Relating To Historic Preservation Reviews.
The impact of HB 202 on state law includes a modification to Section 6E of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, facilitating quicker decision-making for project approvals. Specifically, the bill permits the department to contract out reviews when internal resources cannot meet a sixty-day review deadline. This change is expected to lessen the backlog of permits waiting on historic preservation reviews, thereby fostering a more efficient regulatory environment for developers and agencies involved in state projects.
House Bill 202 seeks to amend the existing guidelines for historic preservation reviews in Hawaii, primarily by allowing the Department of Land and Natural Resources to engage third-party consultants for reviewing projects that may affect historic properties, aviation artifacts, or burial sites. The legislation aims to address significant delays currently faced by permit applicants due to the overwhelming volume of submissions the department receives. Proponents argue this will streamline the process, enabling critical housing, economic development, and infrastructure projects to advance more smoothly.
The general sentiment surrounding HB 202 appears to lean in favor of modernization and efficiency in state processes. Supporters highlight the necessity of balancing historic preservation with the urgent needs for new housing and infrastructure. However, there are also underlying concerns regarding the potential consequences on the thoroughness of reviews conducted, as critics fear that reliance on third-party consultants could undermine the integrity of historic preservation efforts. This division in sentiment reflects a broader debate on how to appropriately manage heritage and progress.
Despite the support for HB 202, notable points of contention persist. Some stakeholders raise concerns about the adequacy of oversight when allowing third-party consultants to take on significant evaluative roles. There is apprehension that these changes may lead to undervaluing crucial historic considerations in favor of expedited reviews. Additionally, questions remain about the qualifications and impartiality of these third-party contractors, ultimately highlighting a tension between expediting development and preserving the historical context of Hawaiian land.