Hawaii Senate Bill SR142

Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/23
• Refer: 3/15/23

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands To Take Certain Actions To Prevent The Misuse Of Hawaiian Home Lands.

Impact

If enacted, SR142 would require that licenses for lots on Hawaiian home lands be granted based on fair market rental values. This is aimed at addressing the issue of below-market access that has been reported among certain licensees. Furthermore, the resolution calls for restrictions on the reassignment of licenses, prohibiting licensees from leasing portions of licensed lots to other parties. This is intended to maintain the integrity of the leasing system and ensure that access to Hawaiian home lands remains equitable and just for native Hawaiians.

Summary

Senate Resolution 142 (SR142) requests the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to implement specific actions aimed at preventing the misuse of Hawaiian home lands. The underlying motive of this resolution is to enhance the protection of these lands, particularly against exploitation by licensees and private companies who have taken advantage of existing provisions in the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act. The resolution emphasizes that the primary objective of the Act is to provide homes for native Hawaiians, and any action that facilitates profit for non-native interests undermines that purpose.

Contention

There may be points of contention regarding the restrictions SR142 imposes on leasing practices. Critics could argue that such limitations might impact the economic viability of certain projects on Hawaiian home lands. Additionally, there may be concerns about the enforcement of these measures and how they are interpreted by the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. This debate arises against the backdrop of ongoing discussions about land rights, local governance, and the stewardship of resources intended for native Hawaiian communities, thus requiring careful navigation of the legislative landscape.