Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SR9

Introduced
3/3/22  
Refer
3/3/22  
Report Pass
3/17/22  

Caption

Requesting That The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands Implement Programs To Support Very Low Income Native Hawaiian Beneficiaries.

Impact

If enacted, SR9 would encourage the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to consider a range of potential solutions. These include awarding vacant land leases for the establishment of temporary living structures and providing various forms of financial assistance, such as rental and mortgage assistance. The intent is to alleviate the burden on low-income beneficiaries who are currently experiencing difficulties securing affordable housing in a state where housing costs are among the highest in the nation.

Summary

Senate Resolution 9 (SR9) requests the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to implement programs aimed at supporting very low-income Native Hawaiian beneficiaries. The resolution highlights the pressing issues surrounding the significant waitlist for residential and farming homesteads, which has ballooned to around 28,000 individuals. This resolution addresses not only the challenge of housing access but also the broader socioeconomic struggles faced by Native Hawaiians, particularly in light of the high cost of living and the financial burdens exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SR9 is generally supportive, with lawmakers recognizing the urgent need for interventions to assist Native Hawaiians suffering from housing insecurity. The measure reflects a commitment to addressing historical inequities related to housing access for Native communities. While there is enthusiasm for the proposed initiatives, there may also be concerns regarding the adequacy of funding and resources required to effectively implement these programs.

Contention

Notably, there could be points of contention regarding how the proposed solutions will be prioritized and funded. Although the resolution seeks to create pathways for immediate support, stakeholders may raise questions about the feasibility of replicating models, such as the Puuhonua O Waianae, across various islands. The effectiveness of temporary structures and the sustainability of financial assistance programs will likely be scrutinized as discussions progress.

Companion Bills

HI SCR15

Same As Requesting That The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands Implement Programs To Support Very Low Income Native Hawaiian Beneficiaries.

HI HR57

Same As Requesting That The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands Implement Programs To Support Very Low Income Native Hawaiian Beneficiaries.

Similar Bills

HI HB2491

Relating To The Hawaiian Language.

HI SB1317

Relating To Public Land Trust Funds.

HI HB1266

Relating To Public Land Trust Funds.

HI HR21

Requesting The Office Of Hawaiian Affairs To Identify The Scope Of Native Hawaiian Cultural Appropriateness For The Purpose Of Addressing Native Hawaiian Disparities.

HI HCR32

Requesting The Office Of Hawaiian Affairs To Identify The Scope Of Native Hawaiian Cultural Appropriateness For The Purpose Of Addressing Native Hawaiian Disparities.

HI SB1413

Relating To The Hawaiian Language.

HI HB1986

Relating To The Board Of Education.

HI SB392

Relating To Support For Traditional Native Speakers Of Hawaiian.