Hawaii Senate Bill SB2604

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/21/22
• Refer: 1/24/22

Caption

Relating To The Commission On Water Resource Management.

Impact

The addition of the Hawaiian homes commission chairperson to the water resource management commission is expected to have a meaningful impact on how water resources are managed in relation to Hawaiian homelands. The inclusion aims to safeguard adequate water reserves for current and future development within these lands, addressing historical concerns and aligning with the state's commitment to upholding the rights and needs of Native Hawaiians regarding land and resource management.

Summary

Senate Bill 2604 seeks to amend the composition of the commission on water resource management within Hawaii's legislative framework. The bill aims to increase the number of commission members from seven to eight by adding the chairperson of the Hawaiian homes commission, or a designated representative, as an ex officio voting member. This change is significant in recognizing the role of Hawaiian homelands in state water resource management decisions, ensuring that the interests of these lands are included in the commission's deliberations.

Contention

While the bill is designed to enhance representation and governance in water resource management, there is potential for contention regarding the implications of adding an additional member to what is already a pivotal commission. Stakeholders may have differing views on whether this change will streamline decision-making processes or introduce additional complexities, particularly concerning the dynamics of representing Hawaiian interests in broader state water policy discussions.