Hawaii House Bill HB1655

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/22
• Refer: 1/26/22
• Report Pass: 2/7/22
• Refer: 2/7/22
• Report Pass: 2/15/22
• Refer: 2/15/22

Caption

Relating To Special Management Areas.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1655 would significantly alter the regulatory landscape concerning development in special management areas. It is designed to make it easier for government agencies and public works to carry out necessary maintenance and improvement activities without being bogged down by costly and time-consuming permit processes. These changes are anticipated to foster better environmental management practices while still maintaining essential protections for the natural resources within these special areas. The proposed amendments reflect an effort to balance environmental integrity with practical governance, particularly amid rising costs and regulatory burdens faced by agencies.

Summary

House Bill 1655 aims to amend the definition of 'development' pertaining to special management areas in Hawaii. The bill seeks to clarify and expand the exclusions from what constitutes development, thereby reducing the necessity for special management area permits for certain activities. This legislative effort responds to concerns over the broad current definition, which often led to unnecessary permit requirements for minor improvements and maintenance activities that do not significantly impact the environment. The bill specifies activities such as the installation of public pedestrian and bicycle facilities and maintenance of public utilities as exempt from the rigorous permit process, aiming to streamline procedures and encourage more efficient project execution.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 1655 appears to be generally supportive, particularly from those within governmental and public service sectors. Proponents argue that the amendments will notably ease the operational burdens on public agencies, thereby expediting important environmental conservation initiatives. However, it's also likely that some environmental advocacy groups may express concerns over loosening regulations, fearing that exemptions could lead to lenient oversight. This creates a dialogue on how best to protect natural resources while allowing for necessary development and maintenance.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the potential implications for environmental safeguards. While the bill has supporters who believe it protects local governance and streamlines processes, critics might argue that any reduction in regulatory oversight could result in adverse environmental impacts if developments are not closely monitored. The language of the bill also raises questions about how exclusions will be interpreted and enforced, leaving room for further discussion on ensuring that the ecological integrity of special management areas remains a priority.