Relating To Homeless Encampments On Department Of Land And Natural Resources Lands.
Summary
HB1140 appropriates state general funds to the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 to pay for the cleanup and removal of homeless encampments on lands under DLNR control. The bill is aimed at covering the costs of removing waste, debris, and other hazards associated with encampments on public lands such as state monuments, wildlife sanctuaries, boat ramps, harbors, piers, and other DLNR-managed properties across the islands.
The measure also requires DLNR, beginning with the 2027-2029 fiscal biennium, to include line-item funding in its own budget requests for these cleanup costs going forward. Although the bill text includes a July 1, 3000 effective date, the stated purpose is to establish dedicated funding so DLNR does not have to divert operating funds from other responsibilities to address encampment-related cleanup needs.
Impact
HB1140 would change state budgeting practice by creating a dedicated appropriation for DLNR homeless encampment cleanups and by directing DLNR to request ongoing line-item funding in future biennial budgets. It does not create a new enforcement regime or alter homelessness policy directly, but it would affect DLNR operations, state general fund spending, and the way cleanup costs are planned and administered for state lands under DLNR jurisdiction.
Sentiment
The bill text reflects a generally supportive and problem-solving posture toward the need for cleanup funding, emphasizing public health, resource protection, and the high cost of current cleanup efforts. No committee transcripts or recorded votes were provided, so there is no documented floor or committee debate to indicate broader political sentiment beyond the bill’s stated rationale.
Contention
The main policy issue is fiscal: whether the State should provide dedicated general-fund money to DLNR for encampment removals rather than continuing to rely on transfers or ad hoc funding through other departments. The bill’s findings suggest concern that cleanup costs are substantial and recurring, while the likely point of tension is balancing those costs against other state priorities and the broader question of how to address homelessness on public lands. No specific opposing arguments or amendments are available in the provided record.