s a matter of survival and dignity. Thousands of families lost homes, jobs, and their sense of security. By freezing rent increases, the state ensures that renters aren’t pushed out of what limited housing remains or priced out of their communities when they need stability most.

These protections also help reduce displacement, cut down on the stress of moving, and give families a chance to rebuild their lives in place. Keeping people housed supports the whole community.

What renters should know

No rent increases are allowed unless they were part of a written lease signed before August 9, 2023.
Landlords may pass on documented additional operating expenses, but they must be able to show proof.
Affordable housing projects with regulatory agreements may allow limited adjustments, but those agreements are designed to protect income-qualified tenants.

If you are a renter and believe your landlord is violating this order, you have the right to push back. Knowing your rights is the first step to protecting your housing.

The bottom line

The wildfire recovery will be long, but this proclamation is a reminder: renters’ rights matter, and keeping people stably housed is essential to Maui’s recovery.

For more information and updates, visit http://www.mauihousinghui.com.

🌺 Renters’ rights are community rights. Let’s spread the word.