Maui’s Short-Term Rental Shakeup: Mayor’s Bill 9 Sparks Debate and Market Shifts

Quick Update on the Mayor’s Short-Term Rental Proposal

It’s time again for a quick update on Mayor Bissen’s plan to phase out short-term rentals (STRs) in apartment-zoned areas across Maui. I want to give you a balanced view of how both the Mayor and the Realtors Association of Maui (RAM) feel about the bill. I’ll also share my own thoughts at the end.

Realtors Association of Maui Opposes Bill 9

The Realtors Association of Maui (RAM) formally opposes Mayor Bissen’s Bill 9. The bill aims to eliminate about 7,000 short-term rentals in apartment zones by 2026. RAM’s main concern is how the bill might hurt Maui’s economy, housing market, and property rights (Maui News, May 9, 2025).

RAM warns the bill could cost nearly 1,900 jobs, $900 million in visitor spending, and $60 million in property tax revenue. They argue that this damage might happen without making affordable housing more available. RAM also points out that many of these rental units are not suitable for families. They are usually small, costly, and lack amenities.

RAM believes there are better ways to solve the housing crisis. They suggest enforcing rules on illegal rentals and offering incentives for affordable housing through partnerships.

Mayor Bissen Defends the Bill

Mayor Bissen sees Bill 9 as one step in a larger plan to tackle Maui’s housing problems. He wants to return apartment-zoned properties to long-term residents. The Mayor agrees the economic concerns are serious but warns that letting short-term rentals continue in residential zones worsens the housing shortage and displacement of families and kūpuna.

Both sides agree the housing crisis is urgent. However, they disagree on how to fix it. RAM wants a “balanced approach,” while Mayor Bissen calls for bold, collective action to change policies and protect local communities.

What’s Next?

This summer, the Maui County Council will begin formal talks on Bill 9. The decision could affect not only housing rules but also Maui’s real estate market. Condo prices have already dropped, especially in Kihei, and changes could continue depending on the bill’s outcome.

RAM remains strongly opposed, and the Mayor and his supporters continue to push for the bill. I will keep monitoring the situation closely to provide you with the latest updates.

My Commitment to You

I’m here to help you navigate these changes. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just curious, I’ll share clear and current information so you can make the best choices for your real estate goals on Maui. Feel free to reach out anytime to discuss your options.

Stay tuned—I’ll share more as we learn more.