Relating To The Commission On Water Resource Management.
Impact
The changes proposed in HB2417 will likely enhance the perspectives and expertise included in discussions regarding water management in Hawaii, especially regarding adherence to traditional practices associated with Hawaiian water resource management. By including the chairperson of the Hawaiian Homes Commission, which directly deals with the interests of native Hawaiians, the bill aims to ensure that their needs and rights concerning water resources are considered in policy decisions.
Summary
House Bill 2417 aims to amend the membership structure of the Commission on Water Resource Management in Hawaii. Specifically, it proposes adding the chairperson of the Hawaiian Homes Commission, or their designee, to the commission as an ex officio member. This change is intended to ensure that the interests related to Hawaiian home lands are represented within the water resource management decisions, thus protecting adequate water reserves for current and future developments on these lands. Currently, the commission consists of seven members; this bill increases the number to eight.
Contention
While the bill's intent may be viewed positively by proponents who advocate for increased representation of the Hawaiian community, there might be concerns raised regarding the qualifications required for commission appointees. The bill stipulates that only five out of the eight members need to have substantial experience in water resource management, which may lead to questions about the overall expertise on the commission. The discussions surrounding this bill could reveal differing viewpoints on the balance between traditional knowledge and contemporary water resource management practices.
Requesting The Office Of Hawaiian Affairs To Identify The Scope Of Native Hawaiian Cultural Appropriateness For The Purpose Of Addressing Native Hawaiian Disparities.
Requesting The Office Of Hawaiian Affairs To Identify The Scope Of Native Hawaiian Cultural Appropriateness For The Purpose Of Addressing Native Hawaiian Disparities.