Relating To The Department Of Land And Natural Resources.
This bill will amend Chapter 171 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes by introducing a new section that explicitly states the DLNR is responsible for the regular maintenance of streams and trails. The maintenance includes debris removal and safety measures, necessitating the establishment of rules to implement this section effectively. Additionally, the bill stipulates financial mechanisms, such as using highway fuel taxes, federal grants, private contributions, and transient accommodations tax revenues, for funding the management and upkeep of these natural resources.
House Bill 1332 seeks to address the maintenance of trails and streams in Hawaii by mandating that the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) regularly maintain these natural landscapes. Acknowledging the beauty of Hawaii's trails and streams, the bill emphasizes that residents living near state lands should not bear the responsibility for their upkeep, which can present safety hazards if neglected. This Act aims to ensure that the DLNR takes on the responsibility of maintaining these areas to protect public safety and environmental well-being.
While the bill is designed to enhance public safety and environmental protection, discussions may arise regarding the financial implications of maintaining these trails and streams. Some stakeholders might raise concerns about how allocated funds will be managed, specifically the use of taxpayer money from highway fuel taxes and transient accommodations tax revenues. Furthermore, the legislation could face scrutiny regarding how effectively the DLNR will implement these maintenance schedules and the potential for conflicts over prioritization of funds for different maintenance projects.