Relating To Burial Sites.
The bill proposes the establishment of an inter-division program within the State Historic Preservation Division of the Department of Land and Natural Resources. This initiative will collaborate with various stakeholders, including island burial councils and the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, ensuring that the movement of iwi is conducted respectfully and maintains cultural lineage connections. By mitigating the risks presented by coastal erosion, the bill aims to safeguard Hawaiian burial traditions and ensure that the remains are treated with dignity.
House Bill 764 addresses the critical issue of burial sites in Hawaii, specifically focusing on the preservation and relocation of traditional Hawaiian burial practices. Recognizing the cultural significance of iwi, or skeletal remains, the bill aims to create a comprehensive program involving multiple state departments and organizations to respond to the threat posed by coastal erosion. The increasing impacts of climate change, leading to rising sea levels and extreme weather, threaten these burial sites, highlighting the urgency of the bill's objectives. The program will facilitate the identification, movement, and restoration of iwi that may be exposed or already affected by environmental factors.
While the bill has valid objectives regarding cultural preservation, it may face contention surrounding the implementation phase. Ensuring that local communities, especially those with genealogical ties to the burial sites, are actively involved in the decision-making process is crucial. Additionally, the bill outlines financial provisions for relocating and managing affected iwi. This raises questions about funding allocation and the feasibility of the proposed actions, particularly in light of constrained state budgets. Proponents may argue for the necessity of swift action to protect burial sites, while opponents might express concerns over government overreach and the adequacy of planned strategies.