Hawaii Senate Bill SB977

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/27/21
• Refer: 1/29/21

Caption

Relating To The Office Of Hawaiian Affairs' Pro Rata Share Of Public Trust Land Revenues.

Impact

The historical context given in the bill notes that the state constitution was amended in 1978 to create a public land trust for the benefit of Native Hawaiians and the general public. Previous legislation, such as Act 178 enacted in 2006, established a mechanism for determining a fair pro rata share for the OHA but has struggled with deficiencies in accountability and reporting. SB977 aims to rectify this by codifying enhanced reporting requirements that call for an annual report detailing the total receipts obtained and clarifying the distribution processes. Should this bill pass, it could significantly impact how public trust revenues are managed and shared, promoting transparency and adherence to the state's obligations to support Hawaiian communities.

Summary

Senate Bill 977 aims to outline and establish accountability procedures for the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) regarding its pro rata share of revenues derived from the public land trust. The bill seeks to ensure that the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) provides annual accounting of all receipts from public land trust lands, which are meant to be dedicated towards the betterment of conditions for Native Hawaiians. The emphasis on accurate reporting is aimed at reflecting the true financial contributions from public trust lands, ensuring that the OHA receives its fair share as intended by past laws and amendments.

Contention

One notable point of contention may arise from the potential pushback against increased scrutiny of land trust revenues and the procedures set forth for accounting, especially considering past accusations of financial mismanagement. The bill addresses previous challenges faced in reporting and compliance as highlighted by the OHA and reinforces the necessity for agencies, including the University of Hawaii, to comply with these enhanced guidelines. Mistakes or lapses in this reporting could exacerbate tensions between Hawaii's governmental authorities and Native Hawaiian populations regarding resource allocation.