Relating To Burial Sites.
If enacted, SB 2067 will have significant implications for state laws related to the preservation of Hawaiian cultural heritage. The proposed inter-division program will involve collaboration between various governmental bodies, including the state historic preservation division, the land division, burial councils, and the office of conservation and coastal lands. By developing procedures for the relocation of iwi affected by coastal erosion, the bill aims to uphold the cultural practices and traditions of Native Hawaiians, ensuring that ancestral remains are treated with the respect and dignity that they deserve.
Senate Bill 2067, introduced during Hawaii's Thirty-First Legislature in 2022, addresses the critical issue of traditional Hawaiian burials and their protection against the increasing threat posed by coastal erosion due to climate change. The bill establishes an inter-division program aimed at safeguarding Hawaiian burial sites, known as iwi, particularly those exposed or likely to be exposed as a result of rising sea levels. This legislation acknowledges the cultural significance of iwi, which are considered essential in maintaining the link between past, present, and future generations of Native Hawaiians. Moreover, it seeks to facilitate the relocation and restoration of these burial sites.
The sentiment surrounding SB 2067 appears to be predominantly positive among proponents who recognize the urgency of preserving Hawaiian burial sites facing environmental threats. Supporters advocate for the bill as a necessary measure to protect cultural heritage and address the adverse effects of climate change. However, there is concern among some groups and stakeholders about the effectiveness of the proposed relocation processes and whether adequate resources will be allocated for the program's success. The discussion around SB 2067 highlights the balance between environmental action and cultural preservation.
While the bill has garnered support, some contention arises regarding the feasibility of relocating iwi and the potential financial implications of such efforts. Critics may argue that the costs associated with relocation and restoration could strain state resources. Additionally, there may be differing opinions on the methods employed for relocation and whether they adequately honor and respect the cultural significance of the burial sites. As this conversation unfolds, the challenge will be to ensure that both the preservation of Hawaiian culture and the safety of burial sites are prioritized amid the threats posed by coastal erosion.