Hawaii House Bill HB2327

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/26/22
• Refer: 1/28/22

Caption

Relating To Federal Lands.

Impact

The legislation is expected to facilitate the management transfer of sensitive and culturally significant lands to the State, with the intent of placing these lands under public land trust. Upon recognition by the United States and the State, the management will ultimately be transferred to a sovereign Native Hawaiian entity, which is a significant step in returning land control to indigenous representatives. The move aims to respect the cultural heritage and needs of affected communities, particularly those who were previously displaced or had their lands condemned by federal authorities.

Summary

House Bill 2327 seeks to establish two task forces focused on the transition of management for specific federal lands in Hawaii—the Makua military reservation and the Lualualei naval facilities. The first task force will prepare for the transfer of the Makua military reservation from the United States Army to the State of Hawaii upon the expiration of the Army's lease in 2029. This group will consist of representatives from various stakeholder organizations, including families affected by land condemnation and Native Hawaiian organizations, and will focus on ensuring a smooth handover, conducting necessary clean-ups, and enhancing cultural access to the area.

Contention

Potential points of contention may arise from disagreements on the management practices proposed by the task forces, particularly regarding cleanup efforts for unexploded ordnance left by military operations, and the extent of cultural access provided to Native Hawaiians. Skeptics may also view the bill as a bureaucratic measure that may not adequately address immediate concerns of the affected communities, while supporters argue it represents a proactive approach to restoring local control over traditional lands.